ACHIEVEMENT DIVERSITY SUCCESS

INFORMATION BOOK

November 2017

2

COLLEGE VISION Our College vision is to develop and nurture the social, emotional and academic growth of all our students in order that they become resilient, life-long learners equipped with the skills, qualifications and personal attributes for success in and beyond school.

As a College, our overarching goal is that every one of our students achieves their absolute best in all areas of their studies. The academic success of our students is ensured by a rigorous Year 7-12 curriculum and highly skilled, dedicated teachers and support staff.

Our guiding principles are reflected in our College Logo:

ACHIEVEMENT Supporting all students to achieve their personal best

DIVERSITY Recognising the diverse backgrounds, cultures, talents and aspirations of our students and providing rich learning opportunities for all

SUCCESS Developing the knowledge, skills and personal attributes that will enable our students to lead successful lives beyond school Our guiding principles are also reflected in the three positive behaviour expectations that we hold of every member of our community:

To be RESPECTFUL To be RESPONSIBLE To be a LEARNER

WE ARE A SAFE SCHOOL Hume Central Secondary College is committed to the safety of all its students. The College is developing a culture of child safety and has policies and procedures to ensure that these is zero tolerance of child abuse in our school.

The Code of Conduct, Child Safety Policy and any further information will be made available to the School Community through the College Newsletter and the School Website, to ensure that child safety becomes everyone’s responsibility. If you believe a child is at immediate risk of abuse please phone 000.

College Principal – Ms Irene Iliadis

Ms Kate McArthur

Campus Principal Blair Street

Junior Campus

Mr Nicholas Bakatsoulas

Assistant Principal Blair Street

Junior Campus

Ms Vivienne Caravas

Campus Principal Dimboola Road Junior Campus

Ms Teresa Eva Assistant Principal

Dimboola Road Junior Campus

Mr Jeff Mulcahy Campus Principal

Town Park Senior Campus

Mr Parris Sloan Assistant Principal

Town Park Senior Campus

3

COLLEGE FACILITIES Hume Central Secondary College has excellent facilities and resources which enable us to provide a modern, safe and comfortable learning environment that is conducive to high achievement.

These include:

State of the art, self-contained year level learning communities with flexible spaces that can be adapted for different types of learning activities

Emphasis on digital technologies to address the needs of our learners in the 21st century

Progressive and environmentally sustainable design

Shared facilities at Broadmeadows Leisure Centre

Safe and supportive learning environment

Close to public transport

Recording Studio

Dance Studio

Performing Arts Centre

Design Technology Wing

Blair Street Campus (Year 7-9)

Dimboola Road Campus (Year 7-9)

Town Park Campus (Year 10-12)

English Language Centre

64 - 70 Blair Street 49 Dimboola Road 60 - 78 Tanderrum Way 64 - 70 Blair Street

Broadmeadows 3047 Broadmeadows 3047 Broadmeadows 3047 Broadmeadows 3047

Phone: 9302 6000 Phone: 9099 1000 Phone: 9066 3600 Phone: 9302 6011

www.humecentralsc.vic.edu.au

DIMBOOLA ROAD CAMPUS – Year 7-9

TOWN PARK CAMPUS – Year 10-12

BLAIR STREET CAMPUS – Year 7-9

ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE

4

COLLEGE OPERATIONS

TERM DATES 2018

Term 1 29th January 2018 (Teachers commence the School year) 30th January 2018 (Students Year 7-12 commence the School year) to 29th March 2018

Term 2 16th April 2018 to 29th June 2018

Term 3 16th July 2018 to 21st September 2018

Term 4 8th October 2018 to 21st December 2018

The first day of Term 1, 29th January is a student-free day in all Government schools to allow for appropriate planning to take place for the arrival of students. Each year Government schools are provided with four student-free days for professional development, school planning and administration, curriculum development, and student assessment and reporting purposes. The remaining three student-free days are determined by each individual school, and the College Community will be notified in due course.

BELL TIMES 2018

BLAIR STREET CAMPUS

DIMBOOLA ROAD CAMPUS

TOWN PARK CAMPUS

ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE

Period 1 8.45am - 10.00am Period 1 8.45am - 10.00am

Period 2 10.00am - 11.15am Period 2 10.00am - 11.15am

Lunch 11.15am - 12.15pm Lunch 11.15am - 12.15pm

Period 3 12.15pm - 1.30pm Period 3 12.15pm - 1.30pm

Recess 1.30pm - 1.45pm Period 4 1.30pm - 2.45pm

Period 4 1.45pm - 3.00pm

ESSENTIAL LEARNING ITEMS 2018 Essential Educational items: These are items or services provided by the College that are essential and enhance student learning. The Education and Training Reform Act 2006 empowers School Councils to determine the resources allocation of the College. In order for the College to achieve the desired outcomes for students, College School Council has determined that an Essential Curriculum and Materials Levy will be set for each student.

