Enjabulweni Independent School recognises that effective, skills-based holistic education depends on a school environment in which there is a culture of learning and teaching. The right to education cannot be separated from the responsibilities of pupils towards their own education and the rights and responsibilities of educators, parents and the wider school community.
School life at Enjabulweni is ordered in such a way that it supports our Mission. The rules and regulations in place are deemed to be necessary, reasonable, enforceable and clearly understood by all.
MISSION STATEMENT
We aim to:
provide an educational environment in which pupils from diverse backgrounds can grow together
facilitate an innovative approach to education
produce citizens who will be independent thinkers with physical and moral courage
produce articulate, well-mannered, tolerant pupils educated in a holistic sense and sensitive to the needs of others.
Aim of the Code
The aim of the Code of Conduct is to maintain the disciplined and purposeful school environment that exists at Enjabulweni Independent School. It is dedicated to the maintenance and improvement of the quality of the learning process through the refinement of the culture of effective learning and teaching as espoused by our Mission Statement.
At all times Enjabulweni Independent School pupils are expected to behave, act and dress in a manner that brings credit to themselves, the school and the wider community.
Rights and Responsibilities of the Pupil
Every pupil has the right
to be treated fairly and the responsibility to show respect to others; to be taught in a safe and disciplined school environment and the responsibility to uphold school security and be co-operative
to be treated with respect by the school community regardless of personal, cultural, racial, religious or other differences and the responsibility to be tolerant and considerate of others and their beliefs
to express opinions politely and the responsibility to listen to and be tolerant of the opinions of others
to security of oneself and one’s possessions and the responsibility to respect others personal safety and property
to basic learning materials and the responsibility to look after school property; to work in a clean and healthy environment and the responsibility to ensure that the school premises are not damaged or defaced
to proper tuition and regular feedback and the responsibility to take charge of his or her work and completing of projects and homework on time
to consistent and punctual lessons and the responsibility to attend them on time
Pupil’s Pledge
With reference to the rights and responsibilities set here before, the pupil pledges to observe and adhere to the following:
I shall respect myself.
I accept the fact that respect is earned.
I shall show respect for my parents/guardians, fellow pupils, staff and this includes my teachers, the administrative and support staff.
I accept that inappropriate physical contact shows disrespect and is unacceptable.
I shall respect the property of others – fellow pupils, staff and the school.
I acknowledge that verbal and physical abuse is totally unacceptable.
I shall co-operate with my teachers and fellow pupils.
It is my responsibility to show concern for others.
I shall show responsibility towards my duties to my work and commitments to the school.
I shall set a positive example to others.
I shall keep our environment tidy.
I shall follow the rules and regulations set here in at all times whether I am in school uniform or not for as long as I remain a member of Enjabulweni Independent School.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
Disciplinary Measures
It is impossible for this procedure or the disciplinary Code to list every possible type of rule infringement or misconduct by learners. This procedure and the attached code therefore only set out the broader categories of infringement, and the norms for applying fair disciplinary measures at the School.
Various forms of informal and formal disciplinary measures may be initiated by the learner’s responsible educator, or by the School authorities. The School will be entitled to apply corrective action and/or disciplinary measures that it believes are appropriate in the circumstances; within the guidelines provided in this procedure. The judgement and discretion of school officials to apply disciplinary measures will therefore not be rigidly restricted by the procedure or code, but will rather be guided by the circumstances of each case and the various measures described herein.
The severity of action taken by the School or official will depend on the circumstances, the seriousness of an infringement, the interests of fellow learners, the School and its employees, the interests of the offending learner and any other mitigating or aggravating factors being of relevance. For this reason, the guidelines enclosed seek to promote and assure consistency, but do not remove the necessary discretion of the School authorities to apply a lesser (or more severe) penalty should circumstances so dictate.
Disciplinary measures applied in response to learner misconduct will therefore require that the School officials involved exercise their own judgement in deciding on the appropriate and fair action to be taken. Disciplinary action that may be applied by the School, in order of severity, includes –
Informal measures:
a counseling by the educator or the head of department
a verbal reprimand (noted on the learner’s file)
detention or time punishment
“community service”
FORMAL MEASURES:
a warning recorded
parental contact and an interview with parents, generally after the conducting of an investigation by the School
suspension for a period from class, or from attending school, pending the convening of a formal disciplinary hearing, and/or as a form of corrective action after the conducting of a disciplinary hearing
expulsion from the School (as a last resort in the case of serious or repeated misconduct), generally only after the conducting of a disciplinary hearing, and as a last resort.
