KNOX NEXT GENERATION BOARDING STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK 2019
CONTENTS AN OVERVIEW OF NEXT GENERATION BOARDING ...... 4 WELCOME TO BOARDING AT KNOX ...... 5 WHOLE OF LIFE BOARDING PROGRAM ...... 6 PHILISOPHY OF KNOX BOARDING ...... 7 POSITIVE EDUCATION IN BOARDING ...... 7 FACILITIES FOR BOARDERS ...... 7 WEEKS’ SENIOR ACADEMY ...... 7 ORGANISATION OF KNOX BOARDING ...... 8 BOARDING HOUSE STAFF ...... 9 SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS ...... 10 COMMUNICATIONS MECHANISMS ...... 10 THE KNOX PORTAL ...... 12 HOW TO ACCESS THE PORTAL ...... 12 NEW PARENT TIPS ...... 13 PREPARATION FOR LIFE IN A BOARDING SCHOOL ...... 13 GENERAL INFORMATION...... 13 PARENT ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY ...... 16 HEALTH CARE ...... 17 MEDICAL, HEALTH AND CLINIC PROCEDURES...... 17 THE SCHOOL CLINIC ...... 17 ATTENDANCE AND MONITORING STUDENTS ...... 17 EMERGENCIES / ACCIDENTS ALL HOURS ...... 17 MEDICAL TREATMENT ...... 18 LONG TERM MEDICAL CONDITIONS ...... 18 SATURDAY SPORTS INJURIES - PROCESS FOR BOARDERS AT ANY SPORTS FIXTURE ...... 19 OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER ...... 20 INSURANCE INFORMATION ...... 20 OTHER INFORMATION ...... 20 WHAT TO BRING ...... 21 LAUNDRY GUIDE ...... 22 CODE OF CONDUCT IN BOARDING ...... 23 RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ...... 23 GENERAL SECURITY ...... 24 STANDARDS EXPECTED IN THE HOUSE ...... 24 STUDENT MANAGEMENT AND DISCIPLINE GUDELINES ...... 25 POLICY AND PROCEDURE AGAINST BULLYING ...... 26
2 VISITORS TO BOARDING...... 27 BOARDERS DINING ROOM ...... 28 BOATER CAFÉ ...... 29 BOARDERS’ CHAPEL ...... 29 BOARDER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM ...... 30 HOMEWORK AND STUDY ...... 30 KNOX BOARDING INTERNET POLICY ...... 30 OVERSEAS BOARDING ...... 33 LEAVE DURING TERM TIME ...... 35 ONLINE ‘REACH’ LEAVE SYSTEM...... 37 REACH BOARDING SYSTEM FOR PARENTS ...... 38 DRIVING POLICY ...... 40 EMERGENCY EVACUATION AND LOCK DOWN PROCEDURES ...... 40 BOARDING CONTACT LIST ...... 42
Criscos Provider No. 00399E December, 2018
3 AN OVERVIEW OF NEXT GENERATION BOARDING
Established in 1924, Knox Grammar School (“the School”) is a leading Australian Independent Day and Boarding School for students with a reputation for academic excellence.
During its long and proud history, Knox Grammar School has developed a reputation for scholastic, cultural and sporting excellence. Former students of the school can be found in all walks of life, and have contributed greatly to the growth and development of Australian society.
Knox Grammar School is one of the major Boarding schools in Australia, and the School is committed to maintaining this position. The School is non-selective, comprising over 2100 senior school students, of whom approximately 205 are Boarders. Boarding is offered in Years 7 to 12. Flexible Boarding arrangements to cater for a variety of student and family situations can be discussed and considered.
Boarders are enrolled in line with Policies and Procedures used for all students, including day students. Careful consideration is given to suitability to Boarding, before a decision is made by the Headmaster to enrol a student into Boarding. This will usually involve a discussion between the Headmaster and the Head of Enrolments, and may involve consultation with the relevant Head of House and Mentor Team Leaders where appropriate.
The Boarders are ‘the soul of Knox’ because they are within the school grounds constantly, and they set high standards in all fields of endeavour. Boarders are accommodated in horizontal stage groups, which enable them to be treated appropriately to their age and cared for by suitably qualified and experienced staff, appointed by the Headmaster. In addition to this, the Boarders are encouraged to work as a team. Through vertical interaction between Houses, a great camaraderie develops and there are vertical leadership opportunities for mentors and prefects. Each House has a Head of Stage, supported by an Assistant Head of Stage, House Manager, Evening Boarding Tutors and Weekend Supervisors who work regularly with the school.
The School Clinic provides medical care and support for all Boarders that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Boarders’ Chapel is held on Wednesday evenings throughout the year, as indicated on the Boarders’ Calendar. Boarders also attend Chapel once a week with their Year Group during the school day. Boarder parents / guardians are encouraged to attend Boarders’ Chapel, whenever possible. Attendance at Chapel at the scheduled times is a compulsory requirement of the school.
All Knox Boarder parents / guardians have the opportunity to join the Boarder Parent Supporters Group under the Knox Parents Association structure. This group meets once per term to discuss matters relevant to Boarding. The group has two central aims:
• To promote and support a friendship network for Boarder parents • To engage in activities to develop and promote Boarding at Knox.
4 WELCOME TO BOARDING AT KNOX Boarding is a unique opportunity. It opens up a whole new range of life experiences and opportunities not available to most boys.
The success of Boarding is very much dependent upon the establishment of a strong sense of community for both you and your son. Many activities have been arranged to assist in becoming part of the Knox Boarding Community.
Parents are encouraged to attend the Boarding Welcome Dinner and Annual Family Chapel Service and Dinner throughout the year with their son, to participate in Boarder Parent Supporters Group meetings and functions such as the Boarder Stall (at Gala Day).
Similarly, you should encourage your son to actively involve himself in all Boarding activities, a ‘get involved and have a go’ attitude will accelerate his integration into the Knox Boarding Community.
Boarding life places a number of demands on the boys. They must assume greater responsibility for their own academic, sporting and cultural wellbeing. Each boy will be required to be more responsible for his personal hygiene, cleanliness and punctuality. Finally, he has responsibilities to his fellow Boarders to contribute to the peace and harmony of the House. This is best achieved by abiding by the rules and regulations of the Boarding community.
All Boarders are encouraged to take on leadership responsibilities. These opportunities range from membership of the Boarder Leadership Team (BLT), to being buddies for new Boarders, as mentors in the Boys to Men mentoring program and ultimately as Boarder Prefects or Senior Boarder and as Y11 Academic Mentors who assist Stage 4 Boarders on their free afternoons in supporting them with their homework.
There will always be pangs of homesickness for Boarders. Even the most seemingly confident Boarders experience homesickness. Homesickness is something that should be respected – it is a natural outcome of love between a boy, his parents and the home environment. It also reflects the insecurity of moving into a new set of circumstances where virtually everything is unknown. Parents will also be experiencing a sense of loss.
Boarding staff look forward to welcoming you and your son to Knox Boarding and we trust that your association with Knox Boarding will be both a fulfilling and happy one. The success of the Boarding experience for both you and your son will very much reflect the effectiveness of communication between you, your son and the School carers. Please contact your Head of Stage in the first instance should there be any matters causing you concern.
Our goal is to make those positive connections not only with your son but with all our Boarding families and through the warm and friendly greeting that you will find when arriving at Boarding Reception. We look forward very much to supporting your son through every facet of his Boarding and School journey with us, so his experiences are ones filled with wonderful memories of friendships made, academic success and opportunities to grow and develop into a well- rounded global citizen..
Brian Sullivan Head of Boarding
5 WHOLE OF LIFE BOARDING PROGRAM The Knox Next Generation Boarding Whole of Life Program aims to develop resilient well-rounded young men, equipped for personal growth and ready to be citizens of character who lead. This unique program is based on the school’s core values of Faith, Wisdom, Integrity, Compassion and Courage and has five elements:
Living Skills, Citizenship, Academia, Faith and Co-curricular
At each stage of the Boarding journey these elements have a focus to promote character building and resilience. This unique Knox Program is supported by specialist, experienced and qualified staff. Boarders are challenged to extend themselves and discover what their individual talents are and how to develop them to their full potential. With a strong emphasis on community and leadership, Boarders are both supported at all times, as well as given the opportunity to support each other.
According to their year group, Boarders have the opportunity to participate in the following activities as part of the Whole of Life Program.
• Community Service which includes; RUOK Day, The SAN Run for Life, White Ribbon, Purple Ribbon and Pink Ribbon days, the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, Legacy, as well as numerous Wesley Mission, Hope Street special projects and the Y9 Interact Club. • School Service, which includes helping at School events such as debating, ANZAC Day and Gala Day. • The Cooks to Chefs Cooking Skills Program for Boarders in Years 7 to 10. • The Boys to Men Mentoring Program, which includes the Boys to Men Camps. • The Living Skills Course (boys learn to iron, clean bathrooms and shine their shoes). • The Toastmasters Public Speaking Course. • Senior Responsible Service of Alcohol and Responsible Conduct of Gambling. • Incoming YEAR 12 Leadership Camp and ConneXions Camps. • School Programs including the TAS Afterschool Workshops, the Agriculture Program, Visual Arts Program and Drama. • The Faith Element which includes Chapel, Devotions, Reflection Sessions and Confirmation Program. • Cultural Dinners such as Chinese New Year, Halloween and Italian and Lebanese Theme Nights • Sydney Exploration including the Quarantine Station Ghost Tour, Historical Walk through the Rocks, Sydney Theatre Company Performances, Jet Boating on Sydney Harbour, Bledisloe Cup & other Sporting Outings. • Paintball, Laser Tag, Raw Challenge and Socials with Girls Schools. • Cyber Bullying and Internet Footprint Awareness Program. • Master Classes by Senior Academic Staff in Study Skills, Literacy and Stress Management
6 PHILOSOPHY OF KNOX BOARDING Knox Boarding aims:
• To ensure that Boarding is a complementary and valuable addition to the home experience. • To provide a secure and caring environment in which Boarders will grow and develop academically, socially, physically, morally, spiritually and emotionally. • To provide a community life in which Boarders will not only become independent and self-sufficient, but also be responsible citizens who live harmoniously and care for one another. • To foster the development of self-discipline and encourage Boarders to accept responsibility for their actions. • School Policies and Procedures which are in place for day students also apply in Boarding. This includes The Welfare and Discipline Policy.
POSITIVE EDUCATION IN BOARDING The School recognises the historic school ethos of “creating purposeful lives” articulated by the founding Headmaster, Neil MacNeil in 1924. According to Knox Historian, Professor Mansfield, Neil MacNeil made much reference to singleness of purpose, self-mastery, reasonable optimism and spoke of the need for Knox to produce “not only more exalted spirits, but a finer sensitiveness of mind” (1938). More than eighty years later, scientific studies from the field of Positive Psychology support MacNeil with a growing body of research providing evidence that those living with meaning and purpose in their lives report higher levels of well-being.
Our Headmaster, Scott James leads a team of dedicated staff who create programs and initiatives designed to proactively support and develop the wellbeing of the whole student. The Total Fitness of our boys sits at the heart of all that we do, our staff seek to ensure every boy works to realise his own personal strengths and purpose, equipping him with the skills and habits required to thrive and live a virtuous life.