In order to assist and support families a staggered Levy has been introduced for families with more than one child:

First Child - $250 Second Child - $200 Third Child - $150 Fourth Child - $100 Fifth Child - No Levy

CAMPS, SPORT AND EXCURSION FUND (CSEF) The Camps, Sport and Excursion Fund (CSEF) will provide payments for eligible students to attend camps, sports and excursions. Families holding a valid means-tested concession card or temporary foster parent card are eligible to apply and $225 per year will be paid for eligible secondary school students. Payments go directly to the College and are allocated to the family account.

Parent/guardians who received CSEF in 2017 at Hume Central Secondary College will not be required to submit a new application form in 2018. The existing application will be rolled over to 2018 and Centrelink will validate that the parent/guardian still holds a valid concession card. A CSEF application form will be required for new student enrolments and parent/guardians who did not apply in 2017. The application form can be obtained at any Campus Reception.

There are timelines for applications and these will be advertised in the newsletter, College website, SMS and correspondence. Please note that this fund cannot be paid to parent/guardians and cannot be used for any other purpose.

SPORT LEVY - This $20.00 levy will enhance interschool sports activities, internal sports activities and whole College Sports days. The CSEF will support this.

ACTIVITY/INCURSION LEVY - This $20.00 levy will provide all students with materials and activities that support social and emotional learning, through the promotion of activities on special days ie. Harmony Day, RUOK Day, Anti Bulling Day and other cultural enriching days that are run as extra-curricular activities. The CSEF will support this.

5

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (VET) This VET program is heavily subsidized by Government funding and all enrolment costs are covered. Depending on the course selected however, the VET program may incur a materials charge. The College can support families by subsidizing some of the cost incurred. If unsure of costs please check with Town Park Reception.

PAYMENTS The College Parent Payment Policy supports all our families and payment plans are available. Please make an appointment with the relevant Campus Reception if you need to discuss options. It is important for all families to know that a payment plan can be entered into and negotiated. Family Statements will be sent out to all families early in first Term.

We are pleased to be able to offer a number of payment options:

1. Cash and Eftpos at each Campus 2. Bpay with relevant references found on the Statement 3. Direct Debt from your Account - obtain a Form from

Campus Reception 4. Centerpay from a Centrelink payment - obtain a Form

from Campus Reception 5. CompassPay - available through the Parent Compass Portal

If you wish to take up option 3 or 4, please complete appropriate forms at any Campus Reception. Please be assured of the strict security and confidentiality practices we deem vital.

SUSTAINABLE SCHOOL SHOP (Uniform & Text Book Trading) Hume Central Secondary College is proudly providing families’ access to the Sustainable School Shop. This new facility will make it possible for families to buy and sell secondhand uniform and text books within our College Community as well as other nearby schools. An annual subscription paid by the College School Council will automatically provide you with access FREE OF CHARGE. What you need to do:

Register on the Sustainable School Shop website and nominate Hume Central Secondary College

List your items for sale

List the ads for those items that you are looking to buy.

All enquiries should be directed to the Sustainable School Shop on: 0438 743 444 - help is also available through ‘Contact Us’ on their website at www.sustainableschoolshop.com.au

EXCURSION AND CAMPS The College Excursion and Incursion Policy aims to provide students with opportunities to experience a range of activities and experiences, and develop their understanding of their world and the opportunities available to them by enriching the curriculum and improving student connectedness to the College.

These activities aim to provide:

all children with the opportunity to participate in a sequential program

shared class or group experiences and a sense of group cohesiveness

reinforced and extended classroom learning

a program that delivers skills and knowledge that may lead to a lifelong involvement in worthwhile leisure pursuits • a program that promotes self-esteem, resourcefulness, independence, leadership, judgement, co-operation and tolerance

• connectedness within the College Community and build relationships between all members of our community.

