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TSHWANE MUSLIM SCHOOL
GENERAL SCHOOL POLICY
CONTENTS PAGE
TSHWANE MUSLIM SCHOOL
GENERAL SCHOOL POLICY
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16.1
16.2
16.3
16.4
16.5
16.6
16.7
16.8
16.9
16.10
16.11
16.12
16.13
16.14
16.15
16.16
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TOPIC
Welcome and introduction
School Prayer
National Anthem
Vision / Mission Statement
Motto
Cornerstone Beliefs
The Rights of Learners
The Responsibility of Learners
The Rights of Parents
The Responsibility of Parents
The Rights of Staff
The Responsibilities of Staff
The School Encourages Good Behaviour
The School’s Behavioral Expectations
Admission to Tshwane Muslim School
Miscellaneous Guidelines
Language Policy
Code of Conduct
School Fees
Parents’ Role
Visitors
Health Services
Lost and Found
Learner Deliveries
Telephones
Parent Concern and Complaint Procedures
TMS Alert System
Parent Consultations
Progress Reports
Field Trips / Excursions
Transportation
Library
Textbooks
Guidelines for all TMS activities
School Functions
Checking out of School
Withdrawals
Learner Parking
Attendance
Lateness
Homework
Discipline
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1. WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Tshwane Muslim School family. We actively promote a sense of community and belonging. We
strive to create a safe and nurturing environment in which you can develop your full potential - academically,
socially and physically.
The school ethos is grounded in Islamic beliefs and principles. This is reflected in our academic as well as our cocurricular and extra-curricular programs. At the same time we also support the principles of the South African
constitution and actively strive to give expression to the South African Education Act and all other related rules and
regulations.
We will place at your disposal a team of qualified and dedicated teachers to help you achieve your goals. We have
good infrastructure that will facilitate the achievement of our aims and objectives, and to fulfill our aspirations as
expressed in our Vision and Mission Statement.
2. SCHOOL PRAYER
IN THE NAME OF GOD, THE BENEFICENT, THE MERCIFUL
All praise is due to God,
The Cherisher and Sustainer of the world,
Most Gracious, Most Merciful,
Master of the Day of Judgement.
Thee alone do we worship and Thine assistance do we seek.
Show us the straight path
The path of those on whom Thou has bestowed Thy Grace,
Not of those who became the object of Thine wrath
Nor of those who went astray.
Amen.
3. NATIONAL ANTHEM
Nkosi sikelel’ Africa,
Maluphakanyisw’u-phondo Iwayo,
Yizwa imithandazo yethu,
Nkozi sikelela thina lusapho-Iwayo.
Morena boloka Setjha-ba saheso,
Ofedise dintwa le matshewenyeho,
O se boloke, O se boloke,
Setjhaba saheso, Setjhaba sa,
South Africa, South Africa.
Uit die blou van onse hemel
Uit die diepte van onse see,
Oor ons ewige gebergtes
Waar die kranse antwoord gee,
Sound the call to come together
And united we shall stand
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Let us live and strive for freedom
In South Africa our land.
4. VISION / MISSION STATEMENT
“He taught man that which he (man) knew not.” (Quraan 96.5)
“Acquisition of knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim.”
The STHWANE MUSLIM SCHOOL aims at providing a sound education in order to develop the child’s moral,
spiritual, intellectual and physical character in accordance with the Laws of Allah (SWT) and the example of
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) by:
1. Inculcating in the child a consciousness of Allah (SWT) and his relationship with his Creator.
2. Imparting knowledge that will enable learners to differentiate truth from falsehood.
3. Instilling in learners a consciousness of Allah (SWT) of a source of intellectual, emotional, spiritual
and physical growth, accepting the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as the very embodiment of
those qualities.
4. Promoting and preserving Islamic identity and values with pride and dignity.
5. Developing in the child confidence, responsibility and leadership qualities based on compassion,
humility and righteousness.
6. Developing a culture of tolerance and respect towards all human beings.
7. Encouraging freedom of thought and expression within the bounds of Shariah.
8. Providing knowledge, skills and attitudes that will exemplify dedication and excellence.
5. MOTTO
Under the light of faith, we educate.
6. CORNER STONE BELIEFS
Tshwane Muslim School believes:
1. In complying with the commandments of Allah based on the Holy Quraan and Sunnah.
2. That a just society requires ethical behavior and we must be seen to be giving the highest priority to
learners’ discipline in both moral and general behavior.
3. That each person is unique and has intrinsic value.
4. That education is a shared responsibility involving learners, educators, parents and the community.
5. That a sense of belonging and self-worth are essential to learning.
6. That learners must be encouraged to realize and appreciate their responsibilities, to respect others and to
develop a deep concern for their social and physical environment.
7. That each learner must be guided and assisted to fulfill his/her potential and to develop life skills so as to
equip him/her to meet the challenges of society.
8. That the qualities of self-discipline and self-reliance must be encouraged; the ability to think critically and
creatively; to exercise responsible choices and to engage in self-evaluation.
9. That a commitment and a desire to achieve the highest possible standards in all activities within the Islamic
context must be inculcated.
10. In equipping learners to participate effectively in a common future with all South Africans.
7. THE RIGHTS OF LEARNERS
7.1 The right to worship Allah and to practice Islam.
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7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
The right to access to the Religious Instruction Program.
The right to access to the Teaching Program and National Curriculum.
The right to uninterrupted learning.
The right to function free from prejudice and discrimination.
The right to participate in sports, cultural, extra-curricular and co-curricular activities organized by the
school.
7.7 The right to be treated courteously, respectfully and with consideration and dignity.
7.8 The right to fair, firm and just treatment.
7.9 The right to be and feel safe and to work and play in a clean, safe and orderly environment.
7.10
The right to know what is expected and to be informed of matters that concern them directly.
