HUNTER RIVER HIGH SCHOOL
PARENT / STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2012
Everything parents and students need to know about
Hunter River High School
WELCOME TO OUR SCHOOL ..................................................................................................................................................................... 4
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE ........................................................................................................................................................................... 4
INFORMATION & PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW .................................................................................................................................. 5
OUR BELIEFS ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE DAY? ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
AT THE END OF THE DAY ...................................................................................................................................................................... 6
CANTEEN ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
BELL TIMES .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
SCHOOL UNIFORM ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
HRHS UNIFORM CODE - ALL STUDENTS............................................................................................................................................... 7
PE/SPORT UNIFORM - ALL STUDENTS ................................................................................................................................................... 8
SCHOOL EXCURSION UNIFORM ........................................................................................................................................................... 8
UNACCEPTABLE SCHOOL ATTIRE ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
PATTERN OF STUDY .................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
LEARNING & HOMEWORK ..................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Why is Homework Important? ......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Some relevant information............................................................................................................................................................... 9
THE LIBRARY ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
PEOPLE WHO CAN HELP ...................................................................................................................................................................... 10
OPENING HOURS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
WHAT IS IN THE LIBRARY? ..................................................................................................................................................................... 10
HOW DO I USE THE LIBRARY? .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
BEHAVIOUR IN THE LIBRARY ................................................................................................................................................................ 10
HOW DO I BORROW? ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11
WHAT IF I FORGET MY BOOKS? .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
WHAT IF THE ALARM GOES OFF AS I LEAVE? .................................................................................................................................. 11
LIBRARY COMPUTER RULES .................................................................................................................................................................. 11
A SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................................................................ 11
PEOPLE WHO CAN HELP ...................................................................................................................................................................... 11
NO H.D.V. PROGRAM .......................................................................................................................................................................... 12
STEPS IN NO H.D.V. ................................................................................................................................................................................ 12
YOU CAN DO IT PROGRAM ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
STUDENT AWARDS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 13
A Bronze Award ................................................................................................................................................................................. 13
A Silver Award .................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
A Gold Award .................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Principal’s Award ...............................................................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.
Photo Award ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Reward Excursion .............................................................................................................................................................................. 13
ADMINISTRATION ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
ATTENDANCE .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
ROLL CALL and DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) - (9am – 9.20am) ................................................................................................ 14
ABSENTEE NOTES .................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
EARLY LEAVERS PASS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 14
BUS PASSES .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
BUS TRAVEL .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
TELEPHONE CALLS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
Subject Materials Contribution .......................................................................................................................................................... 16
STUDENT ASSISTANCE SCHEME ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
TEXT BOOKS AND BOOK PACKS ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
YEAR 7 EQUIPMENT LIST ........................................................................................................................................................................ 16
PARENTS, STUDENTS AND TEACHERS AS PARTNERS IN LEARNING........................................................................................... 17
COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS, REPORTS & PARENT/TEACHER EVENINGS....................................................................... 17
PARENTS & CITIZENS ASSOCIATION ................................................................................................................................................... 17
SCHOOL COUNCIL ............................................................................................................................................................................... 17
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL ................................................................................................................................................ 17
OTHER INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................................................................. 18
EVACUATION PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................................................................... 18
EMERGENCY ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
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INVACUATION/LOCKDOWN .............................................................................................................................................................. 18
MOBILE PHONES, IPODS, MP3 PLAYERS ETC ................................................................................................................................... 18
CLINIC ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
SPORT ORGANISATION ........................................................................................................................................................................ 19
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS ................................................................................................................................................................. 19
STRUCTURED WORKPLACE LEARNING .............................................................................................................................................. 20
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION & TRAINING (VET).................................................................................................................................. 20
CANTEEN ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
How to order your lunch ..................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Information you need to know about our Café .......................................................................................................................... 21
WHAT DO I DO IF.... ................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
I am late to school ................................................................................................................................................................................ 22
I feel sick at school ............................................................................................................................................................................... 22
I lost my timetable ................................................................................................................................................................................ 22
I get lost ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
I need to leave the school grounds ................................................................................................................................................ 22
I lost something at school ................................................................................................................................................................... 22
I am not in correct uniform................................................................................................................................................................. 22
I am being bullied or picked on ....................................................................................................................................................... 22
I am late for class .................................................................................................................................................................................. 22
I want to go to the toilet during class.............................................................................................................................................. 22
I forgot my lunch ................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
I cannot do sport due to injury or illness ......................................................................................................................................... 22
SCHOOL MAP .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 23
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WELCOME TO OUR SCHOOL
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
I am very pleased to have this opportunity to welcome all of our new Year 7 students and their families to Hunter
River High School. You will find that this is a very friendly place, made up of students who come from a wide area from Karuah in the north to Williamtown/Tomago in the south, from Lemon Tree Passage to the western side of
Seaham. Some of our students live near the beach or the bay, others live on farms and many live in the towns and
villages in between.
Our school caters for more than 700 students, but you will find that there are plenty of people - both teachers and
students – who can help you if you have any problems.
Our school has two mottos. The official one on our badge is “Essayez”. This means “try”. In other words, don’t be
afraid to have a go - you never know what you can achieve until you try.
Our other motto is “Quality Relationships - Quality Learning”. At Hunter River High School we believe that if
everyone gets on well together and we all can help each other, then we will find the work easier and we will all
learn much more. School will certainly be much more enjoyable if everyone is considerate and friendly towards
others.
Our school has a proud history of achievement. In recent years our students have gained excellent results in the
HSC and have won all types of awards in cultural, academic and sporting competitions. Our students have shown
leadership in caring for others in the community by raising money in school with special functions and by giving
practical support to community projects.
How well you do at school is entirely up to you. If you try every task you are given, if you try to make friends, if you
try to get the most out of school, then you will be successful, happy and useful.
Once again, welcome to Hunter River High School. I hope that you will find learning enjoyable here and that this
will very soon become a place where you will feel safe, welcome and productive.