3.4 Discipline must, wherever feasible and effective, be applied progressively. Informal action for minor transgressions is generally applied at educator level, without a formal investigation being necessary. Repeated committing of a minor, similar or related offence will however result in progressively more severe and formal action being taken; particularly where a clear pattern or behaviour trend is indicated by the learner’s continued misconduct.
3.5 Notwithstanding the principle of progressive discipline, a serious first offence may justify a formal and severe penalty, and mitigate against the imposition of a lesser form of action (please see the Disciplinary Code attached for guidelines on penalties).
3.6 Warnings or any other sanctions issued by the School will be noted on the learner’s record and copies of these records should also be provided to the parents by the School.
Disciplinary Action Process
This procedure summarizes the disciplinary process that will be followed, wherever possible, by the School when disciplinary action against a learner is considered appropriate by School authorities.
4.1 Informal procedures
4.1.1 Infringements that are not considered serious, or do not require formal disciplinary action in the opinion of the learner’s responsible educator, can be dealt with directly by the educator. These are not generally recorded on the learner’s record, but will still require communication with the learner’s parents by the educator involved.
4.1.2 The various forms of informal action are as outlined above and can be implemented by the educator without the involvement of the head of department or School Head.
4.2 INFORMAL INVESTIGATION
4.2.1 When an infringement occurs which appears to require formal disciplinary action, the educator concerned (or another complainant such as a parent) will initiate the disciplinary process by reporting the incident to the head of department, discipline coordinator or Deputy Head – Admin and Student Welfare, or by completing a letter of complaint .
A report or complaint may be supplemented by any additional information or statements to clarify or adequately detail the facts surrounding the alleged infringement.
Note:
A copy of a notice or letter of complaint need not be provided to the learner if informal action is taken against the learner. If formal disciplinary measures are considered to be appropriate, it is important in the interests of transparency that a copy of any complaints or reports also be provided to the learner / parents. Withholding this information may cast some doubt on the authenticity or seriousness of the alleged infringement (and complaint), and may even result in a formal request for disclosure of the complaint from the learner’s parents.
4.2.2 The learner’s responsible educator, and their HOD if required, should investigate the reported infringement or a letter of complaint received, to decide upon appropriate corrective measures. This investigation generally takes the form of an informal inquiry, and wherever possible includes an opportunity for the learner to state his/her case in response to the complaint.
4.3 FORMAL DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
4.3.1 If, after investigation, the infringement is confirmed and considered to be of a nature which does not require severe action, the responsible educator or HOD may counsel the learner and issue an appropriate WARNING or sanction to the learner concerned.
4.3.2 A copy of the warning issued should be given to the learner’s parents by the educator or HOD involved. A meeting with the parents may be necessary to clarify the reasons for formal action being taken, as well as to reinforce the seriousness of the infringement and to highlight the expectations that the misconduct will not be repeated.
4.4 FINAL WARNING
4.4.1 A Final Warning is generally only imposed by the Deputy Head – Admin and Student Welfare or the Head of School, if the learner’s misconduct was (a) very serious but (b) did not warrant suspension or a hearing / expulsion, or if (c) misconduct occurs which is similar to a previous infringement for which a written warning has already been issued to the learner by the School.
4.4.2 If a Final Warning has been issued to a learner for misconduct, ANY further infringement by the learner should be considered as warranting suspension and a disciplinary hearing into the learner’s behaviour at the School.
5. Disciplinary Hearing
When a serious infringement possibly warranting learner suspension or expulsion occurs, or in the case of a further alleged infringement by a learner with a valid Final Warning on his/her file, the School will generally be required to conduct a formal Disciplinary Hearing to determine appropriate measures to be taken against the learner.
The hearing process is intended to properly and transparently investigate any new allegation(s), to provide an opportunity for the learner / parents to challenge the allegations being made, and to enable the hearing Chairperson to objectively “hear both sides” – to objectively determine the guilt or innocence of the learner, and if applicable, the appropriate disciplinary measure to be taken by the School.
5.1 A notification of convening of a disciplinary hearing is to be completed by the School authorities (usually the Head of School) and is given to the parents of the learner concerned. This notification must provide sufficient information to ensure that the learner/parents are properly informed of the alleged complaint, the seriousness of the allegations, and the School’s intention to convene a formal hearing to investigate the infringement.
Note:
The learner’s parents should be notified of the hearing at least 48 hours (two clear school days) before the scheduled date of the hearing. This will provide the parents with reasonable time to prepare for the hearing. In complex cases, the preparation time provided may be extended, but should not exceed 5 (five) school days wherever possible as extended suspension or delays may unfairly prejudice the learner’s schooling.
