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GAUTENG DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

MAGALIES SPECIAL SCHOOL

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR LEARNERS

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Magalies Special SchoolMagalies Special SchoolMagalies Special SchoolMagalies Special School

Vision

To strive for excellence on all levels of education and training for the learners of Magalies

Special School and to provide education of the highest quality in a competitive world.

Mission

To offer effective education and skills training to the learners of Magalies School which

will enable them to function as responsible citizens and take their rightful place in the

labour market and society.

This is achieved by:

• Involvement of all role players,

• Striving for excellence,

• Serving the community and

• Offering learners every opportunity to develop positively and productively.

Values

• Accountability • Equality • Honesty • Respect • Perseverance

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. TITLE OF THE POLICY: CODE OF CONDUCT (COC) & DISCIPLINARY MEASURES FOR

LEARNERS ...................................................................................................................................................... 1

2. EFFECTIVE DATE: JANUARY 2018 .......................................................................................................... 1

3. DATE OF NEXT REVIEW: NOVEMBER 2018 .......................................................................................... 1

4. REVISION HISTORY ...................................................................................................................................... 1

5. PREAMBLE ...................................................................................................................................................... 1

6. THE PURPOSE OF A CODE OF CONDUCT (COC) FOR THE LEARNERS ....................................... 2

6.1 IMPORTANCE OF A CODE OF CONDUCT / OBJECTIVES ........................................................ 2

7. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS ................................................................................................................. 2

7.1 DEFINITIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 2

7.2 ACRONYMS........................................................................................................................................... 3

8. APPLICATION AND SCOPE OF THE CONSTITUTION .......................................................................... 4

9. LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK ....................................................................................................................... 4

10. RELEVANT POLICIES AND PROVINCIAL CIRCULARS ........................................................................ 4

11. POLICY STATEMENTS ................................................................................................................................. 4

11.1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES ...................................................................................................................... 4

11.2 DISCIPLINE POLICY ............................................................................................................................ 5

11.3 FIVE UNIVERSAL SCHOOL RULES / CLASSROOM RULES ..................................................... 5

11.4 SCHOOL PROPERTY .......................................................................................................................... 5

11.5 DISCIPLINE SYSTEM ........................................................................................................................... 6

11.6 PUNCTUALITY AND SCHOOL ATTENDANCE .............................................................................. 7

11.7 DRUG, ALCOHOL AND WEAPON FREE ZONE .............................................................................. 8

11.8 VIOLENCE, BULLYING AND FOUL LANGUAGE ............................................................................ 9

11.9 GENERAL RULES.................................................................................................................................. 9

11.10 RULES GOVERNING PUBLIC PLACES ........................................................................................ 10

11.11 VALUABLES AND PERSONAL BELONGINGS ............................................................................ 11

11.12 SECURITY ........................................................................................................................................... 11

12. INFRINGEMENT OF CODE OF CONDUCT (COC) ................................................................................ 12

13. PROMOTION OF CODE OF CONDUCT .................................................................................................. 15

14. APPROVAL .................................................................................................................................................... 15

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1. TITLE OF THE POLICY: CODE OF CONDUCT (COC) & DISCIPLINARY MEASURES

FOR LEARNERS

2. EFFECTIVE DATE: JANUARY 2018

3. DATE OF NEXT REVIEW: NOVEMBER 2018

4. REVISION HISTORY

As amended on: November 2015 November 2016 November 2017

June 2018

5. PREAMBLE

The School Governing Body (SGB) and staff members of Magalies Special School have a responsibility towards each learner in the school to keep them save and create a positive learning environment. In order to protect the learners’ human rights, the learners also have to be aware of the responsibilities that go along with these rights. One of the SGB responsibilities is the development of a Code of Conduct (COC) that goes along with the disciplinary measures. The purpose of the COC is to maintain a safe, caring and orderly learning school environment. The COC is aimed at establishing a disciplined and purposeful environment, dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of the quality of the learning process at Magalies Special School. a) Nothing contained in the South African Schools Act (SASA) shall exempts a learner

from the obligation to comply with the COC of the school attended by the learner.

b) While the government has an obligation to make education available and accessible, this must be complemented by the commitment and acceptance of responsibility by the other partners in education, namely the learners, educators, therapist and parents.

c) The COC should promote a culture of reconciliation, teaching, learning and mutual respect, and the establishment of a culture of tolerance and peace in the school.

d) The COC must be read in conjunction with the drug policy.