Graham Eather
Principal
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INFORMATION & PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
Postal Address:
PO Box 716, Raymond Terrace, 2324
Street Address:
Elkin Avenue, Heatherbrae, 2324
Telephone:
School Hours
After Hours
Facsimile:
4987 2306
4987 2307
4987 4076
Email:
hunterriv-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
Terms:
Term 1:
Term 2:
Term 3:
Term 4:
Principal:
Mr Graham Eather
Deputy Principal:
Ms Joanne Edwards
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National Partnerships
Deputy Principal:
Mrs Deborah Dibley
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Years 7, 9 and 11
Deputy Principal:
(Relieving)
Mrs Christine Reilly
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Years 8, 10 and 12
Year Advisers 2012:
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
Year 12
Head Teacher Welfare:
Ms Kylee Beasley
Counsellors:
Ms Alison Fearon, Ms Catherine Lopez and Mr Christopher Jonas
Careers Adviser:
Mr Mick Lee
Aboriginal Education
Assistant:
Mr Brooke Roach
Anti-Racism Contact
Officer:
Girls
Boys
Support Teacher
Learning Assistance:
Mrs Dale Kennewell
Canteen Supervisor:
Mrs Su Upton
27 January
23 April
16 July
8 October
-
5 April
29 June
21 September
21 December
Ms Heidi Dempsey / Miss Sarah Byrne
Mr Mark McLennan / Mrs Leza Wheeler
Mr Warwick Rolfe / Mrs Kay McCosker
Mr Mick Lee / Mrs Susan Judd
Mr John Craciun / Mrs Kate Mills
Ms Ingrid Rogers / Mrs Christine Carroll
Mrs Renee Ridgeway
Mr Mick Lee
“Quality Relationships, Quality Learning”
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OUR BELIEFS
At Hunter River High School we believe that all students can learn, be more responsible, accountable for their own
learning, behaviour and should complete the Higher School Certificate.
Technology has changed the world and continues to do so. The twenty-first century demands students who are:
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Inquisitive, self-directed learners;
Skilled at acquiring information;
Solvers of problems not yet evident;
Team players using effective communication skills;
Self disciplined, quality workers and
Negotiators using effective conflict resolution ideas
Students should also be able to assess the quality of their own work. We also believe that learning is best
supported by a strong partnership between students, parents and staff. Parents are the first teachers of each
student.
During their six years at our school, students are offered an increasing number of opportunities to make decisions
about their learning and to become more responsible for it.
The possibility of structured workplace learning, available for some students from Year 8 onwards encourages
students not only to learn valuable team and interpersonal skills but to value life-long learning. All students are
encouraged to take some units of structured workplace learning.
A strong network to support learning is available through the Year Advisers and Learning Advisers. Parents and
students are encouraged to contact their Year Adviser about any issue.
As a school, we know that motivation to learn comes from within each of us. It is the school’s job, together with
parents, to create the right conditions for learning. We want students to want to learn, even beyond the Higher
School Certificate. To this end, we ask students to be involved in goal setting and planning their future.
Our aim is to give students increasing confidence to be responsible and accountable for their own learning.
Learning should be fun.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE DAY?
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If you ride a bike to school you should leave it in the bike racks at C Block.
Please bring a chain and lock to make sure your bike is safe.
Leave your bike and move to the playground area.
If you travel by bus - move straight to the playground when you arrive.
AT THE END OF THE DAY
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If you catch a bus, move quickly to the bus bay.
If you rode to school, collect your bike from the racks and leave via the Hall gate.
CANTEEN
Our canteen is called RhyTHmS on Hunter School Café. If you want to order your lunch, go to the Canteen:
 Be there before 8.50am or at Break 1
 Collect a lunch bag at the counter, write your name and order clearly
 Hand the bag and your money to the person behind the counter and
 Line up at Break 2 and collect your lunch.
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BELL TIMES
We have five, 60 minute periods each day, and the timetable is spread over two weeks. The bell times are as
follows:
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School starts with roll call each day at 9.00 am and finishes each day at 3.20 pm.
On Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday:
Roll Call
Period 1
Period 2
Break 1
Period 3
Period 4
Break 2
Period 5
Home time
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9.00 - 9.20
9.20 - 10.20
10.20 - 11.20
11.20 - 11.50
11.50 - 12.50
12.50 - 1.50
1.50 - 2.20
2.20 - 3.20
3.20
On Thursdays where an Assembly or Year Meetings are held:
Roll Call
Assembly or year meetings
Period 1
Period 2
Break 1
Period 3
Period 4
Break 2
Period 5
Home time
9.00 - 9.10
9.10 - 9.45
9.45 - 10.40
10.40 - 11.35
11.35 - 12.05
12.05 - 1.00
1.00 - 1.55
1.55 - 2.25
2.25 - 3.20
3.20
SCHOOL UNIFORM
Wearing school uniform instils pride, a sense of belonging and distinguishes us in the community.
anticipate our students will be proud to wear our uniform.
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The Staff
Students are expected to maintain a high standard of personal hygiene and neatness.
HRHS strongly encourages the wearing of a uniform.
Make-up and jewellery should be minimal.
If, on a particular day, students are unable to wear a uniform, alternative clothing and accessories must be
clean, safe, modest and in reasonable condition. A note from parents explaining the lack of full uniform is to
be presented to the Roll Teacher before attending class.
Appropriate footwear must be worn at all times for OH&S reasons.
HRHS UNIFORM CODE - ALL STUDENTS
Top
Senior:
Junior:
All:
White short/long sleeve collared shirt (not polo shirt)
Sky blue short/long sleeve collared shirt (not polo shirt)
Navy V neck pullover (wool blend) or navy V neck sloppy joe
Bottom
Navy trousers or slacks
Navy shorts
Uniform skirt – plaid with 2 inverted pleats
White socks
Black stockings (optional)
Black fully enclosed leather shoes including black joggers
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PE/SPORT UNIFORM - ALL STUDENTS
Top- PE shirt from Lowes Raymond Terrace
Bottom - Plain navy sport shorts
School Track Suit available from Lowes Raymond Terrace
Sport shoes (black or white) and white socks
SCHOOL EXCURSION UNIFORM
Full school uniform is to be worn on all school and sporting excursions. Parents will be notified if there is any
variation to this ruling.