The learner may be suspended pending the hearing, ONLY if this is considered appropriate, bearing the seriousness of the alleged misconduct and his/her continued exposure to others in mind. The suspension of the learner should be indicated in the notification of hearing to the parents, the period of suspension preferably not exceeding the 5 (five) school days limit indicated in (a) above.
(Failure to suspend a learner accused of GROSS misconduct, pending a
disciplinary hearing, may call into doubt the seriousness of the alleged
misconduct itself, and/or the necessity for a severe penalty. A short
period of suspension should not be unfair in such serious cases.)
The learner and his/her parents must be advised that they are expected to attend the hearing, and that their non-attendance may prejudice their child’s case (indicate a waiver of their rights to respond to the allegations being made), and may even result in the hearing being held in their absence – and a decision being made without their involvement.
The learner and his/her parents must be advised of the serious nature of the allegations, and the possibility of severe disciplinary (further suspension or expulsion) action being taken should the learner be found guilty of the allegations made against him/her. They should be advised to prepare themselves accordingly
Legal representation at disciplinary hearings is NOT a legal requirement and is generally not permitted, unless both the School and the parents agree that it is appropriate for BOTH parties to be legally represented. A disciplinary hearing is an internal school procedure and the involvement of legal counsel can lead to unnecessary over-complication and hindrance of the process. In any event, the parents DO have the right to legally challenge any decision of the hearing Chairperson after the hearing has been conducted.
5.2 The conducting of the formal disciplinary hearing is an integral part of the School’s disciplinary process if serious disciplinary measures are being contemplated against any learner. Expulsion, or extended suspension with a final warning as an alternative to expulsion (if feasible or appropriate), in the absence of a disciplinary hearing being conducted is reserved for exceptional circumstances only.
The hearing should be chaired by a competent and reasonably objective hearing Chairperson, who will be responsible for leading and managing the entire hearing process, and making the two critical and distinct decisions i.e.
VERDICT: the guilt or innocence of the learner, relative to the allegations made by the School; and only thereafter – if the learner is found guilty of the alleged infringement, the second decision as to
PENALTY: the appropriate measure / action to be taken, after due consideration of mitigating and aggravating factors relevant to the matter.
5.3 The Hearing Chairperson is required to conduct the hearing procedure in a proper manner that conforms to the rules of natural justice (see paragraph 3 of the School Procedure’s Introduction) i.e. the learner and his/her parents:
should be given adequate notice and be properly informed of the allegations being made by the School
should be requested to attend the hearing as representatives for the learner, and the hearing is to be timeously conducted
should be presented with all facts and information relating to the allegations being made against the learner
should be given the opportunity to question evidence presented by the School, and be entitled to present their own perspective and explain/defend their child’s actions
are entitled to a hearing to be chaired by a reasonably impartial chairperson, and to decisions being made in an objective and considered manner
are to be treated with dignity and respect throughout the hearing
are to be assured of the greatest confidentiality possible
must be formally advised of the outcome of the hearing [i.e. as to both verdict and penalty) by the hearing Chairperson, and the reasons for such decisions
should be offered the right to appeal against any decision made by the hearing Chairperson.
A record of hearing proceedings should be kept by the hearing Chairperson, or by a nominated scribe. Electronic / voice recording of the hearing is not required, but may be provided for at the request (and expense) of the parents if this is feasible. If the outcome of a hearing is expected to be contested, it is preferable that proceedings be properly recorded and minuted.
5.4 In accordance with the above principles, the parents should be formally advised of the decisions of the hearing Chairperson after the completion of the hearing i.e. the two decisions made regarding guilt or innocence, and whether to impose disciplinary action or not.
This notification of the outcome, preferably distributed within 5 (five) school days of the hearing being completed, should include a reminder that the learner / parents have the right to appeal against any corrective and disciplinary action decided upon by the Chairperson, within a further 5 (five) school days of the outcome being made available to the parents.
5.5 Copies of all disciplinary hearing related documentation must be retained by the School for actioning, recording and safekeeping purposes.
5.6 Once the notification of the outcome has been communicated to the parents in writing, the sanction will immediately take effect. If the parents intend to lodge an appeal, the school reserves the right to suspend the pupil from school pending the outcome of the appeal.
6. Appeal Review Process
While it is a fundamental right in terms of the “Rules of Natural Justice” for a learner (parents) to be provided with an opportunity for appeal against disciplinary measures imposed by the hearing Chairperson, our law does not dictate or prescribe whether this appeal process should be internal (made to and decided upon by another School authority) or external i.e. made to a third party in terms of legal process e.g. referring the matter to Court for adjudication.
