The Rockhampton Grammar School

BOARDING HANDBOOK
Guidelines for our Boarding Community

This document was updated: November 14, 2011

Mission Statement

The Rockhampton Grammar School is committed to providing a seven day a week environment for boarding students. This environment will be safe, will provide appropriate pastoral, social and academic guidance to all students and will be a home away from home for all students in its care. The Rockhampton Grammar School will strive to provide an environment which nurtures its students and enhances their feeling of belonging and wellbeing. The Rockhampton Grammar School is committed to providing a fully professional and caring staff to oversee the pastoral and social life of its students. The Boarding Houses will have structures in place to ensure that the emotional and physical needs of the students are met and that each students progress is carefully monitored in all facets of his or her development. The Boarding Houses will work in consultation with their Directors of Boarding and with parents on all major issues relating to the life of students while at The Rockhampton Grammar School. The boarding experience encourages tolerance, respect for others, kindness, spiritual and moral awareness and self-discipline. It develops independence and strength and the ability of the individual to function as part of a team.

Contents
Boarding House/ School Expectations: ............................................................................................................................6 Student Expectations: .....................................................................................................................................................6 Expectations of daily life in the Boarding Houses:............................................................................................................6 Nature of Parent-Boarding School Communication .........................................................................................................6 2012 TERM DATES ..........................................................................................................................................................9 ABSENCES .....................................................................................................................................................................10 ADDRESS .......................................................................................................................................................................10 AEROSOLS .....................................................................................................................................................................10 APPEARANCE OF STUDENTS ..........................................................................................................................................10 ASSESSMENT SCHEDULES ..............................................................................................................................................10 BAD NEWS ....................................................................................................................................................................10 BANK ACCOUNTS ..........................................................................................................................................................10 BED LINEN .....................................................................................................................................................................10 BIKES.............................................................................................................................................................................11 BIRTHDAYS ....................................................................................................................................................................11 BOARDER LONG WEEKENDS ..........................................................................................................................................11 BOARDING PARENTS ASSOCIATION ...............................................................................................................................11 CALENDAR ....................................................................................................................................................................11 CANTEEN.......................................................................................................................................................................11 CHEMIST ITEMS.............................................................................................................................................................11 CHURCH SERVICES .........................................................................................................................................................11 CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME .....................................................................................................................................11 CONCERTS .....................................................................................................................................................................12 COUNSELLING ...............................................................................................................................................................12 DANCES .........................................................................................................................................................................12 DAY STUDENTS ..............................................................................................................................................................12 DENTIST ........................................................................................................................................................................12 DIARY............................................................................................................................................................................12 DINING ROOM ..............................................................................................................................................................12 DOCTOR ........................................................................................................................................................................13 DOONAS .......................................................................................................................................................................13 DRESS CODE ..................................................................................................................................................................13 DRIVING LICENCE ..........................................................................................................................................................14 DRY CLEANING ..............................................................................................................................................................14 EARLY LEAVE..................................................................................................................................................................14 EXPULSION AND SUSPENSION .......................................................................................................................................14 FIRE DRILL .....................................................................................................................................................................14 FLU VACCINATION .........................................................................................................................................................15 FOOD ............................................................................................................................................................................15 FURNITURE ...................................................................................................................................................................15 GRAFFITI .......................................................................................................................................................................15 GUARDIANS ..................................................................................................................................................................15 HAIR, EARRINGS AND OTHER PERSONAL EFFECTS..........................................................................................................15 HEALTH CENTRE ............................................................................................................................................................15 HOUSE ROUTINES..........................................................................................................................................................16 IMMIGRATION DOCUMENTS .........................................................................................................................................16 INSURANCE ...................................................................................................................................................................16 JEWELLERY ....................................................................................................................................................................16 LAPTOPS AND COMPUTERS ...........................................................................................................................................16 LAUNDRY ......................................................................................................................................................................16 LEAVE ............................................................................................................................................................................16 LIBRARIES; MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY, SENIOR RESEARCH LIBRARY AND COMPUTER RESOURCE CENTRE .......................20 LUNCHES .......................................................................................................................................................................20 MANNERS .....................................................................................................................................................................20 MEALS (Refer to Dining Room.) .....................................................................................................................................21 MEDICARE.....................................................................................................................................................................21 MOBILE PHONE POLICY .................................................................................................................................................21 MONEY .........................................................................................................................................................................21 MOVIES/DVD ................................................................................................................................................................21 NAME TAGS...................................................................................................................................................................21 NEWSLETTERS ...............................................................................................................................................................21 NEWSPAPERS ................................................................................................................................................................21 PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS .........................................................................................................................................22
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PASSPORTS ...................................................................................................................................................................22 PERSONAL HYGIENE ......................................................................................................................................................22 PHOTOGRAPHS .............................................................................................................................................................22 POCKET MONEY (See Bank Accounts/Money) ...............................................................................................................22 POSTERS .......................................................................................................................................................................22 PREP (HOMEWORK) ......................................................................................................................................................22 PROTECTION OF POSSESSIONS ......................................................................................................................................22 QUARTERLY CAPRICORNUS............................................................................................................................................22 RAIL WARRANTS ...........................................................................................................................................................23 RELATIONSHIPS .............................................................................................................................................................23 SECURITY PROCEDURES.................................................................................................................................................23 SENIORS ........................................................................................................................................................................23 SETTLING-IN PERIOD .....................................................................................................................................................23 SHOWERS......................................................................................................................................................................23 SLEEP ............................................................................................................................................................................23 SLEEPING BAGS .............................................................................................................................................................24 SMOKING POLICY/DRUGS POLICY..................................................................................................................................24 AUDIO EQUIPMENT .......................................................................................................................................................24 STORAGE .......................................................................................................................................................................24 SUN SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................................................24 SUPPER .........................................................................................................................................................................24 SWIMMING POOL .........................................................................................................................................................24 TAXI/OTHER TRANSPORT ..............................................................................................................................................25 TELEPHONE CONTACT....................................................................................................................................................25 TELEVISION ...................................................................................................................................................................25 THEFT............................................................................................................................................................................25 TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS ..............................................................................................................................................25 TUTORING .....................................................................................................................................................................26 UNIFORM ......................................................................................................................................................................26 VALUABLES....................................................................................................................................................................26 VISITORS .......................................................................................................................................................................26 WEEKLY BOARDING .......................................................................................................................................................26

EXPECTATIONS AND COMMUNICATION Boarding House/ School Expectations:

To provide a framework for happy and peaceful communal living, within which students can develop their individuality and tolerance of the needs of others. To allow students to develop increasing responsibility for themselves as they progress through the different stages of boarding. To ensure the safety and security of the students.

Student Expectations:
Students are expected to: Behave with consideration for others (staff and pupils) and their property at all times. Comply with the routines and procedures of the Boarding House. Play their part in ensuring the safety and security of all in the Boarding House. To raise issues of concern through the appropriate channels.