UNACCEPTABLE SCHOOL ATTIRE
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Board shorts
Denim jeans/skirts/shorts etc
Coloured t-shirts underneath school shirts (white only)
Knee high socks (white or coloured)
Non uniform tie
Sandals/scuffs/thongs/
All items of uniform are readily available from:
Lowes Raymond Terrace and Tilligerry Beachwear Tanilba Bay.
Local shoe stores will stock a variety of suitable black enclosed shoes.
CURRICULUM
PATTERN OF STUDY
The aim of the curriculum at Hunter River High School is to provide learning experiences which effectively develop
a student's competency, skills and knowledge. These experiences facilitate a growing knowledge of self
behaviour, and internal motivation to learn. During the six years, students study courses which progressively
become more specific in their focus.
In Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) students experience a broad curriculum introducing them to a wide range of subjects
from all Key Learning Areas. These K.L.A.s include English, Mathematics, Science, Human Society and Its
Environment, Languages Other than English, Technological and Applied Studies, Creative Arts and Personal
Development, Health and Physical Education. In Year 8 students are given an opportunity to experience subjects
which may be offered as full electives in Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10).
It is during Stage 5 that students complete courses leading to the award of a School Certificate. All students study
English, Mathematics, Science, History and Geography. They complement these by choosing three elective
subjects. These might include Agriculture, Chinese, Technics-Woodwork, Food Technology, Computing Studies,
Visual Arts, Drama to name but a few. All students participate in Career Education which helps them to make
decisions about school, further employment and training options and allow them time in workplace learning.
In the Senior School (Stage 6) students choose subjects from a broad range of options. The subjects range from
the traditional to the vocational and the options include Board Developed 2 unit and Board Endorsed Courses as
well as Vocational Courses offered through T.A.F.E., and the School.
As with the School Certificate, there are distinct requirements which must be met in order to
qualify for the award of a Higher School Certificate at the end of Year 12. Some students
now study their H.S.C. over several years, combining part-time work with their schooling.
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LEARNING & HOMEWORK
As a matter of routine, students should note the regular homework tasks in a "Homework Diary" and start to use this
to help plan their own learning. Homework diaries may be purchased from the canteen.
Senior students will also have complete course outlines available and personal copies of assessment timetables for
preliminary and H.S.C. courses. Full sets of H.S.C. syllabuses are available for students and parents in the library. The
Board of Studies also has internet access. The address is http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au
Why is Homework Important?
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Students have an opportunity to practise and develop work introduced in class, to ensure it is fully understood
and to find out what questions will need to be asked of the teacher next day.
Work already completed can be revised so that it is remembered.
Students have an opportunity to work independently, to do their own work and to assume some responsibility
for their own education.
Homework helps to develop good study habits, vital for future years.
Homework helps to establish a link between the school and the home and develop the school - home
partnership.
Homework teaches students how to plan and organise their time.
Some relevant information
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What you achieve in the junior school will determine your options in the senior school and therefore you should
make the most of your junior years.
If you wish to obtain a School Certificate of which you can be proud, then you are facing a challenge
involving hard work, commitment and dedication.
Work outside the classroom is essential to consolidate learning, for additional practice. Further research,
reading and preparation for assignments and tests is essential. Homework requirements will vary depending on
how successful you want to be, but on average, junior students should be putting in a minimum of eight hours
per week in total or at least one hour per week per subject.
The following points answer some questions you may have about homework:
1.
Do all students have homework every night of the school week?
YES. If there is little or no homework set for a particular night, students should continue the regular
homework routine or habit by:
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Going over the work of the day,
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Revision of earlier work, and
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Reading.
2.
How much time should students spend on doing homework each day?
The amount of time required will vary with each individual. The following will serve as a guide.
YEAR 7
YEARS 9 & 10
1 - 1.5 hours
2 - 3 hours
YEAR 8
YEARS 11 & 12
1.5 - 2 hours
3 - 4 hours
3.
When is the best time to do homework?
Homework should be done at the same time every night to encourage good homework habits.
4.
Where should homework be completed?
It is important that parents try to provide a suitable place for students to do their homework. A good place
to do homework would have:
 a desk, table and chair, (homework should not be done on a bed or on the floor etc)
 good lighting
 no noise or distractions, (no T.V. or radio should be in the room).
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5.
How can parents help?
 By providing a place free from distractions, where homework can be done.
 By showing an interest in the work your child does at school and at home.
 Parents are encouraged to inspect their children's books and to discuss the work being done at school.
If you have any questions about homework, please ring the school on 4987 2306 and talk to the relevant Head
Teacher, who will be pleased to answer your enquiry.
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Homework can be study.
Homework is what it says. It is work given by your teachers to do at home.
Study can be different from homework.
Study can be reviewing your learning each day, getting ready for tests,
reading extra books and keeping your subject notes in order.
If you do not have set homework then you should be doing some study.
THE LIBRARY
THE INFORMATION RESOURCE CENTRE IS LOCATED AT THE TOP OF ‘E’ BLOCK
The Hunter River High School Library promotes A SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
PEOPLE WHO CAN HELP
Librarian:
Mrs H Durell
OPENING HOURS
Before School: 8.30 - 9 am
Break 1: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
Break 2: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday
WHAT IS IN THE LIBRARY?
The library contains a variety of resources that cater to the information and recreational needs of the school
community. These include: fiction, non-fiction and reference books; vertical file clippings; magazines; newspapers.
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There is a photocopier available for use by students at a cost of 10c per page.
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There are fifteen computers which provide access to student files and the internet; these are available to
students during both breaks.