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6. THE PURPOSE OF A CODE OF CONDUCT (COC) FOR THE LEARNERS

The COC gives a clear outline of rules and develops an understanding of acceptable/ appropriate and unacceptable/inappropriate behaviour at Magalies Special School. It defines the standards and values strived for in the school environment. The COC together with the disciplinary code is intended to promote good behaviour and correct improper conduct of learners that are justified inside the SASA. Positive reinforcement and rewards are the main core values of the School’s disciplinary policy of the COC for learners. It is therefore important that each learner and parent must be aware of the specific borders and outlines/rules/policies where learners may function on each terrain. These outlines provide the learners with clear instructions and a sense of security within this framework. The school is a smoke free, drug free, alcohol free, weapon/gun free and gambling free zone. No use/abuse in this regard will be tolerated on the school’s premises. Offences in this regard are addressed in the disciplinary code of the school 6.1 IMPORTANCE OF A CODE OF CONDUCT / OBJECTIVES The school rules are intended to establish a disciplined and purposeful environment to facilitate effective therapy, teaching and learning. Learners shall not be exempted from complying with the school rules. Ignorance of the school rules will not be accepted/tolerated and therefore it is the responsibility of each learner and his/her parent to study this document. Both will be held accountable in this regard. The COC insures that the staff will find a safe, non-violent solution for problems by means of co-operation and motivation. The learners’ self-image and self-discipline will develop if they are positively supported to take responsibility for themselves, and to take control of their own learning. We hereby request you to carefully read through the COC with your child at home and sign the declaration to indicate that you, your child and the family understand the content of the COC and the implications thereof. The signed declaration will be placed on the learners’ profile at school and will serve as evidence that the learner, parent and/or family have obtained the necessary knowledge and agreed upon the specific rules and guidelines as outlined in this agreement. GENERAL PARAMETERS WITHIN WHICH THE COC FUNCTIONS: a) On school property: in or out of school hours and in or out of uniform b) On a school outing/excursion off the premises: in or out of school hours and in or out

of uniform c) Representing the school: in or out of school hours and in or out of uniform d) Being identified as a learner of the school: in or out of school hours and in or out of

uniform

7. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS

7.1 DEFINITIONS “District Director” – is the officer of the department responsible for the administration of education in a particular educational district. “Educator” – means any person, excluding a person who is appointed to exclusively perform extra-curricular duties, who teaches, educates or train any person or who provides

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professional educational services, including professional therapy and education psychological services at school. “Expulsion” – means the permanent removal of a learner from a school. “Grade” – means that part of an educational programme which a learner may complete in one year, or any other educational programme which the Member of the Executive Council may deem to be equivalent thereto. “Head of Department” – refers to the Head of a Provincial Department of Education. “Learner” – means any person receiving education or obligated to receive education in terms of relevant legislation. “Parent” – refers to (a) the parent or guardian of a learner; (b) the person legally entitled to custody of a learner; or (c) the person who undertakes to fulfill the obligations of a person referred to in paragraph

(a) and (b) towards the learner’s education at school. “Principal” – refers to an educator/therapist appointed or acting as the head of a school. “School” – Refers to Magalies Special School.

“School Governing Body” – is the body responsible for governance issues at Magalies Special School. “Suspension” – means the temporary refusal of admission to a learner to a School pending a disciplinary hearing. “Therapist” – a person trained in the use of psychological methods for helping patients overcome psychological problems. “Electronic cigarettes” - also known as e-cigarettes, e-vaporizers, or electronic nicotine delivery systems, are battery-operated devices that people use to inhale an aerosol, which typically contains nicotine (though not always), flavorings, and other chemicals “Sexual Harassment” is bullying or coercion of a sexual nature, or the unwelcome or inappropriate promise of rewards in exchange for sexual favors. Sexual harassment includes a range of actions from mild transgressions to sexual abuse or sexual assault.

7.2 ACRONYMS “COC” – Code of Conduct “DC” – Disciplinary Committee “MEC” – Member of Executive Council of a province who is responsible for education in

the province “RCL” – Representative Council for Learners “SASA” – South African Schools Act

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“SGB” – School Governing Body “SMT” – School Management Team

8. APPLICATION AND SCOPE OF THE CONSTITUTION

The policy shall apply to all learners registered in Magalies Special School. 9. LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK

9.1 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Act No. 108 of 1996), as amended.