Expectations of daily life in the Boarding Houses:

Before leaving the House each day: Beds are to be made. All personal items of clothing are to be placed in the spaces provided. Desks are to be left in tidy order. Lights and fans are to be turned off. Scheduled dormitory duties are to be carried out. Sanctions are imposed when students fail to meet the expectations as outlined above. These sanctions will be: Clearly explained and displayed. Commensurate with the transgression. Aimed at providing the student with the opportunity to consider the full implications of his/her failure to meet expectations. Here again, respect is the guiding principle: respect for the boarding environment and all who live in the community; and respect for self in being organised for the day ahead.

Nature of Parent-Boarding School Communication

Running a home with three or even four children and running a house with fifty children are simply not comparable. Consequently not only routines and expectations are different but the culture of both environments can be very different. From time to time disagreements on issues will occur. As always, the communication that follows should be open and frank but also based on mutual respect and a sense of empathy and generosity. We see ourselves in partnership with parents working towards a common goal where division is fertile ground for those younger and less mature. We accept that parents have choices about the schooling of their children and that equally not every child is suited to a boarding life or, for that matter, boarding at our School. It is the best interest of the child that must be paramount. To this end the School has provided the Heads of House with phone (land line/mobile), fax and email facilities. Our advice is that on personal and conflict resolution issues, initially a direct conversation is best because tone and context are much harder to misinterpret. So much of what we do in Boarding depends on the student doing the right thing and abiding by our guidelines. Serious breaches of trust in boarding will result in suspension. The student will return to School only after consultation with the relevant Director of Boarding and/or the Headmaster.

School Contact Details

Title and Name HEADMASTER Dr Phillip Moulds HEAD OF THE MIDDLE SCHOOL and DEPUTY HEADMASTER Mr Arthur Kelly HEAD OF THE SENIOR SCHOOL Ms Denise Wright DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM Mrs Nanette Murphy SCHOOL COUNSELLOR Mrs Leah Reilly HEAD OF PRIMARY Mr Geoff Hadwen DIRECTOR OF GIRLS BOARDING Mrs Dorothy Skilling DIRECTOR OF BOYS BOARDING Mr Stewart Norford DIRECTOR OF CO-CURRICULUM 2IC Wheatly House Mr Todd Wells WHEATCROFT HOUSE Mr Brendan Handley. WHEATLEY HOUSE Mr Cameron Atkinson COOMBE HOUSE Mr. Jason Wells LUCK HOUSE Mr. Stewart Norford GIRLS HOUSE Assistant to Director Head of Middle Dormitory Ms Hayley Diamond GIRLS HOUSE Head of Upper Dormitory Ms Stacey McCarthy GIRLS HOUSE (Acting) Head of Middle Dormitory Ms Georgia Peard RED & BLACK SHOP Mrs. Gail Baker HEALTH CENTRE Mrs Melanie March (Nurse Manager) Mrs Linda Rodgers Mrs Liz Spottiswood Mrs Sue Els SCHOOL CHAPLAIN Canon Cameron Venables LEAVE REQUESTS For girls leave requests email: girlsboardingleave@rgs.qld.edu.au Email headmaster@rgs.qld.edu.au arthurkelly@rgs.qld.edu.au dwright@rgs.qld.edu.au nmurphy@rgs.qld.edu.au lreilly@rgs.qld.edu.au ghadwen@rgs.qld.edu.au dskilling@rgs.qld.edu.au snorford@rgs.qld.edu.au twells@rgs.qld.edu.au bhandley@rgs.qld.edu.au catkinson@rgs.qld.edu.au jwells@rgs.qld.edu.au snorford@rgs.qld.edu.au Telephone 4936 0615 4936 0649 4936 0625 4936 0607 4396 0714 4936 0648 4936 0636 4936 0642 4936 0870 4936 0632 4936 0692 4936 0633 4936 0642 0400 311 424 0419 713 706 0488 778 300 0419 712 954 0419 713 006 0447 360 007 0419 713 706 Mobile Phone

hdiamond@rgs.qld.edu.au

4936 0634

0419 713 997

smccarthy@rgs.qld.edu.au

4936 0634

0488 066 493

gpeard@rgs.qld.edu.au redandblackshop@rgs.qld.edu.au mmarch@rgs.qld.edu.au healthcentre@rgs.qld.edu.au

4936 0634 4936 0653 4936 0693

4936 0638
4936 0741

cvenables@rgs.qld.edu.au

For boys leave requests, contact your childs Head of House

Student Phone Numbers

SCHOOL HOUSE Wheatley House Wheatcroft House Boland Dormitory COOMBE HOUSE Lower Dormitory Upper Dormitory LUCK HOUSE GIRLS HOUSE OFFICE GIRLS HOUSE Lower Dormitory Middle Dormitory Upper Dormitory Boland Dormitory Senior Boys Dormitory Junior Dormitory - Years 7 and 8 Year 10 Dormitory (Seniors Dormitory) 4936 0684 4936 0685 4936 0690 4936 0688 4936 0689 Individual phones 4936 0634 4936 0840 4936 0696 4936 0697 4936 0801 /4936 0819

Boarding House Structure

Mrs Dorothy Skilling Director of Girls Boarding Mr Stewart Norford Director of Boys Boarding Mr Brendan Handley Head of Girls House Responsible for direct oversight of all girl boarders Years 7 - 12 Responsible for direct oversight of all boy boarders Years 7 - 12 and Year 12 Housemaster Responsible for intermediate (Year 9 and 10) boys boarding. Responsible for Junior boys (Years 7, 8 and some Year 9) boarding Responsible for all Year 11 boy boarders Reports directly to the Headmaster on all boarding matters. Reports directly to the Headmaster on all boarding matters. Reports directly to the Director of Boarding on all boys boarding matters Reports directly to the Director of Boys Boarding on all boys boarding matters Reports directly to the Director of Boys Boarding on all boys boarding matters Reports directly to the Director of Girls Boarding on all girl boarding matters. Reports directly to the Director of Girls Boarding on all girl boarding matters. Reports directly to the Director of Girls Boarding on all girl boarding matters.

Head of Luck House

Head of Wheatcroft House and Bell Tower

Mr Cameron Atkinson

Head of Wheatley

Mr Jason Wells

Head of Coombe House

Miss Hayley Diamond

2IC of Girls House Head of Middle Dormitory

Together with Mrs Skilling, responsible for all girl boarders Assistant to Director of Boarding (Girls)

Mrs Stacey McCarthy

Head of Upper Dormitory

Ms Georgia Peard

(Acting) Head of Lower, Boland and Palmer Dormitories

Assistant to Director of Boarding (Girls)

THE ROCKHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL 2012 TERM DATES Term 1.