HOW DO I USE THE LIBRARY?
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Most books in the library can be borrowed for a period of two weeks. Books must be returned by the due date
so others can borrow them.
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If you have not finished with the book, you may ask for an extension of time, providing no-one else is waiting for
it.
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You can locate resources by using the computer enquiry terminal in the library or via the Student Portal, which
can be accessed on any networked computer in the school or from your computer at home.
BEHAVIOUR IN THE LIBRARY
 NO FOOD OR DRINKS are to be brought into the library at any time.
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Hats/headwear must be removed at all times whilst you are in the library.
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You must enter and leave the library in a quiet and orderly fashion.
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You must respect the rights of other students to work undisturbed. Noise levels are to be kept to a minimum.
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Mobile phones and all types of music players are NOT to be used in the library.
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Remember - the library is not a playground. All play, including running and chasing, is unacceptable.
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All books and equipment must be returned to their proper places.
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Any rubbish is to be placed in the bins provided.
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HOW DO I BORROW?
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Borrowing limits are:
Years 7 & 8:
Years 9 & 10:
Years 11 & 12:
Reference books may only be used in the library.
2 fiction & 2 non-fiction books
2 fiction & 3 non-fiction books
2 fiction & 5 non-fiction books.
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Towards the end of Term 1 each student will be issued with their own photographic bar-coded ID card. Look
after these as there is a replacement charge if these cards are lost.
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Take this card and your books to the circulation desk.
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Please return all books through the return slot at the circulation desk.
WHAT IF I FORGET MY BOOKS?
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If you forget your books you will receive an overdue notice.
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If the books are not then returned, a letter will be sent to your parents and borrowing rights will be withdrawn
until the matter has been finalised.
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If the books are lost, you will need to pay for their replacement.
WHAT IF THE ALARM GOES OFF AS I LEAVE?
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All books are to be shown when leaving the library. If the alarm goes off, you must immediately return, with
your bag, to the counter and see one of the staff members to ensure that all items have been properly
checked out.
LIBRARY COMPUTER RULES
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You must ALWAYS log on to computers in the following manner, otherwise you will not be able to save or print
your work: firstname.surname@edu then Password
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Printing from computers will incur a charge of 10c per page.
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If you wish to use the computers during breaks, you must register with the staff member on duty. Computers
can be booked in advance for school work.
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Volume levels on computers must be kept to mute or low levels at all times.
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You are NOT allowed to use the computers to play or download music or videos to CD’s, mobile phones or
MP3 players.
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Only one person per computer and no spectators during breaks.
A SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
PEOPLE WHO CAN HELP
If students are not learning successfully, we have an extensive network of teachers who have the time and training
to help create the conditions for better learning for individual students. It does not matter whether it is relationships
with other students, being a student new to the school, or someone who has missed out on some key element of
learning, we will attempt to create an individual plan to help students to be back on the path of “managing their
own successful learning”.
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To help students have confidence in their learning, a range of people may be involved in the student’s learning
support team.
These people include the:
 Year Advisers;
 School Counsellors;
 Support Teacher (Learning);
 Head Teacher in charge of a Faculty;
 Support Teacher (Special);
 Head Teacher (Special Education);
 Head Teacher (Welfare);
 Anti-Racism Contact Officer;
 Careers Adviser;
 Co-ordinator for The Raymond Terrace Workplace Learning Association and
 Aboriginal Education Assistant.
The Learning Support Team above provides a range of advice to the school and teachers to help promote
learning success, improved classroom management, identification of students and monitoring and evaluation of
programme effectiveness.
Our school assists our students to make decisions about their learning and behaviour. Our approach is to expect
self-discipline from our students, based on knowledge of behaviour and learning through “Choice Theory”.
Our Commendation Scheme provides recognition for students as they grow in this knowledge.
NO H.D.V. PROGRAM
No H.D.V. stands for No Harassment, Discrimination and Vilification. At Hunter River High School bullying and
harassment are not tolerated.
In this program students will learn about the laws relating to harassment, discrimination and vilification, the Dept of
Education stance on this and what happens at HRHS in response to bullying and harassment. The aim is to have a
school where students feel safe and happy to come to school without the fear of bullying and harassment.
STEPS IN NO H.D.V.
If you are suffering from harassment, discrimination or vilification then the steps to take are:
 Tell the person to stop;
 If they continue, tell them that it is harassment and you will put in a No H.D.V. form;
 If it continues – pick up a form from your Year Adviser, photocopy room or Admin 2.
Complete it and give it to your Year Adviser.
 Your Year Adviser will interview the other student(s) and
 If it continues be sure to see your Year Adviser again so they can act on it.
Note: If you have a problem in class, you tell your teacher and they deal with it. The No H.D.V. is for harassment,
not one off problems.
YOU CAN DO IT PROGRAM
The You Can Do It program builds capabilities that promote achievement, positive relationships and emotional
well-being of young people.
Many of our partner Primary Schools implement You Can Do It! Education (YCDI), allowing a natural progression for
students when they enter High School. We implemented YCDI at our school in 2009 in Years 7 and 8.
Research that supports YCDI is very clear. For young people to develop to their full potential, they will need to be
equipped with a range of social-emotional Foundations including:
confidence, persistence, organisation, getting along skills and emotional resilience.
YCDI seeks to strengthen positive ‘Habits of the Mind’ and provide students with knowledge and skills to develop
the foundations.
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“Habits of Mind are the characteristics of what intelligent people do when they are confronted with problems, the
resolutions of which are not immediately apparent.” (Art Costa)
Twelve positive Habits of the Mind
Accepting Myself –
Taking Risks –
Being Independent –
I Can Do It –
Giving Effort –
Working Tough –
Setting Goals –
Planning My Time –
Being Tolerant of others –
Thinking First –
Playing by The Rules –
Social Responsibility –
making a mistake doesn’t make you bad.
it’s good to try something new.
try new activities and don’t be afraid to speak up.
even when things are hard to do, you can do it.
the harder you try, the greater your success.
to be successful you sometimes have to do things that are not easy or fun.
plan the steps to realise your objective.
plan enough time to get the task done.
accepts that all people are different and make mistakes.
before reacting think first of different ways to resolve setbacks or conflicts.
by following school rules school will be a better and safer place in which to live and
learn.
it is important to be a good citizen and help build a world with fairness and justice for
all. Be sensitive to the feelings of others, act honestly and show respect.