9.2 South African Schools Act, 1996 (Act No. 84 of 1996), as amended.

9.3 National Education Policy Act, 1996 (Act No. 27 of 1996), as amended.

9.4 Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000 (Act No. 2 of 2000).

9.5 Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, 2000 (Act No. 3 of 2000).

9.6 The Gauteng Schools Education Act, 1995 (Act No. 6 of 1995).

9.7 Regulation of Misconduct of Learners at Public Schools and Disciplinary Proceedings, 2001 (General Notice 2591 of 2001).

9.8 Regulation of Safety Measures at Public Schools Government Notice No. 1040, October 2001, as amended.

9.9 Guidelines for the Consideration of Governing Bodies in Adopting a Code of Conduct for Learners, General Notice 776 of 1998.

10. RELEVANT POLICIES AND PROVINCIAL CIRCULARS

Circular 74/2007

11. POLICY STATEMENTS

11.1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES Learners are expected at all times to behave in a respectful, courteous and considerate manner towards each other, including the Representative Council of Learners (RCL), all members of staff and school visitors. Learners are expected to abide by the school COC with regard to appearance and behaviour when representing Magalies Special School. Learners may not say or do anything that will discredit themselves or the school, whether during school hours or after school hours, within the school premises or in public. No learner has the right to cause any physical or emotional damage to another learner, or to behave in a manner that will disrupt learning and classroom activity. Magalies Special School will contact the parents/guardians when a learner’s behaviour becomes a cause of concern. The problem will then be addressed and solved to secure a healthy partnership/relationship.

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11.2 DISCIPLINE POLICY INTRODUCTION An assertive discipline policy is a programme that makes the learners, parents and teachers aware of responsible behaviour. The purpose of the programme is to assist learners to gain knowledge that will help them to make the correct choices when they are in a situation where their behaviour can be influenced. This process will ensure increased self-confidence and academic success for all learners. The discipline policy is based on the consequent implementation and building of positive relationships. Teachers have the right to teach and learners have the right to learn. In this way effective learning and teaching practice will take place. Within the guidelines of the discipline programme the therapist or staff member may state his/her expectations clearly and effectively. Learners will be informed of what is expected of them, all the stated rules and routines that will assist the staff members to support the policy. The learners following the instructions will be rewarded through positive and encouraging feedback. The family plays an important role in this regard and their support in this regard is essential. 11.3 FIVE UNIVERSAL SCHOOL RULES / CLASSROOM RULES

1. Show and practise respect towards school staff and fellow learners 2. Be punctual for school, class and school activities/events 3. Follow and obey instructions from the school’s staff 4. Look after all school property / valuables, respect your own belongings and others’

properties and belongings 5. Appropriate behaviour (Behaviour must be decent and respectful) RESPONSIBILITY OF LEARNERS The primary responsibility of the learner is to learn and acquire specific skills and knowledge needed to prepare him/her for future career. The teaching system can only reach its goals when the learner actively engages and successful learning takes place. Learners will develop as individuals when they are mindful to learning. Each learner must reach their own potential through effective participation in the learning process. Learners must develop into self-disciplined, creative and independent individuals. Learners must also accept the responsibility and care for school property. 11.4 SCHOOL PROPERTY “School Property” includes the following – All property, including the land and buildings, equipment, books, materials, motor vehicles, and the like, owned by the school, hired by the school, possessed by the school and stored by the school. No learner may remove ANY school property from the school without the prior consent of the principal or any other member of the school’s staff. POSITIVE FEEDBACK a) Verbal acknowledgement and appraisal b) Individual acknowledgements/rewards c) Positive notes/letters to take home d) Effective electronic interaction and communication with parents/guardians e) Positive notes/letters to learners - reinforcement f) Classroom privileges/rewards g) Acknowledgements/rewards for the class/school

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11.5 DISCIPLINE SYSTEM INTRODUCTION The following rules must be adhered to by the learners of Magalies Special School to ensure that the learners and the staff can work together in a respectful and peaceful environment. Disregarding the COC will be dealt with accordingly based on the DISCIPLINE SYSTEM of the school. The disciplinary system is used as a guideline for the internal disciplinary committee. 11.5.1 CORRECT SCHOOL UNIFORM AND GENERAL APPEARANCE OF BOYS AND GIRLS Hair must be neat and may not cover the eyebrows, ears or touch the collars of the

school shirt. No colouring of the hair or the wearing of exotic hairstyles is allowed. No cut patterns or highlights are allowed in the hair. No shiny pins or other coloured hair accessories are allowed in the hair. Hair may only be fastened with a black, white or a bottle green elastic band. Boys’ hair must be short; no treading hair styles are allowed or difference in hair length.