In the Boarding Community, the Boarders are involved in a number of purposeful life experiences such as Wesley Mission Community Service, St. Lucy’s and St. Edmond’s Community Service, Leadership and Mentoring Camps, International Boarders Immersion Program, VIA (Values In Actions), Realise2 and GRIT Surveys.
FACILITIES FOR BOARDERS Boarders are able to take full advantage of the facilities offered by the school at times when day students cannot. The boys are able to use the school gym and weights room whenever it is open. They are allowed to play on Knox 1, use the basketball courts, tennis courts, squash courts, swimming pool and Great Hall recreation areas. Boarders are to be accompanied by staff members as appropriate. Boarders are able to use the library for extra study and also have access to the D&T Labs, Art rooms and Agricultural Plot during allocated times.
WEEKS’ SENIOR ACADEMY The Weeks’ Senior Academy (WSA) which has just recently been renamed after former Headmaster, John Weeks (2018), has been created to meet the specific learning needs of Year 11 and 12 students as they transition from school to the more independent world of future studies. The building offers a range of facilities for Boarders including: • A Seniors Hall for teaching, study and socialising • The KSSA Library, open until late in the evening for study, with extra support available for students • Boaters café, where food can be purchased. The Senior Boarders have access to the WSA after school up until 6.00pm to see teachers, attend the library and work in small study groups.
7 ORGANISATION OF KNOX BOARDING The Boarders are housed in the Knox Boarding Centre, Gillespie Heritage House and the Senior Boarding Centre according to their Stage. Each level of the Knox Boarding Centre has been named after a Historical Boarding House to continue the traditions of Knox Boarding.
LEVEL 1: SCHOOL CLINIC AND LAUNDRY
LEVEL 2: GILMORE Gilmore House was built in the 1970s and up until 2008 housed the most junior Boarders. Gilmore House once stood where the Knox Boarding Centre (KBC) now stands, although its legacy lives on not through its physical presence, but through its name. Stage 4 Boarders are accommodated on Levels 2 and 3.
LEVEL 3: GILLESPIE Gillespie Boarding House was named after Sir Robert Winton Gillespie, a founder and major benefactor of the School. Purchased as a Boarding House and the Headmaster’s residence, it was used as the original school building and became a Boarding House in its own right in 1947. Stage 5 Boarders are accommodated on Levels 3 and 4.
LEVEL 4: MACNEIL MacNeil House (1954) was named after the first Headmaster of the School, Neil H MacNeil, and a Rhodes Scholar who served in World War I. Mr MacNeil set the abiding tone and standard of the school. Today, the MacNeil level of the Boarding Centre houses Year 10 Boarders.
LEVEL 5: EWAN Ewan House is listed by the National Trust and is one of the few remaining houses of its type. It was built in 1896 for the brewer, John Thomas Toohey. There are photographs in the hall that show the house early this century. Ewan House is located within the grounds of Knox Preparatory School (“Prep School”) in Billyard Street, Wahroonga and since the opening of the Knox Boarding Centre has been returned to the Prep School for their use. Year 12 reside in single rooms on Level 5 of the KBC and in the Senior Boarding Centre (SBC).
GILLESPIE HERITAGE HOUSE HISTORY & SENIOR BOARDING CENTRE Gillespie Heritage House was previously known as Gillespie Boarding House and named after Sir Robert Winton Gillespie, a founder and major benefactor of the School. Since the foundation of the School in 1924, Boarders have resided in Gillespie House. After the construction of the Knox Boarding Centre in 2010, in 2011 Gillespie House was refurbished and re-named Gillespie Heritage House. This enabled the expansion of the Knox Boarding Community. The house was architecturally re-designed into spacious single rooms that match the state of the art facilities of the Knox Boarding Centre, but boast the historical features of the original school building including high decorative ceilings, a grand staircase, fireplaces and balconies. Year 11 reside in Gillespie Heritage House and Year 12 reside in the Senior Boarding Centre and on Level 5 of the KBC.
And with this, a new phase in Boarding, history begun. “Knox is committed to being a world class boarding school encompassing best practice not just to respond to the needs of young men in the 21st Century but to prepare boys for the world beyond school” John Weeks, Former Headmaster (2018).
8 BOARDING HOUSE STAFF HEAD OF STAGE Heads of Stage (HoS) are responsible to the Head of Boarding for the daily operation of their Stage and to assist each boy to achieve his physical, emotional, academic and spiritual potential. Each Head of Stage is a member of the Knox teaching staff.
• Head of Boarding • Head of Stage 6 Boarding • Head of Stage 5 Boarding • Head of Stage 4 Boarding
ASSISTANT HEAD OF STAGE Assistant Head of Stage (AHoS) assist the HoS in the running of the Stage. Each AHoS has a strong, formal and informal presence in the Stage and acts as a mentor and role model for boys. The AHoS assist in overseeing the academic and pastoral needs of each Boarder.
• Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding (GHH) - Y11 x 3 • Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding - (SBC) - Y12 x 2 • Assistant Head of Stage 6 Boarding (KBC) - Y12 x 2 • Assistant Head of Stage 5 Boarding (KBC) – Level 3 and Level 4 x 3 • Assistant Head of Stage 4 Boarding (KBC) – Level 2 x 1
HOUSE MANAGER The role of the House Manager (HM) focuses on providing primary pastoral and supportive care to the Boarders in their Boarding House. The HM assists the HoS with pastoral, administrative and operational functions in the House. They are also a contact for parents with day-to-day issues.
• House Manager of Stage 6 Boarding (SBC) – Y12 • House Manager of Stage 6 Boarding (KBC) – Y12 - Level 5 • House Manager of Stage 6 Boarding (GHH) – Y11 • House Manager of Stage 5 Boarding (KBC) – Level 4 • House Manager of Stage 5 Boarding (KBC) – Level 3 • House Manager of Stage 4 Boarding (KBC) – Level 2
WEEKEND SUPERVISOR The role of the Weekend Supervisor (WS) on duty focuses primarily on the management and day-to-day operations on weekends only of the Stage of Boarders assigned to them by the Head of Stage.
SENIOR ACADEMIC MASTER – BOARDING The Senior Academic Master for Boarding is Mr Les Harvey. Mr Harvey assesses all Boarders academic progress throughout the year. Academic issues should be directed to Mr Harvey - [email protected]
BOARDING PROGRAMS The Boarding Programs are coordinated by Mrs Helen Clarke - [email protected]
EVENING BOARDING TUTOR The Evening Boarding Tutors (EBT) are Knox Academic Staff who work as a member of the Boarding Team, which is inspired at all, times by the highest ideals of teamwork, collegiality, integrity and professionalism. The role of the Evening Boarding Tutor is to assist, tutor and supervise Boarders with their evening Prep study time and support Boarding Staff. There is no need for Boarders to seek additional external tutoring.
9 SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS All students are accounted for by using the House’s Daily Electronic Roll (REACH). Boarders are signed out in the morning by the House Manager on duty when they leave the House. Upon their return in the afternoon, a time of return is recorded. All leave details, whether local, extended or weekend is also recorded in the House Daily Electronic Roll.
The Boarding House doors are locked at 9.30pm daily, and the alarm systems are armed at 10pm and disarmed at 5.30am daily. Should a Boarder need to enter or exit the building after 10pm or before 5.30am they will have to contact security (through their HoS) and be escorted. The security guard and security dog patrol the Houses and the surrounding areas after hours. Access to the KBC during the school day is not allowed. All doors to the Centre are alarmed for security reasons.
Staff take all reasonable care to ensure that no student is exposed to any unnecessary risk of injury. Boarding Staff are in loco parentis of the boys under their care and the standard of their care is that of a skilled professional.
Staff are familiar with, have been trained in and adhere strictly to the school’s emergency management policies and procedures.
Ill or injured students are attended to by the supervising staff member. Should additional assistance be required, contact is made with the School Clinic.
COMMUNICATIONS MECHANISMS A variety of both formal and informal internal communication mechanisms are used to ensure smooth and safe running of each House. These include:
• Whole of Boarding Team Staff Meeting preceding the start of each school term. • Weekly minute Boarding Meetings with Heads of Stage, Head of Boarding, Boarding Executive Officer, Senior Academic Master, Boarding Programs & Social Justice Coordinator. • Weekly House Meetings run by each HoS’s. • Weekly Boarding Welfare Reports written by each HoS and sent to the Deputy Headmaster for distribution to the Headmaster, Deputy Headmaster, Clinic, Mentor Team Leaders, Counsellors and other relevant sections of the School. • Wellbeing Fortnightly Meetings attended by HoS’s. • Boarding Wellbeing Fortnightly Meetings with School Boarding Counsellors attended by HoB and HoS’s. • Termly Whole of Boarding Meeting run by BLT Representatives and Boarding Staff. • Fortnightly Stage Boarding Meetings run by the HoS’s. • In-service Days, meetings, telephone calls and emails as required.
A variety of both formal and informal external communication mechanisms are used to ensure smooth and safe running of each Stage. These include:
• Email updates including news and important information are often sent by Fiona Sullivan from the Boarding Office. It is very important that the school have your correct email address so you are able to receive this information. • Minute Boarder Parent Supporters Group and Boarding Advisory Committee Meetings. The BAC is made up on one representative from each Year Group. This group meets with the Head of Boarding once per term to give feedback. These meetings are minuted.
10 • The Boarding News is emailed to each Boarder family twice in Terms 1 & 3 and once in Terms 2 & 4. The Boarding News is also available on the Knox Portal under Boarding, Boarding News. It contains detailed reports from the Head of Boarding, the Senior Academic Master - Boarding and all Heads of Stage as well as many up to date photos of the most recent Boarding Programs and activities. This newsletter is put together and edited by the Boarding Executive Officer. • The International Boarding News is written by Louise James in consultation with Fiona Sullivan and distributed to International Boarding Families only, once per term via email. • Each HoS is available to be contacted by a designated phone line in each Stage, along with email contacts given to parents. • Stage Weekly Newsletters Updates from the HoS’s. • Email Contact: Every student at Knox has a school email address. All addresses consist of your son’s first initial, then surname, then year of graduation followed by @knox.nsw.edu.au – [email protected]
Teachers email addresses all in lower case with surname followed by initial, then @knox.nsw.edu.au. Example: Mr James Norman’s email address would [email protected]
When sending mail to boarders, please use the following postal addresses:
Student Name Knox Boarding Centre PO Box 5008 WAHROONGA NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA
Or
Student Name Gillespie Heritage House PO Box 5008 WAHROONGA NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA
Or
Student Name Senior Boarding Centre PO Box 5008 WAHROONGA NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA
11 THE KNOX PORTAL HOW TO ACCESS THE PORTAL An individual login and account has been setup for each parent.
Your username is made up of your parent code followed by the letter ‘f’ for father, ‘m’ for mother or ‘g’ for guardian (where applicable). Therefore, if your parent code is SMITH01, the father’s username would be SMITH01F.
Your password is the same as your BPay reference number. You can find this on your school fees statement and is usually a five-digit number. Enter this number for your password exactly as it appears on your statement. Once you have entered your username and password, press enter or click the 'Staff Log On' button
To access Knox Grammar School Parent Lounge please go to: knoxnet.knox.nsw.edu.au
Choose where you want to go from the screen below.
12 NEW PARENT TIPS PREPARATION FOR LIFE IN A BOARDING SCHOOL It is difficult if you and your son have never been separated like this before. You care about your son and want the best for him, and want to know he will be OK. It is very normal for there to be some emotion in saying goodbye.