STUDENT AWARDS
Students learn best when they are happy and feel that their needs are being met. We all feel the need for
recognition. When students successfully attempt learning new skills or knowledge, teachers will recognise their
quality work with the award of a Commendation. Areas of recognition will be Behaviour, Effort, Initiative,
Participation, Leadership, Scholarship and School Service.
A Bronze Award will be presented after five (5) Commendations have been gained.
A Silver Award will be presented after fifteen (15) Commendations have been gained.
Bronze and Silver Awards will be presented at a School Assembly.
A Gold Award will be presented after forty five (45) Commendations have been gained. They
will be presented at the annual School Presentation Day. This may include: canteen
privilege, first sport preference, front of bus lines, and discount on social ticket. Recognition
for this achievement and access to the privileges will start straight away. This will be
announced at the next formal assembly.
Photo Award
When a student has gained a Gold Award they will also gain a Photo Award. This will be presented on the annual
Presentation Day. Students will have the photo award displayed in the foyer in Admin 1 and will remain there until
the student leaves school. The Gold award privileges will still apply. Recognition for this achievement and access
to the privileges will start straight away. This will be announced at the next formal assembly.
Reward Excursion
In Term 4, there will be a reward excursion for those students in years 7, 8 and 9 who meet excellent standards of
behaviour throughout the year.
13
ADMINISTRATION
ATTENDANCE
Poor attendance (below 85%) needs to be carefully explained. Poor attendance leading to a "non-serious"
approach to work can lead to unsatisfactory awards in courses in Years 10, 11 and 12 or, in extreme cases, to
expulsion.
If a family knows that a student will be absent for an extended length of time, then an Application for Leave from
school should be formally negotiated so that arrangements can be made for work to be sent home. Parents
should check carefully with the Principal if extended leave is required.
ROLL CALL and DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) - (9am – 9.20am)
o
o
o
o
o
Rolls are organised in alphabetical groups.
These groups have students from Year 7 – 12.
Your brothers and sisters will be in the same roll group as you.
This group will meet each day at 9 am in the same room to enable the Roll Teacher to mark the roll, collect
absentee notes and read the daily notices. Students must be on time.
All students and staff ‘Drop Everything and Read’. Students are to provide their own reading material.
ABSENTEE NOTES
o
o
o
If you have been away from school you will need to bring a note.
Give this note to your Roll Teacher on your first day back at school.
Notes for absences can be accepted up to SEVEN days after an absence.
After this the absence will be recorded as an unexplained absence.
Fred Brown
Yr/Roll: 9/25
32 Johns Rd
Raymond Terrace 2324
Date
14/04/11
Dear Teacher,
My son Fred Brown was absent from school on Wednesday 13/04/11 as he was not feeling well.
Yours faithfully
Mrs Z Brown
o
o
If any other members of your family (eg. brother or sister) were away at the same time, one note will cover the
absence.
You may also phone the school (4987 2306) after 8.30am if your child is absent. This will then be recorded.
EARLY LEAVERS PASS
If you need to leave the school to attend a medical appointment or family business, you must have an ‘Early
Leavers Pass’
o Bring a note from your parents and place in the “Early Leavers’ box in Admin 1 before school. Your ‘Early
Leavers pass’ will be ready for ‘pick up’ at the end of Break 1.
BUS PASSES
o
o
o
o
o
Check at the Front Office to see if you are eligible for a free bus pass.
You will be given a form to fill out and return.
When your bus pass is ready, you will be notified.
Contact the bus company for lost or stolen bus passes. This is a student/family responsibility.
BUS TRAVEL
The N.S.W. Department of Transport organises bus travel. School students participating in the NSW School Student
Transport Scheme (S.S.T.S.) who travel on buses can, like all bus passengers, be penalised for misbehaviour as
provided for in the Passenger Transport Act 1990. To make clear to students the standards of behaviour expected
of them when travelling on buses, the NSW Department of Transport has developed, in consultation with bus
operators, school organisations and parent groups, a Code of Conduct. Since January 1995, the Code of
Conduct has been printed on the front of the S.S.T.S. application form and in signing the form; the parent or caregiver explicitly supports the Code of Conduct and declares that it has been explained to their son, daughter or
ward.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Please do not hesitate to contact the appropriate Year Adviser about any issue. The Head Teacher Welfare and
Counsellors are also available to assist you at any time.
