Information for Parents and Students

 

MISSION STATEMENT

To facilitate GROWTH, we are committed to provide a rich learning environment where students become devoted to Christ, to the wellbeing of others and the development of personal excellence; being planted in the framework of the Adventist belief system and nurtured in a caring Christian environment.

 

THE LOGO: Meaning

The symbol of the flame, cross and open Bible is a registered trademark of the Seventh-day Adventist Church internationally. The logo encompasses the essence of the School’s Special Character which is at the heart of holistic growth.

 

 

The Flame The overall shape forms a flame symbolic of the Holy Spirit who empowers holistic GROWTH in the individual. The Cross The symbol of the cross, represents the death and resurrection of Jesus whose sacrifice makes eternal GROWTH possible.     The Open Bible  The Bible forms the base of the design and represents the Biblical foundation of our school.     The Byline  “Where Christian values count” is the summary of everything encompassed by the School and has been adopted locally by the Tauranga Adventist School.

VISION STATEMENT

As an Adventist School, we delight in working with God for the salvation of His children. Everyone is committed to nurturing the holistic GROWTH of our students. Within the context of the School’s mission statement, we therefore want our students to encompass the following:

 

GODLINESS: Becoming Connected with God and choosing His way as their way

It is our vision for students to:                 

• Develop a connection with the Father and be converted to Christ
• Be literate in the Word of God and to live by Biblical principles
• Know the relevancy of Seventh-day Adventist Bible teachings
• Have confidence in recognising their own identity as children of God
• Develop Christian values such as honesty and faithfulness
• To share God’s love with others in meaningful ways

RICH RELATIONSHIPS: Honouring others above themselves and connecting with others because they are precious to God

It is our vision for students to: 

• Relate well to others in a Christ like manner in all situations showing evidence of good manners, respect and compassion at all times.
• Be effective users of communication tools
• Be service-minded
• Being generous in time and means and being a blessing to God and others
• Demonstrate social wisdom and being a team player

OWNERSHIP OF LEARNING: Giving of their personal best to develop their God-given talents in pursuit of excellence

It is our vision for students to:

• Pursue achievement of personal excellence in all key learning areas with a specific emphasis on literacy and numeracy
• Be active seekers, users, and creators of knowledge
• Develop  critical thinking skills
• Be self motivated and self managing
• Be confident and wise users of technology
• Develop individual talents in Music
• Develop leadership skills

 

WISDOM IN DECISION MAKING: Choosing discernment and displaying a positive attitude

It is our vision for students to:

• Develop a Biblical World view
• Be Resourceful
• Demonstrate resilience to the pressures and temptations of a secular world
• Be courageous in standing true for God

• Be informed decision makers guided by Biblical principles concerning personal health and well-being and applying to life-style decision-making

 

TRANSFORMATIONAL LEARNING: Nurturing personal transformation and becoming agents of blessing and change in the community

It is our vision for students to:

• Be connected to the land and environment with the realisation that we are God’s stewards to care for that which He has entrusted to us.
• Be members of communities with a sense that God wants us to treat others as we would want others to treat us.
• Be international citizens and an awareness that all are one in Christ regardless of colour race or creed..
• Be active seekers, users, and creators of knowledge
• Be contributors to the well being of NZ; socially, culturally economic ally and environmentally
• To develop essential life skills
• To being critical and creative thinkers
• To be equipped with tools for further learning

HARVEST FOCUS: Pursuing goals that matter with intention and purpose

It is our vision for students to:

• Show perseverance in completing tasks
• Set goals and remain focussed to achieve success
• Develop their personal best through reflection
• Be motivated and Reliable as God’s children

• Participate in a range of life contexts with the realisation that whatever is done is for the glory of God, to the well being of others and for developing of one’s own potential.

 

 

 

SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

 

 

SCHOOL ADDRESS:

Tauranga Adventist School

19 Moffat Road, Bethlehem.

Postal: PO Box 16052,

Bethlehem,Tauranga. 3147

NEW ZEALAND

 

SCHOOL PHONE: 07 579 2505

FAX: 07 579 2522

 

General school email: tauranga.sda@xtra.co.nz

Web Site: www.taurangasda.school.nz

 

Staff email Addresses:

Principal tgasda.principal@xtra.co.nz

Mrs Marie Hastings; tgasda.marie@xtra.co.nz

Mrs Trudi DelMastro: tgasda.trudi@xtra.co.nz

Miss Angela Berndt: tgasda.angela@xtra.co.nz

Mrs Sarah Watts: tgasda.sarah@xtra.co.nz

Miss Emma Weslake: tgasda.emma@xtra.co.nz

Mrs Lynley Bishop: tgasda.lynley@xtra.co.nz

Mrs Rosene Burrows: tgasda.rosene@xtra.co.nz

 

ATTENDANCE

The New Zealand Government requires all children from the ages of 6 through to 15 to attend school regularly.  Because the School's Attendance Registers are legal documents, the school requires a written excuse for every absence.  This written excuse should be presented to the classroom teacher on the first day back at school. 

 

To ensure the safety of our children, care-givers are requested to phone the school before 9:00 am on any day that their child will be absent from school. When parents know in advance of an absence, it would be appreciated if this could be communicated to the School before the child is removed.  The Office Administrator will attempt to contact any parent who has not given prior notification stating that their child will be absent from school on that particular day. The School will take all reasonable steps to trace any unaccounted for pupil to ensure their safety and well-being. Students who are late for class are required to check in at the office before going to class so the status of their attendance can be noted.