The School believes that an internal appeal REVIEW process is more beneficial and fair for both the learner and the School, and provides a further, expeditious and less public avenue for the parties to seek to resolve any dispute regarding disciplinary matters; primarily in the educational interests of the learner.
6.1 Accordingly, the learner / parents have the right to appeal against any formal disciplinary action imposed by the School (i.e. against any formal disciplinary action taken by the School or any decisions by a hearing Chairperson) as a final process in the School’s disciplinary procedure.
6.2 The lodging of an appeal against formal disciplinary action, or any decision by a hearing Chairperson, only entitles the learner to an appeal review however. The right to an appeal review therefore does not entitle the learner to a “re-hearing”.
An appeal review is generally a process that does not entail a full re-investigation or a rehearing of all the evidence heard at the hearing, and the Reviewer is only required to review the matter, according to the grounds and motivation submitted by the appellant / parents. The Reviewer is expected to at least review the hearing Chairperson’s findings and any documentation submitted by the respective parties, and to consider any further or new evidence provided by either party.
6.3 Due to the nature of the review process, the learner / parents wishing to appeal must be advised to fully motivate their appeal in writing, detailing all the grounds for appeal and providing the Reviewer with any additional or new evidence they wish to submit in support of the appeal.
The onus rests with the learner / parents to justify an appeal, and the grounds for the appeal must be clearly and comprehensively set out in the appeal request. This will enable the Reviewer to appreciate and properly consider the appellant’s grounds for the review.
6.4 Any request for appeal must be submitted to the School Head or the hearing Chairperson within 5 (five) school days of the hearing Chairperson’s decisions having been provided to the learner/parents, so as not to delay review proceedings.
Note: Appeal / Review
The learner’s right to an appeal against disciplinary action imposed by the School does not ordinarily mean that all matters raised at the hearing will be re-heard. As already indicated, the appeal review procedure is limited to an objective review of the decisions made by the School or the hearing Chairperson. A full ‘re-hearing’ is ONLY necessary when the disciplinary procedure or hearing appears to have been materially defective, and/or the decisions reached appear to be patently flawed.
Should it become obvious that a full re-hearing is required for a fair appeal process, usually due to a materially defective disciplinary hearing process having taken place or substantial new evidence having come to light after the hearing, a full appeal (re)hearing should be conducted in accordance with the principles highlighted in section 5 above, but chaired by a new and impartial appeal Chairperson.
It is now an accepted principle in our law that even substantial defects in a disciplinary hearing can be effectively “cured” by the conducting of a new and full (‘fresh’) re-hearing.
6.5 The School will be responsible for appointing an appropriate person, or review panel, to conduct an appeal review, or a re-hearing if this is considered necessary. It is common practice for an appropriate School Board member to be appointed as the Reviewer, subject to his/her not having been consulted or involved in the matter to be reviewed.
6.6 After reviewing the appeal motivation submitted by the appellant, and investigating any aspects of the disciplinary process considered necessary, the Reviewer will make a decision based on his / her findings, relative to the grounds for appeal submitted by the appellant.
6.7 When a final decision has been made by the Reviewer (or rehearing chairperson / panel as the case may be), a written Appeal Review Finding must be provided to the learner/parents by the Reviewer, wherever possible within a 5 (five) school days. A copy of the Review finding must also be placed on the learner’s file for recording purposes.
6.8 In the event that the parents are still not satisfied with the outcome of the review, they will have the opportunity to appeal to the Board of Governors’ Education Sub-Committee.
6.9 The communication of the Board of Governors’ Education Sub-Committee’s appeal decision marks the conclusion of the School’s appeal process, and is the final step in the School’s Disciplinary Procedure.
6.10 The learner / parents will have to resort to external authorities should they wish to pursue an appeal to a further level.
School rules, Regulations and Provisions
1. Academic Matters
It is the responsibility of each pupil to fulfil all academic commitments including but not limited to the following:
Timeous completion of all assignments in a manner that shows full engagement of the pupil.
All homework, tasks and assignments must be completed as prescribed in the allocated time.
Pupils are required to prepare adequately for all tests, assignments and exams.
The Home Diary
It is compulsory for each pupil to have a diary at the school.
It is compulsory for each pupil to have his or her diary on him/her at all times.
The diary will be used to record homework, academic support requests, sports options, personal timetable, movement between classes as required, communication between teachers and parents and any other relevant information.
2. Time management
School begins at 07h25. Students are expected to arrive no later than 07h25.
Formal classes end at 13h20, followed by sport, cultural activities and prep.
The school day ends at 15h35 or 16h15 depending on the respective pupil’s programme and arrangements should be made for all pupils to be able to vacate the premises at this time.