14
SCHOOL CONTRIBUTIONS (GENERAL AND SUBJECT MATERIAL)
School fees are now called General School Contributions. General School Contributions for 2011 are set at:
General Contribution:
Years 7 & 8
$32.00
Years 9 & 10
$40.00
Years 11 & 12
$44.00
Please note fees are subject to change without notification. This is a guide only
Subject
YEAR 7
Computer Skills
LOTE – Language
Mandatory Technology
Music
Visual Arts
PE workbook
Amount
5.00
5.00
50.00
5.00
15.00
5.00
YEAR 8
Agriculture Elective
LOTE - Language
Creative Metalwork Elective
Creative Woodwork Elective
Computer Games Design
Mandatory Technology
Food Technology Elective
Intro PASS workbook
Music – workbook
Music (elective)
PE workbook
Vis Art (all yr 8)
Visual Arts (elective)
Textiles & Design
Dance
Drama
Claymation
Photography
10.00
5.00
15.00
15.00
5.00
40.00
30.00
5.00
5.00
5.00
5.00
15.00
15.00
20.00
5.00
10.00
15.00
15.00
YEAR 9
Dance
Agriculture
Child Studies
Food Technology
Info & Software Technology
Graphics Technology
PE workbook
Visual Arts
Tech. Drawing
Industrial Tech – Electronics
Industrial Tech – Metal
Industrial Tech – Timber
5.00
10.00
15.00
55.00
10.00
20.00
5.00
25.00
15.00
40.00
40.00
40.00
TAS extras
Hat
Apron
Subject
YEAR 10
Agriculture
Child Studies
Dance
Food Technology
Information & Software
Technology
Graphics Technology
Music
Marine & Aquaculture
Visual Arts
PE workbook
Photography
Industrial Tech – Electronics
Industrial Tech – Metal
Industrial Tech – Timber
4.00
6.00
15
Amount
10.00
15.00
5.00
55.00
15.00
18.00
5.00
8.00
25.00
5.00
20.00
40.00
40.00
40.00
YEAR 11
Agriculture
Food Technology
Hospitality
Hosp uniform
Info Processes & Technology
Photography
Primary Industries
Work Studies
Visual Arts
VET – Building & Construction
VET – Metal
PDHPE - workbook
SLR - workbook
10.00
25.00
70.00
70.00
15.00
30.00
8.00
12.00
30.00
60.00
60.00
5.00
5.00
YEAR 12
Agriculture
Food Technology
Hospitality
Info Processes & Technology
Photography
Primary Industries
Work Studies
Visual Arts
VET – Building & Construction
VET -Metal
Text Book Protector
Special Ed Cooking (Stage 4)
PDHPE - workbook
SLR - workbook
10.00
15.00
65.00
15.00
30.00
8.00
12.00
35.00
60.00
60.00
3.00
30.00
5.00
5.00
A discount of $10.00 per child will apply if more than one child in the family is enrolled at this school – on the
General fee only. We have been careful to keep school fees unchanged over the last few years. General School
Contributions are voluntary. We ask that all families make some payment in this area. Monthly payments may be
appropriate. Please talk to the Principal if you would like more details.
Subject Materials Contribution is the fee charged in Key Learning Areas, such as Technological and Applied
Studies, to cover costs of some of the materials used. In some cases, where subject contributions have not been
paid, students may develop their skills constructing items which then become the property of the school.
Subject Contributions are set annually and are well publicised before students choose a subject. Should parents
have difficulty making these payments for subject materials, they should contact the Principal for support from the
Student Assistance Scheme.
EFTPOS is available, (but no ‘cash out’).
STUDENT ASSISTANCE SCHEME
There are various forms of financial support available to students and families. For more information you should
contact your Year Adviser or the Principal. Forms are available at the front office or from the Head Teacher
Welfare.
TEXT BOOKS AND BOOK PACKS
Book Packs for Year 7 students only are available from the Canteen. These packs contain all books required for
first years at our school. Text books are available on loan from each faculty. Students may be asked to replace
textbooks which are damaged while in their care.
Other stationery goods are available for individual sale at the canteen.
YEAR 7 EQUIPMENT LIST
To follow is a list of requirements for Year 7. This is available as a pack from the canteen:
ENGLISH
2
96 page A4 book - stapled
MATHEMATICS
1
240 page exercise book
1
64 page exercise book
1
geometry set
TECHNOLOGY
1
A4 display folder
1
ALL SUBJECTS
1
blue pen
1
black pen
1
red pen
1
pencil
1 eraser
1 pencil eraser
1 ruler
1 student diary
SCIENCE –
1 - 160 page A4 book
GEOGRAPHY – 1 – 96 page A4 book
HISTORY –
1 – 96 page A4 book
LANGUAGE – 1 – 240 page exercise book
MUSIC –
1 – music exercise book
PD/H/PE - Nil $5 workbook fee (as per Yr 7 subject fee)
96 page A4 book
VISUAL ARTS
1
VAPD 11 x 14” Art Book – Note: This book should last for two years.
1
2B pencil
1
6B Progresso drawing pencil
1
Fine paintbrush (good quality)
16
PARENTS, STUDENTS AND TEACHERS AS PARTNERS IN LEARNING
COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS, REPORTS & PARENT/TEACHER EVENINGS
Year 7 students and parents will be invited to an informal afternoon/evening to meet teachers and ask any
questions related to high school. Parent/teacher meetings are held following the distribution of school reports
early Term 3.
PARENTS & CITIZENS ASSOCIATION
High Schools have changed so much since parents attended them! Participating in P&C meetings is just one way
of keeping abreast of ongoing changes in schools and education.
The P&C is comprised of interested parents who want to find out about programs operating in the school. The
reasons for meeting are many fold, but in short we hear teachers speak about their subjects, programs in
operation or in planning and provide a regular update of events and happenings in the school and in education
generally. The Principal also gives an update of our school. It’s a great opportunity to discuss any of your concerns
or ideas with the Principal, teachers and an interested group of parents.
The P&C meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month during school terms- usually in the library to start at 7:30pm. We
welcome all parents and friends to participate in school activities and meetings, and to keep abreast of events
and happenings in the school. Hope to see you soon at a function or meeting!
SCHOOL COUNCIL
The School Council meets about five times each year. It represents an important partnership between students,
staff, parents and the employer community.
The Council considers broad policy issues in areas such as student welfare, planning and resource allocation
through the budget process. It also develops priorities for building and grounds upgrades and maintenance.
Elections are held each year for half of the parent and staff representatives with the student body being
represented through the Student Representative Council. Records of meetings and further information are
available at the school in the main reception area.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL
Hunter River High School is fortunate to have a very active Student Representative Council (SRC) made up of
student representatives from Years 7 - 12. The SRC meets and attempts to monitor the needs of our students. They
discuss their ideas and decisions with the school Principal. The SRC also reports to the students, staff, community,
the P&C Association and School Council.
The aim of the SRC is not only to provide a voice for students but also to provide leadership and direction for
students. The school Captains act as chairpersons for the SRC and assist in running whole school assemblies. In
past years the S.R.C. has supported fund-raising for many charities and assisted at important school functions. They
also work with local community groups.