17 & 18 January: 19 & 20 January: 22 January: 23 January: 24 January: 26 January: 20 February: 29 March: 30 March: 16 April: 17 April: 25 April: 7 May: 8 June: 11 June: 22 June: 25-27 June: 9 July: 16 July: 17 July: 20 August: 21 September: 8 October: 9 October: 22 October: 16 November: Tbc November: 29 November: 30 November: 3 - 6 December: Induction of new teachers. Senior Administrators, HODs, mentors attend. Student free days, all staff on duty. New Boarders Orientation. New Students Orientation. All students return to school. Australia Day Holiday. Student Free Day (Middle and Senior School) (QSA Monitoring). Parent Teacher Interviews 4.30pm-6.30pm Last day of Term 1. Boarders return (parent/teacher interviews 11am-1pm) All students return to school. ANZAC Day. Labour Day. Rockhampton Show Holiday. Queens Birthday Holiday. Last day of term for students. Student free days for teachers. Regional Professional Development Day. Boarders Return (parent/teacher interviews). Students return. Student Free Day (Boarders long weekend). Last day of term for staff and students. Student Free Day- Staff Professional Development. Students return. Student Free Day (Middle and Senior School) (QSA Monitoring) Last day for Year 12. Middle and Senior School Speech Night. Last day for students Student free day for staff. Student free days for staff.

Term 2.

Term 3.

Term 4.

BOARDING SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS ABSENCES

When a child is absent from the Boarding House during term time because of illness, late return or early departure, his/her parent or guardian should notify the Head of House. Early leave will require an application to the appropriate Director of Boarding for approval. For end of term early leave, a months notice is preferred with emergencies being the only exception. Absences which require leave from the day school must be approved in advance by the respective Head of Year. Absences are reported daily to the School administration and school work can be organised so as to ensure the childs absence does not impact adversely on his/her progress.

ADDRESS
Please notify the Front Office in writing as soon as possible of any change of address, email or telephone (mobile and land line) number. It is important that we are able to contact parents at any time. If you are going to be out of communication for any reason, please provide a contact telephone number of a suitable person who can act as guardian for your child during your absence. Parent email addresses are vital to our communication structure and should be given along with updates to the Head of House.

AEROSOLS
Aerosol cans/sprays are banned from the campus due to the sensitive nature of the fire sensors. The cost of the fire brigade call out may be billed to the family.

APPEARANCE OF STUDENTS
At all times boarders should be well groomed neat and tidy and appropriate to the situation. Boy boarders are to wear their shirts tucked in, ties properly adjusted. All shoes must be clean and polished. All students are to wear their school hats when leaving the campus.

ASSESSMENT SCHEDULES
At the beginning of each semester parents will be given (by mail) a copy of their childs assessment schedule for each subject. Your childs assessment schedule is also available on the Schools web site. With this information parents can continue to play an active and informed role in their childs education. This schedule will cover major and minor examinations, tests and assignments.

BAD NEWS
It can be very difficult for a child who is far from home to receive bad news by telephone or letter. We encourage you in such a case to contact your childs Director of Boarding or the Head of School so that we can ensure the news is broken as gently as possible and that your child has special friends nearby to support him/her. The School Counsellor also has a vital role to play in this area and will be made available if possible.

BANK ACCOUNTS
Ideally every student should have an account with a bank which has a branch in Rockhampton. This allows students to have money available when needed without having to keep it in the Boarding House. The account address should be c/- the parents address so that the statements will be sent home. This allows parents to assist their children with the management of their funds. Intermittent deposits are encouraged so that the child does not have access to large amounts of money. The School canteen offers EFTPOS facilities where up to $20 cash can be withdrawn.

BED LINEN
This should be provided by parents (4 sheets, 2 pillow cases, pillow and doona etc.). Linen is changed weekly and can be laundered by the School laundry. Boarders are responsible for providing a laundry bag (pillow case size) and ensuring that all items are clearly marked with their name and student number.
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BIKES
Bikes, other than those used for training purposes, are not permitted at School. Training bikes must be locked in an area designated by the Head of House and safety equipment must be worn when out riding. Skateboards are not permitted as there is no suitable area on the School campus for their safe use.

BIRTHDAYS
Birthdays are noted in the staff Day Book. Birthday cakes and/or flowers can be delivered to the Boarding House.

BOARDER LONG WEEKENDS

In most School terms we have designated long weekends. These weekends are normally in line with public holidays or staff training days. As not all students are able to go home or to host families, the Boarding House does remain open. These long weekends represent an opportunity for senior students especially to catch up or get ahead on assignments. Juniors are encouraged to go home and catch up with family or to stay with a day students family.

BOARDING PARENTS ASSOCIATION

Boarding parents have an association of which all our parents become automatic members. Meetings are held at the beginning of Terms Two, Three and Four (see diary for details). In Term One, the meeting is held prior to the Meet the Teachers night.

CALENDAR
Parents are issued a forward Term Calendar which outlines major events for the coming term. This calendar is mailed to parents each holiday break. Term dates are to be strictly adhered to when making holiday and travel arrangements.

CANTEEN
The Canteen is open daily during the school week. The Canteen also offers an EFTPOS facility where up to $20.00 cash can be withdrawn. Written permission must be sought if requiring more than this amount.

CHEMIST ITEMS
All medications (prescriptions) and other items can be obtained from a chemist of your choice. Please call the Health Centre for advice regarding suppliers. The chemist of your choice will bill parents directly and will also deliver to the School (Health Centre). Prescription medication will be retained and dispensed from the Health Centre.

CHURCH SERVICES
Children who wish to attend services are encouraged to do so.

CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME
The School offers a very wide array of sports and club activities for your child to become involved in. At all times we strongly encourage your support in ensuring that your child finds some activities that allows them both a break from the normal daily routine as well as an avenue for building upon their self esteem. Where your childs interest extends beyond the RGS co-curricular programme, the School is happy to assist in ensuring your child joins and participates in the local club competition e.g. gymnastics etc. If you have any concerns regarding this aspect, please contact Mr Todd Wells our Director of Co-curricular, or refer to the School web site for the relevant person in charge.

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CONCERTS
Outings to concerts and films at weekends are sometimes organised by staff. In most cases your child is required to be able to pay for his/her tickets with cash.

COUNSELLING
The School has a Counseller and Chaplain, available for confidential discussion and advise by arrangement with Heads of Boarding and Heads of School. For ongoing concerns both our counselor and local doctor can suggest referral to an off campus provider where necessary.

DANCES
The Prefects, in conjunction with the Seniors Dance Committee, organise social dances throughout the year for students in Years 8 to 12. Attendance is not compulsory. Dances for 2012 are currently under review. Sometimes our students are invited to attend a dance at another school. Attendance is conditional on an invitation from the host school being received by the Directors of Boarding, and by the group being escorted by Grammar staff members. Suitable notice is required to organise staffing to cover such an event.

DAY STUDENTS
It is important that boarders make every effort to become friends among the day student community. This helps to prevent any undue division between the boarders and day students in the School. To facilitate this, we keep a few beds free so that day students can come into boarding from time to time as the need dictates. The development of these relationships is why time spent in the boarding houses at morning tea and lunch is restricted. Day students visiting the School must sign the Visitors Register available in each house.

DENTIST
The School does not have an appointed dentist but students may request appointments and the campus Health Centre will support (transport/taxi voucher) the request. Students are not to be accompanied by another student unless both the Head of House and the relevant Head of School have given their approval.

DIARY
Each child is issued with a School diary. This diary is used to record (by the child) all homework, assignments and tests etc. Boarding staff regularly check to see that the diary is being used correctly.