6

ONE TO ONE PERSONAL LEARNING DEVICE PROGRAM (PLD) Personal Learning Devices (PLD - this includes Netbooks, Laptops, Computers) have changed how and when our students learn. PLD’s are now an essential learning tool. To support learning, our students have access to educational software programs which are loaded onto each PLD. The types of activities that have become possible for our students include:

Using the internet for research providing access to resources, experts and other learning communities

Providing authentic, rich contexts for learning

Personalising learning

Connecting and collaborating to build new knowledge

Developing contemporary skills o Creating animation, movies and 3D designs o Recording and editing photographs, sound or video o Creating media rich presentations

Improving assessment, reporting and feedback

Collaborating online with students and teachers locally, interstate and/or overseas

Connecting families with their child’s learning

To support changing practices students will also have the opportunity to access e-books.

Part of the College eLearning program is to enrich opportunities for learning with access to PLD’s that can be used during and outside of school. Wireless internet access is available at all Campuses and PLD’s can also be used at home, with or without internet access. It is a requirement that all families participate in the PLD Program Year 7-12. This ensures consistency in the classroom, and promotes shared learning.

Once the PLD Agreement is signed and payment for the Device is made or a negotiated payment plan option, each student will receive a wireless-enabled Device for their learning. We have a dedicated ICT (Information Communications Technology) team of Technicians that support this program.

In 2018 if families do not wish to participate in the above preferred option, students will be able to bring their own Device to class. These will have limited support.

The total cost for new Year 7 students and any new students to the College in 2018 is $900 payable by $150 per year of rental in Years 7-12 or payment in full

At the end of the six year rental period, ownership of the Device will be transferred to the family at no additional cost, if the total cost amount of $900 has been paid for.

COLLEGE DOCUMENTS Please contact the relevant Campus Reception if you need any of the following documents, also available on the College website: www.humecentralsc.vic.edu.au:

Student Enrolment enquiries - apply at Campus Reception

Uniform Pricelist

Personal Learning Device Program and Digital Network Code of Conduct

Ministerial Order 90 (Anaphylaxis Management)

Asthma Action Plan

Alternative Family Form

Privacy Notice

Child Safety Standards Policy.

2018 Personal Learning Device Program

Year Level Amount Payment Frequency

7 – 12 (six years) $150 Annually

$900 Full payment

7

COLLEGE UNIFORM Uniform Policy Why do we have a uniform? By having a compulsory uniform, the College aims to:

• Enable students to develop a greater sense of belonging and connectedness

• Promote a positive image of our students and the College within our community and beyond

• Make school safer by identifying our students from students from other schools and outsiders

• Ensure that we are compliant with current Occupational Health and Safety guidelines.

All students from Years 7-12 are expected to wear full College uniform daily, including to and from the College and on most excursions. It is the expectation that parent/guardians ensure that their child arrives at school in complete uniform. Physical Education and Sport uniform may only be worn at school during Physical Education/Sport classes or, if permission given by the school, to an adventure based excursion. Students who arrive out of uniform without an approved note may be sent home to change or parent/guardians will be contacted to bring uniform to the relevant Campus.

Implementation All members of the College community (students, staff, parent/guardians) are responsible for ensuring that the College Uniform guidelines are observed. If a student is at school out of Uniform, one of the following practices will be followed:

If the parent/guardian can be contacted the student will be sent home to return only when in full school Uniform

If the parent/guardian cannot be contacted the student will be provided with emergency clothing (if available) for that day and after that shall not return to school until they are in full Uniform

In an emergency, parents may write a note of explanation asking that an exemption be granted for that day

Where there is a longer term difficulty, the school will consult with parent/guardians to find a solution.

Footwear Students are required to wear black leather shoes

Dress/Skirt/Shorts length Winter skirts, summer dresses (shorter version) and shorts must be worn in a manner that complies with the dress length guideline - the finished hemline must be at the knee. Students who wear these items shorter than this will be required to lengthen the item or have it replaced with a new one. Shorts must be hemmed rather than rolled.

Hair and Make-up All students with hair longer than shoulder length are encouraged to tie their hair back for health and safety reasons. Students are asked not to wear excessive make up to school. All students are required to maintain natural hair colour. If students choose to alter the colour of their hair, they must ensure that the colour remains one that occurs naturally.

Facial Piercing Facial piercings are not permitted, with the exception of small studs which sit flush to the skin. Students who wear protruding facial jewellery, including rings, will be required to remove the item.

ACCESSORIES

Navy Beanie (for outdoors only)

College navy cap (for outdoors only)

Winter scarf navy only

Hijab navy or white only

Hair accessories navy or white only-Bandannas are not permitted

Jewellery simple jewellery only eg: studs, sleepers, single bracelets etc.