7.11
The right to protection against neglect, cruelty, abuse and exploitation.
8. THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF LEARNERS
RIGHTS DO NOT EXIST IN A VACUUM, AND IF THEY ARE TO BE PROTECTED, THEY REQUIRE THE ACCEPTANCE
OF RESPONSIBILITY
8.1 To abide by the school policy.
8.2 To respect Islamic Teachings.
8.3 To value their schooling and education.
8.4 To treat the school community with consideration and respect.
8.5 To do their best to motivate and educate themselves to their full potential.
8.6 To act maturely, sensibly and responsibly.
8.7 To assist staff, fellow learners and visitors in any way possible.
8.8 To ask for assistance if needed.
8.9 To sort out differences and disagreements without conflict and abuse.
8.10
To pay attention, remain focused, follow instructions and perform to the best of their abilities.
8.11
To ensure correspondence, circulars and other notices dispatched from the school for their
parents’ attention reach their parents.
8.12
Accept responsibility for the general cleanliness and appearance of the school.
8.13
To ensure that their attire conforms to the school and sports dress code.
8.14
To secure his/her own personal possessions and property from any loss or damage.
8.15
To participate in/or support all school activities.
9.
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
9.8
THE RIGHTS OF PARENTS
The right to privacy and confidentiality.
The right to be assured of their children’s safety and general wellbeing.
The right to be treated with courtesy and respect.
The right to be assured that their children’s rights are respected.
The right to raise concerns with the staff without fear of intimidation or victimization of their children.
The right to be informed of their child’s performance at school.
The right to be informed of school activities and decisions directly concerning their children.
The right to feel secure about their belongings and resources.
10. THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS
Parents are expected to ensure that their children are well disciplined, keen to learn, have the desired attitude
and are willing to participate in the curricular and extra-curricular life of the school.
10.1
10.2
To support and actively model Islamic morals.
To provide love, affection and acceptance.
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10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
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10.11
10.12
10.13
10.14
10.15
10.16
10.17
10.18
10.19
To provide food, clothing, shelter, security and safety.
To assign young people specific duties and to allow them to manage the tasks, thereby enabling
them to be responsible for themselves.
To emphasize the value of family, Ummah and the glorious creation of Allah.
To collect receipts of any payments made to the school.
To assist young people with the setting of goals and objectives.
To monitor their health, entertainment, rest and relaxation and general wellbeing.
To build self-confidence by praising and recognizing positive expectations, and by discussing and
unabusively discouraging negative behavior.
To promote the school and education.
To show active interest in the learner’s schooling by enquiring about things they learn at school.
To show active interest in the functioning of the school and school activities.
To ensure that learners get to school on time and attend school regularly.
To ensure that learners respect the dress and disciplinary codes of the school.
To inform the school if the learner is experiencing any difficulties.
To share any information that parents believe will contribute to the learners’ growth at school.
To attend school meetings, activities and functions.
To respond promptly to school notices and circulars.
To especially attend Parent-Teacher Consultations so as to discuss the learners’ progress.
11. THE RIGHTS OF STAFF
11.1
To be respected as a professional by learners, parents and colleagues.
11.2
The right to privacy and confidentiality.
11.3
The right to be safe from abuse.
11.4
To be able to teach without unnecessary interruptions.
11.5
To exert control over the learners so as to promote academic, emotional and spiritual wellbeing
and discipline.
11.6
To impose fair consequences on learners who disregard the rules and abuse the rights of others.
12. THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF STAFF
12.1
To respect the rights of learners and their parents.
12.2
To create a safe and stimulating environment that is conducive to the learners’ growth.
12.3
Communicating regularly with parents.
13. THE SCHOOL ENCOURAGES GOOD BEHAVIOUR
The school accepts its responsibility to organize itself in such a way that it positively encouragesthe desired
behavior by:
13.1
13.2
13.3
13.4
13.5
13.6
13.7
13.8
13.9
Defining the desired behavior.
Making expectations clear.
Using effective and stimulating teaching methods.
Staff modeling appropriate behavior.
Teaching of strategies for resolving conflicts/difficulties.
Ensuring good behavior and efforts are acknowledged.
Creating a safe and predictable environment.
Communicating to all learners that they are valued, whatever their abilities, interest and personal
disposition.
Teaching the social skills required to participate fully in the school.
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14. THE SCHOOL’S BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
LEARNERS ARE ENCOURAGED AND EXPECTED TO:
14.1
Personify Islamic values by being honest, considerate and friendly.
14.2
Obey school rules and meet school requirements.
14.3
Accept learners’ responsibilities.
14.4
Accept responsibility for their behavior and learning.
14.5
Abstain from (inappropriate) behavior that makes others uncomfortable.
14.6
Protect their own interests, property and that of others including that which belongs to the school.
14.7
Act in ways that do not endanger or injure themselves or others.
14.8
Complete the assignments and projects set and permit others to do the same.
14.9
Arrive at school and all lessons promptly, ready to work.
14.10
Maintain personal and classroom neatness.
14.11
Maintain optimism, a cheerful countenance and good posture.
14.12
Greet fellow learners, staff and visitors.
14.13
Be ever ready to give aid and assistance.
14.14
Make commitments.
14.15
Go through a problem in order to resolve it.
14.16
Respect other achieving learners and learn from them.
14.17
Know what to fight for and what to compromise on.
14.18
Feel strong enough to be gentle.
14.19
Listen. Think end explain.
14.20
Say “I’m sorry, I was wrong” when necessary because growing human beings learn every day.
14.21
Participate in voluntary and community services.
14.22
Participate in school activities.