DINING ROOM
Dress and Behaviour Both students and staff should be of the understanding that when in the Dining Room, they are not eating in their own home kitchen, but rather in a very public place akin to a restaurant. The expectations outlined below are no more than would be called for under such circumstances, and allow all who choose to eat there to do so in peace, quiet and with dignity. Students and staff are asked to co-operate by adhering to the following expectations regarding dress and behaviour: Dress should be of a neat casual standard when out of School uniform Boarders are requested to wear shirts that are of a suitable length, with collars Sandals with a strap around the heel for girls Shorts are to be of suitable length (not brief) Boarders are not permitted to wear board shorts When wearing enclosed shoes, socks (white) should be worn. Deck shoes are the only exception No dirty football jumpers will be worn No cutlery or crockery (including plastic) is to be removed from the Dining Room.
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It is expected that the following would not be worn in the Dining Room: Caps Sporting apparel Shirts or shorts with slogans. Mini skirts, strapless tops, hot pants, tank tops and the like. Those arriving from sports or other physical activities should have showered before entering the Dining Room and be in fresh clothes. Routine/Hours The Dining Room is open at the following times: Breakfast Morning Tea Lunch served in the Dining Room Junior (Years 6 to 10) Senior (Years 11 to 12) Dinner Junior (Years 6 to 10) Senior (Years 11 to 12) 6.00am - 8.30am 10.35am - 11.15am 12.30pm - 1.10pm 1.10pm - 1.50pm 5.15pm - 5.45pm 6.00pm - 6.45pm

DOCTOR
The School has its own appointed doctor. Parents may direct their child to be seen by other doctors but must make this arrangement through the Health Centre. Bus transport will be provided if available. Taxi bookings can be made through the Health Centre. The School medical practice is Imbina Medical Centre, 149 Denham Street, Allenstown- Dr Jeff Clark. The practice requires Medicare numbers.

DOONAS
These are encouraged but must have removable washable covers and be of single bed size only.

DRESS CODE
Boarders may wear casual clothes at any time out of School hours, other than when taking part in a School function or, for Years 7 to 10, on Town Leave. While we are reasonably flexible in the range of personal dress styles we allow, we do require students to meet a particular standard of presentation, especially in public. School uniform is worn from rising on weekdays until after School. Boarders can change into casual clothes at the end of the School day. The following guidelines outline our expected dress standards.

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CATEGORY Formal School uniform Day School uniform Sports participation Spectators/travel

DRESS Formal uniform Day uniform Sports uniform (red and black) for Physical Education or House shirts for inter house Red and black shirt with blue denim jeans or knee length shorts, shoes and socks or deck shoes Girls: Dress, skirts, blouse, shoes Boys: Shirt (plain), trousers, shoes and socks Girls: Dress, skirts (suitable length), blouse, tops (collars), jeans, dress trousers, dress shorts, shoes and socks, deck shoes Boys: Dress shirt, tops (collars), dress shorts, jeans, trousers, shoes and socks, deck shoes Shorts, jeans, T shirts, sneakers, thongs etc.

SITUATION Formal assemblies and officially designated events e.g. Speech Night etc. Normal school day Note: ties are to be worn during Terms 2 and 3. Physical Education periods, sports events Outside sporting events/shopping leave (for juniors) Bus travel on the Charter buses. Designated House and School functions

Formal casual

Neat casuals

Weekend leave, shopping leave (for seniors only), dining room

Casual

Free time/on campus

Footwear must be worn at all times when moving around the campus. This is a Workplace Health and Safety requirement.

DRIVING LICENCE
Driving lessons may be taken before or after School. Morning lessons should be from 7.15am to 8.15am. Afternoon lessons should finish no later than 5.30pm. We have allowed girls to take lessons from 2.00pm in spares with parental permission. Lessons should not be taken at a time when a student has a school commitment. Boarders must apply to their Directors of Boarding or Head of the Senior School to take lessons and supply written permission from a parent/guardian.

DRY CLEANING
Items to be dry cleaned can be left in the Laundry Sorting Room from where they are collected by the dry cleaners and returned within one week. The cost is charged to the students account but some overseas students are required to pay cash for this service.

EARLY LEAVE
Such requests must be made in writing to the relevant Head of Year who will then inform the appropriate Director of Boarding. Excepting emergencies a months notice is required. Parents need to understand that granting of early leave undermines the School programme and puts pressure on other parents and children.

EXPULSION AND SUSPENSION

Serious offences in the Boarding House may lead to suspension (involving travelling home at parents expense) or expulsion.

FIRE DRILL
The campus is protected by a sophisticated alarm system. This ensures the safety of all the children and staff. The boarders are instructed on how to behave in an emergency situation and emergency drills are practised on a regular basis.

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FLU VACCINATION
Authorisation notes are sent out to all parents regarding Flu Vaccination. The School recommends all boarding students have the vaccination. Allergies must be noted on this form.

FOOD
A nutritionally well-balanced diet is provided at all times and fresh fruit, bread and spreads are available at every meal and throughout the day. Where boarders are strict vegetarians, parents should provide a letter to that effect. The chef will prepare vegetarian meals. The dining room will further meet special requests based on medical advice. Boarders have input into the food menu via the Boarders dining room committee which meets regularly with the Directors of Boarding and the Head Chef.

FURNITURE
All furniture is provided by the School. Wilful damage to property by an individual must be paid for.

GRAFFITI
Offenders will be asked to remove graffiti in their own time and in the event that the property cannot be restored to its original condition, they will be asked to pay for its replacement.

GUARDIANS
All students whose home is normally outside Australia must have a guardian resident in Australia who can accept responsibility for the student. A guardian must be an adult with authority to make decisions for the boarder as well as able to provide proper care for him/her. Guardians are responsible for the updating of travel documents. They must also be responsible for the child during holiday periods.

HAIR, EARRINGS AND OTHER PERSONAL EFFECTS

Hair must be neat and tidy at all times and comply with the Schools expectations regarding style and colour (not designed to bring attention to oneself). Boarders should refer to the Schools dress and appearance guidelines regarding all other aspects of appearance. Please note that if uniform is being worn outside of School hours the guidelines are to be observed.

HEALTH CENTRE
The Rockhampton Grammar School provides a 24 hour on call service for all boarding students. Clinic hours are as follows: Monday through to Friday Saturday Sunday 8.00am - 9.30am 10.00am - 12noon 7.30am to 9.00pm 7.30pm - 8.30pm 7.30pm - 9.00pm

In the event of ill health a student is transferred to this Centre where they come under the care of the campus Health Staff. 1. Parents will always be contacted by the nurse on duty when there is reason for concern. In minor cases, the children are asked to telephone home themselves. 2. If an infectious disease is contracted, the patient is sent home if the family resides close by. 3. Students needing assistance outside clinic hours contact a staff member in the first instance. 4. When attending the Health Centre all students must be attired appropriately i.e. pajamas are not acceptable wear to be worn to and from the Health Centre. 5. Year 7 and 8 students will be accompanied to medical appointments outside the School. Year 9 and up is on request of student or parent. 6. Students requiring hospital treatment will be accompanied. Parents will be informed by the staff member on duty in the Health Centre at the time.
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HOUSE ROUTINES
Clearly, each House is different in its day to day operations. As a consequence, the Head of House will publish and distribute to each boarder, a brief day/week routine.