Belts black only for trousers or shorts

College Tie (optional)

YEAR 7 - 12 COLLEGE UNIFORM

ACADEMIC UNIFORM

College White shirt - long or short sleeve

Boys - Grey College trousers or shorts

Girls - Grey College trousers, shorts, College skirt or dress

College Jumper

College Blazer - Compulsory**

Black leather shoes

White socks can be worn with or without tan stockings (dress/skirt/shorts)

Black stockings only with skirt

SPORTS UNIFORM

Sport shorts or track pants

Sport polo

Rugby top

** Please Note: 2018 College Blazer is compulsory for Year 7, 8, 10 and 11 students 2019 College Blazer will be compulsory for Year 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 students

NB: Year 12 students have a choice of the College Blazer or Year 12 Bomber Jacket

NB: Sports uniform to be worn ONLY for Physical Education and Sporting events. The Academic uniform will be worn at all other times. Students can be dismissed after period 4 in Sports uniform if dressed correctly (ie: complete Sports uniform)

8

STUDENT LEARNING CURRICULUM At Hume Central Secondary College we aim to provide challenging programs in all Victorian Curriculum areas for students to achieve their personal best. The Year 7-10 Curriculum is based on the New Victorian Curriculum, a Framework for improving Student Outcomes (FISO). Students participate in a sequential Curriculum program across the following disciplines:

English Language Mathematics Humanities Science Health and Physical Education

Technology - Food, Materials (resistant and non-resistant), Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

The Arts - Visual Communication and Design, Media, Music, Drama, 2D Art and 3D Art. In Year 10, in addition to core units, students have the opportunity to pursue particular aspirations through specialisations offered

LANGUAGE The College recognizes that all students need to know how language works across all areas of the curriculum in order to become successful at school and beyond. This is also recognized in the Victorian Curriculum Framework, FISO. In addition to English, students at Years 7-9 will receive three additional 75 minute periods of Language each fortnight. Language will provide students with strategies to improve and extend reading comprehension and writing skills across all areas in the curriculum and lead to improved success in learning and academic achievement.

High achieving students at the end of Year 9 are encouraged and invited to select VCE/VET units as part of an Accelerated Studies Program. This program permits students to achieve units/certificates prior to Year 12 which may improve their ATAR, required for entry into University.

In Years 11 and 12, students have access to a range of senior programs - VCE, VET and VCAL. The program of VCE studies offered at the College is designed to ensure all students have the opportunity to gain entry into their chosen tertiary courses and future pathways. For current VCE, VET and VCAL units offered at Hume Central Secondary College please refer to the Senior School Course Selection Handbook.

SELECT ENTRY ACCELERATED LEARNING PROGRAM (SEAL) Hume Central Secondary College SELECT ENTRY ACCELERATED LEARNING (SEAL) program commenced at the start of 2015. In 2018, a SEAL class will operate at Years 7, 8 and 9 at both Junior Campuses. The SEAL program has been especially developed to cater for the needs of high-achieving students by providing them with challenge and enrichment within a motivated and academically high-achieving peer group. The SEAL program is suited to students who demonstrate:

• a high standard of academic achievement in primary school • a willingness to work at a high level in all subjects

• evidence of being an independent and reflective learner • high levels of motivation, persistence and flexibility

• high attendance (90% or above).

STEP UP PROGRAM In 2015 we introduced a Step Up program for Year 8-10 to prepare students for their next stage of learning. This program includes a range of activities: Study Skills workshops; team building activities; introduction to new studies and preparations for 2018; induction into new learning spaces and more. These programs are compulsory for all students and prepares students for the next stage of learning. Students create links in their learning from previous years, begin their first topic and are supported with their subject specific homework and routines.

PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (PSD) Our PSD Leader oversees this program, co-ordinates assessments, arranges Support Group Meetings with families, leads the development of Individual Learning Plans and supervises the work of our Educational Support Aides.

LANGUAGE SUPPORT PROGRAM Students who are identified under the Language Support Program are supported at Years 7-12 and receive specialized support with additional resources. Our Speech Pathologist undertakes assessments and works closely with teachers and students in this program to maximise student learning.

9

COLLEGE HOMEWORK POLICY Hume Central Secondary College teaching staff set homework to complement and reinforce classroom learning. The homework that is set will support educational requirements and is:

appropriate to the student’s skill level and age purposeful, meaningful and relevant to the curriculum assessed and returned promptly by teachers with feedback and

support provided. This assists in fostering good lifelong learning skills, study habits and provides the opportunity for students to become responsible for their own learning.