How can you minimise distress? Your attitude towards the separation will be most important here, as your son will notice your feelings. The risk is that if he notices fear about the separation, he is more likely to perceive that the separation is something to be feared and he will be more distressed. This can escalate: as you perceive his distress, so your distress increases - and the vicious cycle continues.
Model positive attitudes and confidence in the School and in your son’s capacity to cope and thrive. Your confidence can promote confidence and trust in the safety of the separation.
So, be excited! Physiologically, excitement and fear are indistinguishable from each other – so reframe your own fears as excitement: be excited that your son is beginning a challenging adventure that you trust is in his best interest. Be excited that your son is going to grow in maturity, independence and confidence. This does not mean pretending that you will not miss your son, rather the message to give is, ‘I will miss you, but I know this will be worth it, and I know you will be OK’.
The concept of homesickness should be raised and your son reassured that homesickness is a normal part of life experienced by most Boarders, both old and new. Realise homesickness will not end in Term 1. It may reappear at the start of each term but the extent of homesickness will diminish with time.
Reassure yourself homesickness will come and go and sometimes your son may ring and ‘dump on you’. You will experience massive guilt and anxiety for your son who in the meantime is off the phone having fun in the pool or playing on the oval with his new friends.
If you have any special concerns about your son, please let staff know. You can call and discuss any concerns with the school counsellor.
GENERAL INFORMATION CLOTHING It is essential that each article be clearly marked with your son's name followed by KGS.
POCKET MONEY Boys should not keep more than nominal amounts of money on their person. Parents should be encouraged to open key card accounts for their boys in Wahroonga. There are both Commonwealth and Westpac banks located in Wahroonga.
PERSONAL MUSIC PLAYERS IPods and the like are permitted, but earphones are essential to prevent distraction of others. The serial numbers of these and similar items should be recorded for security purposes in the ‘valuables’ section of the Consent Form. The School cannot accept any responsibility for these items - they are left at the owner’s risk.
MOBILE PHONES All Boarders are permitted to possess mobile phones. Boys may not use mobile phones in the House during formal times, in prep or after lights out. All Boarders mobile phones are secured by the Boarding HoS in the laptop and phone locked cupboard between lights out and rising the next morning, to ensure uninterrupted sleep. We would encourage all boys to have alarm clocks whilst their phones are locked away overnight.
13 MOBILE PHONES AND CYBERBULLYING Using mobile devices to bully (also known as cyberbullying) and threaten other students is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. In some cases, it can constitute criminal behaviour. Students are reminded that it is a criminal offence to use a mobile phone to menace, harass or offend another person and almost all calls, text messages and emails can be traced. Mobile phones or other mobile devices must not be used to take photos/video of any other student or staff without their consent. It is also prohibited to upload photos/video of other students/staff to social media websites or email photos/videos to others if doing so would embarrass, humiliate or cause discomfort to the subject of the photo/video. Students are reminded that mobile phones are not to be used during the school day, or in toilets or changing rooms.
TEXT BOOKS Please purchase your son’s textbooks on line from www.boxofbooks.com.au Please tick the box marked Boarder to ensure the order is part of the bulk order delivered to the School for the start of the school year.
STATIONERY Boys will need exercise books, binder books or loose-leaf sheets in a folder to take notes during class. Boys will also require a pencil case with the appropriate amount of pens, pencils, highlighter, ruler etc.
SPORT All Boarders are expected to access the full sport and co-curricular program offered at Knox. This includes meeting the expectations of playing weekly sport in summer and winter, as well as active participation in all school carnivals (Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics). Every Boarder is expected to play major team sports, and inter-school fixtures are arranged on most Saturdays throughout the School year. In addition to the formal obligations Boarders have the opportunity to use the School’s sporting facilities (swimming pool, gym and fields) under the supervision and guidance of their HoS.
ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL FUNCTIONS There are certain School Functions, which are compulsory for Knox Boarders to attend. Full details of such functions are advertised in the Annual Boarding Calendar and are provided through the Boarding Office and are listed in The Boarding News. These include Welcome Dinner, Termly Chapel Services & Formal Dinner, Annual Chapel Service & Family Dinner, Christmas Carol Service and Banquet, Senior Boarders Banquet (Y11 and Y12 only) and other occasions as deemed by the Head of Boarding and Deputy Headmaster.
STUDENT MEDICAL AND HOUSE INFORMATION CONSENT FORMS These forms are self-explanatory and accurate completion is essential for the well-being of your son. Of particular importance is the information regarding a local support person or family member, whom may need to be contacted if urgent communication with you is not possible.
These forms must be updated each year and returned to the Head of Stage prior to commencement of Term 1. Students cannot take their place in the Boarding House without completing the Boarder’s House Information and Consent Form and Boarder Medical Consent Form.
HOMEWORK The School policy is for regular homework to be set every night. Monday to Friday nights inclusive have strictly supervised Prep periods. Each boy has his own desk and bookshelves. Reminder - no telephone calls during prep or after lights out please. Boys with mobile phones will be asked to switch them off during Prep.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS The State Government provides transport for Boarders living in New South Wales, between Knox and the town nearest to their home, at the beginning and end of each school term. The bookings are organised through CountryLink each term by Mrs Fiona Sullivan in the Boarding Office. Most boys travel by coach that collects them from the nearest town and conveys them to school and return at the end of term. There may be students from other boarding schools on the same services.
14 All boys travelling on CountryLink bus or rail services will require a free RailCorp Boarders’ Pass. For new students an application form is available from The Boarding Office. Boarder Passes include a student photo and are valid between Years 7 and 10, and Years 11 and 12. RailCorp charge a fee for the replacement of lost or damaged passes.
BOOKING END OF TERM/BEGINNING OF TERM - COUNTRYLINK TRAVEL NSW Rural Boarder parents will be required to request CountryLink travel at the end of term and beginning of term for their son’s via REACH and advise of the following travel types:
• F (forward only – Knox to Home) • R (return only – Home to Knox) • B (forward Home and return to Knox)
The School will make the bookings on your son’s behalf in consultation with his HoS. Any Parents/Students wishing to cancel their journey after the published cancellation deadline, must contact the CountryLink Call Centre directly on 132 232 and advise their HoS of the cancellation. Boarders who are not travelling to their home or day boys travelling with boarders must purchase a ticket.
RETURNING FROM WEEKEND LEAVE OR HOLIDAYS Each HoS require an accurate arrival time as to when a boy is returning from weekend leave, boarders’ weekends or holidays. This is necessary in order to facilitate catering for meals and supervision of your son. All boys are expected to return from weekend leave to the house on each Sunday by 8.00pm. A written confirmation of your son’s itinerary, including e-tickets for holiday travel, to and from home would be very much appreciated. Please advise in advance if your son requires a meal on his return or if a meal needs to be kept for him if he is returning outside dinner times.
DRESS The underlying principles are: • Local Leave - Neat casuals should be worn. • Weekend Leave - Neat casuals should be worn. • School Functions (includes all home games) - Winter School Uniform or School Tracksuit • Main Meals - Neat casuals* with the exception of Chapel nights (Winter School Uniform) and Saturday breakfast (tracksuit or School Uniform). The blue Boarders Jacket can be worn.
NOTES: *Neat casual clothes means wearing socks and shoes, or boat shoes, a shirt, and long trousers or shorts (no sleeveless tops, sandals, thongs, tracksuits etc.) * Boys are required to wear a collared shirt to the dining room on weeknights.
HAIR It is expected that boys at all times have School regulation haircuts - neat, off the collar and ears (but not excessively short), and conforming to the shape of the head. Colouring of hair is not permitted. All boys must present at School and in the Boarding Houses with no facial hair. It is essential all senior boys shave as required to comply with these expectations.
INSURANCE The school provides NO INSURANCE for the personal effects of Boarders. Each boy is responsible for ensuring the safety of his own property.
15 PARENT ACCOMMODATION IN SYDNEY There are a number of places to stay in Sydney if you are not from the area. However, we have five places we can recommend.
• The Wahroonga Bed and Breakfast Address: 84 Woonona Ave, WAHROONGA NSW 2076 WEB: www.airbnb.com For reservations call Linda O’Neill 0487 317 242 This is the closest accommodation to the school. It is a small B&B, which is very reasonably priced. A number of current parents stay there when they come down on weekends.
• The Blue Gum Hotel Address: 55 Pacific Highway, Waitara NSW 2077 TEL: (02) 9489 3220 WEB: www.bluegumhotel.com.au EMAIL: [email protected] The Blue Gum Hotel is about a 5-minute drive from Knox and only 500m from Waitara station. The Blue Gum Hotel has 11 comfortable, clean and homely rooms with private Bathrooms, which are spacious. All rooms have been updated and modernised to reflect current standards, have access to free Wi-Fi and prices include a continental breakfast. The Blue Gum Hotel offer discounted rates for Knox Families.
• The Ibis Hotel Thornleigh Hotel Address: 200-212 Pennant Hills Road, Thornleigh NSW 2120 TEL: (61-2) 9481 7500 EMAIL: [email protected] WEB: www.ibishotel.com/3238 The Ibis Sydney Thornleigh is about a 10-minute drive from Knox. The hotel will offer 10% discount on the best available rate per night. To access this special rates call 02 9481 7500 or email [email protected] and quote Knox Grammar rate code.
• The Sebel Residence Chatswood Address: 37 Victor Street, CHATSWOOD NSW 2067 WEB: www.sebelchatswood.com.au TEL: (02) 9414 1600 EMAIL: [email protected] We are located in the heart of Chatswood CBD, steps away from Chatswood train station, three major shopping centres, a variety of restaurants and great entertainment. The Sebel Residence offer discounted rates for Knox Families. There 4.5 star serviced apartments are spacious and ideal for longer family visits. The Accor Hotel Group would also like to extend special rates to Knox families at their sister property, Quay West Suites Sydney. Located in the historic Rocks Precinct, families can enjoy the convenience and luxury of a five star CBD hotel with serviced one and two bedroom apartments overlooking Sydney Harbour. W: www.quaywestsuitessydney.com.au P: 02 9240 6000 E: [email protected]
• Airbnb Various accommodation options are available from a one-bedroom apartment through to a house. WEB: Airbnb.com.au
16 HEALTH CARE MEDICAL, HEALTH AND CLINIC PROCEDURES It is our school policy to promote a safe and supportive environment for all students. Our pastoral care processes are carefully designed and reviewed regularly to provide support and care for all boys. Support staff and selected academic staff have regular first aid training. We have a designated Clinic in the Senior School, which can be accessed by boys as needed.
Medical information on all students is required annually from parents/guardians in order that the School appropriately cater for students during normal school activities. Additional information will be sought for particular participation in excursions and trips. New health problems, any changes to condition, medication or special requirements must be given to the School immediately.
THE SCHOOL CLINIC School Clinic Telephone: (02) 9487 0133
The School Clinic is located in the Knox Boarding Centre. The process for accessing the Clinic in the Senior School is outlined below. Full details concerning the Clinic and the monitoring of the health of students at Knox is contained in the Clinic Protocols and Procedures Manual available from the Clinic and Guidelines for School Nurses published by the School Nursing Association of NSW also available from the Clinic.
The School Clinic is staffed by Registered Nurses. Day boys can visit the Clinic if required whenever they are at the school. 24-hour medical care is available to all boarders.
ATTENDANCE AND MONITORING STUDENTS Each boy visiting the clinic will have the following details entered in to the database: • time of arrival • time signed out Additionally, an email is sent to the SAO and relevant Head of Stage if a boarder.