All deadlines relating to assignments, tasks and any form of homework must be strictly adhered to.
3. Areas out of bounds (unless accompanied by a member of staff):
The primary school buildings including the Paiva Learning Centre
The bush surrounding the school
The staff rooms
The school gates
The science laboratories
The computer room
The Hospitality Centre
The swimming pool
All classrooms during break
4. Procedure for leaving school early:
There will be NO deviation whatsoever from the procedure detailed below.
A permission to leave school early form must be acquired from the relevant Head of Department.
The learner concerned must then have it signed by all the teachers or activity supervisors for all the day’s remaining lessons or activities.
Once all teachers have signed at least one of the Deputy Heads and then the Head of School must sign the form along with a gate pass duly completed by the school secretary.
In the event that a parent has called, emailed or written to the school, the above procedure must still be followed to acquire a valid gate pass.
No learner may leave the school with out a duly signed valid gate pass.
5. Dress code
The regulations school uniform is to be worn as prescribed below:
GIRLS
BOYS
WINTER
School blazerWhite shirt with top button (shirt must be tucked in)Regulation tieA navy blue school jersey or pullover may be worn with the school blazer.Regulation grey trousers or navy school blue skirt.The school regulation navy blue with gold trim scarf may be worn.Black stockings or anklets may be worn; however, anklets or socks of any colour or kind may not be worn with stockings.Plain navy gloves may be worn.
School blazerWhite shirt with top button (shirt must be tucked in)Regulation tieA navy blue school jersey or pullover may be worn with the school blazer.Regulation school grey trousers.The school regulation navy blue with gold trim scarf may be worn.Plain navy cotton gloves may be worn.
SUMMER
Regulation school summer shirt with piping and school badgeRegulation grey trousers or navy blue school skirtA jersey, pullover or blazer may only be worn with a shirt with a top button and tie.
Regulation summer shirt with school badgeRegulation school boy grey trousers.A jersey, pullover or blazer may only be worn with a shirt with a top button and tie
SHIRTS
A white undershirt may be worn but must not protrude or have any lettering on it.If a button-up shirt is worn a tie must be worn as well.
A white undershirt may be worn but must not protrude or have any lettering on it.If a button-up shirt is worn a tie must be worn as well.
SKIRT /TROUSERS
The skirt may be a maximum of 7cm above the knee.
The trousers must be a regular school boy grey worn at the waist line and must be long enough to cover the ankles. A black belt with a buckle maximum size of seven centimetres long by five centimetres wide.
SHOES
Black shoes – lace up or buckle up and they must be laced up or buckled at all times.
Black lace up shoes only and they must be laced up at all times.
SOCKS
White anklet or navy blue or black tights. Anklets and stockings may not be worn together.
Plain black, dark grey or navy-blue socks. Boys may not wear anklets or secret socks
HAIR
The maximum length of loose hair must be shoulder length. Long hair must be tied back; no hair must obstruct the face or touch the collar. Hair must always be dry. No hair pieces. Hair accessories must be yellow, navy blue, black or white. Only plain coloured headbands may be worn. No artificial hair colouring for natural hair, extensions or braiding at all. Hair styles must be of an acceptable consistency, neat and befitting of a pupil.
Hair must be short and not in any way reach the ear, the shirt collar or cover the forehead. Steps are not permitted. Styling products of any kind are not allowed. Hair must always be dry. Hair styles must be of an acceptable consistency, neat and befitting of a pupil. No lines or patterns. The school boy short back and sides is acceptable as long as there is a maximum two-step difference between the sides and the top. Pupils must be clean shaven at all times.
JEWELLERY
One chain of a religious nature which should not be visible. One small decimal stud/sleeper in the lobe of each ear.No tongue rings or nose rings/studs.A medic-alert bracelet may be worn only with a doctor’s confirmation letter.
One chain of a religious nature which should not be visible. A medic-alert bracelet may be worn only with a doctor’s confirmation letter.No earrings or tongue rings.
MAKE-UP
No make-up of any kind is allowed. Pupils may not use nail polish or apply artificial nails, lipstick or coloured lip gloss.
No make-up is allowed.
Hijabs
All hijabs should be a plain navy blue, black or white.
All pupils are expected to be neat and well groomed in a manner deemed appropriate for a pupil attending school.
The school sports attire must be worn to all sports practices and matches as prescribed in the table below:
Girls
Boys
Physical Education and Training
1. Yellow Enjabulweni School sports t-shirt or Enjabulweni House t-shirt.2. Navy blue shorts or skort.3. White socks or Enjabulweni navy blue and gold socks.4. Secret socks may not be used.5. Regulation School tracksuit.