 

As far as possible, pupils are requested not to arrive at school before 8:30 a.m. and not be in the school grounds after 3:15 p.m. without special permission. To ensure a successful scholastic programme, students are expected to arrive at school in time to be ready to start classes at 8:45 a.m.  Should a child be late for whatever reason, he/she will be expected to firstly notify the Office and give an explanation to the teacher concerning the late arrival.

 

By law, all children are under the control of the school from the time they leave home in the morning until they arrive home in the afternoon unless collected by their parents or their representative at the school.

               

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

The School is administered by a duly elected Board of Trustees and its composition and operation is in accordance to the Ministry of Education requirements and guidelines. “Staggered” elections are held every eighteen months and those appointed serve a three year term from the time of the election. The Board composition is as follows:

 

4 parent representatives (Elected by the School family)

3 Proprietor representatives (Appointed by the Proprietor in consultation with the local SDA Church)

Principal (Ex Officio)

Staff representative (Elected by staff)

 

Parents are strongly encouraged to consider allowing their names to be nominated as parent representatives at election time. Parents are also encouraged to approach one of their parent representatives to have any matter brought to the board for discussion.

 

BULLYING

The School’s Code of Conduct clearly specifies there is to be Christian respect for one another at all times. As such, the School has a zero tolerance towards bullying and staff will take appropriate action , as specified in the School’s Discipline Policy, should any such behaviours be observed in the School.  Bullying is defined as the process of repeatedly intimidating or mistreating somebody weaker or in a more vulnerable situation. This can be directed at particular students because of characteristics that set them apart in some way and may include physical, verbal or non verbal, (such as gestures or manipulation to exclude or isolate a person). An integral aspect of the interacion between bullies and the victims is the inability of the victim to defend himself or herself.

 

CHAPLAIN

A School Chaplain is always available to attend to the needs of students and / or their families.  (Please consult the current directory.)  The school chaplain is involved with the worship programme of the School and is available to council students or parents as necessary.

 

CLASS PROMOTION

In general, children will be promoted to the next class each year based on age rather than ability.  Children who commence at age 5 whose birthdays fall between January 1 and June 30 will be considered Year 1 on entry and will progress each year by one grade through the school accordingly. Children who commence at age 5 whose birthdays fall between July 1 and December 31 will be considered Year 0 on entry and will be considered Year 1 the following year, and then will progress a grade per year through the school accordingly.

 

COLD / WET WEATHER

During wet and / or extremely cold days, children will be permitted to enter the classrooms before school and at the recess and lunch breaks.

 

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES

Stage 1: Informal (Involving a student or classroom situation)

• Parents discuss concerns with the class teacher. If the teacher is unable to deal immediately with the matter, a clear note is made, including complainant’s name, phone number and date, and the parent is contacted as soon as the matter has been investigated. The teacher may also consult the principal at this stage.
• The teacher ensures that the parent is clear what action or monitoring of the situation has been agreed.
• If no satisfactory solution has been found, parents are asked if they wish their concern to be considered further.

 

Stage 2: Referral to the Principal

• The Principal acknowledges the complaint, orally or in writing, within 3 working days
• A meeting is arranged with the complainant to clarify and supplement any information given.
• The Principal investigates further, interviewing witnesses as appropriate. If the complaint centres on a pupil, the pupil would normally be interviewed with a parent present or, if this is not possible, with a member of staff who is not directly involved.
• The Principal keeps written records of meetings, telephone conversations and other documentation.
• Once all relevant facts have been established, the Principal responds. If the complaint was in writing, a written response will be sent.
• If the complainant is not satisfied, they are advised to write to the Board of Trustees

• If the complaint is against the Principal, the Stage 2 procedures are carried out by the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

 

Please note: At all times, the principal can be the first point of contact concerning a complaint or concern where a parent considers it not appropriate to talk in the first instance to the staff member concerned.

 

A full transcript of the School’s Complaints Policy can be obtained from the Office.

 

COMPUTERS / ICT

Information and communication technology (ICT) is now a basic tool within most work environments and is becoming commonplace in the home. As such, this school provides opportunities for all students to use learning technologies as an integral part of the school’s learning environment linking these technologies to school curricula and learning outcomes. Computers are available in each classroom as well as the computer suite.  To ensure the smooth and safe operation of the computer suite by students, each student is required to read and sign a Computer / Cybersafe Use Agreement outlining the regulations and conditions under which computers and communication technologies may be used while at school or in any way which affects the safety of the school learning environment. This agreement must also be signed by a parent / caregiver. The School provides educational material on cybersafety to students and parents / caregivers. As well, additional safety education will be delivered, where relevant, through teaching programmes. The School provides an electronic security system which is able to monitor student internet usage. Parents / Caregivers are required to become familiar with the school’s cybersafety rules and to assist in the instruction of these rules to their children.

 

COURTESY & DEPORTMENT

As Christian values are considered paramount in this school, students are expected to conduct themselves in a courteous and Christian-like manner at all times in accordance with the School Code of Conduct. This should be reflected in student attitudes towards God, other students, teachers and visitors to the School.