SATISFACTORY COMPLETION POLICY Hume Central Secondary College has a Satisfactory Completion Policy which outlines the minimum requirements for students Years 7-12 to satisfactorily complete units of work each semester. Contact Campus Reception for a detailed copy or see the College Website.

This policy has three main aims to: • ensure that students and parents/guardians clearly understand the requirements for satisfactory

completion of an academic year, so that students can move from one year level to the next with confidence • make sure that teachers across the College use a common and fair process for assessment in making

judgments • provide common and consistent opportunities for all students to meet the minimum requirements of the set

COMMON ASSESSMENT TASKS (CAT’s) for each unit of work.

If your child brings home a ‘SATISFACTORY COMPLETION POLICY - REDEMPTION FORM’, talk to them about why they did not achieve the minimum requirement on a Common Assessment Task. Make sure they understand what they have to do in order to ‘redeem’ on the task. If you are worried that your child might not achieve the minimum requirement, contact the relevant Team Leader regarding concerns.

What can you do to support your child to satisfactorily complete all units of work? YEAR LEVEL ASSESSMENT TASK CALENDAR (your child will receive a calendar which will show the due dates for

all Common Assessment Tasks.) Encourage your child to start working on each task well before the due date Support your child to develop a good homework and study routine Attend Student Support Group and parent/guardian, teacher/student conversations with your child and talk to

your child’s teachers about your child’s progress Look carefully at your child’s Progress Reports (which are sent home three times a Term). If your child receives

an ‘AN ‘(ATTENTION NEEDED) for any unit, ring the relevant Campus and speak to the teacher about what your

child needs to do to improve

Show an interest in what your child is doing and encourage them to do their best (eg: ask your child to explain

what they have to do for each Common Assessment Task. Ask them about the criteria they will be assessed

against).

REPORTS At Hume Central Secondary College students will receive Progress Reports three times a Term and an end of each Semester Report. These will be available on Compass. Please speak with your son/daughter about their Reports and keep Reports for future applications/interviews etc.

In order to be considered for promotion to the next year level - Year 7, 8 and 9 students must achieve satisfactory completion of:

In order to be considered for promotion Year 10 students must achieve satisfactory completion of:

Both semesters of English At least 1 semester of Maths At least 4 other areas of study (Health & PE, Science, Humanities, Technology, Arts)

Both semesters of English At least 1 semester of Maths At least 6 other areas of study (within the curriculum areas of Health & PE, Science, Humanities, Technology, Arts)

Promotion to the next year level In order for students to be promoted to the next year level, students must satisfy both the Satisfactory Completion Policy and

the Attendance Policy where attendance of more than 90% is expected. The decision for non-promotion is made with the Team Leader and Assistant Principal in consultation with parent/guardians.

10

CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS At Hume Central Secondary College, Music, Dance and Drama play a vital role in the College curriculum. The creative and performing arts provide students not only with skills and artistry in different artistic fields, but also promote self-expression, confidence, team work and leadership.

Drama, Dance and Music are offered to students in Years 10-12, and Music classes to students in Years 7-9. Since 2012 these classes have been extended into the senior curriculum in accordance with the College’s commitment to providing a broad range of Performing Arts subjects to support the learning and career pathways of our students.

All areas of Performing Arts work together to present concerts and performances throughout the year to showcase the talent, dedication and hard work of the students at Hume Central. This works in collaboration with the College Production and Instrumental Music Program. Students have the opportunity to see live theatre and dance performances as well as participate in exclusive dance and drama workshops as part of their studies in the Performing Arts.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC We currently offer an extensive Instrumental Program; tuition is delivered individually or in small groups in guitar, drums, woodwind, percussion and voice. The College ensures that all students participating in the Instrumental Program have regular opportunities to perform in both informal and formal settings. Currently students can develop and extend their skills in small group ensembles that perform for students, staff and other members of the College community during assemblies, special events and concerts. Expressions of interest forms are available from Campus Reception.

COLLEGE PRODUCTION Every second year, the College puts on a major College Production. These performances showcase the many talents of our students and provide opportunities for students to undertake backstage support roles and develop skills in lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, construction and design of sets and props.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Hume Central Secondary College has been part of the Department of Education and Training International Student Program since its introduction. We have had many overseas students enrol at the College from a variety of countries including Germany, Thailand, India, Vietnam and China. International students work towards completing their VCE and are supported to apply for University entry.