1. Yellow Enjabulweni School sports t-shirt or Enjabulweni House t-shirt.2. Navy blue shorts or skort.3. White socks or Enjabulweni navy blue and gold socks.4. Secret socks may not be used.5. Regulation School tracksuit.
Matches
1. Regulation School Match Kit2. White socks or Enjabulweni navy blue and gold socks.
1. Regulation School Match Kit2. White socks or Enjabulweni navy blue and gold socks.
Tracksuit
1. The first team tracksuit may only be worn by approved regular first team members.2. A jersey or pullover may not be worn with the tracksuit or any variation of the sports kit.
Compression shits and pants
Compression shirts or pants may only be worn if they are of the same colour as the shirt or shorts worn and must only be plain and unbranded.
Shoes
An appropriate pair of shoes must be worn as the sport dictates.
In the event of rain and where there is need, pupils may wear a navy blue raincoat.
6. General
Cell phones
Cell phones must be handed in at reception before 7h20 and collected at 15h35 or 16h10 whichever time marks the end of the school day for the respective pupil.
These should be placed in a sealed envelope with the name of the student written clearly in pen. The specifications of the cell phone should be written clearly on the envelope as well as a means of identifying the cell phone.
No cell phones will be allowed on the school premises if not submitted in a sealed envelope.
A cell phone locker may be available for hire.
All communication must be done through the front office.
Electronic devices are not permitted at school as a general rule. Teachers will give written notice to parents if these are needed on a specific day for teaching purposes.
Laptops, Tablets, Cellular phones and other Computer Devices
Should there be a need to bring a laptop to school for educational purposes, a Computer Device Licence must be obtained from the Head of Computers. The school reserves the right to randomly check the contents of Laptops, cellular phones, tablets or any other electronic devices brought on to school property. The computer device may only be used in accordance with the statutes laid out in the school’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy. Pupils and parents are required to familiarise themselves with this policy.
Express written permission must be obtained from the subject teacher concerned for a specific purpose and the laptop may only be used under the supervision of the teacher.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Cell phones and any other electronic equipment including (but not exclusive to) computers, laptops, PDAs, game consoles, iPods, iPads, CDs, DVDs are entirely the responsibility of their owners and the school accepts no liability for any loss or damage! Parents and learners are advised to report the matter to the school immediately. Thereafter, parents and learners must report this loss to the police.
Trading
Trading of any nature is strictly prohibited on the school premises.
Gambling is strictly prohibited.
Consumption of food
Chewing gum is not allowed.
Consumption of food and/or drink during class or in a classroom is strictly prohibited.
Vandalism
Littering is not allowed.
Vandalism is a punishable offence.
Defacing school property is strictly prohibited. Parents of a pupil found to have broken this rule will be responsible for the payment for the damages.
Courtesy
Every pupil must stand and greet any teacher or adult whom he/she may meet anywhere on the school’s premises.
Every pupil has a duty to render assistance to any teacher or visitor to the school.
Inappropriate Relationships
Physical contact of any kind is prohibited.
Relationships between pupils are strictly not allowed.
Engaging in sexual activity is strictly prohibited.
Pupils’ Personal belongings
All items of clothing, books, stationery etc. that belong to the pupil must be clearly labelled with the pupil’s name.
Loitering
Pupils are to move quickly and purposefully between lessons.
Pupils are to move quietly between lessons.
Toilets are not for loitering.
There must be total silence during prep and this period must be used for homework or purely academic activities and nothing else.
The parking lot is out of bounds.
Driving or Riding Motor Cycles
Pupils must obtain specific and express permission from the Head of School to drive ride motor cycles to school.
An application accompanied by a certified copy of the pupil’s driver’s licence and the original must be submitted to the Head of School.
Visitors during school hours
Pupils are not allowed visitors during school hours.
Weapons and Controlled substances
Possession and/or use of weapons of any kind is strictly prohibited.
Possession, the use and/or distribution of controlled substances including, but not exclusive to, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, pornographic material, offensive literature etc. is prohibited.
A random bag and locker search may be conducted as and when sanctioned by the school authorities.
Tuck shop
The tuck shop is out of bounds during lessons, cultural and sports sessions.
Absenteeism
No pupil may absent him or herself from the school.
In the event that a pupil has been absent from school, a letter from his or her parents or doctor explaining reason for absence must be handed in to the register teacher on the day the pupil returns to school.
Tests or assessments missed due to absenteeism must be written on the day the pupil returns to school on condition that a satisfactory reason for absence has been given to the school in writing.