IMMIGRATION DOCUMENTS
These are the responsibility of both the parents and the guardian. The Directors of Boarding will also hold these documents, in care, if required.

INSURANCE
Medical It is recommended that each student be covered by Private Health Insurance but this is not essential unless a student is from overseas. Overseas students must join the Medibank Private Overseas Scheme. The Health Centre must be notified of students health insurance details. Personal Effects All personal effects are the responsibility of the student and his/her parents. The School insurance does not cover these.

JEWELLERY
Boarders bringing good jewellery to the campus for wearing on special occasions should have it put into the care of the Head of House. Girls may only wear one earring in each ear. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings.

LAPTOPS AND COMPUTERS

Students may bring their laptops to School providing they understand that they are brought to School at the owners risk. Year 9 and 10 students will have TabletPC computers provided by the School. All students must adhere to the computer policy outlined by the School in the attached appendices. If computers are being used for non-academic purposes, then this should be outside designated prep times and only age-appropriate material should be viewed. Any breach of the policy and procedures could result in the privilege of being allowed to use a laptop at School being withdrawn.

LAUNDRY
The School operates a full laundry service at no extra cost to parents. In addition Wheatcroft, Coombe, Luck and Girls House have washing and drying machines along with ironing facilities. Drying space is scarce and boarders are asked not to hang washing in places clearly open to the public.

LEAVE
Boarding Leave Policy and Guidelines Throughout this document there are references to various boarding staff positions: Boys Boarding: Director of Boys Boarding (Director), Head of House (HoH), Assistant Head of House (Assnt HoH) Girls Boarding: Director of Girls Boarding (Director), Person in Charge of Year Level (PIC)

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Boys Boarding Staff Name Stewart Norford Position Director of Boys Boarding Head of Luck House Assistant Head of Luck House (Yr 12 & some Yr 11) Head of Coombe House (Yr 11 & some Yr 10) Assistant Head of Coombe House (Yr 11 & some Yr 10) Head of Wheatcroft House (Yr 10 & Yr 9) Assistant Head of Wheatcroft House (Yr 10 & Yr 9) Head of Wheatley House (Yr 8 & Yr 7) Email address snorford@rgs.qld. edu.au Office Phone 4936 0642 usually msg only) Mobile Phone 0419 713 706

Jason Wells Noel Curran

jwells@rgs.qld. edu.au ncurran@rgs.qld. edu.au bhandley@rgs. qld.edu.au jpetrie@rgs.qld. edu.au catkinson@rgs. qld.edu.au

4936 0633 (usually msg only)

0447 360 007 0438 118 787

Brendan Handley Jimmy Petrie

4936 0632 (usually msg only) 4936 0640 (usually msg only) 4936 0793 (usually msg only)

0419 712 954 0429 393 293

Cameron Atkinson

0419 713 006

Todd Wells

Assistant Head of Wheatley House (Yr 8 & Yr 7)

Name Dorothy Skilling Hayley Diamond

twells@rgs.qld. edu.au (usually msg only) Girls Boarding Staff Position Email address Director of Girls Boarding dskilling@rgs.qld. edu.au Assistant to Director and Head of Middle Dormitory Head of Upper Dormitory (Acting) Head of Lower, Palmer and Boland Dormitories hdiamond@rgs. qld.edu.au

4936 0870

0448 778 300

Office Phone 4936 0636 4936 0634

Mobile Phone 0400 311 424 0419 713 997

Stacey Diamond Georgia Peard

smccarthy@rgs. qld.edu.au gpeard@rgs.qld. edu.au

4936 0634 4936 0634

0488 066 493

Email leave consent The official means of Parent consent for leave is an email addressed to Boys: Head of House (HoH), cc Assistant Head of House and Director of Boys Boarding (as per email addresses listed above) Girls: girlsboardingleave@rgs.qld.edu.au The email should make clear: 1. Who the leave is with: Parent or specified Host. 2. The purpose of the leave. 3. The details of Host, where applicable, including contact phone number(s) 4. The day(s), estimated pick up time and return time. 5. The means of transport. Sometimes someone else is picking up or dropping off the Student, and this is not a problem so long as it is confirmed. 6. For older students, only if required, a clear indication of any party that is to be attended, confirming that the Parent has contacted the host of the party. Leave is negotiated with Boys: the Head of House, or in his absence the Assistant Head of House or Director of Boarding. Girls: Director of Girls Boarding or Person in Charge of Year Level
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cc Director of Girls Boarding.

A couple of days notice is ideal, or further in advance. However, there are occasions when advance notice is not possible because circumstances change, and it is acceptable, although not favoured, to contact by phone Boys: the Head of House, or in his absence the Assistant Head of House or Director of Boarding Girls: the Director of Girls Boarding or Person in Charge of Year Level with very little notice of necessary leave. A follow up email for the record will be requested. Leave with Parents All reasonable requests for leave with Parents will be approved, especially if the guidelines in the agreement below are followed. Parents will be asked to sign off on the Parent Agreement of RGS Boarders on Leave at the beginning of each year. Our policy is not about restricting leave, but rather about leave being consented to after the circumstances of the leave are clear to all. Ultimately it is about all stakeholders: Parents, Director/Head of House/PIC and Host where applicable, knowing the whereabouts of the Student and that they are safe and in good care. Parent Agreement of RGS Boarders on Leave The notification of leave to the Head of House by the Parent incorporates acceptance of these aspects of responsibility for their boarder son or daughter. As the Parent of an RGS boarder on leave I accept that: 1. I am responsible for the welfare and conduct of my Son and/or Daughter for the duration of the leave, until such time as I ensure that they are signed back in to the Boarding House. 2. I am expected to know the whereabouts of my Son and/or Daughter for the duration of the leave, and ensure adequate supervision. 3. I am aware of the nominated time of return to the Boarding House, and that if the leave is to extend beyond that time I will notify the Director/Head of House/Person in Charge of Year Level. 4. I am responsible for ensuring that my Son and/or Daughter wears the appropriate uniform to any school event that they attend whilst in my care. 5. the School does not condone smoking or under age consumption of alcohol. 6. the School does not grant permission for Boarders on leave to travel in a car driven by provisionally registered (P Plate) drivers except by express written consent of the parents of the Student and also the parents of the provisionally registered driver. Leave with Hosts Hosts will be asked to acknowledge the Host Agreement of RGS Boarders on Leave when taking a boarder on leave. Our policy is not about restricting leave, but rather about leave being consented to after the circumstances of the leave are clear to all. Leave with Hosts requires four- way communication between Student, Parent, Host and Director/HoH/ PIC, prior to approval. 1. The Student intending to go on leave, and/or the Parent, must request/discuss the proposed leave with the Director/HoH/PIC prior. A couple of days notice is ideal, or further in advance. Host leave will not be granted without reasonable notice. The onus of notifying the Director/HoH/PIC rests increasingly with the Student as he/she matures. 2. The Parent must consent to the leave by email. This may require a. A phone call to the Director/HoH/PIC to enquire about/discuss the leave. b. A phone call to the intending Host to enquire about/discuss the leave, ensuring that the Host accepts complete responsibility for the Student for the duration of the leave as per the Host Agreement for RGS Boarders on Leave, see below. In some cases, such as with Years 11 & 12 Students attending a party, this in turn requires contact with the host of the party to ensure they are aware of their responsibility for the Student on leave. 3. The Host will acknowledge the Host Agreement for RGS Boarders on Leave. Host Agreement for RGS Boarders on Leave The Host will acknowledge the conditions of their responsibility for the Boarder on leave in their care. This may be done by: 1. the Host receiving a copy of the agreement when signing out the Student
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2. an email to the Director/HoH/PIC