14.23
Be cooperative and accepting of authority.
14.24
Be morally sound.
14.25
Be physically fit and participate in sports meetings/fixtures.
14.26
Be industrious and motivated.
14.27
Contributing to class and determined to do well.
14.28
Strive for positions of office/status.
14.29
Behave courteously, respectfully and considerately at all times, whether at school, outside school
or on an excursion.
15 ADMISSION TO TSHWANE MUSLIM SCHOOL
 Admission requirements for Tshwane Muslim School shall not unfairly discriminate in any way,
particularly on grounds of race, gender, sex, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation,
age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture or language;
 No learner shall be refused admission to Tshwane Muslim School on the ground that his or her parent :
 Has not paid the school fees determined by the governing body.
 Does not subscribe to the mission, goals or objectives of the school.
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 Has refused to enter into a contract with the school, which excludes the liability of the school
to the parent arising out of circumstances relating to the education of the learner.
 An application for the admission of learner to Tshwane Muslim School shall be made to the principal of the
school.
 If the principal refuses an application under subsection (3) of the Schools Act, he or she shall inform the
parent of the learner in writing of his or her decision and the reasons for such a refusal.
16. MISCELLANEOUS GUIDELINES
16.1 Language Policy:
The language of teaching and learning is English. The first additional language is Afrikaans.
16.2 Code Of Conduct
Upon admission the parent and senior learner are expected to sign a code of conduct that is binding on every
learner.
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CODE OF CONDUCT
AIM
In an endeavour to create an environment which is conducive to the establishment of an Islamic ethos,
wholesome learning, coupled with discipline, the Code of Conduct applies:
Our goals can only be achieved with the sincere co-operation of all
learners, parents, educators, the Board of Governors and all other role players.
CONDUCT
Learners are expected to behave impeccably at all times. They must display loyalty to their school, be
obedient, courteous, polite and show respect to their educators, peers and all human beings.
CLASSROOMS
a. Classrooms should be kept clean and tidy at all times.
b. Disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated.
c. Learners will be held liable for (any) damaged, defaced or lost textbooks or
any other school property.
d. Eating and drinking in the classroom and placing food or drinks on the
window sills will not be tolerated.
e. Boys and girls should remain within their sections of the classrooms and
in their respective courtyards.
f. Learners are not allowed to remain in the classroom during breaks.
g. Whilst in class, learners are to remain seated. Loitering and standing
around must be avoided.
h. Firecrackers, matches, cigarette lighters, cigarettes including electronic
cigarettes, knives, weapons, stink bombs and any offensive and
dangerous articles are prohibited on school property.
i. Learners should be punctual for all lessons. Class changing must be
rapid and orderly.
ATTENDANCE
a. All appointments (e.g. dentist, doctor etc.) should be made outside of
school hours if possible.
b. Frequent absenteeism will not be tolerated.
c. Learners absent for less than 3 days must produce a parent’s / guardian’s
letter to explain their absence.
d. Learners absent for more than 3 days must produce a medical certificate.
e. Learners should report to school on time.
HOMEWORK
a. Learners must ensure that homework is completed by the due date.
b. Copying of homework is not allowed.
c. Absentees should make it their duty to enquire about any homework
given during their absence and duly complete it.
d. Quraan sabaq will be regarded as homework.
e. Failure to produce homework at school will be regarded as homework
not done.
BREAKS
a. Boys and girls must remain in their prescribed areas.
b. Littering is prohibited.
c. Any accidents, injuries and problems must be reported to educators on
ground duty immediately.
d. Learners should begin returning to their classrooms before the buzzer
goes off.
e. During breaks, no learners should remain in the classroom unless
supervised by a teacher.
ASSEMBLY
a. Attendance at assembly is compulsory.
b. Learners must report for assembly promptly.
c. Silence should be maintained in the assembly area.
d. At the end of assembly learners must return to their classrooms promptly and quietly.
SPORTS / EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
a. It is compulsory for learners to participate in school sports and extra
curricular activities.
b. Learners should follow the prescribed dress code for sports.
c. Learners should not damage sports equipment.
d. All sports equipment should be returned to the teacher in charge at the
end of the session.
SALAAH
a. It is compulsory for learners to attend Salaah.
b. Learners should proceed to the Jamaat Khana (J.K.) immediately with the
commencement of the Azaan while on school premises.
c. Learners are to conduct themselves in a dignified manner in the House of
Allah. Talking, whispering, joking and playing is strictly prohibited.
d. Learners should occupy their prescribed places in the Jamaat Khana.
e. It is compulsory for boys from Grade 8 to Grade 12 to perform Jumu’ah
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16.3 School Fees
Tshwane Muslim Schools’ functionality is largely dependent on payment of school fees; it being an Independent
school. School fees are compulsory and the governing body determines the amount of school fees the school could
raise. Parents who thus enroll their children in this school are lawfully liable for the payment of the school fees. No
learner may however be refused admission to Tshwane Muslim School if the parent is unable to pay the school
fees. These parents should complete an application form for a subsidy by the Governing Body.
16.4 Parents Play an Integral Role as Part of The Educational Team
To achieve this following will be done:
 The ‘Parent Forum’ promotes good communication between staff and parents and see to it that the
parents contribute their assistance to the school;
 Parents Days and personal interviews;
 Organize social events like family events and other activities;
 Create support groups;
 Make use of parent assistance in sports training and other events.
16.5 Visitors
TMS practices a closed campus policy. This requires that all visitors report first to the office. Learners from other
schools are not allowed to visit during school hours. All visitors on campus without permission will be asked to
leave. Those who refuse will be considered trespassers and dealt with accordingly.