17
OTHER INFORMATION
EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Continuous Bells = An emergency
Repetitive ‘Beep’ of bells which increases in volume = Invacuation/Lockdown
EMERGENCY
The signal for an emergency will be a continuous ringing bell. In the case of power failure, a hand bell will be rang
continuously.
When the signal sounds, students must cease work and prepare to evacuate with their teacher. Students should
pack personal belongings and bring them to the evacuation point on the far back oval. Students are to walk
quickly with their teacher via the correct route and keep calm.
Students are to assemble in roll group lines with Roll 1 closest to F Block and the highest number at the highway
end of the playing field, SRC, Tutorial, Deputy Principals and Senior rolls are to assemble at the highway end.
Roll will be marked. You are to remain in your roll group until the emergency is over.
INVACUATION/LOCKDOWN
If you are INDOORS:
*
You are to remain in the room until the nature of the danger has been determined.
*
Mobile phones must be switched off.
*
Students are to sit on the floor away from windows and doors.
*
The ‘all clear’ will be given by three normal school bells as per those used for quad assemblies.
*
Parents will be notified via Police if the lockdown extends past normal school hours.
If you are OUTDOORS:
*
All students are to move to classrooms immediately with teaching staff
*
Students are to turn off mobile phones and are to remain calm.
Students in the QUAD are to move to the library with your bag.
Students on the BACK FIELD are to go to F block classrooms
Students in the COLA, GRASSED AREA OR BETWEEEN G and H Block are to go to the Staff Common Room.
Students in the bus bay (morning arrival) will be directed by the teacher on duty to remain where they are and
await arrival of emergency services and will remain on buses where possible.
After the danger has concluded, students are to proceed to roll call rooms for roll marking.
A school assembly will be held if deemed necessary.
MOBILE PHONES, IPODS, MP3 PLAYERS ETC
While mobile phones are not banned, students are strongly urged not to bring expensive and unnecessary
equipment to school. Phones MUST be switched off during lesson time. Phones being used contrary to these
conditions will result in disciplinary action. If a second phone offence is recorded, a pre suspension warning letter
will be sent home. A third offence will result in a school suspension for persistent disobedience. This policy also
applies to the use of portable music players. Security of these items is a major problem for students, who will need
to take full responsibility for the care and protection of their property. The school will NOT investigate the loss of
missing phones or music devices. Portable CD players/Ipods/mp3 players, etc must not be used during the school
day at all. For further information, see the policy for Mobile Phones and Music Players.
18
CLINIC
If a student is involved in an accident whilst at school, he or she should make sure that the closest teacher is told.
and staff in Admin 1 are advised. The ambulance will be called if required. An adult must travel in the ambulance
with the student.
If a student becomes ill whilst at school he/she should go to the Admin 1 Office with a note from the teacher. A
sick room is available for short periods. Where a student is unable to return to class, parents/carers will be called to
collect their child. There is no medication (e.g. Panadol) available at the school. If your child is required
to take medication during the day, the student should inform staff in Admin 1.
Parents are asked not to send students to school if they are sick before they leave home in the morning.
It is extremely important that any changes to contact details, including work, mobile phone numbers and
emergency contact details are given to the Admin 1 Office as soon as possible.
SPORT ORGANISATION
In Years 7 and 8, sport is integrated into the PDHPE program.
In years 9 and 10 sport is delivered in a ‘scattered’ format where students have 3 periods spread across the ten
day cycle.
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS
The Department of School Education requires school principals to periodically advise parents of the arrangements
made for the supervision of pupils at school during non-teaching time. The following programs operate at Hunter
River High School:
Before School:
Students are expected to arrive no earlier than 8.30am and occupy themselves quietly until the first bell at 9.00am.
Indirect supervision is provided by several senior teachers. Students in difficulty should approach members of the
executive who are usually at school by 8.30am. Students need to move into the main school area on leaving
buses and not wait in the bus bay.
At Break 1 and 2: A full playground supervision roster is in operation. Toilets are supervised constantly by a teacher
during breaks.
After school: Boarding of buses is supervised by Head Teachers.
19
STRUCTURED WORKPLACE LEARNING
(The Raymond Terrace Workplace Learning Association Incorporated)
The school’s focus on learning extends well beyond the traditional classroom. In a partnership with Irrawang High
School, the Raymond Terrace Business Community, Port Stephens Council and employers, we have created the
“Raymond Terrace Workplace Learning Association Incorporated” to co-ordinate workplace learning.
Students are responsible for their own learning. A training supervisor will help them with competency logs and
managing their time in each workplace. It will be the student who must negotiate work placements with the
Association’s Co-ordinator (Mr Sazdanoff) so that there is an opportunity to practice each skill required by the
syllabus.
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION & TRAINING (VET)
This school, along with every school in Australia believes that “General Education” and “Vocational Education”
have now merged or converged. All students need to consider the opportunities offered through the vocational
courses.
The new range of vocational subjects has some common requirements of students. Outcomes of schooling for our
young people, who will spend most of their lives living and working in the third millennium, need to include
competencies in:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Collecting, analysing and organising information;
Communicating ideas and information;
Planning and organising activities;
Working with others in teams;
Using mathematical ideas and techniques;
Solving problems;
Using technology
The Vocational Education and Training Courses on offer for Seniors are:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Business Services Office Administration
Hospitality
Retail
Metal & Engineering
Primary Industries
Construction
Sport & Recreation
Each course is dual accredited with accreditation by both the NSW Board of Studies and the NSW Vocational
Education Training Accreditation Board (V.E.T.A.B.). These arrangements mean that training is nationally
recognised.
The courses are described in competency based terms, meeting industry training requirements. They prepare
students for employment. They are also designed to lead (through credit transfer) into a range of post-school
education and training options. Each course has a mandatory workplace learning component. Students are
required to complete a minimum of 70 hours of work placement. Other courses that offer workplace opportunities
for students include Transition Education for Students with Disabilities, Students at Risk and Career Education.