3. an understood carry-over acknowledgement for regular and reliable Hosts. As the Host of an RGS boarder on leave I accept that: 1. I have been in contact with the Parent of the Boarder to discuss the leave, where applicable. 2. I am responsible for the welfare and conduct of the Boarder for the duration of the leave, until such time as I ensure that they are signed back in to the Boarding House. 3. I am expected to know the whereabouts of the Boarder for the duration of the leave, and ensure adequate supervision. 4. I am aware of the nominated time of return to the Boarding House, and that if the leave is to extend beyond that time I will notify the Director/HoH/Person in Charge of Year Level 5. I am responsible for ensuring that Boarders wear the appropriate uniform to any school event that they attend whilst in my care. 6. the School does not condone smoking or under age consumption of alcohol. 7. the School does not grant permission for Boarders on leave to travel in a car driven by provisionally registered (P Plate) drivers except by consent by email of the parents of the Student and also the parents of the provisionally registered driver. Minimum Age of Host The minimum age of a responsible Host is difficult to define. Some older siblings of Students are quite responsible upon leaving school; however, this is customarily not the case. We therefore recommend a minimum age of 21 for Hosts. More importantly, when information about unsatisfactory circumstances of leave with a particular Host comes back to us, we will proactively communicate this to the Parent with a recommendation that leave with that Host is not consented to in future. This can be avoided by parents not consenting to leave with Hosts, including family members, whose level of responsibility is in doubt. Leave Times and Negotiation Leave may be requested for any time and duration within reason. There are no recommended times for periods of leave. The Student may come and go from the boarding house at times that suit the Parent(s), within reason, being considerate of when quiet time commences and final roll check occurs prior to lights out in respective dormitories; please check with the Director/HoH/PIC. Leave arrangements should not disrupt the learning process; only under extenuating or special circumstances should leave be requested during school time or prep times in the evening. Proposed leave should also take into consideration the Students commitment to the cocurricular program, deferring to any training, rehearsals, games or performances. Such commitments can of course be met by the Student whilst on leave. Weekend Leave with Parent or Host Weekend leave should be notified no later than Thursday morning prior, allowing sufficient time for the leave request to be processed and any necessary checks to be made. Signing out The Parent or Host is required to pick up the Student in person from the boarding house and sign the leave register as Host. There may be circumstances in which the Parent or Host requests that the Student sign out and meet them; this must be negotiated with the Director/HoH/PIC, and the Parent accepts responsibility from the moment of signing out in that situation. The imperative requirement that is never waived is signing out on the leave register via a member of residential staff. Staff are on duty in the boarding house or in close proximity on free-call telephones provided. Leave must be negotiated with the Director/HoH/PIC prior, and then the Student must sign out. Not signing out is a serious offence that will be dealt with accordingly. Amount/Frequency of Leave The amount or frequency of leave is at the Parent(s) discretion. The only consideration is that leave should not diminish the opportunity of the individual Student to attain the highest outcomes which they are capable of, and maintain an extensive connection with the boarding community. Social outings to the movies and dinner etc. are not appropriate on Sunday Thursday nights. Special leave with family is always negotiable however. Return to the Boarding House from Leave When leave is notified and/or the Student is signed out, a projected time of return to the boarding house
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should be indicated, and then as that time approaches the Director/HoH/PIC should be notified if that return time is to be amended. The Student must sign in, indicating their return to the boarding House. The Director/HoH/PIC reserves the right to insist that Parent or Host signs in the Student personally. Leave Approved by Boarding Staff Leave will be controlled/granted by the Director/HoH/PIC for other reasons where the Student remains in the extended care of the Director/HoH/PIC but is off campus, such as shopping, cocurricular activities and excursions. The Director/HoH/PIC will ensure satisfactory supervision of the Student by relevant staff, to ensure a duty of care is always provided. The Director/HoH/PIC acts in loco parentis and will exercise due judgement in granting such leave. Saturday Shopping Leave Leave is permitted to go to Rockhampton Shopping Fair from 8.30am until 12 noon for Years 7-10 or 1.00pm for Years 11 and 12. RGS Bus transport is provided and Years 7 and 8 Students are chaperoned. Years 7-10 wear red and denim casual uniform: blue denim jeans or thigh-length blue denim shorts. Years 11 and 12 wear good casuals. Transport by Private Vehicle with a Provisionally Licensed (P Plate) Driver Students will not be granted permission to travel in cars driven by provisionally registered drivers except by express written consent of the parents of the Student and also the parents of the provisionally registered driver. Leave Suspensions From time to time, due to inappropriate behaviour, Student(s) may be denied all or some forms of leave, in consultation with parents. This reinforces that leave is a privilege that is afforded to Students who maintain a relationship of trust within the residential community.

LIBRARIES; MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY, SENIOR RESEARCH LIBRARY AND COMPUTER RESOURCE CENTRE
The library facilities at the School are open at the following times. The Middle School Library is also open on public holidays. Computer Resource Centre Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 8.00am - 3.00pm 8.00am - 3.00pm 8.00am - 3.00pm 8.00am - 3.00pm 8.00am - 3.00pm 6.30pm - 8.30pm 6.30pm - 8.30pm 6.30pm - 8.30pm 6.30pm - 8.30pm Middle School Library 8.00am - 5.00pm 8.00am - 5.00pm 8.00am - 5.00pm 8.00am - 5.00pm 8.00am - 4.30pm 9.00am - 12noon 9.30am - 12noon 1.00pm - 4.00pm 1.00pm - 2.30pm Senior Research Library 8.00am - 3.30pm 8.00am - 3.30pm 8.00am - 3.30pm 8.00am - 3.30pm 8.00am - 3.30pm

Reference materials are available on overnight loan in cases of need. The value of lost or damaged books will be charged to students accounts. The Computer Resource Centre can be opened at other times by negotiation with teachers who would be willing to supervise.

LUNCHES
Primary boarders have lunches made for them which they collect at breakfast and take to School. All other boarders obtain lunch from the dining room at lunch time.

MANNERS
Please refer to the Dining Room dress and behaviour code.

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MEALS (Refer to Dining Room.) MEDICARE

If a student has his/her own Medicare Card then this should be handed to the Health Centre staff or the number of the card recorded in our medical files.