Any person who comes into any school building or upon any school ground, parking lot, sidewalk, or public way
adjacent thereto, without lawful business thereon, and whose presence or acts interfere with the peaceful
conduct of the activities of the school or disrupt the school or its pupils or school activities, unless such person is
a parent or guardian of a child attending that school, or is a learner at the school or has prior written permission
for the entry from the Principal of is guilty of trespassing. Visits during school hours should be first arranged with
the teacher and principal or designee. To ensure the safety of learners and staff and avoid potential disruptions, all
visitors shall register immediately upon entering any school building or grounds when school is in session.
16.6 Health Services
16.6.1 Medication
Learners who become ill during the school day should report on a pass from a staff member to the school office.
Every effort will be made to contact parents as the need occurs. It is important that an accurate emergency
phone number be listed at school.
16.6.2 Assistance with Medication
 Any learner who is required to take a prescribed medication during regular school hours should do so in
compliance with BMS Schools regulations:
 Learners may not carry any medications, including over the counter products, on their persons.
 For any and all medications to be taken at school, the Medication Authorization Form must be
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completed by the child’s physician. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications,
including but not limited to, aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprophen, and/or other cold remedies.
 The parent or guardian must also sign the Medication Permission Form.
 All medications shall be brought to school by a parent or guardian in the original manufactured
container. The dosage provided must match the physician’s order.
 Learners are not allowed to carry or administer their own medication at school, except for the following
emergency medications: asthma inhalers, Epi-Pens, insulin, and Glucagon. In this case, the physician
must give written permission for the learner to self-medicate. The parent must also complete an
additional permission form.
 Learners who have specific doctor’s order, which require self- medication during the school day, are required
to complete all of the required forms which include doctor signature and prescription copies
16.6.3 Illness or Injury at School:
Injured or ill learners should ask for a permission card from their teacher to see the school secretary (in charge of
First Aid). If it is determined that the learner needs to go home, the child must be checked out through the
office. All parents/guardians should have a valid local phone number on file in the office in case a learner needs
to go home. In cases of fever or vomiting, learners must remain fever-free for 24 hours before returning to
school.
16.7 Lost And Found
The Lost and Found items are located in the Secretary’s office. Learners should identify all belongings with their
name in indelible ink, i.e. book bags, athletic shoes and equipment, etc.
16.8 Learner Deliveries
In an effort to reduce the interruptions of Instructional time, items for delivery to your child will be
available for pick up by your learner only during the break..
INSTRUCTIONAL TIME WILL NOT BE INTERRUPTED FOR DELIVERIES OF PERSONAL ITEMS, SUCH AS
FLOWERS, BALLOONS, LUNCHES, ETC.
16.9 Telephones
All office phones are reserved for business purposes. Learners will not be called out of class to receive
telephone calls. Emergency phone messages only from parents or guardians will be delivered to a learner
in class. A note from the learner’s teacher is required in order to use the telephone. If your telephone
number changes during the school year, please send the new number to your child’s teacher. It is very
helpful to have more than one contact number in case of an emergency.
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16.10 Parent Concern And Complaint Procedures
Specific concerns regarding Tshwane Muslim School should be discussed with the following
staff members in the following order:
 TMS Teacher, if involved, and/or Deputy Principal
 TMS Principal
 Board of Governors
If a parent feels it is necessary to complete a Complaint Form, the following procedure
should be followed:
 A Complaint Procedure Form can be obtained by request in the Benoni Muslim School
Administration Office
 Complete the Complaint Procedure Form;
 Submit the form to the office
16.11 TMS Alert System
TMS is now using an SMS system to keep parents informed throughout the year. Information regarding
school closings, inclement weather, and important school events will be provided through this system.
Please make sure all of your contact information is correct and you update your profile when necessary.
16.12 Parent Consultations:
Regular communication between parents and teachers is certainly important. All parents will receive
information and a scheduled consultation time prior to these dates. Parents are asked to contact
teachers to schedule any additional consultations in order to allow adequate time to discuss their child’s
needs. Communication should not be limited to just consultations. A parent may reach any teacher by
calling the school office and leaving his/her phone number for a return call. Our teachers see
responsiveness to parental inquiries as an important responsibility essential for the educational
advancement of our children.
16.13 Progress Reports (Report Cards):
Learners will receive a Progress Report at the end of every term to keep parents aware of the academic
performance of their child.
16.14 Field Trips/Excursions
Field trips are considered to be a valuable part of the educational program and shall be planned
educational experience. It shall be preceded by an in-class orientation session and followed by a
discussion and evaluation of the experience.
 A signed parental permission slip MUST be secured for any field trip involving
transportation of learners. Emailed, verbal, or hand written permission slips WILL NOT be
accepted.
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 Learners on the field trips represent their school and shall understand that they shall
remain under school supervision during the entire field trip. They shall understand the
standards of personal conduct of a field trip.
 Learners who do not participate in the field trip must attend school.
16.15 Transportation
Transportation can be arranged for those learners who reside in the feeder areas
For further information, inquire at the School Administration Office.
16.16 Library
The library provides educational media services to learners, teachers, and the school administration. These services
provide a book and non-book collection of reference materials. The library is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Any
learner or school employee may use the library. The library clerk will explain how to use the library and what materials
may be checked out.
16.17 Textbooks
16.17.1 Method of issuance:
Textbooks will be issued by classroom teachers or the library clerks. Each learner must write his/her name and the
teacher's name in ink in the appropriate space inside the front cover of the book. Damaged books issued to learners
must be reported to the teacher at the time the book is issued and the condition noted on the textbook inside cover.