No earrings, jewellery, accessories, coloured contact lenses or visible tattoos are allowed.

During events that allow the wearing of casual wear, learners should wear neat, presentable clothes. Beachwear, tight-fitting clothes, clothes that are revealing are not allowed. Hair, shoes and accessories should be neat at all times.

GIRLS Summer: Winter: (2nd and 3rd Term) Bottle green skirt / pants Bottle green pants / skirt White school shirt White long sleeved blouse White / Green school socks Grey knee socks / Black stockings Black school shoes Bottle green jersey / “Drimac” and scarf White t-shirt underneath the school’s shirt White t-shirt underneath the school’s shirt Red cap Red cap, beanie School blazer School blazer NO TEKKIES ARE ALLOWED!

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BOYS Summer: Winter: (2nd and 3rd Term) Standard grey long or short pants Grey long pants White short-sleeved school shirt White long sleeved school shirt Grey school socks Grey school socks Black school shoes Black school shoes White t-shirt underneath the school’s shirt White t-shirt underneath the school’s shirt

Bottle green jersey / “Drimac” and scarf Red cap Red cap, beanie School blazer School blazer NO TEKKIES ARE ALLOWED!

NO SKINNY PANTS OR STITCHED PANTS ARE ALLOWED!

11.6 PUNCTUALITY AND SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

MORNING ASSEMBLY The school day starts with assembly and announcements on the square at 07:30 every morning unless otherwise notified. All learners will attend assembly for the full duration thereof. THE END OF THE SCHOOL DAY The school day ends at 13:25 for all the learners except on the last day of each term. Learners who are picked up by private vehicles and/or taxi’s transport must wait in 20th Avenue (western side). Learners who travel with buses must wait in 21st Avenue (eastern side).

Type of transport used by learner Pick up venue after school (13h25)

Private vehicles / Taxi’s 20th Avenue (Western side)

Buses 21st Avenue (Eastern side)

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SCHOOL AND CLASS ATTENDANCE Parents/guardians, learners, staff and School Governing Body (SGB) members are jointly responsible for ensuring that all learners attend school regularly. If a learner is absent (after 3 consecutive days), the register teacher will report the absence of the learner to the parent telephonically and the principal in writing. The register teacher must keep a daily register of learner attendance and keep copies of all forms of communication to parents/guardians when absence from the classroom is reported. Regular absenteeism will be reported immediately by the register teacher to both the parent and the principal. All leaners are to arrive at school before the official starting time (7:30). Latecomers will be recorded absent as registers are completed at the beginning of each school day. Late arrivals cause undesirable disruption of the teaching process, as well as other school activities. Any absence from the school must be explained by an absentee note from a parent/guardian. Should a learner be absent from the school for a period of three (3) days or longer, this leave of absence must be supported by a letter from a medical doctor/dentist/clinic. Any absence from a formal examination, test or task must be supported by a letter from a medical doctor/dentist. No learner may leave the school during school hours without a letter from a parent/guardian requesting the release of their child. The permission of the Principal must be obtained. Truancy and fence jumping at school are prohibited. Latecomers will be disciplined and parents will be notified. Learners who are absent from school without a letter of pardon or doctor/dentist’s note for 10 days or more per term may be removed from the school register and would have to re-apply when they want to return to school. (National Education Policy Act 27/1996/ Government Gazette No 33150 Volume 5394, May 2010.) SPORT/CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

a) Once a learner has committed him/herself to an activity, he/she will be bound to meet the rules and obligations related to that activity. No drop outs will be allowed.

b) Involvement in a particular activity will be for the full duration of the season the entire season/duration in which that activity takes place.

c) Learners must always be on time for events organised by the school.

d) Learners have to wear the prescribed dress code.

e) Learners travelling to and from school will wear proper school uniform, unless other arrangements have been made.

f) Learners won’t be allowed to participate without a parent consent letter.

g) Learners behaviour, be it as hosts or guests, must be positive and respectful at all times.