Some rules and standards are so well established that they need not be expressly written in this document.
Anti-bullying policy
The aim of the anti-bullying policy is to ensure that pupils learn in a supportive, caring and safe environment without fear of being bullied. Bullying is anti-social behaviour and affects everyone; it is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Only when all issues of bullying are addressed will pupils be able to fully benefit from the opportunities available at schools.
Bullying is defined as deliberately hurtful behaviour, repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those being bullied to defend themselves. The three main types of bullying are:
physical (hitting, kicking, theft)
verbal (name calling, racist remarks)
indirect (spreading rumours, excluding someone from social groups).
Pupils who are being bullied may show changes in behaviour, such as becoming shy and nervous, feigning illness, taking unusual absences or clinging to adults. There may be evidence of changes in work patterns, lacking concentration or truanting from school. Pupils must be encouraged to report bullying in schools.
Schools’ teaching and support staff must be alert to the signs of bullying and act promptly and firmly against it in accordance with school policy.
Implementation
The following steps may be taken when dealing with incidents:
if bullying is suspected or reported, the incident will be dealt with immediately by the member of staff who has been approached
a clear account of the incident will be recorded and given to the Register or Class teacher or relevant Head of Department or Deputy
The Class or Register teacher will interview all concerned and will record the incident
All teachers will be kept informed and if it persists the Class or Register teacher will advise the Deputy.
parents will be kept informed
punitive measures will be used as appropriate and in consultation will all parties concerned.
Pupils
Pupils who have been bullied will be supported by:
offering an immediate opportunity to discuss the experience with a Class or Register teacher or counsellor or member of staff of their choice
reassuring the pupil
offering continuous support
restoring self-esteem and confidence.
Pupils who have bullied will be helped by:
discussing what happened
discovering why the pupil became involved
establishing the wrong doing and need to change
informing parents or guardians to help change the attitude of the pupil.
The following disciplinary steps can be taken:
official warnings to cease offending
detention
exclusion from certain areas of school premises
minor fixed-term exclusion/suspension for one week, return dependent on support from ongoing counselling
major fixed-term exclusion/expulsion for two weeks, return dependent on support from ongoing counselling
permanent exclusion.
Within the curriculum the school will raise the awareness of the nature of bullying through inclusion in Life Skills or Life Orientation, Register period, assemblies and subject areas, as appropriate, in an attempt to eradicate such behaviour.
Monitoring, evaluation and review
The school will review this policy annually and assess its implementation and effectiveness. The policy will be promoted and implemented throughout the school.
Infringement of the Code of Conduct and school rules
DISCIPLINARY ACTION:
Punishment is a reaction to an action.
For repeated offences in all levels pupils could expect: –
Detention, manual labour or a verbal warning and an interview with the Head and the relevant Head of Department and the pupil’s parents.
Three (3) detentions, three (3) verbal warnings or three (3) manual labour sessions could lead to a First Written Warning and an interview with parents.
After a written warning, a pupil may expect a suspension.
After one suspension, a student may expect a request from the school to leave.
Each case will be dealt with individually – for a first serious offence the sanction could be a First Written Warning, thereafter a Final Written warning, followed by a request to leave the school or expulsion. In certain instances, immediate suspension or possible expulsion may be the consequence. If a suspension has been recommended, return to school is conditional on attendance at a rehabilitation programme.
A second serious offence could mean immediate
Note: Failure to attend Friday detention without permission from the Head of School or the Deputy Head – Admin and Student Affairs will result in automatic one day suspension on the day the pupil returns to school. This will be recorded in the pupil’s file.
Level 1
Nature of Offence: Minor and Non Wilful
Examples of infringements and or offences
Being in any “out of bounds place” without permission or supervision.
Eating or drinking in unauthorized places.
Play fighting.
Ignoring of uniform, hair or jewellery rules.
Disruptive behaviour or constant talking in class.
Arriving late for all school activities without a good cause.
No absentee note from parents.
Books or work left at home.
Not returning reply slips.
Gross untidiness or sloppiness.
Chewing gum.
Disciplinary Action – any one or all of the following:-
Verbal reprimand
Break detention under the supervision of prefects
Friday detention under the supervision of an appointed teacher
A more severe sanction as determined to be fair and just by the school authorities. This may even include a Recorded Verbal or Written Warning.
Persons involved in the administration of disciplinary action.
Prefect
Teacher
Discipline Coordinator where necessary.
Level 2
Nature of Offence: Wilful Defiance and Dishonesty of a serious nature
Examples of infringements and or offences
Repeated Level One offences.
Abuse of school equipment.
Using audio-visual equipment without permission.