MOBILE PHONE POLICY

There will be specific guidelines according to the age level of the boarding student but the following is the general policy for safe use of mobile phones in the Boarding Houses: Do not give out your number or friends numbers to people you do not know. Keep your security or pin number private. If you get texts which upset you, do not reply, do not delete but keep a record and tell an adult. If you receive an embarrassing or rude text or image about someone do not forward it to others. Distributing sexual images of other young people is harassment and could be illegal. If you receive something of this nature tell an adult immediately. Ask permission before taking a picture of your friends and think before sending it on to someone. Once sent you have lost control of the information and it could be made public before you know it! A mobile phone is a valuable piece of equipment. Ensure that you have it locked away when you go to School. The positive aspect of having a mobile phone is that students can use them in case of emergency and also have more readily available contact with home from their personal phone. Junior boarders (Years 7, 8, 9 and 10) must hand their phones to the dormitory staff before school, before prep and prior to retiring in the evening.

MONEY
Safe-keeping facilities are provided and are accessible on request. Also see Bank Account and Protection of Possessions.

MOVIES/DVD
The School reserves the right to determine the appropriateness or otherwise of any DVD to be shown on the premises. R rated videos will not be shown and primary boarders (Year 7 and 8) are limited to PG only. The Head of House will oversee the hire or purchase of any movies and determine its appropriateness; however where parents have a strong personal view, the Head of House should be briefed.

NAME TAGS
All clothing must be named in a prominent spot with a woven or permanently printed name tag or student number. It should also be discreetly named in a non-obvious place. Spare tags and sewing needle and thread are needed to label purchases made during Term time.

NEWSLETTERS
Each fortnight the School puts out a newsletter covering the events over that period. Boarding parents may ask for this newsletter to be emailed directly to them by contacting rgsnotices@rgs.qld.edu.au . The information is also available via our web site. Each Boarding House sends out news relating to their community, at the discretion of the respective Head of House during the term.

NEWSPAPERS
These are available on a daily basis from the Library.

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PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS
These meetings are conducted at the beginning of each term (see calendar). Parents coming to the School during Term time, who wish to talk to teachers, are welcome to make appointments via the relevant Head of School. Notice (two weeks) should be given so that the appropriate arrangements can be made.

PASSPORTS
These must be handed to the relevant Director of Boarding. When overseas students travel, their passports are issued back to them.

PERSONAL HYGIENE
Each year informal talks are conducted at each year level on this subject. We state what we believe to be a good standard and problems are handled in a caring manner.

PHOTOGRAPHS
It is important for the children to have some of these treasured possessions with them at Boarding School and therefore we encourage this at all times.

POCKET MONEY (See Bank Accounts/Money)

It is requested that students are not over indulged with pocket money. The Heads of House will contact parents when they perceive that a child has too much spending power. The amount needed by boarders differs according to the personal items needed by individuals and their age. Some only require money for an occasional ice-cream, soft drink, treat or visit to the movies at the weekend; others need more. It is the parents decision/responsibility to determine the amount and Head of House will advise when required to do so.

POSTERS
All boarders have space for the display of posters and personal memorabilia. However, House staff reserves the right to remove any pictures or posters which are deemed unsuitable for display.

PREP (HOMEWORK)
Prep time is taken seriously. If a student is required to miss an evening session they will need to make up that time in the afternoon prior to their activity. Prep sessions are strictly supervised and staff are there to ensure that help is available. Students need only ask and help will be provided. Primary, Years 8 and 9 Boys and Girls These times may vary at the discretion of staff. Year 10 Years 11 and 12 6.00pm - 7.30pm 6.30pm - 8.00pm 7.00pm - 9.00pm

PROTECTION OF POSSESSIONS
All possessions and items of clothing brought into the Boarding House should be clearly named. All boarders have a lockable cupboard for their possessions and valuables. Valuables and money must be lodged with House staff for safe-keeping. Parents should ensure that their insurance covers items that are kept in the Boarding Houses.

QUARTERLY CAPRICORNUS
Once a term the School produces a magazine covering the major events of that term and highlights up and coming events. This document is sent to all boarding parents automatically at the end of each term. If you fail to receive it, please contact us.

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RAIL WARRANTS
Queensland Rail allows free travel for those boarders who are traveling to and from home to the School. Namely the nearest boarding school or in our case the nearest co-educational boarding school. The Directors of Boarding will organise these applications and their postage to Brisbane for approval. Please contact the Director of Boarding if you wish to have an application lodged. Please speak with the Heads of House if you have any questions regarding this matter. Bookings for rail travel can be made by advising the Head of House no less than 48 hours prior to the date of travel.

RELATIONSHIPS
A co-educational school is clearly the most natural of educational environments. However, there is a need to conduct relationships that may develop, in a mature and responsible manner. It is the Schools policy that relationships will not be conducted on the School premises. Holding hands etc. is not viewed as acceptable conduct. Further, students will at all times remain in the areas designated when in each others company. All other areas are deemed out of bounds.

SECURITY PROCEDURES
Students must be signed out by a staff member before or after School and during weekends when they leave the House. All Houses will be locked by 9.30pm each evening. A morning register will be taken on wake up each day and a night register taken as the last duty each night. A security company regularly patrols the grounds at night during term time. All dormitories are locked by 10.00pm each evening. All girls dormitories and Year 7 to 10 boys dormitories are alarmed no later than 10.00pm.

SENIORS
As with all things, the older one becomes, the more privileges one earns. These privileges are constantly reviewed. The Headmaster via the Directors of Boarding reserves the right at all times to adjust the implementation of special senior boarder privileges. These are earned by way of mature behaviour and demonstrated responsibility and leadership.

SETTLING-IN PERIOD
When children first come in to boarding they naturally experience some homesickness. Experience has taught us that when a settling-in period is applied, there are fewer traumas for both parents and child. This settling in period can vary from child to child and parent to parent. Positive communication is the key element in reducing the extent and duration of homesickness. Please notify the Head of House immediately if you feel all is not right with your child.

SHOWERS
Boarders are expected to shower once each day. When they have been physically active, a subsequent shower is required as part of their education in personal hygiene.

SLEEP
This is a most important aspect of the childs health, growth and well-being. Those who choose to disrupt the sleep patterns of others by refusing to observe bed times and disrupt others by interrupting their sleep clearly demonstrate that they are not yet ready to live in a communal environment. This behaviour is considered a very serious offence. At first counseling will be our response but more serious sanctions would follow if it continued.

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Lights out times are: Primary and Years 8 and 9 Years 9 and 10 Year 11 Year 12 8.30pm 9.00pm 9.30pm - 10.00pm 10:00pm - 10.30pm At the discretion of staff on duty and depending upon each boarders academic work load. In senior boarding no visitors are allowed into rooms after 10:30pm. Music after this time is via headphones only .

SLEEPING BAGS
These will be needed for School camps.

SMOKING POLICY/DRUGS POLICY

The School is a smoke free zone and this applies to all visitors, staff and parents. As a consequence, all boarders caught smoking, or in the company of others smoking, will be sanctioned in the same manner. NOTE: Smoking in a Boarding House is also viewed as an extremely serious breach of Health and Safety regulations. In the case of substance abuse the School has a zero tolerance policy for drugs used or brought on campus.