11.7 DRUG, ALCOHOL AND WEAPON FREE ZONE (a) Cigarettes, alcohol, or any drugs used will not be allowed on the premises of

Magalies Special School.

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(b) Possession of cigarettes, cigarette lighters, e-cigarettes, matches, drugs, alcoholic drinks, pornographic material, firearms, knives and other dangerous weapons are prohibited on the terrain and in the position of any learner at the premises of Magalies Special School.

11.8 VIOLENCE, BULLYING AND FOUL LANGUAGE (a) No violence, bullying, intimidation or threatening of any kind is allowed at Magalies

Special School. (b) Learners are not allowed to swear or use foul language. DENIAL OR LOSS OF PRIVILEGES / RECOGNITION a) Participating in extra-mural activities, being involved in tours and going on excursions

will be denied to those learners whose behavior record is unsatisfactory. b) A basic criterion for all honours awards afforded to learners by the school is good

behavior. This applies to membership of the RCL and the awarding of colours and honours. A learner therefore, whose behavior record is unsatisfactory will not be considered for such honours and awards. Furthermore, a learner who already has received such an honour or award and then behaves in a manner which disgraces that honour or award will immediately forfeit it.

c) The verbal abuse of educators; any form of substance abuse, smoking, drinking and the taking of drugs; assault; theft, bunking of classes and behavior that brings the school into disrepute are examples of serious offences which may result in a loss of privileges over and above any disciplinary action taken in terms of the South African Schools Act of 1996.

d) There is thus a particular onus on learners who have worked for public recognition not to forfeit this through wrongful behavior (often occurring under the misguided impression that no one will find out).

11.9 GENERAL RULES

COURTESY

a) Male staff members are to be referred to by surname, e.g. Mr Smith, or as 'Sir'.

b) Female staff members are to be referred to by surname, e.g. Ms Smith, or as 'Ma'am'.

c) Learners are expected to greet staff members or visitors.

d) Learners are expected to show respect when a member of staff enters a classroom /

passes on the corridor or are at the sports fields and to respond appropriately by

greeting.

1) Inappropriate remarks and socialisation with any staff member of Magalies Special

School is strictly prohibited. Disciplinary measures will be taken against offenders.

2) Loitering and/or playing in and around the corridors, staircase and toilets are forbidden.

3) All litter must be placed in refuse bins or wastepaper baskets.

4) Wilful damaging, vandalising or neglect of school property and the property of others is prohibited.

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5) Any act of academic misconduct in class work, homework, informal and formal tests or internal of external examination is prohibited. Furthermore, copying of and/or borrowing another learner’s work is forbidden.

6) Disruptive, unruly, rude and/or offensive behaviour will not be tolerated.

7) The timeous handing in of work is the responsibility of each learner.

8) Learners who fail to produce a medical certificate on absenteeism during formal examinations/tests/assessment and tasks will obtain “0” (nought) for the particular examination/tests/assessment and tasks.

9) The learner will respect the beliefs, culture, dignity and rights of other learners and staff, as well as their right to privacy and confidentiality.

10) Language that is disapproving, discriminatory or racist is prohibited.

11) Any act/behaviour that belittles demeans or humiliates another leaner’s or staff’s culture, race of religion is prohibited.

12) All learners have the right to an education free of interference, intimidation and/or physical abuse.

13) The learners will respect the property and safety of everyone on the premises. Fighting or threatening (bullying) of other learners and staff is strictly forbidden.

14) The learner will respect those learners in positions of authority (RCL). A learner who is in a position of authority will conduct him/herself in a manner befitting someone in authority. She/he will respect the rights of other learners and will not abuse such authority bestowed upon him/hers through his/her position.

15) The carrying, copying and/or reading of offensive material is prohibited (printed/electronically).

16) Learners must keep clear of areas that are indicted as out of bound. These include the following: a) The school motor vehicles garage(s)/staff parking areas. b) Electrical mains distribution boxes, fire extinguishers and hoses. c) Other parking lots. d) Offices and classes where there are no staff present.