For boarders, the clinic will send an email in the evening to boarding staff listing all boys who have presented to the clinic, the diagnosis and treatment.
In the day school, depending on the condition of the student, they will be accompanied to the clinic.
EVENINGS/AFTER LIGHTS OUT In Gillespie Heritage House and the Senior Boarding Centre, boarders present to staff on duty or to the Assistant Head of Stage after lights out – they may also phone the Assistant Head of Stage if required. Staff will contact the Sister on duty. The staff member and boarder will enter the Knox Boarding Centre, level 3, and use the lift down to the clinic. On weekends, boarding staff will contact the Sister on call.
In the Knox Boarding Centre after lights out, boarders will knock on either the Head of Stage or Assistant Head of Stage door. Once again, staff will notify the clinic. Staff will accompany boys down to the clinic via the lift.
EMERGENCIES / ACCIDENTS ALL HOURS All Boarders are to contact/awaken boarding staff on duty and staff to inform the Nurse on duty if a boy is unwell. The sick boy will be accompanied to the clinic.
17 MEDICAL TREATMENT In the event of any accident or illness to a boy at school or while taking part in any organised school activity or function, the parent/s or guardian/s specifically authorise the School to arrange for all necessary immediate medical treatment and/or hospitalisation and to consent to any operative treatment including general or local anaesthetic. Parent/guardians are required to advise the School of emergency contact details for students. Parent/guardians must agree to pay all medical and ambulance expenses incurred on behalf of the boy as seen on the Boarder Medical Form including immunisation.
LONG TERM MEDICAL CONDITIONS In the case of serious illnesses, the following procedures apply: 1. The condition is identified (e.g. allergic reactions, diabetes, asthma, other life-threatening conditions). 2. Care plans including treatment, emergency procedures, doctors' contact numbers, parents contact numbers and a recent photo of the child to be organised by the SAO. 3. Student Notes are flagged appropriately and entered into school database. TASS by Enrolments administrator or Clinic staff. 4. Information will be disseminated by the relevant SAO in one or more of the following ways: • Email to appropriate staff • Meeting of appropriate staff • Information for the class teacher • Information for student file 5. Any new information to be forwarded to the Student Administration Office who will update information to all staff as appropriate.
MEDICATION Parents are requested to inform the Clinic of any medications being taken by students. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications are stored in the Clinic, with the exception of Asthma Relievers. All medications administered by the Clinic will be recorded. All parents/guardians are required to complete a Medical Consent Form Annually – please refer to the back of the Parent Handbook – New Boarders ONLY require a Medical Examination from their General Practitioner.
PRESCRIPTION AND RESTRICTED MEDICATIONS • Assistance will be given by the school nurse in the administration of prescribed medication, when requested in writing by parents/guardians or as prescribed by the School Doctor. • Assistance will be given by the school nurse in the administration of restricted medication (such as Ritalin, Dexamphetamine) after receiving documentation from the doctor and parent. • Instructions regarding changes to the original dosage of long term or restricted medications must be in writing from the doctor and parent/guardian. • The school nurse may only administer or assist with the administration of any medication, if the medication is provided in its original container with label clearly displaying the students name and the required dosage. • All medications will be stored in a locked cupboard in the Clinic.
MINOR AILMENT OR INJURIES • The student will report to the Clinic where his attendance will be recorded on TASS. • The registered nurse on duty will assess and treat the student as required. • Treatments will be documented on TASS.
SERIOUS INJURIES OR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES REQUIRING DOCTOR OR HOSPITAL • Students are either escorted to the Clinic or if seriously injured, left where they are and medical attention sought. • Students receive first aid at the scene where it is inadvisable to move them. • An ambulance is called if necessary. Parents are contacted after the ambulance has been called. • An Accident Report form is completed. Copies are sent to the Deputy Head of Senior School.
18 • Student is either admitted to the Clinic or parents are contacted if child needs to be taken home, if living locally. • If a student is taken by ambulance, follow up calls are made and information added to the Accident Report form. Further contact with family and/or medical staff or hospital and information recorded. MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNICABLE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES • Take history and examine patient • Contact School Doctor, or associate for clinical diagnosis • Isolate patient until parent/guardian contacted • If Overseas student or student who has no place to go for recuperation, the Clinic has a designated isolation room.
Management of Immunisation and Screening (Please attach Immunisation Record) Note last Tetanus immunisation date on boarder file.
(Year 7) NSW IMMUNISATION PROGRAMME
Diphtheria Tetanus & Pertussis Boostrix Human Papillomavirus x 3 Gardasil Varicella (catch-up only) Varicella
Other immunisations are considered the responsibility of the parents.
CHILDREN IMMUNISED OVERSEAS Where vaccines have been given overseas and are not recorded on the AIR, the child’s overseas records should be checked by a GP/Nurse who will then transfer the information to the AIR. Parents should then request an updated AIR Immunisation History Statement to give to the school.
CHILDREN NOT FULLY IMMUNISED Please be aware that students who have not had all the recommended immunisations for their age, or where no immunization certificate has been provided, may need to stay at home/guardian during a disease outbreak. This is to protect the child and stop the spread of disease.
If a boarder requires part of his immunisation during the term, parental authority is to be obtained and then School Doctor notified. Vaccines etc. will be ordered through Red leaf Pharmacy.
Flux Vax can be given to the boarders, at the discretion of the parents, a letter will be sent from the Boarding Office in Term 1.
SATURDAY SPORTS INJURIES - PROCESS FOR BOARDERS AT ANY SPORTS FIXTURE
IF AMBULANCE CALLED • Sports coach to notify Sports Master and/or Head of Sport immediately • Sports coach to notify Clinic on (02) 9487 0133 • Clinic to notify boarding staff on duty
IF STUDENT IS INJURED AND REQUIRES MEDICAL ASSESSMENT (NO AMBULENCE CALLED) • Sports coach to organise for another boy/or willing parent to accompany the injured boarder to either the School clinic or hospital. • Sports coach to notify School Clinic (02) 9487 0133 • Clinic to notify boarding staff on duty and Head of Boarding • Clinic to notify parents
19 HEALTH SERVICES APPOINTMENTS • All medical and allied service appointments are to be organised through the school Clinic e.g.: - Doctors, physiotherapy, Dentist, orthodontist. • Location, timing and transport must be approved by the Boarding Office in advance prior to the appointment and a Clinic leave form completed. • Students may be escorted to and from appointments by parents and approved family friends or at the discretion of parents the student may attend the appointment without escort. • The School Doctor is available for consultation in the Clinic or at the Turramurra practice as required.
OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER The School arranges OSHC for the duration of an overseas student’s study time at Knox through Medibank Private. If you would like more information on this, please visit their website at http://www.medibank.com.au/Client/StaticPages/OSHCHome.aspx
INSURANCE INFORMATION The following statement is provided to all families with respect to insurance cover for their son/s while they play sport at school.
If your son/s are involved in any contact or dangerous sports, the school strongly recommends that you take out full Private Health Insurance. Even with full Private Health Cover, often the cost of medical expenses to the parent when a significant injury occurs, is substantial.
The School provides Student Accident Insurance designed primarily to help with permanent injuries of a serious nature, such as quadriplegia, paraplegia or loss of a limb. As most sports injuries are not of a permanent nature, this insurance is limited.
It is our understanding that no Insurer can, by law, cover medical expenses covered by Medicare, beyond the scheduled fee. Sometimes the difference between a Surgeon’s/Specialist’s fees and the scheduled fee is substantial and the parents are expected to meet these costs.
OTHER INFORMATION The nursing staff need to know if a boy is known to have been in contact with infection, sustained an injury or received medical treatment prior to arriving to the school or after the holidays.
If a boarder has been receiving medical treatment during the holidays or for a chronic condition, it is most important that the treating Doctor or health professional send a report to the nursing staff, in particular specifying any prescriptions, medications or ongoing treatment required.
20 WHAT TO BRING It is important for boys to bring items to make their room as comfortable and homelike as possible – for example photographs, mementos or a stuffed toy. Having too much in one’s space, however, makes room care difficult and time- consuming. It is asked, that parents monitor the amount of ‘luggage’ brought to the Boarding School by their sons. The following items are suggested:
CLOTHING OTHER ITEMS • Full school uniform, Winter and Summer • Mobile phone • T-shirts (x2) • Sporting equipment • Collared polo shirts (x2) • iPod • Jeans (x2) • Camera • Shirts (x2) • Coat hangers • Shorts (x2) • Address book/ letter writing material • Jumpers (x2) • Roll on deodorant only • Underwear • Alarm clock (if you have extracurricular activities to • Tracksuit pants attend before the usual wake up time you will need • Socks (x6 pairs) to set an alarm) • Jacket • School equipment (stationery and textbooks) • Joggers • The Boarding Centre has air-conditioning and heating • Casual shoes installed centrally. Please do not bring fans or heaters. • Swimming costume • Each desk and bed has a lamp installed overhead. Please • Beach towel do not bring a lamp • Toiletries • Raincoat and/or umbrella
All electrical items will be tested and tagged by the school within the first few weeks of arrival. All items brought to the Boarding House must be clearly labelled with your son’s name.
Clothing labels may be obtained through The Knox Shop (02) 9487 0191.
It is expected that a Knox student understands the value of property. He will treat other people’s property with respect and be responsible in caring for his own. Items of great value should be left at home.
VALUABLES Please make sure you list all valuables on the list provided in the Boarder Consent Form.
BEDDING The School supplies all boys with a pillow, doona, doona covers, sheets and two bath towels. These are washed by the School Laundry.
SCHOOL LAUNDRY The laundry washes all school uniform items. Generally, these are returned within two days. Each boy will be provided with two named laundry bags for washing all underwear and socks.
21 LAUNDRY GUIDE LABELLING OF CLOTHES
To help ensure clothing doesn’t go missing in the wash, please make sure ALL items of clothing (including socks and underwear) are CLEARLY LABELLED with your son’s name and KGS (e.g. John Smith KGS), with the ideal positions indicated as follows:
The Knox Shop can help you to purchase name tags. The School uses Cash’s Australia Pty Ltd - you are able to order online through http://www.nametapes.com.au follow the links to clothing labels.
SOCKS AND UNDERWEAR Students’ socks and underwear are washed in mesh laundry bags supplied by Knox Grammar. Please do NOT overfill the sock and underwear laundry bags issued, as not only will it impair their being rinsed, the bags’ zips can occasionally come undone in the wash.
PRESENTING YOUR CLOTHING ITEMS FOR LAUNDRY Shirt sleeves must be unrolled. Trouser and shorts pockets must be emptied. Socks must be separated and unrolled.
Please contact Knox Grammar Laundry with any queries or concerns on (02) 9487 0174.
22 CODE OF CONDUCT IN BOARDING RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES RIGHTS RESPONSIBILITIES EXAMPLES OF INFRINGEMENT
I have the right to be happy in I have the responsibility to Bullying, verbal abuse. Boarding and to be treated with respect the rights of others and understanding. to treat them with understanding.
I have a right to feel safe and I have a responsibility not to do Fighting, daring, some practical secure. anything, which may threaten or jokes, leaving Boarding without cause danger to others or myself authorisation or leaving my and to report any dangerous room after ‘lights-out’. situation.
I have a right to be treated with I have a responsibility to treat all Lack of courtesy, lying. respect and fairness. Staff and Boarders with respect and honesty.