16.17.2 Care and use of textbooks:
Textbooks should be covered at all times, and learners will be charged for excessive damage. A lost book must be paid
for by the learner before a new one can be issued. Lost books not paid for will become financial obligations and learners
will not receive a report until the obligation is paid. The school is not responsible for books that are damaged or stolen
from school or lockers. Textbook obligations must be cleared at the end of each school year.
16.17.3 Return of books:
At the end of each year, the learner must return the book that was issued to him/her. Learners leaving school must
return their books to the administration office.
17. GUIDELINES FOR ALL TMS ACTIVITIES
 All school rules, including the dress code, are in effect at every school-sponsored activity or sporting event.
 Once a learner leaves an event or game, he/she cannot re-enter the event and will be directed to proceed home.
 All learners must respond appropriately to the directions of all school staff regardless of the location of the event
(on or off premises, home or away games). This includes the administrative and supervisory staff from the school at
which the event is being held.
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 Learners must be "in good standing" with merits and obligations and have cleared all detentions to attend major
events.

Learners on suspension from school are not to be on school premises and may not participate in or attend
any school function, game, or activity home or away during the time of their suspension from school.
 School staff supervision is provided during all Tshwani Muslim School scheduled after school events and
activities. All school event supervision does not extend beyond the conclusion of the event or outside the
event itself. Learners are directed to leave the event or activity and proceed home immediately following its
conclusion. Learners are directed not to remain at school or at the event location or wander around the event
location unsupervised during or following an event.
 The BMS discipline guidelines and procedures govern learner behaviour while participating in school-sponsored
activities. Learners may be barred from participation in or attendance at any extracurricular activities because of
inappropriate behaviour.
PARENTS ARE CAUTIONED TO PICK UP THEIR LEARNERS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE CONCLUSION OF AN EVENT OR
TO PROVIDE A SUITABLE ALTERNATIVE FORM OF TRANSPORTATION HOME.
18 School Functions:
Activities organized by the school are extensions of the school day and learners are expected to exhibit the same
standard of behaviour as required during the regular school setting. All school rules and expectations apply.
19 Checking Out of School:
Parents are encouraged to leave their children in school all day. Doctor and other appointments should be scheduled
outside school hours when possible. If a child must leave school early, he/she must bring a note to the office before
school signed by the parent/guardian seeking permission. Learners checking out of school before 11:30 or checking in
after 11:30 will not be counted present for the day. All learners must be checked out at the main office. Learners will
not be checked out between 2:30 and 3:00 except in cases of emergency or medical appointment.
20 Withdrawals:
Our school should be notified at least two days in advance of a learner’s impending withdrawal. The learner will
receive a withdrawal form and instructions from the office. All textbooks, library books, fees and fines must be
cleared before a learner may receive a transfer record to another school.
21 Learner Parking
 Learners are to park on school premises utilizing the East parking lot. In order to reduce traffic congestion.
 Only learners with approved learner parking permits will be allowed to park their vehicles on school premises.. A
valid driver’s license and proof of insurance are required for a learner-parking permit.
 Learner parking permits may be revoked at any time for reckless driving or violation of the school vehicle policy.
 Vehicles are to be parked in designated parking spaces only. Learners are not to park in the surrounding
neighbourhoods.
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22. ATTENDANCE:
22.1 Legislative Intent
Any pupil subject to compulsory full-time education or to compulsory continuation education who is
absent from school without valid excuse for 10 consecutive days in one school year will be excluded from
the school admission register. Regular attendance in school is essential to learner achievement.
Excessive absences, whether excused or unexcused, will result in falling grades. In an effort to instil good
attendance habits in our learners, Tshwane Muslim School has established the following attendance
policies.
22.2 Excused Absences
22.2. 1. Illness leading to absences of three consecutive days must be documented in writ ing by a
physician and/ or dentist.
22.2. 2. Court appearances documented in writing from the Clerk of Court upon the learner’s return
to school.
22.2.3 Bereavement for immediate family
22.2.4 Exclusion for required immunizations
2 2 . 2 . 5 Family emergency
22.2.6 Extenuating circumstances, as determined and approved by the administration.
22.2.7 Learners who are not present for school excursions/sports will be marked absent.
When the school sponsors a field trip for all or some learners, learners who are not participating in the outing are
expected to be in attendance and will be held accountable for the learning experiences and assignments from the field
experience.
22.3 Unexcused Absences/ Cutting Class
An unexcused absence occurs when a learner is absent from school or class, without the knowledge and
consent of the parent or guardian or the school administration. An unexcused absence also occurs when the learner’s
absence is not supported by a valid excuse.
 Unexcused absences are considered disciplinary events.
 One unexcused absence from class will result in Detention.
 One unexcused absence for an entire day (truancy) may result in a one-day suspension.
 Parents of learners will be called for purposes of verification of absences and dismissals.
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22.4 Absences without a valid excuse.
The following are not valid excuses: overslept, alarm failed, missed ride/bus, flat tire, out of gas, car trouble, etc. A
learner more than ten (30) minutes late to class will be marked absent
Tshwani Muslim School uses an SMS system to notify parents and guardians when their learners are absent or
late to one or more of their scheduled classes
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22.5 To Report An Absence From School
Parents/Guardians: Call the school Office at 011 347 3185 or send a note with the learner upon his/her
return to school. Please include the following information:
When a learner arrives to class after the first break it is counted as an absence and a note
and/or phone call is required. Any absence not cleared by a note or phone call within three (3)
days of the learner's return to school will be considered unexcused and/or truancy.
22.6 Doctor/Dentist Appointment
If absent or late due to a doctor/dental appointment, the learner must bring a note issued by the
doctor/dental office verifying the appointment and indicating the time the learner left the
doctor/dental office.
22.7 Absence Verification
In an effort to assist TMS learners in maintaining good attendance in first and second period classes,
all notes excusing first and second period absences must have a daytime phone number and will be
verified by phone. If the note cannot be verified, the absence will be considered a truancy.
