09 Apr 2019
Dear Parents and community,
I am aware that there has been recent concern raised regarding access to toilets during class time. There is no detention for students needing the toilet and they can access the toilet at any time.
This arrangement has been in existence since 2016 – we have just reminded our students and staff about it as we do each year. If a student needs to use the bathroom during class time they need to ask the supervising teacher. A separate toilet is made available for use during class time. This facility is located in the administration building.
The arrangement is similar to those in many high schools in NSW to ensure the safety of students and that they are in the care and supervision of a staff member at all times.
1. The focus in our school is on high expectations for all students. We expect students to be in class and engaged with their learning and also to learn to work consistently between breaks. Students will need this discipline as seniors and also in their post-school destinations such as apprenticeships, work or further study.
2. The school takes the safety of your children very seriously, and classroom teachers have direct responsibilty for this. They should know the whereabouts of all students at all times and can only let students out of their immediate supervision if a system is in place to manage it safely.
3. The current rules mean school facilities can be maintained to a higher standard for the comfort and safety of all students.
4. Under the current arrangements students out of class need to attend a supervised area and sign in and out so we know where they are in case of emergency. No bullying can occur in the designated toilet as it is next to the Principal’s office.
5. The arrangements have resulted in students spending more time engaged with learning, there are fewer opportunities for inappropriate behaviour out of class, and maintenance costs are reduced, meaning more money for educational programs.
We have been through this with all students. If your child has a medical condition or issue then a note is sufficient with no questions to permit a pass and that means no questions asked. To arrange this, please call the front office and/or DP and/or Year Advisor. All requests individually and confidentially. Students have been told this on assemblies on many occasions.
Students who abuse the process need to be referred to executive, and may be asked make up the learning time they miss. Contact home should also be made. If students choose not to make up the time promptly without a good reason, they are responsible for making it up later.
Parents have been advised of our arrangements, but if any have concerns they are always encouraged to contact the school, talk to the DP or myself. I personally will have passes made if parents make me aware of any health issues, as will my Deputies. Year Advisors are another contact point for parents.
Last Friday, after discussions with my senior cohort they have come with a proposal to streamline the matter. Currently, they are now writing this up and taking it through the Student Representative Council.
I enclose for your information the link to the Morissetian where this was first initiated in 2016.
March 2016 - Edition No 1
SCHOOL TOILETS
Why is the school considering locking the toilets during class time?
This has been discussed and agreed to by student leaders, staff and community. The reasons behind it are as follows:
1. The school values lesson time and learning. Staff are working hard to develop and deliver engaging lessons for students benefit. If student re not in class, they cannot learn. We need to maximise student time in classes.
2. To stop vandalism and graffiti that has been occurring during class time when the areas are unsupervised
3. To promote responsible use of the break times to minimise time lost to class.
4. To ensure staff are available to monitor potential issues of harassment in these areas.
5. Preparing students for the world of work where breaks are allocated and they need to wisely make choices.
Why have the student leaders supported this?
The student leaders (Captains and Prefects) believe that if the toilets are presented well and maintained then:
1. Students will value toilets that are safe, clean and hygienic for all students to use. Presenting in an inviting at-mosphere.
2. Student leaders want to promote pride and respect for the school environment.
3. Student leaders are supportive of all efforts to minimise repair and maintenance costs to put money back into curriculum support and programs for students.
4. They, and we, acknowledge it is a minority of students who destroy the environment for others.
What if my child has a long term health issue and needs to use toilets during class?
1. Any student who has an identified health care need will be given a permanent pass. They simply show this pass to their teacher and they will be given permission to leave.
2. They will go to front office, sign in and access the nominated toilets. Then return to class.
3. We still encourage them to use their breaks in the first instance to eat and take rest stops.
4. This can be arranged through HT Welfare, Ms Ballantyne, the Deputies, or Principal. Please contact us if you are unsure.
What about emergency situations or short term needs?
1. Parents may ring the front office, deputy or Principal to arrange a pass for a shorter period of time if there is a health need emerging. (ie short term illness or side effect of medication)
2. We will issue your child with a temporary pass for a day or up to a week.
3. Longer periods may require an interview or a medical certificate to support the application.
What if my child forgets to go during the breaks and has to access the toilets during class?
1. Staff will use their professional judgement. They may issue the child with a one off pass. (as now)
2. With permission, your child goes to the front office and signs the register. Returns to class immediately after using the toilet.
3. If there are repeated incidents from the one class without a reason your child may be asked to complete short detentions for failing to follow the processes in place.
4. Failure in a number of classes, or repeated incidents for a number of classes may mean a HTeacher referral and or Deputy to make contact home.
We appreciate this is a change, however, the improvements in schools who have implement this have been significant. We want to provide a safe, clean, inviting environment for your child to access toilets. We want them to remain clean and respected. We have identified them as a priority to have them listed for upgrade to ensure we can provide this through our Assetts Department but want the expenditure to be worthwhile and last.
I am sure that as the student body see the work commence and improvements happen they will take more ownership and we may be able to rethink this strategy at a later date. Your understanding is appreciated.