This Code has been developed so that parents and those with parental responsibilities are aware of and meet the School’s expectations with regard to their interaction with the School, its teachers, other parents and students. Adherence to this Code is important to promote positive and productive relationships within the School community.
The School is responsible for establishing and administering the policies, procedures and rules which govern the day to day operations of the school. It is important that parents recognise and respect this, adhere and have their children adhere to the School’s requirements, and support these decisions.
The School expects students to comply with its rules and not engage in behaviour which is harmful to others or is contrary to the ethos and philosophy of the School. Parents are expected to support the School in relation to its discipline policy and not do anything which undermines its authority. It must be understood that in the case of minor disciplinary matters, the School will be the arbiter of what took place and what is a fair punishment it will not engage in debate about the details of the conduct for the appropriateness of the punishment.
In relation to more disciplinary matters which may result in suspension or expulsion the School will inform parents of the matter and will deal with it in accordance with the School’s disciplinary policy. While parents will be consulted, the final decision will be the School’s.
The School conducts regular meetings between staff and parents at which the student’s progress can be discussed. There may be other times when a parent or staff member requests a meeting to discuss particular issues that may arise during the course of a student’s schooling.
If a parent wishes to meet with a staff member, they should make an appointment so that a mutually convenient time can be arranged. This can be done through the school office.
Parents should never attempt to contact a staff member at their home, unless the staff member requests this.
Parents also can make an appointment to see the Principal about any particular concerns they may have relating to their son or daughter.
It is important that parents show respect for staff and not publicly criticise them or seek to undermine their authority. If a parent has a particular concern about a member of staff, they can raise it with the staff member concerned or with the Head of School or Principal. However when doing so they should observe the general rules of conduct set out in this Code.
The School has a duty of care to protect all staff and for this reason any aggressive, defamatory or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.
If a parent has a complaint about an issue, this should be directed to the Principal, Head of School or to the teacher responsible for the particular area of activity.
If a parent wishes to make a complaint, they should not use rude or abusive language. This is not productive and can make it harder to resolve concerns.
Communications whether verbal or in writing with other members of the school community whether teachers, administration staff, other parents or students should:
Social media should not be used to criticise or denigrate Avondale School, its staff or others in the school community.
Parents are welcome to attend sporting events, but should exercise restraint when supporting school teams. In particular, this should not abuse, threaten or otherwise seek to intimidate an umpire or referee or be directed against a player, or any School representatives.
The Sports coaches at the School, pick teams based on their view of the most appropriate selection at the relevant time. It is not appropriate for parents to complain about the failure of their child(ren) to be picked for a particular team.
Where some students have parents that are separated or divorced. Parents should not attempt to involve the School in any parental dispute that may arise. The School is not able to make judgments on the merits of claims made by one parent against another and should not be asked to do so. Nor should it be asked to take any action which would or is designed to disadvantage one party. The School will of course, observe any orders made by a Court in relation to a student or communications with parents.
If a parent fails to observe this Code after being warned about a breach, the School may:
This policy is based on the Association of Independent Schools NSW Parental Code of Conduct. Printed 2 November 2023. Information is correct at time of printing and is subject to change. Please regularly refer here for the most up to date information.
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