I have a right to learn. I have a responsibility to behave Disruptive behaviour and being myself in Boarding and to keep unprepared for evening prep. up to date academically.
I have a right to expect my I have a responsibility not to Vandalism, stealing or property to be safe. steal, damage or destroy the interfering with others’ property. property of others and to take Keeping items that have been proper care of the School’s found. property, and to return all found property. I have the responsibility to clearly label all my property.
I have a right to be protected I have a responsibility not to Smoking, drinking alcohol, against threats to my smoke, drink alcohol or take taking drugs. health. drugs, or encourage any other student to do so.
I have a right to have a clean, I have a responsibility to care for Littering, not cleaning my room, pleasant, well-maintained the school environment, to keep not doing duty. School and grounds. it neat, clean, and free of litter.
I have a right to feel proud of I have a responsibility to behave Unacceptable behaviour out of Knox Grammar School. so the community will respect School and at outside functions. Knox Grammar School.
The Head of Stage and the Head of Boarding respond to behavioural matters by referencing the Boarding Behavioural Incidents Policy.
23 GENERAL SECURITY An attitude of cooperation, courtesy, participation and support is important for all students so that they may enjoy and benefit from being at Knox Grammar School
Theft is an issue that periodically raises its head and one which, perhaps more than any other, poisons the community atmosphere of the Boarding House.
Boys are advised to: • Keep all valuables under lock and key. All Boarders have lockable cupboards and drawers in their rooms. • Passports, extremely valuable item or large sums of money should be given to the Head of Stage for safekeeping. • Boys should report the suspected theft of any item to the Head of Stage or Boarding Staff on duty immediately. • Boys are responsible for their own belongings. If a boy wishes to bring expensive personal items into the Boarding Houses, he does so at his own risk. Personal computers and other valuable items must be covered by parents ‘insurance. • All Boarding Houses are fitted with CCTV which can be used a point of reference for theft.
Please note, staff will conduct random room inspections throughout the year. This should assist boys with their understanding of their obligations and responsibilities when living in a boarding community.
The School will not replace missing personal items.
*Security guards are on site every night. The Boarding Houses and every external door in the Boarding Houses are routinely patrolled throughout the evening.
Please note that the only people who have authorised access to the Boarding Houses between 8.20am and 3.10pm are Boarding staff, cleaning staff, catering and maintenance.
STANDARDS EXPECTED IN THE HOUSE The following should be completed each morning before the boys leave for school.
BEDROOMS: • Beds made with doonas tucked in and pillow on top • Nothing to be left on the floor • Desks left in an orderly fashion • Shoes/clothes/personal belongings placed in cupboards and drawers provided • Air conditioning turned off • Wardrobes and drawers locked • Towels hung up • Bathrooms clean
COMMON AREAS: • Laundry pigeon hole emptied and clothes put away • Television turned off • No personal possessions to be left in the break out areas • Kitchens to be cleaned and left tidy
24 STUDENT MANAGEMENT AND DISCIPLINE GUDELINES
OVERVIEW The purpose of this section is to outline the Student Management and Discipline guidelines in place to promote learning and to build positive relationships in the Knox Grammar School boarding community. All Boarders must adhere to the Student Management Policies, Procedures and Guidelines as set out by the School however, additional disciplinary measures have been set in place to ensure the smooth and effective operation of the boarding house.
The following guidelines are premised on the right of students to learn effectively and feel safe. Therefore, the school’s policy is designed to develop self-discipline and a sense of responsibility so that these rights may be enjoyed by all students. The Student Management and Discipline Policy is the school wide framework, which is underpinned by each staff member's individual management plans and strategies. Knox will continue to support staff professional development to achieve excellent classroom management skills.
OUR GOALS • To acknowledge and encourage appropriate behaviour. • To provide a safe and nurturing environment in which our students have the best opportunity to develop to their full potential intellectually, socially and physically. • To equip all members of the school community with a consistent, firm and fair approach to managing both appropriate and inappropriate behaviour.
WE HAVE BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES SO THAT: • All members of our community know how we encourage appropriate behaviour in our students • All who work with our students do so in a firm and fair manner. • Our students experience minimal ambiguity when dealing with adults in school.
UNDERLYING PRINCIPLES This program is predicated on three important principles: • That all people are valued and should be valued by all. • That everyone may seek and be given another chance and be supported in this process. • That all discipline in the Senior School will be based upon the principles of procedural fairness.
Knox emphasises logical consequences for each action, that is, a student should experience the consequences of his behaviour. By linking the consequences with the misbehaviour and by explaining this to the student he is helped to take responsibility for his own actions.
Consequences will not involve any form of physical punishment (corporal punishment) or verbal abuse. Knox Grammar School prohibits the use of corporal punishment nor does it sanction the administering of corporal punishment by non- school persons, including parents, to enforce discipline at the school. In some cases, the school may take the following actions against a student in Boarding.
Suspension: this is a temporary debarment of a student from Boarding as deemed by the Headmaster in consultation with the Deputy Headmaster. This may include an in-school suspension at the discretion of the Headmaster. A student suspended from Boarding will be required to transfer to the care of his parent or guardian, but in some case may still attend classes during the day at the Headmaster’s discretion. A student suspended from the Day School, may stay in Boarding if it is deemed that the suspension can be served as an in-school suspension. Exclusion: Knox Grammar School does not exclude students from schools. Exclusion (as defined in the Education Act) is the act of preventing a student’s admission to a number of schools.
25 POLICY AND PROCEDURE AGAINST BULLYING In the Knox Boarding Community, we believe that all members of the community have the right to a living, learning and working environment free from intimidation, humiliation and hurt. We all share a responsibility to create a culture of caring which does not tolerate bullying. This policy builds on the School's pastoral care policy to provide clear and agreed procedures and strategies for combating bullying in the School, responding to bullying behaviours and protecting and supporting all parties involved.
Knox is a Uniting Church School and, as a school founded on Christian values, it encourages all members of the School and Boarding Community to establish relationships, which are grounded in love, compassion, reconciliation and justice. In witnessing Christian values, we do not accept ideas, beliefs and behaviours, which marginalize or victimize people.
Boarding promotes positive strategies for promoting pro-social skills that protect and support all parties involved.
Pro-social Behaviours Promoted include: • Protecting, defending, helping • Encouraging, giving, • Genuine complimenting • Inclusion and tolerance
Whilst there is no universally accepted definition of bullying, there is general consensus that bullying behaviour has the following elements:
“A desire to hurt; the perpetration of hurtful behaviour (physical, verbal or relational) in a situation in which there is an imbalance of power; the action being regarded as unjustified, typically repeated and experienced by the target of the aggression as oppressive, and by the perpetrator as enjoyable”. (Ken Rigby, 2002)
Bullying is a pattern of uninvited on-going behaviour directed by a more powerful person or group to intentionally or unintentionally hurt, injure, embarrass and/or distress a less powerful person or group. Bullying may be physical, verbal, psychological, or social.
Bullying can take many forms, all of which will cause distress. Examples of bullying include:
Physical: hitting, pushing, tripping, kicking, spitting on others. Extortion: threatening to take someone's possessions, food or money. Verbal: teasing, using offensive names, ridiculing, spreading rumours. Non-Verbal: writing offensive notes or graffiti about others, using e-mail or text messaging to hurt others, rude gestures. Exclusion: deliberately excluding others from the group, refusing to sit next to someone Property: stealing, hiding, damaging or destroying property. Cyber: (emails, SMS, chat rooms) offensive/threatening images, offensive/ threatening/hurtful comments rumour spreading. ANTI-BULLYING The Knox Boarding Community rejects all forms of bullying and students, staff and parents are encouraged to report all incidents of bullying. The School is unable to take action if acts of bullying are not reported. All bullying incidents are dealt with seriously and the school reserves the right to discipline students whose behaviour is unacceptable.
26 PROCEDURES 1. If you believe that you or someone that you know are being bullied, you are encouraged to report your concerns immediately. 2. The report should be made to your Head of Stage, Assistant Head of Stage, House Manager, Evening Boarding Tutor, Student Management Officer, Counsellor, Parent or senior student or any adult with whom you feel comfortable. 3. The person receiving the complaint will report it to your Head of Stage for action. 4. Any reported bulling incident will be followed up sensitively and actions taken and documented.
The reporting of anti-social behaviour is one way Knox boys can defend and protect their peers and the school’s positive culture.
Parents and boys should refer to the School Diary for details on:
• The appropriate use of technology • The use of Social Media
VISITORS TO BOARDING The School’s duty to protect the boys and to provide them with private space means that parents’ access to Boarding House cannot be unrestricted. Other than at the times specified below and at the beginning/end of term parents, are asked to speak to the Head of Stage to organise a time to meet.
Parents and immediate family members are welcome between the hours of 4:00pm to 6:00pm on Friday and 5.00pm to 7.30pm on Sunday (please note 7pm for Years 7 and 8). Visitors should enter and depart via the main foyer (Level 3).
If you would like to meet with a Boarding Staff member it is advisable to make an appointment prior to your visit. Please understand that there are residents in the Centre and all visitors are asked to respect the privacy of staff if they are not on duty.
Parents are invited to have a meal with their son if they are visiting on Friday or Sunday. We would like to extend this invitation to lunch on Saturday if parents are travelling to Knox to watch their sons play sport.
PARENTAL ACCESS TO BOARDING HOUSES 1. At the Beginning and End of Term At these stages in the school year, when there is a significant quantity of luggage to be moved between rooms or taken home, and when there is supervision of the Boarding House by the Heads of Stage, Assistant Heads of Stage and House Manager, Parents/Guardians are granted access to common areas of the Boarding Houses.
2. At Weekend leave and return times. Friday: 4pm - 6pm Sunday: 5pm - 7pm (6.30pm for Years 7 and 8) During these times there will be supervision of the Boarding House by a Head of Stage, Assistant Head of Stage or Weekend Supervisor; Parents/Guardians are granted access to common areas (lounge areas and kitchens). Boy’s bedrooms are not to be used as a meeting space.
SIGNING IN PROCEDURES All Parents/Guardians must sign in at each Boarding House. Please note guests visiting the Knox Boarding Centre, are to sign in at Boarding Reception (Level 3). Guests visiting either Gillespie Heritage House or the Senior Boarding Centre must sign in with the Staff member on duty. As a courtesy, and for security reasons, it is vital that the Boarding Staff on duty be informed of any visitors to the Boarding Houses; for this reason, your son will be asked to introduce his guests to the Staff member on duty.
27
At other times In order to give boys a reasonable degree of privacy in their Boarding House, Parents/Guardians are only granted access to the common areas with the explicit permission of the Head of Stage.
Bathroom Amenities There are bathroom facilities and a lounge located in the foyer area. Visitors are requested not to use boy’s bathroom facilities as they are shared amenities.
Smoking All visitors are expected to respect the school’s no-smoking policy.
BOARDERS DINING ROOM The Knox Grammar School Kitchen is contracted to Sodexo, who operate under strict guidelines.
• Production of healthy and balanced meals • Menu composition based on feedback from the Boarders • Substantial meals offered each day • Consideration for variety • Accommodation of Boarders with special dietary needs • Regular communication in both an informal and formal environment between Kitchen, Boarding Staff and Students • Operating according to HACCP & OH&S guidelines • Regular monitoring of kitchen procedure
Boarders must wear a collared shirt (or Boarder’s jacket) and closed shoes to dinner. Boarders are not to use their mobile phones or laptops in the Dining Room.