It is imperative and demanded by the law that the school has a correct home phone number,
work phone number, and emergency phone number for every learner. This is to enable
communication between school and parents.
22.8 Returning From An Absence
Tshwani Muslim School's record keeping system to monitor learner attendance. This record keeping
process enables us to provide the most current and accurate information relative to your child’s
attendance. When your child is absent from school, please follow the appropriate procedure.
When returning from an absence, a learner must do the
following:
 Report to the Attendance Officer.
 Present appropriate documentation such as a doctor’s note or verification of other
valid appointments.
22.9 Leaving School without permission
Learners are not to leave campus during the regular school day unless they have been granted leave
All "off school without permission" violations will result in demerits, parent conference, and/or
suspension.”
Learners are not permitted to be in the parking lots during class time or during snack/lunch period.
Learners who do not comply with this direction will be viewed as leaving the school without permission.
Learners who jump the school fences or gates will receive a 1-day suspension.
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22.10 Leave
All learners must get a leave pass to leave school during the regular school
hours.
An Early Leave pass permits the learner to leave before school is out for the day. All requests to leave
school for any reason must be made in writing at least one day before the pass is issued and must
include a telephone number where a parent/guardian can be reached to verify the request. Leave for
doctor/dental appointments must be returned, signed by the doctor/dental office. In all cases, the
parent or legal guardian must sign the leave register before the learner is released from school. If a
learner becomes ill at school or has an emergency, he/she must see the secretary/principal who will
call the parent/guardian to obtain permission to release the learner from school and issue the leave.
23. LATENESS
23.1 Lateness to school disrupts the educational process. Learners are required to report to school
every day at the designated time. Learners are late to school if they are not in their first period class
by 7:40 am. Learners who arrive after 7:40 will receive a five minute grace period and after that will
be given detention to make up all missed class time and assignments. Detention is for double the
number of minutes the learner arrived to school and is held on Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00-4:00 .
23.2 Lateness To Class:
 Learners are expected to report to class on time,
 Learners who report to class late without a valid note will incur detention
 Learners who do not serve their detention will receive a one day suspension.
24. HOMEWORK
Homework is an extension of the curriculum that improves learner performance by reinforcing
material presented in the classroom. It is an important link between school and home that allows
parents to become involved with their child’s education. Homework gives learners the opportunity
to practice skills without the pressure of time and to apply principles based upon work begun in the
classroom.
Homework, projects and assignments come in many forms.
Research papers, Essays, Reading with annotation, Questions from textbook Group work,
Creative art forms/ performances
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24.1 Homework is intended to:








Provide essential practice in needed skills.
Train the learners in good work habits.
Afford opportunities for self-direction.
Enrich and extend school lessons.
Help learner’s budget time.
Bring learners in contact with out-of school learning resources.
Promote growth in responsibility.
Comply with state quality indicators.
24.2. The following schedule may serve as a general guide in determining the amount of homework to be
assigned on any one evening: Grades 9-12 - Thirty (30) minutes per subject, but not to exceed two (2) hours
total for all subjects combined under most circumstances.
24.3 Parents should be aware of the school homework policy and are encouraged to help learners with their
homework without doing it for them. They are urged to show an interest in the work their learners do and
to monitor assigned work. The learner, of course, is primarily responsible for the completion of
assignments. The school welcomes calls and visits from parents relative to learner progress. Visits during
school hours should be first arranged with the teacher and principal or designee. To ensure the safety of
learners and staff and avoid potential disruptions, all visitors shall register immediately upon entering any
school building or grounds when school is in session.
24.4 Parents should be aware of the school homework policy and are encouraged to help learners with
their assignments without doing it for them. They are urged to show an interest in the work their
learners do and to monitor assigned work. The learner, of course, is primarily responsible for the
completion of assignments.
24.5 Request for homework assignments may be granted if a learner is to be out of school for three
or more days. Positive support by teachers, administrators and parents is a key component
necessary for good decision making.
NOTE: Be mindful of deadlines and turn all assignments in on time to avoid penalties. If you wait until the last
minute, chances are you may not do a good job and/or make the deadline. Use you planner to record all
assignments and the due dates. If you miss a day make sure you speak to the teacher or a classmate to get
the assignment.
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25. DISCIPLINE
25.1 Accountability For Poor Choices
As learners strive to achieve the Tshwane Muslim School expectations, it is critical that teachers, parents, and
administrators consistently hold learners accountable when they make poor decisions. One key to this process
is the early, significant involvement of parents when learners first begin to make poor choices. As learners
develop a pattern of making poor choices, parents will be expected to become involved in supporting them
in making good decisions. As learners strive to make good choices, they will be supported at school and
parents will be informed.
 Expectations for learners, both academic and behavioural, will be clearly stated in class.
 Expected learner behaviours will be modelled with consistency by staff.
 Staff will be fair and consistent in their support for learners. Learners will be held accountable for their
decisions.
As learners demonstrate their ability to make good choices for themselves, they will be recognized for their
success. Parents will be informed and invited to support learners as they achieve these expectations.
25.1.1 Removal from Class:
If a learner exhibits persistent disruptive behaviour in class, the teacher can request that the
learner be removed from the class for a period of time (1-4 days). Learners who are removed
from class must make up all missed work and assignments during detention.
25.1.2 Bathroom Pass Usage
Learners are required to have a pass to use the bathroom at all times
25.2 Merit System
The Tshwani Muslim School merit policy establishes that all learners are to maintain a minimum of ninety-five
(95) merits. When a learner allows his/her merits to fall below ninety-five merits because of consequences
related to disciplinary referrals (Pink Slips), he/she is considered a learner not in good standing and is required
to make up these merits.