 

CURRICULUM

This school acknowledges that the New Zealand National Curriculum is the official policy for teaching, learning and assessment and it is through this curriculum, the School’s Special Character is integrated and delivered to students. The philosophy and objectives of this school are reflected at all levels of the curriculum. In addition to the national requirements, a core curriculum subject is Bible which specifically aims to acquaint students with God Himself in a personal and meaningful way. The broad areas of study include Bible, English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Health and Physical Education, Art and Music, and Technology. Currently, the School’s curriculum is being reviewed in keeping with government requirements and the newly adopted School’s vision statement. Underlying all of the above, the School recognizes the importance of the development and nurture of students forming positive Christian attitudes and values.

 

DAMAGES

It is the School’s policy to charge parents / caregivers for any damage caused by their child if it is considered by the school that such damage was the result of a deliberate action on the part of the child, or careless disregard to school rules which  contributed to the damage occurring.

 

DENTAL TREATMENT

Children who attend our school are eligible to free dental care service provided by the New Zealand Government. The children of parents who accept this service, receive their treatment at the mobile clinic which visits our school on a regular basis. If at any time you wish to discuss a dental problem with the school dental nurse, please feel free to make a direct contact. (Mobile 021 242 6668)

 

DISCIPLINE

Students need to learn the important lesson of obedience, the object of which is self-government. As students render obedience to parents and teachers, so they, in turn are encouraged to render obedience to society’s laws and to God. The disciplinary system used in this school is intended that students and staff are provided with a safe, ordered, secure and caring environment within a Christian context, which is conducive to working and learning. Disciplinary methods therefore are designed to encourage positive behaviour and penalise negative behaviour. Such methods include:

 

Praising and affirming students orally as noticed by teachers both in and out of the classroom.

Issuing special awards in the areas of academic performance, courtesy and deportment, sportsmanship and community service.

Students being encouraged and challenged through school devotionals and Christian songs to think and act in a Christ-like way. Students are also encouraged to pray for help in this area.

 

Individual teachers operate their own reward systems in their own classrooms.

 

 

ENROLMENTS

Preference for enrolment will be granted to: (As a general guide to determine order of priority)

• Children belonging to Seventh-day Adventist families. (Deemed “Preference with a particular connection”)
• Those prospective students who already have one or more siblings enrolled in the school.
• Students transferring from other Adventist Schools.
• Children from the wider community who are deemed “Preference with a General connection”
• “Non preference” applicants.

The School is permitted a maximum of 100 students under its Charter Agreement with the Ministry of Education which includes a maximum of 8 “Non Preference” students.

FEES

1. Attendance Dues

The School’s Proprietors charge Attendance Dues. The levels that are set have Ministry of Education approval and payment of these are a condition of enrolment. These fees are  charged out by the Proprietors and these fees should be paid directly to them.  (National Office:  Adventist Schools New Zealand, Private Bag 76 900, Manukau City, 1730, New Zealand)

Please Note: Attendance Dues are required to be paid in full (or satisfactory arrangements are made), before a child commences a new term. This is a condition of enrolment.

 

2. Special Character Contribution

A Special character contribution is considered a “necessary donation” which is also forwarded to our National Office. The Special character contribution is considered a tax-deductible donation by the tax department. This contribution helps the proprietor to fund the special character aspect of our school system nationally. Again, this is paid directly to the proprietors. (National Office)

 

3. Activity Fees

These fees are used directly by the school and go towards funding student activities. E.g.; excursions, camps etc.

 

4. Bus Charges

All students pay a bus usage fee which covers most trips and outings during the term.

 

5. School Development Contribution

A contribution to assist in the on-goiing development of the School’s facilities.

 

Important:

The Special Character contribution, Activity Fees and the School Development Contribution are each considered ‘required donations’ and will show as chargeable items on school invoices. Parents are strongly encouraged to contribute these amounts as the School’s Proprietors  and local Board of Trustees rely on this income to fund non government funded services and programmes which directly or indirectly benefits all students in our school.

 

(Please see Appendix 3 for current charges.)

 

LUNCHES / MORNING TEAS

Parents are encouraged to provide healthful lunches for their children.  Each child is to eat his / her own lunch and is expected to eat all of it under normal circumstances.  Children will be expected to remain seated in the lunch eating areas until their lunches are eaten. All are given 15 minutes minimum before any may leave for play. Children are not permitted to purchase lunches from the shops at any time during school time.

Parents / Caregivers are strongly encouraged to provide nourishing breakfasts for their children to maximise their learning whilst at school. To encourage healthy eating habits, children are not to eat cakes, sweets or junk foods for morning tea. Acceptable foods include fruit, Yoghurt, Muesli bars, sandwiches.

 

MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

From time to time school staff may be required to administer medication to children.  The school should only be requested to administer medication during normal school hours when it is either not possible or impractical for a parent or caregiver to do so. Further, to protect the health and safety of all students, certain procedures need to be followed when any child is requiring medication.

The School must be informed if any child is requiring medication whilst at School.

The first dose of any medication must not be given at school.

All requests for staff to administer any medication should be on the appropriate parent request form and  addressed to the principal. All medications will be kept in a locked place at the school office.

The exact dose of medication must be provided by the parent/caregiver to the school.

The delegated person/s will administer the medication as requested by the parent/caregiver.

Before medication is administered the school will require written confirmation by the parent/caregiver.

Staff will respect any confidentiality issues concerning children requiring medication.