MEALS Boarders are provided with three main meals and two snack meals each day:
Breakfast: Five cereals, full cream, skim milk & soy, orange juice, apple juice, yoghurt, fresh fruit, bread for toasting including brown and multigrain, tea and coffee is available each morning. In addition, a hot breakfast is served daily which may include, eggs and bacon, porridge, pancakes, muffins and Danish pastries, raisin toast, omelettes, sausages, croissants, baked beans, etc.
Morning Tea: This meal alternates between hot and cold snacks and sweet or savoury snacks. Examples of the snacks served include hot soup & crusty bread, homemade pizza, variety of muffins, jumbo cookies with milo or warm banana bread. Iced cordial, juice and iced water is available at morning tea. Fruit, bread and spreads are available for Boarders on a self-service basis.
Lunch: Boarders have two options at lunchtime: 1. Have the special, a hot meal, which is advertised a week in advance. For example, butter chicken and rice, stir-fry beef and noodles, hot roast lamb rolls with gravy, Tandoori chicken burgers or sausage sizzle and steak sandwiches. In the summer cold specials include Thai chicken salad or Caesar wraps. 2. If the Boarders do not wish to eat the special they have the option of a vegetarian alternative or a specific sandwich order placed in the morning. Fruit is always available.
If a Boarder cannot return to the dining room at lunch, due to a sporting or academic commitment, he can place a sandwich lunch order in advance and pick up his lunch at recess. Alternately Catering Staff will put aside a hot special if requested by the Boarder ahead of time.
28 Dinner: A two-course meal is served each night. All dishes are accompanied by vegetables or salads. Menu items include a weekly roast, pasta night, fish and chips, steaks and BBQ’s, Thai green chicken curry etc. Dessert favourites include sticky date pudding with butterscotch sauce, ice-cream with topping or hot apple pie and cream. Milk or juice and water are served with each meal. Fruit and bread is available. There are two seating times; 1. The first seating time is at 5.50pm for Stage 4 & 5 Boarders and staff. 2. The second seating time is at 6.40pm for Stage 6 Boarders and staff. Afternoon Tea and Supper: Sweet and Savoury items are delivered to the boarding house kitchens plus there are provisions in the Boarding Houses for self-serve snacks including cereal, milo, toast, milk and fruit.
HOW DOES THE KITCHEN KNOW WHAT TO SERVE AND HOW MUCH TO SERVE? Most of the menu is based on Boarder feedback. The various forms of feedback / communication are outlined below. In addition to feedback, nutritional value, variety, colour, texture and taste are taken into consideration.
Each week the Head Chef writes a menu for the following week. The Catering Co-ordinator and the Operations Manager then check the menu to ensure all of the objectives have been met.
SPECIAL DIETARY CIRCUMSTANCES Some Boarders have special dietary needs, which can be accommodated by the Chef. The Head Chef and Operations Manager work in conjunction with parents, HoS and the students to ensure the right food is provided. The responsibility falls back on the student to meet regularly with the Head Chef to update the Kitchen on the progress of the diet.
If a student is to attend an all day excursion the Kitchen provides a packed morning tea and lunch that is picked up the morning of the excursion. The pack includes sandwiches, fruit, water, juice and a treat. The day teacher will inform the kitchen when an excursion is to occur. The weekly menu are displayed in all Boarding Houses.
LATE MEALS If a boarder is not able to attend dinner, he can request a dinner be brought back to the house for him, he will let his House Manager know on the days this is required.
SATURDAY LUNCH MONEY If a boarder is playing Saturday sport at an away venue over the lunch period, he will need to request lunch money before the Thursday. $10 will be given either on Friday evening or Saturday morning.
LUNCH PACKS Lunch packs can be ordered in advance from the kitchen for boarders attending out of the ordinary activities.
BOATER CAFÉ Just a few steps from the Seniors Hall, the Year 11 and Year 12 boarders have access to the Boater Café in the KSSA Building, they are entitled to morning tea and lunch equivalent to the main boarder’s dining room.
BOARDERS’ CHAPEL The School Chaplains Rev Peter Robinson and Rev Tim Robinson can be contacted on (02) 9119 0820.
Boarders’ Chapel is held once per term in the Knox Grammar School William McIlrath War Memorial Chapel on allocated Wednesdays at 6.00pm. Singing and Scripture readings form a critical part of these services. All Boarders attend under the supervision of the HoS and Boarding Staff. Boys wear school uniform.
29 BOARDER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM The Boarder Leadership Program is designed to promote and facilitate genuine opportunities for leadership within the residential environment of Boarding at Knox.
The Program consists of a Boarder Leadership Team which meets fortnightly with the Head of Boarding to discuss issues within, or affecting the boarding community, and be part of putting solutions in place to improve the Boarding environment at Knox.
Representatives are appointed by the Head of Boarding in consultation with each Head of Stage, and other relevant staff. Students in each Boarding House may have the opportunity to vote, which the Head of Boarding will take advice from in their deliberations.
The BLT commences its term of service at the start of Term 4 2018 to coincide with the School’s appointment of the Senior Boarder and Prefects and for the year commencement at the start of Term 3, 2019.
Representatives in Years 7- 10 are appointed for a two Term (1 Semester) period. In the second half of the BLT Committee’s Term a second round of appointments is made, to allow a greater number of students to participate. BLT appointees are inducted at a Boarders’ Leadership Chapel Service.
YEAR 11 SENIOR ACADEMIC MENTORS Boys may apply to being a Senior Academic Mentor for our Stage 4 Boarders. Boys are encouraged to put in an application and a shortlist of interviews will follow. A final selection will be made in consultation by our Senior Boarding Prefects and the Head of Stage 4 Boarding. These boys volunteer to assist the Stage 4 boys once a week from 4.00pm to 5.00pm and are assigned to those boys who need additional support with their homework and gaps in their understanding.
HOMEWORK AND STUDY During Prep time each boy works in his own room at his own desk, as per the timetable allocated by his Head of Stage. Evening Boarding Tutors (who are Knox Teaching Staff) will be available during this time to help with homework and supervise Prep. There is strictly no talking during prep time and if boys are unable to adhere to the rules they will be moved into the kitchen areas indefinitely to continue prep. These EBT’s will also assist Boarding Staff with general supervision and pastoral support through the evenings they are on duty. We encourage all Boarders to make good use of these tutors when they are in the House.
Mr Les Harvey is the Senior Academic Master for Boarding. If you have any academic issues please contact Mr Harvey on (02) 9487 0178 or [email protected]
KNOX BOARDING INTERNET POLICY As legislation and privacy laws now focus on Social Networking, Knox’s response is to reinforce the guidelines outlined for students and staff in the School Diary and Knox Policy Documents, in particular in Knox Next Generation Boarding.
Parents work in partnership with the School in a range of education programs that involve: • Continuing education and training of residential staff. • Educating boys about the consequences associated with inappropriate computer use. • Educating parents about technology so they can understand what their sons are doing online and empower them to be able to talk to their boys about it.
30 We undertake to: • Provide training for all boarding staff and students about the legal requirements and their obligations in relation to social networking. • Provide presentations for all parents in relation to the legal requirements and obligations in relation to social networking. • Respect the privacy and integrity of all social networking use within Knox Next Generation Boarding. • Provide age related guidelines for all boarders in their use and engaging in all areas of social networking. • Developing awareness of the appropriate use of language and tone in social networking use. • Developing an awareness of the impact of social network sites on one’s personal integrity, career prospects and the impact on others of misuse. • The illegal nature of ‘Sexting’ etc. and the legal ramifications of receiving and sending such messages or participating in any illicit or inappropriate social networking medium. • Limit the use of social networking to specify times so that focus remains on academic studies and student welfare.
Training for students especially in regard to online safety and the following areas takes place: • What do I expect of others online? • Where does my internet data go? • My privacy and the privacy of others. • Language matters - legally and ethically! • Just who is online? • When I post anything online - do I jeopardise mine or others privacy and rights? • Cyber Bullying of ANYONE is inappropriate and may have severe legal consequences. • Pirated games / movies etc. - it’s against the law!
Presentation for parents in both the realities of the Internet and legal and safety issues includes: • What are the children doing online? • What is social networking? • What knowledge do I need to ensure my child is safe on line? And Protecting children’s privacy and that of others online. • Learning the language of the internet, social networking, blogging; collaboration; sexting; posting; my wall etc. • What are ‘internet friends’? What types of friends are there? What information is on my page? • Who can you trust on the internet? What can be given away in a profile? • Safety settings - learning the tricks and teaching your child to use them! • Trust or deception - how do you know? • Where do I get help if I suspect my child is at risk on the internet or misusing the internet? • Threatening or explicit language online DOES matter - it is against the law and carries heavy penalties. • Teaching my child, the ethics of responsible networking. The games my son plays - what are they rated? • The Law and pirated copies - it’s illegal to make or possess them. What is in your son’s collection? • The School publishes a podcast called ‘Healthy Digital Diet’. For more information about the podcast and to download episodes, please visit the Knox website.
Cyberbullying The School’s anti-bullying Policy is equally applicable when using technology. Some examples of cyber-bullying which are unacceptable at any time whether at or away from school are listed below. In extreme cases, this kind of bullying may be referred to the Federal Police. • Sending a text message to another student containing threats or insults or inciting anti-social behaviour. • Forwarding on an email containing a destructive rumour about another student. • Creating a profile impersonating another person. • Sending a picture or video of two people kissing through email or mobile phone. • Threatening or swearing at an opponent via online games. • Impersonating another person on social media. • Filming a teacher or another student and uploading the footage on YouTube.
31 When using a social-networking site, the school recommends that you set your profile to private and only allow access to people you personally know and trust. Do not upload any personal details that could lead to your identification by strangers.
Whilst the School will do its best to teach its students to be responsible users of technology and the Internet, through its management plan, it recognises that it is impossible to anticipate and prevent all possible abuses of the system.
The School cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy or nature of information obtained via the Internet, though it does teach its students to be discerning. The School does not accept responsibility for information transmitted or printed by students, though it does teach the students to be thoughtful and responsible. While all possible care will be taken to prevent it happening, the School cannot accept responsibility for any viruses downloaded from the Internet and transmitted to other computers outside the School.
Resources available on the network Knox Website: General information regarding the School is provided on the school web site at http://www.knox.nsw.edu.au
Knox Portal: The school portal is a web site for Knox students, staff and parents, including news, academic, sports fixtures and sports information. This web site can only be accessed by a member logging in using their personal username and password. This site can be found at knoxnet.knox.nsw.edu.au
Student Café: This is the student-centric portal when all students can access timetables, announcements, calendar, online learning activities and other important resources. Students should log in daily to keep up to date with important information and online assessments.
Parent Lounge: This is the parent-centric portal where parents can access timetables, check student details and the school calendar. Also available in Parent Lounge is attendance information, access to academic reports as well as excursions and related information for your son.
School Email All official school email correspondence with students will only occur through the school email. The school and individual teachers will not send material to a student’s personal email account unless exceptional circumstances exist. Students should only use their school email account to send emails to the school or teachers. It is the student’s responsibility to manage their school email account, delete or archive mail as necessary. Email notification of Formal Assessment Tasks is deemed an official formal notification of an assessment task in compliance with the Board of Studies and school guidelines for the conduct of assessment tasks. Email usage, like Internet usage, is monitored by the School and subject to the same codes of conduct and acceptability guidelines.