Students also have an opportunity to work independently, to do their own work and to assume some responsibility.
Students who are interested in researching or preparing themselves for entry into other vocations, can do so
through 2 Unit Work Studies.
20
CANTEEN
(RhyTHmS on Hunter School Café)
Our Canteen is known as RhyTHmS on Hunter School Café. (RhyTHmS an acronym made
up of the schools previous initials RTHS and our new status of Hunter River High School).
How to order your lunch:
To order your lunch for Break 1 or Break 2, go to the Café before school
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Write your name and order on a lunch bag
Hand the bag and your money to the canteen assistant
You will get a coloured number. (This is your receipt and your pass to the front of the line to pick up your lunch
at lunch time).
Show your coloured number to the teacher on duty
Hand the number to the canteen assistant/volunteer
They will give you your lunch
Leave the canteen
Information you need to know about our Café
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
We open for breakfast every morning at 8.30am. This is the best time to purchase stationery items. Recess and
lunch times are as per the student timetables.
We operate using a cafeteria-style service line. You enter the canteen line make your selections and pay at
the end. Service is fast and friendly.
Purchasing for your friends is not allowed as this slows the line down and if you have purchased them the
wrong item, we cannot swap these items as it is against health regulations.
If you would like to pre-order your lunch (eg. no tomato in your salad etc) please place your recess or lunch
orders before school or at recess. When you pay for your order you will be given a number. Keep this in a safe
place, as you will need it to claim your orders. Also this number is a pass for express service; simply show your
number to the teacher on duty to be allowed to the front of the line.
School bags are not allowed to be carried through the line.
For safety reasons you are required to behave in a sensible manner when in the line.
You will be given a copy of the menu and we advise that prices will vary subject to market costs.
Every two weeks we have a “special” menu item to add variety. These specials are advertised in the
newsletter and on the canteen blackboards. Prices will vary.
All items in the menu for 2010 comply with the Governments new Healthy Food Strategy.
The canteen is managed as a sub-committee of the School Council, with a full-time paid supervisor and part
time staff.
The profits from the canteen go directly to the school; this is the major fundraising activity in the school.
When you spend a day volunteering your time to work in the canteen, you are saving wages and increasing
the profits for the school.
This is a valuable donation to the school resources.
Parents, guardians and grandparents are encouraged to volunteer their time working in the canteen. You can
volunteer fortnightly monthly or once per term.
Let us know when you are available and we will include you in our roster. It is a great way to participate in
your child’s school activities.
Volunteers are not required to handle money, do planning or ordering.
Every day is busy preparing sandwiches, bread rolls, salads and hot food. Your morning tea and lunch is
provided, as well as unlimited tea, coffee or fruit juice. We would love to see many new faces join our team.
Stationery requirements are available throughout the year. Book packs for Years 7 are now in stock. They
include all stationery requirements i.e. student planner, ruler, pens all books and an art diary. The Art Diary is
big enough to last until the end of Year 8, so keep it safe at the end of Year 7.
21
WHAT DO I DO IF....
I am late to school
You must have a good
reason for being late
o
o
If you arrive during Roll Call – come straight to Admin. 1
If you arrive after Roll Call – come to Admin 1 – advise administration staff you
are late and be signed in. You will be given a ‘late note’ for class which will
require a ‘parent/guardian’ signature and return to roll call the following day.
I feel sick at school
o
o
o
o
Obtain a note from your teacher to leave class.
Students are then required to report to the ‘cash office’ window at Admin 1.
You will be registered into sick bay and given First Aid
If you are too sick to return to class, your parent/guardian/carer will be
contacted to take you home
I lost my timetable
o
o
o
o
Try to borrow one from a friend and photocopy it.
See if your Year Adviser has a spare copy.
Cost is $1.00 for a new timetable from Admin 1.
Write the timetable in your diary, Maths, English or Science book.
I get lost
o
o
o
o
Ask any teacher to help you.
Ask your friends before you leave the room.
Look at the maps on Admin. 1 windows.
Go to Admin 1 and ask for help from the Administration staff.
I need to leave the
school grounds
o
Bring a note from your parent/guardian/carer before 9am to Admin 1 and
place in the ‘early leavers’ box. An ‘Early Leavers Pass’ must be collected by
students from Admin 1.
The ‘Early Leavers Pass’ must be carried by students & shown to staff when
requested.
o
I lost something at
school
o
o
o
Check to see if it was handed in at the Front office.
If something valuable is lost or stolen tell the Deputy Principal in charge of your
year.
Do not bring valuables or large sums of money to school - you must be
responsible for your own belongings.
I am not in correct
uniform
o
o
o
Bring a note from home saying what the situation is.
Hand the note to your roll teacher.
Ensure you are in correct uniform the next day.
I am being bullied or
picked on
o
o
o
You do not have to put up with this treatment.
Talk to your Year Adviser or one of your teachers.
If it continues report to your Year Adviser, Head Teacher or Deputy Principal.
I am late for class
o
o
o
If you are delayed in a previous class by a teacher, ask for a note with a
reason for your lateness.
Give the note to your next teacher as soon as you get there.
Unacceptable lateness may result in disciplinary action.
I want to go to the toilet
during class
o
o
o
o
o
Put up your hand and ask your teacher.
Your teacher will allow you to go if it is an emergency.
A ‘toilet pass’ will be issued.
Report to deputy Principal in Admin 2 for a key.
Plan to visit the toilet during breaks.
I forgot my lunch
o
See the Head Teacher Welfare.
I cannot do sport due
to injury or illness
o
Provide your sport’s teacher with a signed note from your parent.
NOTE:
STUDENTS WHO ARE REGULARLY LATE WITHOUT A GOOD REASON WILL BE INTERVIEWED BY THE HEAD
TEACHER WELFARE OR YEAR ADVISER
22
School Map
23
WELCOME...
AND GOOD LUCK!!