25.3Demerits
Every learner begins his/her school career with 100 merits. When a learner makes a poor choice, merits may be
taken away (demerits). Each learner is required to maintain a merit record of at least 95 merits to remain in
good standing. A learner is required to earn merits immediately upon falling below 95 merits.
25.3Earning Merits
Making up demerits (earning merits) may be done by serving one 30-minute detention for every two merits
needed, or by doing school service administered by school staff. Only detention or approved school and
community service may be used to earn needed merits.
25.4Detention
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 Detention will be offered 2 days a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and
will be supervised by school staff.
 Detention will be one hour minutes in length; afternoon detention will start at 15:00 p.m.
and end at 16:00
 Learners will not be permitted to talk or sleep. Learners must bring enough schoolwork to keep them
working for the entire time.
 Learners must stay the entire period and be engaged in schoolwork.
25.5 Pink Slip Referrals
Referrals/Blue Slips will be written when a learner has continuously chosen to make inappropriate behaviour
choices. Learners will be held accountable for poor decisions by receiving consequences as listed in the Coe
of Conduct.
25.6 Major Infractions
Major infractions will result in a parent conference and suspension, and/or expulsion. In situations where the
law is violated, learners are subject to possible arrest. Due to the severity of any infraction, the combination
of rules broken, or the repeated nature of the offense, the Code of Conduct will be enforced at the discretion of
the Principal.
25.7 Learner Disciplinary Committee
The SDC procedure is designed to provide learners and their parents with a fair and impartial review of the
learner’s behaviour. Following a review of the learner’s behaviour, the Disciplinary Committee will prescribe the
appropriate course of action to be taken as result of the learner’s behaviour choice. All interventions prescribed
by the Disciplinary Committee are designed to assist the learner to modify his or her behaviour and to create
the
most
productive
and
safe
learning
environment
possible
for
all
learners.
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25.8 Search And Seizure
School staff may search individual learners and their property when there is a reasonable suspicion that
the search will uncover evidence that the learner is violating the law or the rules of the school.
Discretion, good judgement, and common sense be exercised in all cases of search and seizure.
25.9 Controlled Substances
Any learner under the influence or possessing controlled substances in any form on school premises
or at a school sponsored activity or program will be immediately subjected to a five-day (5)
suspension from school, and a parent conference, police notification,. A learner found guilty of selling
narcotics or drugs or who is found to be in possession of drugs will be referred to the Gauteng Department
of Education for expulsion from schools
25.10 Cheating/Plagiarism
Learners at Tshwani Muslim School develop study habits that lead to successful completion of course
work, a Matric Certificate and successful entry into the world of work, and college/university admission.
Cheating is overt defiance of school rules and a major infraction. Definition: Sharing or copying
homework or class work, using or creating crib notes or cheat sheets, looking at another learner’s
paper prior to or during a test, talking during a test, plagiarism, or having an unapproved electronic
device on during a test or quiz. The term cheating includes but is not limited to:
 Plagiarism
 Receiving or knowingly supplying unauthorized
information.
 Using unauthorized material or
sources
 Changing answers after work has been graded and presenting it as improperly
graded
 Forging or altering grade book
information
25.11 As a result of cheating, some of the following consequences may be imposed:
 1ST Offence: Any learner cheating will receive “0” points for the assignment/project/quiz/test with
no possibility to make-up points.
 2nd Offence: A second cheating incident will result in the learner receiving “0” points for the
assignment/project/quiz/test with no possibility to make-up the points. The learner will receive
demerits, or may be suspended.
 Any learner stealing or illegally obtaining an assignment, quiz, test, project, altering a teacher’s mark
will be suspended from school for 3-5 days.
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Test and examination security is extremely important and necessary for the accuracy of learner assessment in
regard to learner achievement. For this reason any learner who takes, duplicates, distributes or in any other way
compromises the security of any test, answer key, or any other test materials will be placed on suspension
from school for 3 to 5 days. Other consequences as established above will also apply. The above policy
applies to a learner’s entire high school career.
25.12
Gum
The administration and school staff of Tshwani Muslim School have declared that Tshwani Muslim School
will be a GUM FREE school. Used gum left is a nuisance, unsightly, and frequently causes damage to staff
and learner clothing, shoes, and school furnishings. For this reason learners are directed not to possess or
chew gum while on the Tshwani Muslim School premises or at school activities.
25.13 Fighting
Any learner who persists in fighting or aggressive behaviour after being directed to stop by school staff, or
who must be physically restrained by school staff, or who through continuing to fight places at risk of injury
other learners or school staff will be suspended for 5 days and referred to the Disciplinary Committee and
possibly recommended for expulsion.
25.14 Multiple Learner Fight
For the safety of all learners, it is imperative that learners do not seek the help of friends in physical conflicts or
join in the physical conflicts of others. The potential of learner injury increases with the number of learners
involved in a fight. For this reason learners who join fights or fight as a group will be suspended for 5 days.
Learners who are concerned for the safety of their friends are directed to notify school staff of the conflict
immediately to insure that the conflict is resolved.
25.15 Firecrackers
Any learner found in possession of firecrackers on school premises or at any school event will be suspended
for 1 - 5 days. ANY LEARNER WHO LIGHTS A FIRECRACKER OR STARTS A FIRE WILL BE SUSPENDED FOR FIVE
(5) DAYS. If anyone is injured by an exploding firecracker or fire, the guilty person could be expelled from the
school.