File Storage Each student has access to Google Apps, an online collaborative system that includes file storage and sharing with Google Drive. There is no set size limit for file storage with Google Drive. The school suggests all students utilize this service as a means of files storage and backup, and as a way to share and collaborate with fellow students and teachers. To access Google Drive, students should log into Google online with their Knox email and password (from the Google homepage). Students can also use the Google Drive client on their school laptop, visit the IT Service Desk for assistance with installing the Google Drive software. Students may also utilise personal hard drives if they wish to back up their data.
Data Backup: Each student is responsible for the data stored on their laptop or other electronic devices. We urge all students to make sure that they are saving their important school work and other files to a backup location.
32 Students may utilise any of the following backup methods: • Google Drive (RECOMMENDED - each student has access to a Google account that includes a Google Drive) • Other Cloud file storage services (OneDrive, Drop Box, iCloud etc.) • External hard drive or USB stick
OVERSEAS BOARDING INTERNATIONAL STUDENT LIAISON OFFICER - MRS LOUISE JAMES Mrs James is the School’s International Student Liaison Officer. Louise prepares the International Boarders Newsletter which is written specifically for parents of Overseas Boarders and is designed to give extra information to the International Boarding Community. It also provides an opportunity for these parents to raise issues and concerns directly with Mrs James. Mrs James also reports on achievements, activities and general information specific to our overseas boys who are living so far from their home. We recognise that overseas students and their parents have specific needs and we want to ensure that communication and information is clear at all times.
ORIENTATION PROGRAMS The Knox Orientation programs help familiarize overseas students with our expectations, rules and facilities, and introduce the social and cultural norms which overseas students need to be aware of while in Australia. The program gives all overseas students access to an age and culturally appropriate orientation program. It is available to late arrivals or overseas students who begin at different entry points.
The orientation program must provide information about: • Support services available to assist overseas students to help them adjust to study and life in Australia; • English language and study assistance programs; • Any relevant legal services; • Emergency and health services; • The registered provider’s facilities and resources; • Complaints and appeals processes; • Requirements for course attendance and progress, as appropriate; • The support services available to assist overseas students with general or personal circumstances that are adversely affecting their education in Australia. Knox Grammar School also: • Takes all reasonable steps to provide a safe environment on campus or premises, and advise overseas students and staff on actions they can take to enhance their personal security and safety; • Provides information to overseas students about how to seek assistance for, and report, an incident that significantly impacts on their wellbeing, including critical incidents; and • Provides overseas students with, or refer them to (including electronically), general information on safety and awareness relevant to life in Australia, such as beach safety or the etiquette and laws concerning smoking in Australia.
TRAVEL For boys in Years 7 and 8, we can arrange to escort them to appointments and the airport for travel home. For older boys’ cab charges can be issued and the amount of the cab charged to your school account. It is important to have a guardian or a carer in Sydney who can help out especially if the boys need to travel in the holidays.
Educational Guardians.
KNOX REQUIREMENTS All parents of Overseas Boarders at Knox are required to nominate an Educational Guardian for their son. An Educational Guardian is a person chosen by the parents as a representative of themselves in Australia. Educational Guardians do not have any formal legal status. An Educational Guardian cannot substitute for a parent. Their role is a clear student welfare role. When appointing an Educational Guardian, it is important to choose the best person.
33 An ideal guardian is someone whom your son has known for some time and feels comfortable with. The minimum requirement from the School is that the Guardian is a responsible adult who is at least 21 years old and who has a permanent home in or around Sydney, where accommodation can be offered for the student during school holidays and on other occasions when it is felt necessary.
NEW NESA (New South Wales Education Standards Authority) GUIDELINES
The School provider must have evidence of complying with Section 3.8 of the Guidelines by having and implementing policies and procedures for: • Ensuring any adults involved in or providing accommodation and welfare arrangements to the overseas student have a working with children check clearance in line with the Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012. • The School must have WWCC for all persons, other than parents, who may care for the student – this includes uncles/aunts, grandparents, other relatives, or friends who may look after the student, your son, on approved leave from the Boarding Centre. This may be an evening, a day, a weekend, or over a Term break.
GUARDIAN’S ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY Along with this the School expects Educational Guardians to: • Exercise the powers given thoughtfully and seriously to take all steps to ensure your son’s wellbeing. • Be sympathetic to the requirements of a youngster living away from his parents. • Take an active part in your son’s school life - including forming a relationship with his Head of Stage, attending school functions and other relevant meetings you are unable to attend, for example orientation and parent / teacher interviews. • Help with advice on subject choices and courses. • Be a regular point of contact with you and your son, and when necessary the School. • Provide and arrange transport to and from School during holiday periods when necessary. • Be easily contactable and only a phone call away. Once an Educational Guardian has been chosen, the School will ask for you and the Educational Guardian to sign an Educational Guardian Declaration Form. This form clarifies the areas of responsibility for the Educational Guardian and confirms they are willing to take on this important role.
BOARDING HSC STUDY CAMP During the September holiday break only, we plan to have the Senior Boarding Centre remain open for Senior Boarders (Y11 & Y12) wishing to stay in the Boarding House over the holiday period provided we have enough interest.
The Boarding HSC Study Camp will offer a similar routine to term time boarding. The boys will be provided with single room accommodation, supervision by boarding staff, all meals as well as additional kitchen facilities, laundry facilities, clean linen and towels, school facility use (e.g. KSSA, gym, aquatic centre, oval etc.) and planned outings. This will be at an additional cost to the annual boarding fees.
If there is not enough interest to warrant the opening of the boarding house during the Term 3 holiday period, we will find you alternative accommodation through Auzzie Families Australia.
Please contact the Boarding Executive if you would like to reserve a place during the holidays.
ALTERNATIVE ACCOMODATION DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS During times when the Boarding House is unable to remain open, boarders can apply to stay with a local family who work through Auzzie Families Australia. For full details about Auzzie Families and their work, their website is http://www.auzziefamilies.com/ or with Meridian Homestay Services, their email address is: [email protected]
34 LEAVE DURING TERM TIME Leave is a privilege, granted according to a procedure. The safety of the Boarders is paramount and stringent efforts are made to ensure the whereabouts of each boy.
Leave types:
Year Group Local Leave (REACH not required) Extended Weekend Leave times and Destinations (REACH required) Year 7/8 Saturday Local leave in groups of two or more to Wahroonga Sunday Weekend Supervisor can take a group of students to Hornsby Year 9 Saturday Only Local Leave to Wahroonga Sunday From the start of Term 2 only - 4 hours to Hornsby & Chatswood in groups Year 10 Saturday Terms 1 & 4 only (8-5pm)- 4 hours to Hornsby & Chatswood in groups Only Local Leave to Wahroonga in Terms 2 & 3 Sunday From 9am to 5:30pm - 4 hours to Hornsby, Chatswood & Macquarie Year 11 Saturday Terms 1 & 4 only (8-5pm) - 4 hours to Hornsby, Chatswood & Gordon Only Local Leave Wahroonga in Terms 2 & 3 Sunday 9am to 5:30pm - 4 hours to Gordon, Macquarie, Hornsby, Chatswood Year 12 Saturday 8am to 5pm - 4 hours to Gordon, Macquarie, Hornsby, Chatswood Sunday 9am to 5:30pm - 4 hours to Gordon, Macquarie, Hornsby, Chatswood
35 Weekend Leave - boys may proceed on weekend leave provided they have completed all their school requirements and the Head of Stage has received the required information from the student, parents and host as required through the online ‘REACH’ Weekend Leave System. School Holiday Leave - It is the expectation of Knox that students do not take leave for holidays or travel during term time. The NSW Department of Education's attendance policy says most family trips outside school holidays will now count as an "unjustified" absence on a student's permanent record.
On very rare occasions, the Deputy Headmaster, Mr Phil O’Regan, may grant leave for boys to attend special events. These requests should be made using the official school leave request form well in advance of the proposed leave date/s.
All overseas students are required to attend school for the entire academic term each term, from the first day of term until the last. Failure to attend for the entire term may contravene student visa requirements and jeopardise the student’s place at the School.
1. Special Leave - this leave is granted only for special occasions, e.g. of a family nature, with permission of the Head of Boarding.
Weekend leave can be taken: • On Friday at the conclusion of school commitments however, attendance at sport the next day is compulsory. • Saturday at the conclusion of sport. • Or any other time as arranged over the weekend • Boys are expected to be back in residence by Sunday 8.00pm sharp
2. Day School – Student Leave Requests - All leave requests must be made using the official school leave documentation. The Deputy Headmaster can only approve all leave requests beyond three days.
A leave request form must be completed, even when the leave is for less than three days, if an assessment task will be missed during the time of absence.
REQUEST FOR LEAVE PROCEDURE 1. Student Administration Officer to provide the Boarder/parent/guardian with a Student Leave Application Form. 2. On this form, the family MUST do the following: Parent to detail the circumstances of leave and sign • Page 1 – Ensure that any assessment tasks during the leave period are accounted for • Page 2 – Have the documentation completed and signed by each teacher • Page 3 – Documentation signed by the Head of Boarding / Deputy Headmaster / Head of Academy / Director of Studies. 3. Student to return pages 1 and 2 to the relevant SAO 4. SAO to complete the following: Co-ordinate any academic work, with the support of the Director of Studies, required during the leave period – Enter into TASS as LEAVE APPROVED for the period of absence and use the appropriate NSW School Attendance Register Code.
36 ONLINE ‘REACH’ LEAVE SYSTEM Parents/Guardians must complete all Leave Requests through the Online ‘REACH’ Weekend Leave System each week. The Parents and Boarders will receive notification once a leave request has been accepted or declined, from the Head of Stage, after the deadline of Wednesday evening and no later than Thursday 9.00am weekly. If, however, a Parent or Boarder needs to make a special request for a late change to their Weekend leave after this deadline, they must contact their Head of Stage directly for approval.
Parents / Guardians are required to contact the Host Families directly before submitting their Online Weekend Leave Request through REACH. As part of this process all Host details must be provided by the parents / Guardians which is viewed by the Head of Stage before leave is approved. On leave being approved by the Head of Stage, the Parents / Guardians, their son and the Host Family are all notified via a text message of the leave being approved or declined for that weekend.
The School reserves the right to refuse a leave to a private party or event when they are not satisfied that there will be adequate parent supervision of the function. As part of our ‘Duty of Care’ and responsibility of your son, we ask that you appreciate that the safety of all Boarders is paramount throughout this important process.
REACH BOARDING SYSTEM FOR PARENTS A full detailed outline on how to use the REACH Boarding System are on the following pages.
If you have any difficulties accessing the online REACH system, please contact your Head of Stage directly
Important Parent / Guardian / Hosts Recommendations Contact the family of the Boarder you wish to take out. This is highly recommended so that you can introduce yourself to the Boarder’s Parents and confirm all the necessary details. These details need to be provided to the Head of Stage in the interests of safety and care of Boarders. It is important that both the Boarding House and parents know a boarder’s whereabouts when on overnight leave.
Please be aware that you are responsible for the Boarder whilst he is in your care. Boarders are not permitted to change Host Families mid- weekend unless approved by the Head of Stage. Should an emergency situation arise, please contact the Head of Stage immediately.