 

NOT PERMITTED AT SCHOOL

Walkmans, MP3 players, fireworks, cell phones, dangerous objects, electronic games, and items which do not reflect the special character of the School.

 

HAIR CARE / HEADLICE

Unfortunately one of the aspects of school life is that on occasions, children's hair can become infested with head lice.

The following guidelines are given to parents in order to reduce the risks of infestation and to deal with the problem should an outbreak occur.

 

• Girls’ long hair should be plaited or tied back or put into a bun so that hair is not touching the collar.
• Boys’ hair should be kept short and tidy.
• Trend setting styles (tints or cuts) are not permitted.
• Brushes, combs and hair accessories should not be shared with other children. This includes hats.
• If the School discovers that a child has live lice or nits, parents / guardians will be contacted and the child is to be removed from the school until the appropriate treatment has been given. (Usually up to three shampoos)
• Parents / caregivers are advised to check all other family members and to treat clothing, bedding, towels etc

.

The School can provide additional advice and help as necessary. Parents are requested to check their children's hair regularly. If treatment should be needed, please go to a chemist where the appropriate treatment can be obtained. Parents who discover that their children have infestations, are requested to contact the school office as soon as possible so an alert can be given to all parents.

 

HOMEWORK

As we want each pupil to strive towards academic excellence, homework will be assigned to children on a regular basis; the amount of which is indicated below. Usually homework will take the form of revision in Spelling, Reading, or Number facts that have been covered during the day, and for older children, some research work or application of principles taught during the day may be given.

The following is to serve as a guide to the amount of daily homework that your child / children could expect:

 

New-entrants to Year 3	15 minutes daily
Year 4 to Year 6	30 minutes daily
Year 7 to 8	45 minutes daily.

                                               

 

JEWELLERY & ADORNMENT

Students are not permitted to wear make-up or jewellery at school. This includes earrings, decorative studs, rings and necklaces.  Girls who have pierced ears may wear “Keepers” or plain miniature studs. 

 

LEAVING GROUNDS

Children are to remain within the confines of the school grounds at all times until it is time to return home.  For any other special departure, written parental permission must be given to the principal by the pupil, or be personally contacted by the parent or guardian.

 

LIBRARY

The library is a very important part of the school study program.  Whole classes use the library on a regular basis for reading, studying and exchange of books.  Books may be borrowed for one week and must be returned for renewal or return. Children may borrow two books at the one time.

No books can be taken from the library by a child without it being first checked out under his / her name.  Reference books are not permitted to be issued. Any book damaged or lost will be charged for.

 

ITINERANT TUTORS

The School offers students the opportunity to learn keyboard / piano, guitar, flute, speech / Drama through private tutors who operate from our school during regular class time.  Please enquire at the office should you wish to know more about privately funded lessons.

 

NEWSLETTERS

Newsletters and / or notes are given to the eldest child in the family attending the school to take home.  The Principal’s newsletter is issued each month and usually issued on a Thursday. We do accept a limited number of notices from the wider school community when space permits. Newsletters can be emailed to addresses in a PDF format if requested. The Principal’s newsletter is also posted (and archived) on the School website. Additionally, interim general or specific newsletters / notices  are issued on an “as needed basis” during each term in addition to the Principal’s newsletter.

 

OFFICE

The School Office is administered by paid staff from 8:30 am to 1:15 pm each school day.  A Volunteer roster operates outside these hours until home time each day.

 

PARKING

In the interests of child safety and to aid traffic flow, parents are requested not to park in the “Drop Off” zone at the front of the school. This area (marked by the yellow lines) is solely for dropping off and picking up of students. Please use the car park for actual parking.

 

PHOTOCOPY SERVICE

The school photocopier is available for private copying at very competitive rates. For the current copy rates, please check at the office.

 

REPORTS AND INTERVIEWS

Parent / teacher interviews are held formally twice each year.  The first interviews are held near the end of Term One where pupils are encouraged to attend with their parents / caregivers. This gives an opportunity for collaborative goal setting to occur. The second interviews with parents / caregivers are scheduled near the commencement of Term Three. Interim reports are issued at this time where feedback is given against the National Standards in Numeracy and Literacy. A final report is issued in December where in addition to assessments against National Standards in Numeracy and Literacy, all other curricular areas are reported on.  As part of the School’s reporting schedule, student portfolios give parents / caregivers actual evidence of student progress. Portfolios should always be read in conjunction with written student reports.

 

SAFE KEEPING OF PERSONAL ITEMS

Students are discouraged from bringing to school money and personal valuables. If such items are brought out of necessity to school, students are advised to give these to their teacher as soon as possible in the morning for safe keeping during the day. The school cannot be held responsible for damage or loss to such valuables.

 

SCHOOL BAGS

Because bags are personal property, no student is permitted to interfere with any other person's school bag or personal property in any way.  At school, bags are to be kept in the designated cloak bays.

 

SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICE

The school health nurse visits the school on a regular basis. The nurse is available to assist with any child who is experiencing physical, mental, or emotional problems. Any parent wishing to make contact with the health nurse, please contact the school.

 

 

SMOKE-FREE POLICY

Parents and visitors to the school are advised that this school has a smoke-free policy and as such, there will be no smoking by any person on the school grounds or at any school activity off site.

 

STATIONERY

Stationery lists are distributed to parents before the end of the school year and parents are required to make their own arrangements to purchase the listed items. It is essential that children have their required stationery items for the first day of the school year. Limited stocks of stationery will be available from the school office through the year on a cash sale basis. The School’s web site also has a copy of the stationery requirements.

