Learners Code of Conduct

Important

This document outlines general learner expectations of behavior in order to foster a positive, constructive, and safe learning environment at Gems Field Private School. It should be noted that the learner’s self control of their behaviour constitutes an important segment of overall education and thus Gems Field Private School considers the code of conduct as a necessary skill for learners to attain for the benefit of their future integration into society.”

List of offences:

1. Schedule 1 – Minor classroom infractions including, but not limited, to the following:

1. Eating, drinking, and chewing in class.
2. Using profane, vulgar language or obscene gestures.
3. Violating the dress code or grooming policy of the school.
4. Failing to comply with lawful directives issued by school personnel or school policies.
5. Arriving late for class.
6. Bringing cell phones or other distractions into class or to school.
7. Talking excessively in class or during assemblies.
8. Bringing the name of the school into disrepute.

• Schedule 2 – More serious offences

1. Repeated violation of Schedule 1 offences.
2. NB – REFUSAL to and or NOT completing assignments and or not copying class work as directed by the teacher.
3. Refusal to participate in classroom activities.
4. Failure to bring appropriate material to the classroom.
5. Homework not completed.
6. Cheating or copying other learner’s work in class.
7. Not cooperative in and disrupting classes.
8. Abusive, aggressive, or disrespectful behaviour to teacher or other learners.
9. Forgery (copying a teacher or parent’s signature, for example).
10. Recklessness on school grounds which may endanger other learners or lead to property damage.
11. Possession of tobacco products, alcohol, or prohibited substances.
12. Fighting, assault, theft, vandalism, or sexual abuse.
13. Possession of pornography or any other such sexually explicit or inappropriate material.
14. Committing a violation of the law of the Country.

Consequences of Schedule 1 violations:

Under normal circumstances, schedule 1 offences are dealt with in the classroom by the subject teacher which, if not leading to a schedule 2 offence, should mark the end of the matter. The parents will be notified during routine parent-teacher visits so that any problems may be improved upon.

Consequences of Schedule 2 offences:

Considering the gravity of schedule 2 offences;

• The parent is immediately notified and the learner is retracted from the classroom at the point of such a violation.
• In the interest of prompt resolution, and least amount of time lost and learning lost for the learner, the parent and school disciplinary committee are required to discuss the offence(s) and appropriate action will then be decided upon (max 3days).

It must be realized by all, that any learner behaviour which can potentially lead to the compromise of safety of other learners or staff is of primary concern and will justify the immediate expulsion of the offending learner from the school property. Furthermore, offences which entail a violation of state law will entail the involvement of law enforcement officials.

The parent/guardian of a learner engaged in a schedule 2 property offense shall be held liable for the repair or replacement of any property damage or theft.”