TRAVEL TO SPORT Sport is an important aspect of life at Knox. There is a wide range of sports on offer and it is compulsory for every student to participate in sport, which includes two training sessions per week and a competition fixture on Saturdays. Travel details to and from sport are recorded electronically each week via a Google Doc review system we need completed by each boarder by each Wednesday evening when the sports fixtures lists are published. The boys are required to provide the following details:
• Name: • Chosen Sport: • Venue: • Departure time from Boarding House: • Estimated return time to the Boarding House: • Boarder’s mobile phone number: • Method of Transport to venue: *must include name and contact details of the person they are travelling with
Prior to leaving the Boarding House, all Boarders must personally sign out with the Boarding Staff member on duty and be contactable via their mobile phone at all times. They must also report to the Staff Member on Duty immediately upon their return at the conclusion of their fixture.
37 REACH BOARDING SYSTEM FOR PARENTS The REACH Boarding System is a student management system that is designed specifically for boarding schools. It helps your school to manage a whole range of residential activities including leave, rollcalls, student records and staff reports.
As a parent, you will use the REACH system to request and approve leave for your child and to set which hosts your child is permitted to go on leave with. Your child will also use REACH to request leave and to record their movements outside of the boarding house. This includes various on campus and off campus locations that your school has chosen to monitor. Using REACH enables your school to know where your child is at all times when they are in the school's care.
REACH is a cloud based product and you can access your school's REACH portal from any device that has a browser with internet connection. As a parent you can also access REACH using the REACH Student and Parent mobile app which is available for Apple and Android smartphones.
HOW TO ACCESS YOUR REACH PORTAL Via your web browser go to https://knox.reachboarding.com.au/
To
download the mobile app for your smartphone search for REACH Student and Parent App in the Apple or Google app stores.
38 HOW TO CREATE LIVE REQUESTS Creating a leave request is simply a matter of opening the Create Leave Request form in your REACH login and completing the form. Most of the fields are drop down selection and they will guide you towards your appropriate selections.
Two fields will require your text input and these are your Destination and also any Notes that you want to or are required to place in the leave request form.
Once you have submitted your leave request REACH will then automatically contact your parents and any hosts that are involved for approval. When your parents and any host that are involved have approved the leave request, REACH will then contact the boarding staff for final approval of your leave request.
You will receive an email from REACH when your leave request is approved by staff.
Important information about your Leave Request Form • The leave types that you are able to request for your child are set by your school • The transport types that you can request are set by your school • The Hosts that your child can go on leave with are set and approved by you as parents • If your request is for a regular recurring event then you can set a recurring pattern for the use the leave request • The Destination field is a required field • In some instances the Notes field may also be compulsory when set by your school to be so • You will be able to see the current status of any leave request in your login profile.
HOW TO ADD APPROVED HOSTS FOR YOUR CHILD
The fastest and easiest way to add approved hosts for your child is to use the Quick Host option in your Leave Request Form. In the Host selector field simply select "Create New Host" and add the host's details. When this is saved the new host will then be added to your child's profile and you can then select that host for future leave requests also.
39 DRIVING POLICY Boarders who have current driving licences and who have completed the relevant paperwork including parental approval, must also discuss this application with the Head of Boarding and Head of Stage 6 prior to submitting and requesting permission from the Deputy Headmaster to drive and maintain a motor vehicle.
Permission will be granted on the condition that:
1. The Boy provides the registration number and make of car he is driving. 2. The vehicle is a registered, mechanically safe and fitted with seat belts. 3. Seat belts must be worn and speed limits observed at all times. 4. A written authority has been obtained from parents/guardians. 5. Students do not use their cars to leave the school property without approved Leave from the Head of Stage. All boys MUST hand in their keys to the Head of Stage. 6. Understand the School does not accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles. 7. Students at not permitted to park on the School grounds 8. Understand that a lift cannot be given to any other student unless parental consents, in writing from both the parents of the passenger and of the driver, are obtained and presented to the School. 9. Understand that any breach of these rules or of normal traffic regulations, or any use of the vehicle which is considered by staff to be dangerous or ostentatious will result in the immediate withdrawal of permission to drive. 10. Students are to hand in their keys and sign in/out with Boarding Staff.
Any breaches to this agreement may result in the student concerned being denied permission to drive.
SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Where private vehicles are to be used on school organised activities, e.g. sports training or excursions, especially where any student is transporting other students, parents of the driver and the proposed passenger(s) must be advised of the arrangements and their written consent should include specific approval to the particular travel arrangements.
EMERGENCY EVACUATION AND LOCK DOWN PROCEDURES If you discover a threat to the overall safety of your fellow boarders inform the staff member immediately (A threat can be intruders, fire, gas leaks etc.)
IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION: 1. The Alarm will automatically be triggered and the Emergency Red and Yellow lights will flash signaling to evacuate the building. A voice activation will instruct ALL occupants to evacuate via the nearest Fire Stairwells (4 in total). 2. Do not panic, use common sense, and follow HoS, AHoS or House Manager’s instructions. 3. Leave the House by the nearest FIRE STAIRWELL, and before departing. - Close doors to your rooms on exiting. - Do not pack/bring any belongings. Always wear footwear and at night a warm top. 4. The assigned AHoS on duty will collect the Fire Register on each floor and inspect all rooms completely, before leaving their Level via any of the nearest Fire Stairwells.
40 5. Report to the designated Evacuation Point on the foyer stairs of the Great Hall. Wait seated quietly for a House roll call and any further instructions by the AHoS or HoS. The AHoS will call a roll and inform the Head of Stage if anyone is missing. The HoS’s will report to the designated FIRE Warden (Brian Sullivan) or assigned HoS on duty if any occupants are missing.
6. The HoS’s will contact their private residence to make sure all family members are accounted for and inform the Fire Warden. 7. For each Weekend the above procedures will apply using the Weekend Supervisors who are on duty between the hours of 7am - 5pm on a Saturday and 8.30am - 5.30pm on a Sunday.
IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY LOCK DOWN: 1. All Boarding Houses are locked from access from 8.30am - 3.15pm mid-week 2. From 3.15pm to 5pm midweek Fiona Sullivan (BEO) will LOCK THE FRONT RECEPTION DOORS using swipe card & inform the CLINIC to LOCK THE LEVEL 1 OUTSIDE DOOR immediately! Fiona will announce over the intercom system to the House of the LOCK DOWN. 3. House Managers, HoS’s or AHoS’s to inform ALL boys on their Level’s to meet in the designated common meeting point area. 4. The Boarding Staff on duty will take a roll and will inform their HoS if anyone is missing. 5. The HoS’s will inform the Fire Warden (Brian Sullivan) of any boy missing from the Boarding Houses. 6. If a danger exists, the staff members on duty or HoS’s will summon help. (Scott James). 7. From 5pm to 9.30pm – Boarding Reception Desk Supervisor will be responsible for locking the reception door and contacting the Clinic.
WEEKENDS EMERGENCY LOCK DOWN: For each Weekend the above procedures will apply using the Level 3 Weekend Supervisor who is on Reception between the hours of 7am - 5pm on a Saturday and 8.30am – 5.30pm on a Sunday. Boarding Staff in Stage 5 to supervise Reception Desk from 5pm / 5.30pm until 9.30pm.
FIRE EXTINGUSHERS The Boarding Centre is fitted with smoke and thermal detectors throughout the building. If one of these is set off an alarm will sound. At the sound of any alarm everyone must evacuate the building via the nearest Fire Stairwells. At this time orange and or red lights will flash in the hallways these are also the signal to evacuate. DO NOT use the two LIFTS or EXIT via the RECEPTION DOORS.
Fire extinguishers are also fitted throughout the house. These are only to be used in an emergency. Any deliberate or inappropriate use of the extinguishers will result in the cost of replacement being charged to the individuals at fault school account.
BE AWARE THAT THE SCHOOL IS PATROLLED BY SECURITY GUARDS WITH GUARD DOGS AFTER 10PM. IF CHALLENGED, STOP AND IDENTIFY YOURSELF IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT MOVE AWAY.
PRACTICE EMERGENCY EVACUATION AND LOCK DOWN PROCEDURES Each term the Evacuation and Lock Down Procedure will be practiced by way of a drill, which will be observed and evaluated using the ‘Knox Boarding Evacuation Drill and Lock Down Evaluation Form’ by the Deputy Headmaster and Director of Operational Services. A record of these evaluations will be kept in the Knox Boarding Office and used as a guide to training requirements for both staff and students.
In addition to this Student and Parent Handbook, please note each Head of Stage will provide a detailed Stage Handbook at the beginning of a new calendar year, to support their parents and students.
Please refer to the Boarding Contact List on the following page.
41 BOARDING CONTACT LIST NAME Ext. PHONE EMAIL BOARDING AND ADMINISTRATION Phil O’Regan - Deputy Headmaster, 7-12 Students 122 (02) 9487 0120 [email protected] Brian Sullivan - Head of Boarding 474 (02) 9487 0474 [email protected] Fiona Sullivan - Boarding Executive Officer 737 (02) 9473 9737 [email protected] Les Harvey - Senior Academic Master – Boarding 178 (02) 9487 0178 [email protected] Helen Clarke - Boarding Programs and Social Justice 744 (02) 9473 9744 [email protected] STAGE 4 – KNOX BOARDING CENTRE – YEARS 7 & 8 HoS: James Norman 704 (02) 9473 9704 [email protected] AHoS: Emma Collinge 704 (02) 9473 9704 [email protected] House Manager: Felicity Norman 704 (02) 9473 9704 [email protected] STAGE 5 – KNOX BOARDING CENTRE – YEARS 9 & 10 HoS: James Maloney 759 (02) 9487 0135 [email protected] AHoS: Adam Shaw 135 (02) 9487 0135 [email protected] AHoS: Ellen Lawson 135 (02) 9487 0135 [email protected] AHoS: Joshua McKenna 135 (02) 9487 0135 [email protected] House Manager: Michelle Wade (Y9) 135 (02) 9487 0135 [email protected] House Manager: Miriam Cockrell (Y10) 135 (02) 9487 0135 [email protected] STAGE 6 – GILLESPIE HERITAGE HOUSE – YEAR 11 HoS: Vanessa Bromhead 789 (02) 9473 9789 [email protected] AHoS: Allan Glassie 464 (02) 9487 0464 [email protected] AHoS: Darren McCrea 464 (02) 9487 0464 [email protected] AHoS: Josh McKenna 464 (02) 9487 0464 [email protected] House Manager: Sarah Glassie 464 (02) 9487 0464 [email protected] STAGE 6 – SENIOR BOARDING CENTRE – YEAR 12 HoS: Vanessa Bromhead 789 (02) 9473 9789 [email protected] AHoS: Ben Teasdale 713 (02) 9473 9713 [email protected] AHoS: Jimmy Widders-Leece 713 (02) 9473 9713 [email protected] House Manager: Sue Malpass 713 (02) 9473 9713 [email protected] STAGE 6 – KNOX BOARDING CENTRE – YEAR 12 HoS: Vanessa Bromhead 789 (02) 9473 9789 [email protected] AHoS: Ray Barbat 461 (02) 9487 0461 [email protected] AHoS: Jimmy Widders-Leece 461 (02) 9487 0461 [email protected] AHoS: Ben Teasdale 461 (02) 9487 0461 [email protected] House Manager: Allan Glassie 461 (02) 9487 0461 [email protected] OTHER CONTACTS Clinic sisters 133 (02) 9487 0133 [email protected]
42