International Students add to the culture of the College demonstrating an effective positive work ethic, effective study skills and self-discipline towards their learning. Many of our International students require host families who provide accommodation whilst the students are enrolled at Hume Central Secondary College. Host families are reimbursed for their financial support and take the shared responsibility of the student’s safety and wellbeing. For more information, please look at the Hume Central Secondary College Website or contact the International Student Coordinator on 93026000 if you are interested in hosting an International student.

STUDENT LEARNING SUPPORT (Homework Club) In order to support all students to achieve academic success the College runs two Student Learning Support sessions weekly after school. It is an opportunity to complete study and homework, together with being supported to successfully complete assessment tasks. A teacher is always in attendance.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP Student Leaders selected across Year 7-12 provide an opportunity and a forum for students to address the interests and concerns of fellow students and to develop leadership skills. Each year every class is represented by two elected members.

11

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND WELLBEING Hume Central Secondary College has adopted a School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support program (SWPBS) as our framework for teaching and managing student behaviour. In 2014, representatives from across our College community including parent/guardians, students, teachers and leaders came together to define the positive behaviours which we want all members of our community to demonstrate at all times. After lengthy consultation, it was agreed that these behaviors are as follows:

We are RESPECTFUL We are RESPONSIBLE We are LEARNERS

As a College, we work to define and explain what each of these behaviours look like in different settings in and beyond school. This is shown in our “Matrix of Positive Behaviour Expectations” on the next page.

These behaviours are explicitly taught to all students throughout the year, and all College staff acknowledge and reward students who consistently demonstrate these expected behaviours.

To support all students in demonstrating our expected behaviours, Hume Central Secondary College has a number of policies all of which are on our College Website, including:

• Student Learning Behaviour Policy Child Safety Standards Policy • Attendance Policy

• Time Counts policy • Healthy Relationships Policy • Out of Class/School Grounds Policy

• Satisfactory Completion Policy • Smoke and Drug-Free College Policy Suspension and Expulsion Guidelines

MATRIX OF POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR EXPECTATIONS

At ALL TIMES as a member of the Hume Central Secondary College community…

RESPECTFUL

WE ARE POLITE

Greet, speak to and treat each other in a friendly, polite way and use names

Speak, listen and participate when it is our turn

Respect the rights and opinions of others

Follow instructions and rules

Post appropriate images, status updates and comments

Represent our College in a positive manner when in the community and on public transport

WE CARE

Take a positive stance in response to bullying and other types of inappropriate behaviour

Show empathy and appreciation

Be inclusive of each other

RESPONSIBLE

WE BELONG

Keep to designated areas

Move respectfully and safely in and around classes and school spaces

Respect personal space and privacy of others

Use indoor or outdoor voices as appropriate

Wear our uniform correctly and with pride at, to and from school

Take care of and appreciate our environment and belongings

WE ARRIVE READY FOR LEARNING

Arrive on time with all equipment

Use our diaries and lockers effectively

Submit homework on time

LEARNERS

WE LEARN

Engage in and contribute to all learning activities

Work collaboratively

Work independently and allow others to do so too

Use technology for learning

WE GROW

Seek to improve our behaviour and performance

Aim for quality with everything we do

Ask questions when we are unsure or need help

Recognise and take ownership of our mistakes

Take feedback on board

Engage in all learning opportunities

12

COLLEGE ATTENDANCE Hume Central Secondary College requires that Year 7-12 students attend no less than 100% of the College program (not including absences with medical certificates). Students who fail to meet this requirement will jeopardise their chances of successfully completing their year of study.

PUNCTUALITY Hume Central Secondary College values punctuality. All students are required to be in class, ready for learning, on time. If a student is late to class more than three times in any given week, the relevant parent/guardian will be notified by SMS that the student will be required to attend a 30 minute “Time Counts” detention on the following Tuesday at lunchtime.

BEHAVIOUR Our Student Learning Behaviour Policy stipulates that if a student misbehaves in class despite having received a number of warnings from the teacher, they may be exited from that class. If a student is exited from class, the relevant parent/guardian will be notified by SMS at 2.30pm that the student will be required to attend a 30 minute “Reconnect Detention” between 3.00pm – 3.30pm on that day. During this Reconnect Detention, students will be required to complete work missed and to meet with the teacher that exited them to discuss their behaviour and plan for improvement.