Using vulgar language.
Insolence, back-chatting, defiance or display of temper.
Wilful destruction of property.
Defamatory comments.
Malicious activities.
Wilful disobedience which endangers self and others.
Inappropriate physical contact.
Failure to deliver post to parents/guardians or tempering with post to parents.
Homework not done.
Disciplinary Action any one or all of the following:-
Immediate Friday afternoon detention
After 2nd Friday afternoon detention, letter to parents, pupil placed on “Daily Report” where teachers enter behaviour and parents sign daily.
A more severe sanction as determined to be fair and just by the school authorities. This may even include a Recorded Verbal, First Written or Final Warning.
Persons involved in the administration of disciplinary action.
Teacher
Discipline Coordinator
Head of Department: FET OR GET OR Discipline and/or Deputy Head become(s) involved after the second Friday afternoon or when a more severe sanction is sought and will administer the “Daily Report”.
Level 3
Nature of Offence: Very Serious Breach
Examples of infringements and or offences
Inciting or taking part in any illegal or unsanctioned meeting on school premises.
Formation of, participation in or failing to report any gang related activity including but not limited to organised video recorded fights/beatings, recruitment into such gangs et cetera.
Graffiti or writing obscenities.
Vandalism or major destruction of property.
Verbal sexual abuse.
Foul language or rebellious behaviour towards adults.
Gross defiance of instructions.
Constant breaching of Level 1 or 2 offences after previous interventions.
Failure to attend detention.
Lying during an investigation.
Disciplinary Action any one or all of the following:-
Parents and Deputy Head or Head of Department: GET/FET/ and Discipline informed immediately.
Interview with pupil, parents, teacher and Deputy Head and or Head of Department: GET/FET/ and Discipline
Suspension or withdrawal of privileges
Written Warning: First or Final
Parents and pupil interviewed by the Disciplinary Committee with a view to suspension and/or expulsion.
Persons involved in the administration of disciplinary action.
Teacher
Deputy Head, Head of Department: GET/FET
Parents
Disciplinary Committee
Level 4
Nature of Offence: Extremely serious contravention of the rules
Examples of infringements and or offences
Theft
Copying and/or permitting copying of school work.
Cheating in tests or examinations.
The use of supportive information (i.e. crib notes, books, calculators – unless clearly specified, conversation, cellular telephone, smart watches or any electronic device) during a test or examination.
Possession or use of contraband or banned items including but not exclusive to drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, pornography etc.
Any form of misuse of the school network or the internet including but not limited to accessing or causing the accessing of banned sites such as sites that contain any form of sexually explicit material, cyber bullying, hacking, use or causing the use of the school network for any malicious purposes. Refer to the school BYOD policy for further information.
Physical sexual behaviour or harassment.
Inappropriate sexual behaviour.
Any form of grossly improper behaviour which seriously damages the good name of the school.
Racism and hate speech.
Repeated disregarding of disciplinary action or punishment imposed.
Possession and/or use of weapons of any kind.
Physical assault and fighting.
Disrespect towards staff.
Infringement of any law of the kingdom.
Disciplinary Action – any one or all of the following:
Interview with parents, pupil, teacher, relevant Head of Department, Deputy Head and Head of School.
Disciplinary Committee informed and Police informed where necessary.
Written Warning: First or Final
Immediate suspension
Parents and pupil interviewed by the Disciplinary Committee with a view to suspension or immediate expulsion.
Students have the right to appeal to the Head of School; if the Appeal is denied, parents have the right to Appeal to the Education Committee, a sub-committee of the Enjabulweni Board of Governors.
* Repeat offences of the same misdemeanour will change the level of punishment.
* This list is not all-inclusive but serves to illustrate examples of disrespectful and irresponsible behaviour that will necessitate reaction from the school!
This Code of Conduct is in force during school hours, all activities sanctioned by the school on or off the school’s premises and at any time as long as the pupil is a member of the school.
By signing this code of conduct parents and pupils declare understanding and accept that the school may make amendments to this document as need arises in accordance with ISASA guidelines and as approved by the Board of Governors of Enjabulweni School.
Signed:______ ______________________________ Head of School: K. THOMPSON
Signed:______ ______________________________ Name of Pupil
Signed:______ ______________________________ Name of Parent
Date:________ ______________________________
Amendment No 1 of 2019
Point 4 on page 10:
_______ Procedure for leaving school early.
Point 2.15 on page 17:
_______ “Homework not done” moved from level one to level two.
Point 3.15 on page 17
Added “Lying during an investigation” as a level three offence.
Point 4.15
_______ “Lack of respect towards staff” moved from level two to level four.