 

SUN SMART POLICY

Our School is officially designated a “Sunsmart School” and takes sun safety seriously. As part of our sun smart policy, children are required to wear school regulation sun hats during the summer months. (Terms One and Four) Children who do not wear their hats will be required to play in the shade during play times. In the summer months, teachers endeavour to reschedule outdoor activities to morning sessions where possible to avoid children being exposed to the strong sun.

 

SCHOOL HOURS

8:40 am	1st bell. Children permitted to enter classrooms.
8:45 am	2nd bell. All children to be in classrooms ready for the teacher. Classes begin.
10:40 - 11:00	Recess
12:30 - 1:15 pm	Lunch/play
1:15 pm	Assembly (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
2:40 pm	Duty Bell
2:45	End of school

 

SICKNESS & ACCIDENT

It is recognized that minor injuries and sickness occur from time to time with children, and these will be treated in the school's sick bay as appropriate.  It is the school’s policy that in n the event of a serious accident, parents will be contacted as soon as possible.  Depending on the seriousness of the accident, the pupil may be taken directly to a medical facility and parents notified.  Naturally all medical expenses are the responsibility of the parent.  If on occasion a child becomes too sick to remain in class or travel home by bus, parents will be contacted and requested to arrange to have their child collected. 

 

SWIMMING

Children will receive a block of swimming instruction each year. All year One and Two students receive a full term of professionally tutored lessons at the CCS Pool during Term One each year. All other classes have a block of swimming in the last term of each year at the Greerton public pools. Swimming costs are included in the Activity Fees charged to parents each term.

 

TECHNOLOGY: Year 7 - 8 PUPILS

Y7 and 8 pupils receive technology instruction at the Tauranga Technology Centre located at the Tauranga Primary School.  Children receive free transport to and from the centre. A Technology fee is added to the Activity Fees for Year 7 and 8 for this purpose.

 

TELEPHONE / CELL PHONES

The telephone is not to be used for general student use. Pupils will only be given permission to dial out from the school in extreme situations.  Cell phones are not permitted at school without a special exemption being granted by the principal.

 

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks loaned to students should be returned in good condition.  Where there is unnecessary damage to books, or books are mislaid and / or lost, it will be necessary to make a charge to the parents of that child to recover the cost of the book.

 

TRANSPORT

The School recognizes the necessity of providing a bus service to and from the school for children living on the city side of the School. The Ministry of Education provides a Conveyance Allowance to eligible students based on distance from the school combined with the age of the student. Additionally, as all students use the bus in the course of the year in relation to trips and outings, a charge will be made to cover this expense. This policy is designed to ensure a fair and equable method of charges being levied to parents / Caregivers and to ensure sufficient income is generated to cover operational and depreciation costs for operating the school bus.

 

Casual Bus Users: Any student may use the bus service on any day providing:

Sufficient room is available,

Pick up or drop off is within the existing routes.

The School has been advised by a parent or Caregiver.

A casual bus user is any child who uses the bus on an irregular basis.

All casual users of the bus must have a pre-purchased travel pass available at the school office. This must be produced at time of boarding each time a child either travels to school or travels back home.

The School and / Driver must be notified by the parent or caregiver should a child require casual trip or trips.

 

Regular Bus User

This is any student who uses the school bus on a regular basis to get to or from school, with or without Ministry Subsidy. This is charged to your fee account each term.

 

All students

All students will contribute a fee to cover incidental bus use through the term for school and class-related activities.

 

Other Claims for the Conveyance Allowance

Parents whose children qualify for the Conveyance Allowance but choose to find alternative methods to get children to or from school may select to do so. It would however be expected that if our school bus services your area, any Conveyance Allowance will be directed to the School and the pupil uses our bus service accordingly. All Conveyance Allowance Applications are required to be signed by the principal before being submitted to the Ministry for consideration.

 

TRIPS & EXCURSIONS

The School recognizes the value of education beyond the classroom and the School itself and as such, a number of class or school-wide activities will occur throughout the year. No child will be permitted to attend any trip or excursion unless specific parent / caregiver permission has been granted. This will be in the form of a permission consent form signed by a parent or caregiver. One permission form may cover several related trips, for example swimming, where one form may cover all swimming trips for the season.  Notification of all such trips and excursions will be sent out to parents / caregivers by the School in advance of any such activity occurring.

  

UNIFORM

Children are encouraged to be neat and tidy in their personal appearances. The wearing of a school uniform is to assist students identify with the goals and aspirations of the school. It also serves as a witness of identity to others in the community. The wearing of the school uniform is therefore compulsory.