25.16 Cell Phones
Learners should learn the importance of responsible behaviour in social settings. Cell phones brought to school
must be left at school in the morning and collected at the end of the school day. Using cell phones during instructional
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time is not permitted. Learners who use cell phones for the following reasons are subject to suspension, or
possible recommendation for expulsion depending on the severity or frequency of the infraction: Parents
who need to contact their son or daughter during the school day should direct their calls through the school
office. Any confiscated items will be returned to parent or guardian only at the end of the term after
payment of a R100 fine.
25.17 Property Damage
A pupil who defaces, damages, or destroys any school property or wilfully or negligently injures another pupil or
school employee is liable to suspension or expulsion according to the nature of the offense.
25.18 Recovery & Reward For Property Loss, Damage Or Vandalism
It is the intent of the Governing Board to apprehend in a timely manner anyone responsible for damaging,
destroying, or stealing school property and to seek reimbursement of damages from any individual or from
the parents/guardians of any minor who commits any act of theft or vandalism.
The parent/guardian of a minor who commits an act of vandalism, theft, or destruction may be held liable for
damages.
25.19 Personal Property
Learners who bring personal property on school grounds do so at their own risk!
Please be aware that the Tshwane Muslim School is not insured for and does not assume responsibility for the
loss or theft of any personal property that learners bring to school or leave overnight. The school staff
cannot be custodians for safekeeping .Therefore we ask that learners not bring personal property to school.
27.20Theft
Any learner found guilty of stealing from the Tshwane Muslim School or an employee of the school or
another learner may be suspended, is subject to arrest, and is also subject to a possible referral to the
Disciplinary Committee . LEARNERS AND PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT PERSONAL PROPERTY WILL NOT
BE REPLACED BY THE SCHOOL IF IT IS LOST OR STOLEN AT SCHOOL, AND THAT STAFF MEMBERS CANNOT
ENSURE THE SAFEKEEPING OF VALUABLES.
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25.21 Smoking/ Possession Of Tobacco
Any learner using or possessing tobacco in any form on school premises or at a school-sponsored activity will
receive a referral to the Disciplinary Committee a parent contact, and suspension of up to 5 days.
25.22 Social Etiquette
It is expected that learners will not enter bathrooms /toilets or locker rooms designated for use by the
opposite sex. Learners who choose to violate this rule will be placed on suspension from school for defiance of
school rules, obscene acts, or sexual harassment depending upon the circumstances and the severity of their
behaviour. In addition, it is inappropriate for learners of the opposite sex to be in bathrooms together. When
it is determined that their presence or continued presence was voluntary, both learners will be placed on
suspension for 3 to 5 days.
25.23 Weapons Or Replicas/Dangerous Objects
Learners must not possess, brandish, sell, or otherwise furnish a weapon or replica of a weapon or a dangerous
object. This includes firearms, stun guns, knives, explosives, tear gas, pepper spray, hand tools, sharp pointed
scissors, laser pointers, shocking pins, or any other dangerous objects at school or while taking part in any
school activity. Any learner found in possession of a weapon will be subject to a five (5) day suspension,
possible expulsion, parent conference, police notification,
25.24 Computer Vandalism/Misuse
Learners are directed to use school computers in accordance with the guidelines established for computer
use. Learners are not to by-pass or violate any computer security systems or attempt to gain illegal access to
any school computer by any other means. Learners are also directed not to visit inappropriate internet sites.
Learners who fail to comply with these instructions will be suspended and referred to an DC depending on the
severity of the offense.
25.25 Tshwane Muslim School Internet Use Policy
It is the intent of Tshwane Muslim School to make Internet access available in order to further our learners’
educational goals and objectives, however, some materials accessible on the Internet may contain items that
are controversial, inaccurate, or simply offensive. In order to be allowed initial access to the Internet all learners
must obtain parental permission. Both learner and parent must sign a consent form. Computer and Internet
access is a privilege not a right! Access entails responsibility
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25.26 Sexual
Assault
Any learner who touches an intimate part of another person, if the touching is against the will of
the person touched, and is for the specific purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification, or sexual
abuse, is guilty of misdemeanour sexual battery and will be eligible for expulsion.
25.27
Racial
Harassment
Racial harassment of any person by other employees or by learners, as defined in this policy, shall not
be tolerated by the BMS community. Such harassment is considered a major offense, which can
result in disciplinary action or dismissal. Racial harassment includes, but is not limited to,
unwelcome aggressive advances, other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a racist nature made
by someone
Other examples of racial harassment are:
 Racial slurs, epithets, threats, verbal abuse, derogatory comments or racially
degrading descriptions.
 Graphic, verbal comments about an individual's physical or racial characteristics, or
offensive conversation of a racial nature.
 Racial jokes, stories, drawings, pictures, or gestures of a racial nature.
 Spreading racial rumours or making statements aimed at provoking conflict.
25.28 Laser
Pointers
Due to the danger of potential eye injury to learners and school staff, learners are not to have laser
pointers in their possession while at school or at school activities. Because laser pointers are a
potential threat to learner safety, learners who are found in possession of laser pointers at school
or at school events will be suspended from school for 1 to 3 days. Learners who direct the beam of a
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laser pointer onto another learner or person will be placed on suspension from school for 5 days.
25.29
DRESS
DRESE
TMS subscribes to the philosophy that learners will be provided with a quality education in a safe,
wholesome environment. The Board feels that it is necessary to establish a dress and grooming
policy designed to prohibit wearing or display of clothing, attire, jewellery, or materials that is not
in keeping with the Islamic ethos of the school. (Refer to Code of Conduct for Dress Code)
PROCEDURES
 If a learner is suspected of violating the dress code, the violation is reported to the Principal
/Deputy
 If an initial violation is observed, the Principal shall call the learner to his/her office for an
initial conference.
 Any learner who repeatedly violates the dress code may be subject to more extreme
disciplinary action.
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