17) No bottles with any kind of fluid are allowed. 11.10 RULES GOVERNING PUBLIC PLACES The school is a place of safety where laws pertaining to public spaces are applicable. No dangerous objects or substances as defined in the South Africa Schools Act (SASA) or the Safety Regulations Act (SRA) will be brought onto and/or used on the school property unless authorized by the principal for educational purposes. Dangerous objects include knives, firearms of any other item that could harm a person. The carrying and/or smoking of cigarettes/dagga or any other form of smoking for example “hubbly bubbly” or electronic cigarettes etc. is prohibited. Alcohol in any form is not permitted on school premises or during any school activity. The carrying of and/or consumption of illegal chemical substances and drugs/medication is prohibited. The office must be notified regarding daily use of medication.

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11.11 VALUABLES AND PERSONAL BELONGINGS The school will not be held responsible for theft of or damage to personal belongings on the school’s premises (e.g, Cell phones or any other electronic devices, bags, books and clothing)

a) Learners must avoid bringing cell phones, large sums of money and valuables to school.

b) If a parent/guardians requests a learner to pay school fees on his/her behalf, such school fees should be paid before the start of the school day.

c) Arrangements should be made with the teacher in charge for safekeeping of valuables, for example during sport period in the office.

d) Learners may not bring computer games, iPods or similar electronic devices to school. No ear phones are visibly allowed when learners are in their uniforms.

e) Learners are not allowed to bring computer games, CD players, radios, speakers, cell phones, iPods, iPads etc to school unless permission to do so has been obtained from the principal. No boom boxes or other blue tooth devices are allowed.

f) Learners are encouraged not to bring valuable items to school. In cases where such items must be brought to school, they should be handed in to the office for safekeeping.

g) Stealing/theft is prohibited at Magalies Special School and is a criminal offence in terms of Criminal Offences Act (COA) and will be dealt with by the South African Police Services (SAPS).

11.12 SECURITY People and property must be protected and all stakeholders are under obligation to report vandalism, damage or misuse of school property, bullying, victimization and/or intimidation. The following are regarded as an offence:

a) Disrespect others’ and the school’s property.

b) Not taking responsibility for personal belongings.

c) Acting in a destructive manner towards school property and staff members.

d) Trading or doing business at school (Selling at School).

e) No gambling in or around the property.

f) Stealing/theft

g) Damaging the property (Buildings, grounds, vehicles etc.).

h) Possession, usage or distribution or selling of alcohol, drugs, unlawful substances or objects.

i) Committing any kind of fraud, or illegal actions which may be to the disadvantage of others.

j) Possession of a dangerous weapons.

k) Threatening with assault or committing any form of assault.

l) Taking someone as a hostage, committing or attempting to commit rape or murder.

m) Any form of abuse (Verbal/Non-Verbal).

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12. INFRINGEMENT OF CODE OF CONDUCT (COC)

If a learner violates the COC by some form of misbehaviour, the disciplinary system will be applied to manage behaviour Taking into account the safety of staff and other learners as well as the safe-guarding of school and other property, a learner accused of any criminal act, could have his/her attendance suspended for the duration of 5 days pending a disciplinary hearing. COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE Learners who feel influenced negatively in any way by the behaviour of their fellow learners or their teacher must:

a) Report the incident to the teacher on playground duty; deputy principal; principal or the office, before going home.

b) If this is unsuccessful, the problem should be reported to the social workers/ therapists; deputy principals and/or the principal first thing the following morning.

c) A written report on how the incident was dealt with will be filed in the learner’s personal file.

d) Parents will be notified regarding any form of inappropriate behaviour. SERIOUS OFFENCES The learner(s) who has allegedly committed the serious offence (Scheduled 1 or 2) will be disciplined with in terms of SASA. In the case where a learner is part of a hearing, the hearing will be fair and according to the regulations of SASA. Should the learner be found guilty in terms of the COC, the School’s Governing Body (SGB) will impose the sanction(s) or recommendations to all the stakeholders involved. (MISCONDUCT OF LEARNERS AT PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS, South African Schools Act, 1996. Act 84/1996. General Notice 693/2000. PG 144/4 October 2000 & General Notice 2591/2001. PG 72/ 9 May 2001) SCHEDULE 1 (SERIOUS MISCONDUCT THAT MAY LEAD TO SUSPENSION) A learner will be guilty of serious misconduct if he/she, intentionally and without just excuse:

a) Seriously threatens, disrupt or frustrate teaching or learning in a class.

b) Disrupt the functioning of the school.

c) Distributes or possession of any future test or examination material.

d) Cheating/dishonesty during tests or examinations.

e) Engages in any act of public indecency;

f) Any form of sexual harassment.

g) Distributes of possession of any form of pornography and/or;

h) Under the influence or possession of any form of alcohol/illegal substances.