 

Girls’ Uniform: (Summer)
DRESS	Regulation material and pattern available at School. Alternatively, dress may be purchased made up; available through the school.
FOOTWEAR	Blue Roman sandals (Optional - shoes & socks as for Winter)
PULLOVER	Royal blue "V" necked pullover or Royal Blue cardigan "V" necked, buttoned with Royal Blue buttons. (Regulation sweatshirts may be worn as an alternative)
HAIR TIDIES	Navy
JACKET	Flash Track Top (Branded) Dual purpose Sport and regular uniform. (Available through Logotech web site)
HAT	Regulation sun hat, wide brimmed, navy. (Branded) Available through the School Office.
SPORTS	BIZCOOL Strike Polo shirt, white with School branding; BIZCOOL Shorts with School branding, Flash Track Bottoms (optional) (Available through Logotech web site)
Girls’ Uniform: (Winter)
TUNIC (Years 1 to 6)	Blue tartan, Pattern "New Look" C2045. Material, patterns available through the School.
SKIRT (Years 7 &8)	Blue Tartan
BLOUSE	White long sleeved
SHOES	Polished black lace-up.
SOCKS	ankle length - plain white (optional: Leggalong, Winter weight rib, colour navy)
PULLOVER	(as for Summer)
JACKET	(as for Summer)
SPORTS	(as for Summer)
Please note:            Girls' hair that is below shoulders must be tied back off the face.

 

 

 

Boys' uniform (Summer)
SHORTS	Grey college regulation, polyester/cotton, side adjustment.
SHIRT	Mid - Blue short sleeve
PULLOVER	Plain Royal Blue, "V" necked. (Or regulation sweat shirt)
FOOTWEAR	Brown Roman sandals. (Optional Shoes and socks as for Winter)
JACKET	Flash Track Top (Branded) Dual purpose Sport and regular uniform. (Available through Logotech web site)
SPORTS	BIZCOOL Strike Polo shirt, white with School branding; BIZCOOL Shorts with School branding, Flash Track Bottoms (optional) (Available through Logotech web site)
HAT	Regulation sun hat, wide brimmed, navy. (Branded) Available through the School Office.
Boys' uniform (Winter)  As for summer except:
SHORTS	Grey college regulation polyester / wool, side adjustment.
SHIRT	Mid Blue long sleeve
FOOTWEAR	Black leather lace-up shoes. Plain grey knee-length socks.
Please Note:                                                                                                                                      In cold weather, students may wear scarves of the appropriate grey or blue colour. Outer garments for protection from cold and wet may be worn to and from School. Mufti jackets are not permitted.

 

The Sports Uniform can be purchased through the web portal of Logotech:

www.logotech.co.nz

 

VALUES PROGRAMME

Each term, a specific Christian value or theme will be featured across the whole school. This will include the integration of the value / theme into class teaching and learning programmes in all classrooms. The School encourages parents to reinforce the term’s value in the home setting. The School newsletter will advise parents as to each value for the particular term.

 

 

APPENDIX 1: SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT

 

 

SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT

 

Show reverence to God and respect to others by:

Being kind and thoughtful to others

Speaking in a Christian manner

Wearing correct uniform with pride

Playing games that you could ask Jesus to join in with

Respecting our teachers by being obedient

Avoiding  “putting down” others. This includes name-calling and any form of bullying

 

Helping make our school a safe and healthy place by:

Keeping inside School boundaries

Respecting the “no ball kick” areas

Not climbing trees or buildings

Not playing or running inside the classrooms or hallways

Not entering classrooms without permission during play times, before or after school without permission

Not chewing gum or lollies at school

Checking in at Reception before entering the classroom if I am late for school

Not crossing the school driveway without an adult present

Not sharing lunches

Leaving video games, MP3’s and dangerous objects at home

Observing the School’s Cybersafe Policy

 

Showing respect for school property by:

Removing shoes before entering classrooms

Not damaging school equipment or being careless with school property.

Being a “Tidy Kiwi” and not littering the grounds or buildings

Being responsible with school equipment such as library books, sports gear and computers

 

APPENDIX 2: CYBERSAFETY RULES

CYBERSAFETY RULES FOR YEAR 4-8 STUDENTS

 

Note for Parents/Legal Guardians/Caregivers:

The sections marked i are designed to provide a guide to the rules covered by this use agreement, and to help you discuss the rules with your child.

Teachers will also go over this section with students.

 

1.     I must have a use agreement signed by me and by my parent or caregiver before I am allowed to use the school ICT equipment.

All students, regardless of age or ability, must have a use agreement signed by their parent.  Year 4-8 students sign their use agreements along with their parents.  Use agreements are becoming accepted as an essential part of cybersafety policy and programmes for schools and other organisations, including businesses.

2.     I can use the school computers and other school ICT only for school work.

This helps to ensure the equipment is available when students need to use it for their learning.  It will also help to reduce the likelihood of any inappropriate activities taking place which put at risk the safety of the learning environment.

3.     If I am unsure whether I am allowed to do something involving ICT, I will ask the teacher first.

This helps children and young people to take responsibility for their own actions, and seek advice when they are unsure of what to do.  It provides an opportunity for the teacher and student to work through an issue and so avoid the student making an unwise decision which could possibly lead to serious consequences. Young children need ongoing advice and guidance to help them become safe and responsible users of ICT.

4.     I will follow the cybersafety rules, and will not join in if others are being irresponsible.

i

Unfortunately, along with many benefits, technology has also provided new ways to carry out anti-social activities.  Bullying and harassment by text message, for example, is becoming a major problem in New Zealand and in many other countries.  Often children become involved in these acts through peer pressure, without thinking of the consequences.

5.     If I accidentally come across mean, or rude, or dangerous material I will tell the teacher straight away, without showing any other students.

i

Because anyone at all can publish material on the Internet, it does contain material which is inappropriate, and in some cases illegal.  The school has taken a number of steps to prevent this material from being accessed.  However, there always remains the possibility that a student may inadvertently stumble across something inappropriate.  Encouraging students to tell a teacher immediately if they find something which they suspect may be inappropriate, encourages critical thinking and helps children to take responsibility for their actions and keep themselves, and others, safe.  This way, they contribute to the cybersafety of the school community.