OUT OF SCHOOL GROUNDS POLICY Hume Central Secondary College values a learning environment where all students are safe and have the responsibility to ensure the safety of others. The Out of School Grounds Policy aim is to ensure all students are accounted for during the school day.

PROCEDURES FOR SIGNING STUDENTS OUT OF SCHOOL Students who are required to leave the College during the school day must have parent/guardian authorisation. This includes a parent/guardian note signed and dated. This note must be counter signed by the Team Leader/Co-ordinator and the student must be collected and signed out by the parent/guardian at the Campus Reception. Year 12 students may leave the Campus at lunchtime and must sign in/out on Compass.

OUT OF CLASS/GROUNDS WITHOUT PERMISSION Any student who is out of the school grounds during the school day without following the sign out procedures is in breach of the Policy. Students who breach this Policy will have their parent/guardian notified and will need to attend Time Counts. Reoccurring incidents will result in suspension and a Student Support Group meeting. Any further incidents will result in further consequences as deemed appropriate by the Team Leader in consultation with the Campus Principal.

IF YOUR CHILD IS ABSENT FROM SCHOOL Inform the College when your child is going to be absent. Immediately after the absence, submit a medical certificate or a note of explanation with your child’s name, date of absence and signed by parent/ guardian. This is to be handed in at the Campus Reception on your child’s return to school.

If you plan on your child being absent from school for more than three days, due to a medical, bereavement, family holiday or other reasons, you will need to complete two weeks prior, an Extended Absence Form, available at from the Campus Reception. The Team Leader will process the Application and will contact the family of the decision whether to approve the absence based on individual circumstances. Please see page 19 for our College policy regarding attendance.

IF YOUR CHILD ARRIVES LATE If you know that your child will be late for school please ensure that you send them with a note, dated and signed by you or contact the school to inform us. If your child arrives late during a week on three or more occasions, a Time Counts detention will be issued the following week during a lunchtime. Please see page 19 for our College policy regarding lateness.

IF YOUR CHILD FEELS SICK The College is not able to supply pain relief medication. You will be contacted and, if necessary, your child will be sent home. Students feeling ill and requiring to go home must communicate with parent/guardian through Reception or a staff member. Parent/guardians are requested to direct their children to follow this procedure.

13

ACCIDENTS/SERIOUS ILLNESS/AMBULANCE In case of an accident, a College representative will contact parent/guardians (or emergency contacts). Initial assistance will be offered by staff trained in First Aid. An ambulance will be called if the illness/injury appears serious and requires urgent medical attention. A member of the College staff will stay with the child until a parent/guardian arrives at the hospital. Hume Central Secondary College strongly advises parent/guardians to have a current ambulance membership. Ambulance services are not free and the College is not liable for costs incurred for an ambulance response.

IF YOUR CHILD HAS TO TAKE MEDICATION AT SCHOOL Parent/guardians need to send clear instructions in writing. Medication needs to be clearly marked with the child’s name and details of prescribed dose, along with a notification from the doctor. Medication must be given with written instructions to the Assistant Principal before start of school.

IF YOUR CHILD NEEDS TO USE THE TELEPHONE If it is necessary to communicate with your child during school hours, we ask that you do this through your child’s Campus Reception. Students are not permitted to use mobile phones during class time. (See the Student Learning Behaviour Policy for details).

LOST PROPERTY If your child loses any of their belongings they should report the loss to their Team Leader or Team Co-ordinator and check at the Campus Reception to see if the item has been handed in. Make sure all books, uniform and other items are clearly marked. If students find personal property they should take it to their Campus Reception.

IF YOUR CHILD NEEDS TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL FOR AN APPOINTMENT Please send a note of explanation with your child signed and dated by you. This note will need to be counter signed by your child’s Team Co-ordinator or Team Leader for your child to be signed out at your child’s Campus Reception.

IF YOU HAVE A CHANGE OF ADDRESS/TELEPHONE NUMBER/FAMILY CIRCUMSTANCES Please notify your child’s Campus Reception immediately of any changes to address, phone numbers and emergency contacts. Also it is a requirement of the Department of Education that any change of occupation details needs to be recorded accurately as this determines school funding. It is important that the College has updated information.

SPORT/PE If your child is unable to participate in Sport/Physical Education lessons for medical reasons, please provide a signed and dated note explaining why your child is not able to participate in physical activities.

VALUABLES/PERSONAL PROPERTY Valuables and personal property are not to be brought to school. If students do so they should leave them at the Campus Reception during the day. Students should exercise special care with valuable items permitted at school such as PLD’s, calculators etc.