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SCHEDULE 2 (SERIOUS MISCONDUCT THAT MAY LEAD TO EXPELSION) A learner will be guilty of serious misconduct if he/she, intentionally and without just excuse:

a) Found guilty of misconduct as contemplated in Schedule 1.

b) Fails to comply with punishment or suspension as a correctional measure.

c) Forges/fraud/trades of any school’s documents.

d) In possession/consumption/transmission/trading of any form of alcohol/illegal/narcotic substances, to bribe/gamble, to assault, to be in possession of any dangerous weapon(s) or engagement in any theft/illegal activities.

e) An attempt to murder/rape or to engage in hostage situations/sexual activities and/or,

f) Maliciously damages the school’s property.

DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM

DEALING WITH SERIOUS MISCONDUCT IN MAGALIES SCHOOL SEE ANNEXURE CIGARETTES Possession of cigarettes or smoking cigarettes or to be in the company of a learner smoking a cigarette. Confiscated cigarettes and e-cigarettes, e-vaporizers will not be returned for the learner, parent or guardian in question. a) First Offence: Items confiscated. Parents/guardians notified.

b) Second Offence: Items confiscated. Parents/guardians notified, Parents/guardians

intervention

c) Third Offence: Items confiscated. Parents /guardians notified. Suspended for 2 academic days for repeated defiance of school rules.

ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES

Use or being under the influence of illegal substances or to be in the company of a learner/s using illegal substances:

First Offence a) A drug test is done to verify the presence of the drug in the learner’s system. b) Learner is placed on an in-school suspension and may not transgress any rules in

the school COC. c) Must attend a drug education program. d) The leaner may not take part in extra-mural activities or go on any excursions,

outings or tours until a negative test is produced. e) An Intervention meeting is held and the learner is referred to the school counselor and

may be referred to South African National Council on Alcoholism (SANCA), National Institute for Crime prevention and the Reintegration of Offenders) (NICRO).

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Second Offence a) A drug test is done to verify the presence of the drug in the learner’s system. b) Learner is suspended pending a disciplinary hearing. c) The leaner may not take part in extra-mural activities or go on any excursions,

outings or tours until a negative test is produced. d) Must attend a Drug Education program. e) An Intervention meeting is held and the learner is referred to the school social worker.

as well as SANCA or NICRO if this has not already been done f) The learner must see a psychologist. Disciplinary hearing- suspension pending

recommendation for expulsion from Head of Department (Senior Manager) of the Gauteng Department of Education.(HoD)

CELLPHONES (Use of Cell Phones, Earphones and All Electronic Devices during school hours) Cell phones are prohibited. This rule applies to all electronic devices e.g. iPods, MP3 players, smart watches, iPads, etc and including head-phones.)

Confiscated electronic devices e.g. Cell phones, iPods, MP3 players, smart watches, iPads, etc and including head-phones.) are to handed over to the learner, parent and guardian in question after the following procedures has been adhered to: Possession of / or use of cell phone on school grounds/premises: a) First Offence: Cell phone to be confiscated. Parents/guardians notified and

parent/learner to pay an amount of R50 fine to get the cell phone back.

b) Second Offence Cell phone to be confiscated. Parents/guardians notified cell phone to keep for a week in the office and parents/guardians /learner to pay an amount of R50 fine to get the cell phone back.

c) Third Offence: Cell phone confiscated. Parents/guardians notified cell phone to keep at school for the rest of term and parents/learner to pay an amount of R50 fine to get the cell phone back.

TRADING / DOING BUSINESS AT SCHOOL (TRADING AT SCHOOL) Items confiscated will not be returned.

a) First Offence: Items confiscated. Parents/guardians notified.

b) Second Offence: Items confiscated. Parents/guardians notified, Parents/guardians intervention

c) Third Offence: Items confiscated. Parents/guardians notified. Suspended for 2 academic days for repeated defiance of school rules.

GRIEVANCE / APPEAL PROCEDURE a) If the outcome of a formal disciplinary hearing is not mutually acceptable to the

interested parties, then the aggrieved party may lodge a grievance or an appeal with the Head of Department (Senior Manager) of the Gauteng Department of Education.