AUDIO EQUIPMENT
When boarders bring valuable audio equipment and computers into the dormitories they invite security problems. The Boarding House takes no responsibility and ask that noise levels are set with regard to consideration for others. Please check your insurance cover on all valuables especially in the case of very expensive items like jewellery and computers (lap tops). Please keep a record of all serial numbers of these items.

STORAGE
Space of this nature is scarce in most Houses. Consequently parents are advised to send only those items needed. (Your child is not leaving home but rather going to live at School for eight to ten weeks at a time.) During holiday periods items can be stored in the Schools Health Centre. This opportunity is only extended to overseas students and those having to travel very long distances by public transport. Once again, the School accepts no responsibility for the items stored even though every precaution will be taken.

SUN SAFETY
The School views this aspect of life very seriously, particularly in our geographical area. All boarders must have sun protection when in areas where sun exposure is harsh and prolonged. Boarders should wear hats and apply sun lotions at all times to protect them and be aware that this issue is a personal health responsibility, for which they should accept ownership.

SUPPER
Supper is available in the Houses each weekday evening. Students are able to have bread and spreads, fruit and Milo and other food as arranged by Heads of House.

SWIMMING POOL
Boarders should not enter the pool area unless an adult supervisor is present. While in the area, boarders should comply with the regulations regarding behaviour that are clearly displayed on the front gate and around the pool. During Terms One and Four the pool is opened by House staff on the conclusion of prep depending on demand. It needs to be remembered that pools can be very dangerous places and we all have a responsibility to be aware of each other and to act in a sensible and considerate manner. On weekends the pool is open at the discretion of House staff.
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TAXI/OTHER TRANSPORT
On duty staff will arrange taxis via the Health Centre for those boarders who need to go to medical appointments etc. Daily transportation to and from the campus for School sporting, shopping and weekend leave is provided by way of the Schools own buses. Boarders need to book travel via the bus driver and do so at least 24 hours prior to travel. NOTE: Where arrangements have been made with the Schools bus service and the bus does not arrive at the designated time, boarders are to wait 15 minutes and then call their Housemaster/ Housemistress. Under no circumstances are they to walk (alone or in groups) to the School. Helpful Hint : encourage your child to list the relevant phone numbers (Head of House) in their mobile phone (if they have one) and call if they are in trouble. Please understand that the bus service is not a taxi type service. It can from time to time be delayed.

TELEPHONE CONTACT
Parents and friends are asked to telephone between the following times: 7.00am to 8.30am Weekdays Weekends Please do not call during the designated prep hours of 3.00pm to 8.30pm (excluding prep hours) 8.00am to 8.30pm (excluding prep hours). 6.00pm 7.30pm (juniors) 7.00pm - 9.00pm (seniors) Heads of House are accessible at all times via mobile telephones but please be conscious of their need for private time e.g. dinner hours. Between the hours of 10.00pm and 7.00am, telephone access is limited to emergency cases only. Messages will be taken and given to students. Students will then return the call if requested. Where the House phone is unattended, please leave a message on the answering machine. We strongly recommend the purchase of a mobile phone which is carried by the student during off -campus activities. A pre- paid inexpensive model/plan is the way we would suggest. Email is the preferred way of communication. Fax messages are effective where parents have this facility

TELEVISION
We have television sets and DVD players in the common rooms of each dormitory. Watching hours are set with weekends being more flexible. All DVDs are first checked by the mistress/master on duty, to ensure they are appropriate for the viewers age.

THEFT
Unfortunately this occurs periodically. Where boarders do not take advantage of the security measures we offer and bring valuable items to the campus, we take no responsibility for security. We ask that parents and guardians be supportive in these matters and check with their insurer to get the most appropriate cover for the dormitory their child is in. Where a child is found responsible for theft, this is handled on an individual basis. Where counseling has been given and the offence repeated, the students future at the School comes under serious review.

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
The School has an official Leave Application Form, a copy of which is attached to this document. We ask parents to note that travel will not be arranged without this written parent/guardian authority. All rail travel is booked in the first instance through your childs Head of House or designated staff member who will collate the requests and send them through to our transport person. All bookings for
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weekend rail travel must be submitted no later than the Thursday morning before School prior to the weekend of travel. Students must preferably return by 8.00pm after weekend leave, mid Term and Term holidays (when traveling by private car). Bus bookings are the responsibility of the parent. However, where bookings for the charter bus service are being sought for the beginning and end of Terms, these bookings must be made through the School by the parent, getting in contact with the Housemistress/master at least one week prior to the date of travel.

TUTORING
Given that the majority of our Boarding staff are teachers or people involved in post secondary study, we are in a position to provide tutoring assistance on both an ad hoc and arranged basis. If your child needs such assistance, please contact your Head of House. The School via various departments also runs after School assistance in Mathematics and English on a structured basis. Further there is a tutoring service (for cost) available which is located close to the School.

UNIFORM
A list of requirements is available on the website on the Home Page under the heading Red & Black Shop. The uniform should be worn with pride and therefore should be clean, tidy and complete at all times. Red & Black Shop Second hand uniforms are available from the Red & Black Shop. Appointments should be made to meet the Manager. The telephone number is (07) 4936 0653. Families only receive proceeds from the sale of second hand items after a sale has been affected. Items must be named if proceeds are to go to parents. Further details may be obtained from the Shop Manager. Repairs to Uniforms Parents are asked to attend to repairs but where remoteness prevents this, the laundry can do them. A charge will apply.

VALUABLES
If your child wishes to bring a camera to the Boarding House, we recommend that it be engraved for identification purposes. The same advice applies to computers and MP3 players. Parents are advised to keep a record of the ID numbers of such items. Students are encouraged to seek consent of those being photographed.

VISITORS
Boarders may receive visitors during the following times: Weekdays Weekends 3.30pm to 5.00pm Open hours

Parents may visit at any time but so as not to disrupt schooling we ask that on weekdays the hours of 3.30pm to 5.30pm are utilised. If the student has no School commitment the visit is open subject to a courtesy call to the Head of House. If dinner leave is granted, that return leave time is negotiated with the Head of House. Parents who visit the School during meal times are welcome to eat with their child in our dining room. Any boarder receiving visitors is to ensure that the visitors report to the House Staff for introduction. All visitors, including parents, are asked to use the front entrance. No visitors are to go into dormitories without permission from the House Staff. Day students visiting the campus must sign in to the House they are visiting and report to the staff on duty. No day student is permitted in the dormitories without a visitor pass.

WEEKLY BOARDING
Weekly boarders go home each weekend, leaving and returning at fixed times and with fixed arrangements regarding means of transport and escort provisions. Where parents wish to vary these fixed arrangements for a particular weekend, they must notify in writing the Registrar.

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These are guidelines for our Boarding community. They will be updated at least annually and/or as the need arises. Director of Girls Boarding: Mrs Dorothy Skilling Director of Boys Boarding: Mr Stewart Norford

Updated November, 2011

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