6.     If I am not feeling safe at any time while using the ICT equipment, I will tell the teacher straight away.

i

 Tauranga Adventist School strives to create a safe and secure learning environment for all members of the school community.  Examples of situations involving the use of ICT which might cause a child to feel unsafe could include: contact being made by a stranger through email or text message, the presence of ‘scary’ images on a computer screen, and/or misconduct by other students.  Staff need to be made aware of such situations as soon as they occur to ensure the school can respond immediately.

7.     If I have my own password, I will log on only with that password.

8.     I will not share my password with any other person.

Passwords perform two main functions.  Firstly, they help to ensure only approved persons can access the school ICT facilities.  Secondly, they are used to track how those facilities are used.  Knowing how the equipment is being used and by whom, helps the school to maintain a cybersafe environment for all users, and teaches the child the importance of  personal security.

9.     I will log off or shut down the computer when I have finished using it.

10.   I will log off before letting someone else use the computer.

Logging off or shutting down, stops others from using a computer under your child’s username. When the computer is started up again, the next user has to enter their own details to log on.

11.   If I am sharing a computer which is logged on under my name, I am responsible for how it is used.  If there is a problem, I will tell the teacher immediately.

Students often work together at a single computer.  Any misuse of the computer can be traced back to whoever was logged on at the time.  It is important that your child takes responsibility for sensible use of the computer at all times, and tells the teacher if there is any concern.

12.   I will check with the teacher before giving anyone information about myself or others when using the Internet or a mobile phone – this includes home and email addresses, and phone numbers.

This reduces the risk of your child, or other children, being contacted by someone who wishes to upset or harm them, or use their identity for purposes which might compromise the child’s privacy or security online.

13.   I will not be careless, try to damage, or steal any school ICT equipment. (If this happens, the school will need to inform my family about what has happened.  My family may have responsibility for the cost of repairs or replacement.)

14.   I will not try to stop the network or any other equipment from working properly.

15.   If I accidentally break something, or I find it broken when I start to use it, I will tell a teacher straight away.

16.   I will ask the teacher before changing screensavers, desktop backgrounds, themes or hardware settings.

17.   I will have no involvement with making or sending viruses (such as worms) on purpose.

18.   I will not print anything without the permission of the teacher.

ules 12-18 are designed to help protect the investment the school has made in expensive ICT technologies.  Also, certain settings may have been applied to maximise the safety of the students and the equipment (such as antivirus settings or restrictions on Internet access).

19.   I will not download any files such as music, videos, or programmes without the permission of the teacher, even if they are for school work.  If I am unsure, I will ask the teacher first.

Many files available on the Internet are covered by copyright, and although they can be easily downloaded, it may be illegal to do so.  Sometimes even innocent-looking files may contain malicious content such as viruses, or spyware (software that searches for personal information from your computer and transmits it to others over the Internet).  As well, some files may contain inappropriate or illegal material.

20.   I must have a letter from home, and permission from school, before bringing any disk or other ICT device from home, unless it is part of my normal school equipment.  If I am given permission, then I must use that ICT sensibly.

The devices referred to in this rule include those specified on page one of this document; for example flash memory devices, iPods, MP3 players or mobile phones.  Any students bringing such devices from home are asked to use them sensibly.  This applies to the school site, and any school-related activity.

 NB Parents should be mindful of the school’s specific policy regarding students and mobile phones.

You might like to take this opportunity to have a discussion with your child about their general use of ICT whether in or out of school.  It helps keep children cybersafe if they understand that many of these rules should be followed regardless of whose ICT equipment they are using, where they are (for example at home, at school, or at a friend’s house), or who they are with.

21.   I will ask the teacher to check any disk or ICT device (including all disks, memory storage devices, media players, cameras and mobile phones) I bring from home, before I use it with school equipment. 

i

This rule is designed to protect the school’s online security and equipment from viruses which can easily be transferred using disks or other storage devices such as pen drives or memory cards.  If your child is using a disk or other device to transfer work between home and school, it should be freshly formatted, or ‘blank’, before use.  This may also stop any of your own personal material from finding its way onto the school’s equipment.  Even though every effort is made to keep school equipment virus-free, you should scan your child’s disk or device for viruses before they use it again with your home computer.

22.   I will not bring software or games from outside school to use on school equipment.

Installing software from home may cause conflicts with the software installed by the school.  Tauranga Adventist School must also abide by any licensing requirements included within the software.  This means that unless the school has purchased a copy, it will not usually be legally entitled to install the software.  And as mentioned in point 19, inappropriate or illegal content may be involved.

23.   I will acknowledge where work has come from if I have copied it from somewhere.  This includes graphics and sounds files I use in my own schoolwork.

The Internet has allowed easy access to a huge range of information which can be incorporated into students’ work by simply cutting and pasting.  Most of this material is copyrighted, and thus involves intellectual property issues.  Also, the value to students’ learning is questionable if they have not thought through this information themselves.

24.   I will check with the teacher before using school equipment to copy software, music, videos or other files, in case they are copyrighted.

Any such copying is likely to be restricted by copyright laws.  Tauranga Adventist School cannot condone the use of its equipment for these activities.