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b) It then becomes the responsibility of the Gauteng Department of Education to provide for arbitration in the matter in order to resolve the grievance / settle the appeal.

c) The decision of the arbitrator will be binding on all parties.

13. PROMOTION OF CODE OF CONDUCT

a) This policy will be displayed for public viewing in the school.

b) This policy will be made available to each learner in the official language of teaching and learning on registration.

c) This policy shall clarify in positive terms what the expectations of the school are.

d) The following action shall be taken to clarify the expectation of the school to learners: i. Each learner to be given a copy of the code of conduct at the beginning of each

year. ii. Classroom rules and the consequences for breaking these rules will be displayed

in the class.

14. APPROVAL

Recommended by: (Principal) (Print name)

M Loubser Signature:

Date:

Approved by: (SGB Chairperson) (Print name)

D Ackermann Signature:

Date:

Verification by GDE: (District Director) (Print Name)

Signature:

Date of Verification

Certified by : (Print Name)

Signature:

Date:

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MAGALIES SPECIAL SCHOOL

DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM

SCHEDULE 1 MISCONDUCT SCHEDULE 2 MISCONDUCT

CATEGORY 1 CATEGORY 2 CATEGORY 3

Academic neglect

• Not working in class

• Homework not done or handed in

• Projects not done or handed in

Academic misconduct

• Cheating in exams

• Dishonesty in exams

Physical assault

Disruptive behaviour in class

• Coming late for class

• Leaving class without permission

• Littering

• No co-operation

• Using foul language

• Not adhering to class rules

• Disrupting class

• Leaving school books at home

Disrespectful and unruly behaviour

Theft

Disruptive behaviour on school ground (not in class)

• Walking around without permission

• Littering

• Disruptive behaviour

• Coming late for school

• Leaving school grounds without

• Permission

• Trespassing at unauthorized premises

Bully

• Verbal bullying

• Intimidation

• Threatening

• Cyber Bullying

• Social Bullying

Vandalism

Unauthorized use of technological equipment

Use or possession of cigarettes and alcohol

In possession of any dangerous weapons

Not adhering to Code of Conduct with regards to uniform, hair styles, jewellery and accessories

Sexual harassment In possession of fire crackers

Misconduct at any official school activity

Racist remarks or behaviour Drug use and/or the possession of drugs (Illegal substances)

In possession of pornographic material in any form

Fraud

Physical contact Continuous disruptive behaviour in the class

Any collective action disrupting the school's order

Continuous disruptive behaviour on the school ground (Not in class)

Gambling/Trading Failing to comply with suspension as correctional measure

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Will be reviewed in December 2018

Magalies Special School THIS SHEET HAS TO BE RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL AND WILL BE PLACED ON THE LEARNER’S PERSONAL FILE!

DECLARATION AND UNDERTAKING: It is a privilege to be a learner of Magalies Special School.

I, __________________________________, a learner of Magalies Special School understand the rules and implications or consequences. I undertake to adhere to the COC under the leadership of the Principal, Deputy Principals, Teachers and Therapists. I will obey my responsibilities as discussed in the COC. I will follow the school rules and procedures. I will except and adhere to the authority of the Principal, Deputy Principal, Teachers and Therapists.

I will abide by the corrective measures used by Magalies Special School if I am disobedient.

• I will keep a distance from all forms of violence, vandalism and any other inappropriate behaviour.

• I will treat the staff, other learners and visitors with respect regardless of their culture, religion, ability, race, gender, age, social class or any other barriers.

• I will withhold myself from stealing and destroying of school- and other individual’s property and will work with the school to make it a safe place for everyone.

• I will withhold myself from any bullying practices (physical, verbal, emotional and electronically).

• I will inform the school if I experience any problems or any form of abuse.

We acknowledge that by signing acceptance of the above Declaration, we are bound by the Magalies Special School Code of Conduct and the school’s Disciplinary process.

_________________________________________________ NAME & SURNAME IN BLOCK LETTERS OF PARENT ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY:

_________________________________ _____________________________ LEARNER PARENT/GUARDIAN

__________________________________ DATE (Refusal to sign this declaration and undertaking does not absolve responsibility and rules will still apply as laid out in this Code of Conduct)