25.   I will not use the internet, mobile phones or any other ICT equipment to be mean, rude, offensive, or to harass any members of the school community like students and staff, while at school or any school-related activity.  The same rule applies when using school ICT at any time, whether at school or not.

The basic principles of politeness and respect extend to the use of information and communication technologies.

The capacity of ICT to increase the scale and scope of misconduct can make an otherwise minor rule infringement into a much more serious matter.  For example, name calling often becomes a more serious issue where texting or emailing has been used to facilitate harassment.  Cyberbullying can involve a range of misconduct including the creation of abusive websites..

26.   If I break these rules, the school may need to talk to my family about what has happened.  In very serious cases, the school may take disciplinary action.

Depending on the seriousness of a particular breach, possible school responses could include one or more of the following: a discussion with the student, informing parents, loss of ICT privileges, the family possibly having responsibility for the cost of ICT repairs or replacement, the

school taking disciplinary action.

 

APPENDIX 3: FEE SCHEDULE

 

FEE SCHEDULE 2011 (Based on 4 Terms )
Attendance Dues (Paid to the National Office)
$90.00 per term		$360.00 per year
Special Character Contribution (Paid to the National Office)
1st Child, $25 per term		$100 per year
2nd Child, $18.75 per term		$75.00 per year
3rd Child, $12.50 per term		$50 per year
4th Child, $5.00 per term		$25 per year
Activity Fees (Paid to the School directly)
Class Level	Per Term		Year
Year One and Two:	$50		$200
Year Three to Six to $30 per term	$30		$120 per year
Year Seven and Eight $40 per term (Including Technology Fee)	$65		$260
School Development Contribution (Paid to the School directly)   A School Development contribution (donation) of $50 per child per term is requested to assist in the on-going development of the School's facilities.
Transport Levy General (Paid to the School directly)
Year 1 to 3 Students		$10 per Term / $ 40Year
Year 4 to 8 Students		$15 per Term / $60 Year
Transport Levy Regular User $35 per Term

 

Please note:

Activity Fees cover all swimming costs (including tutored professional lessons for Year 1 and 2), class activities (including most excursions) and contributes towards camp costs (Where appropriate)

 

Special Character Contribution (Charged out by, and paid directly to, the School’s Proprietors) A “necessary donation” to assist the Proprietors provide support and maintenance for / of the School’s Special Character development.

Attendance Dues (Charged out by, and paid directly to, the School’s Proprietors) The payment of these dues is a condition of enrolment and is required to be paid in full by the end of each school term.

School Development Contribution A “necessary donation” collected by the Board of Trustees to provide funding for the on-going development of the School’s facilities that are not funded by the government or Proprietors.

Transport  Levy  General All students are levied a bus charge for the use of the school’s bus through the year for school and class related trips. (bus use in connection with the school programme - swimming / excursions etc.)

 

Transport Levy Regular User Any student who uses the school bus on a regular basis to get to or from school. with or without Ministry Subsidy.

 

Please Note:

Casual Trips to and from School are by pre-paid bus passes available at the School office. Check at the Office for current charges.

 

 

 

APPENDIX 4: 2011 SCHOOL CALENDAR

 

TERM DATES

Term 1

Classes Commence Tuesday, February 1

Term End Friday, April 15

(Waitangi Day, February 6; Easter April 22 – 25; ANZAC Day April 25 included in weekends or holidays)

108 half days

 

Term 2

Classes Commence Monday May 2

Term End Friday, July 15

(Queen’s Birthday Monday June 6)

108 half days

 

 

Term 3                                                                                                   

Classes Commence Monday, August 1

Term End Friday, October 7

100 half days

 

Term 4

Classes Commence Tuesday, October 25

Term End Wednesday, December 14

(Labour Day Monday October 24)

74 half days

390 half days for Year

 

Board of Trustees Dates for 2011

(Last Monday of the month during term time)

February 28, March 28, May 30, June 27, July 25, August 29,  October 31, November 28

APPENDIX 5: PERSONNEL

 

 

Principal	Mr Ross Bishop
Deputy Principal /	Mrs Marie Hastings
New Entrants / Year 1 & 2	Mrs Sarah Watts / Miss Weslake (Part time)
Years 3 & 4	Miss Angela Berndt
Year 5 & 6	Mrs Trudi DelMastro
Years 7 & 8	Mrs Marie Hastings / Mr Ross Bishop
Office Administrator	Mrs Lynley Bishop
Accounts Clerk	Mrs Rosene Burrows
Bus driver / Groundsman	Mr Dennis Johnston
Teacher Aide	Mrs Nina McNeilly
Reading Recovery Tutor	Mrs Marinella Graham
Guitar Tutor	Mr Alex Price
Keyboard / Piano Tutor	Mrs Ula Kraenzlin
Flute Tutor	Ms Hayley Ashmore
Speech and Drama Tutor	Mrs Barbara Gray
School Chaplain	Pastor Andrew West
IT Technician	Mr Gary Lewin
School Cleaner	Mrs Bernice McDonald

 

Board of Trustees

 

Chairman	Mr Andy Turner
Principal	Mr Ross Bishop
Parent Representatives	Ms Hayley Ashmore Mr Andy Turner Mr Daryl Wesley
Proprietor Representatives	Mrs Rosene Burrows Mr Brian Goldstone Mrs Belinda McCallion
Staff Representative	Mr Stephen Baronan