The College is not responsible for any loss or damage to valuables or personal property

VISITORS TO THE COLLEGE Parent/guardians and visitors to the College are required to report to the Campus Reception. If you would like to speak to a member of staff please arrange an appointment through the staff at the Campus Reception.

USE OF CARS BY SENIOR STUDENTS - Department of Education & Training requirements The Victorian Government Schools Policy and Advisory Guide and Student Driver Policy Guide, March 2016 states that: Students are not permitted under any circumstances to transport other students in private cars in connection with any school program or function whether held during normal school hours or at other times.

HUME CENTRAL SECONDARY COLLEGE - Additional requirements Any student of legal driving age who intends to drive to school, either on a regular basis or occasionally, must comply with the College policy and is required to complete the Parent Permission and Student Agreement Form (available from Town Park Reception). Car make and registration details must be recorded with the College. Students are not permitted to carry other passengers to and from the College without the written permission of their parent/guardian and the passenger’s parent/guardian. No parking is provided for student cars.

The College does not take responsibility for damage to cars whilst on College grounds or surrounds

14

LEARNING TEAMS Hume Central Secondary College offers a range of support for students across the College and also addresses the special needs of individual students through specialised programs and services. These include: separate Learning Communities at Years 7, 8 and 9 at both Junior Campuses, Blair Street and Dimboola Road and Senior Campus Years 10-12 at Town Park.

This enables us to maximise our capacity to get to know our students well and to support every aspect of their academic and social development. Each Year Level is managed by a highly effective team led by a Team Leader and Team Coordinator who work closely to ensure that students develop their academic and social potential are engaged and achieving success at school, and taking advantage of all that is offered to them. Mentor groups provide ongoing support and pastoral care to students to ensure that students meet the requirements of the Student Learning Behaviour Policy, the Attendance Policy and Satisfactory Completion Policy.

STUDENT WELFARE CO-ORDINATOR (SWC) Each Campus has a Student Welfare Co-ordinator who liaises with parents, teachers and specialists in delivering services and support to students who require assistance with emotional, social, financial and academic issues. The SWC also liaises with community agencies that assist students and their families who are experiencing difficulties for a range of reasons.

CHILD SAFE STANDARDS Hume Central Secondary College is committed to ensuring children and young people are safe, and their voices are heard. We strive to create a caring environment which promotes learning, personal growth and positive self-esteem. The College is committed to providing this and each student and member of staff has the responsibility to ensure that this occurs. Hume Central Secondary College has zero tolerance for child abuse. We foster a culture of openness that supports staff and students to safely disclose risks of harm to children.

SECONDARY SCHOOL NURSE Our School Nurse works in the College to support teachers and students in the delivery of a range of health promoting programs eg: Nutrition, Body Image, Life Skills, Healthy Relationships, Breakfast Club, Quit Program, SAPPS Program (Sexual Assault Prevention Program in Secondary Schools etc.). They are a part of the Student Welfare team and have links to the Regional Support Network.

PSYCHOLOGIST AND SPEECH PATHOLOGIST The College has access to an Educational Psychologist and Speech Pathologist who work across each Campus to assess student needs and make recommendations regarding how to best support student learning.

YOUTH/HEALTH WORKER The College has Youth/Health Workers on each Campus. Youth/Health Workers are a part of the Student Engagement and Wellbeing team and provide vital support to students and families when required.

DOCTORS IN SCHOOLS PROGRAM The Doctors in Secondary Schools program provides funding for 100 Victorian Government secondary schools in areas of greater need to have an adolescent health-trained GP attend up to once a week to provide medical advice and health care to students.

As part of the program, Town Park Senior Campus will be provided with:

an adolescent health trained GP to attend up to once a week to provide health support

make primary health care more accessible to students

provide assistance to young people to identify and address any health problems early

support for staff coordination and access to specific program training.

15

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY – HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS POLICY

NOT IN OUR SCHOOL All students have the right to learn and feel comfortable in a safe, secure and stable environment. All students have the responsibility to ensure others feel comfortable, safe and secure.

What is bullying? Bullying is when someone, or a group of people, upset or harm another person; either psychologically or physically; or their property, reputation or social acceptance on more than one occasion.

There are three broad categories of bullying:

Direct physical bullying Repeatedly hitting, tripping and pushing, or damaging someone’s property

Direct verbal bullying

Repeated name-calling, insults, homophobic or racist remarks and verbal abuse

Indirect bullying

This form of bullying is harder to recognise and is often carried out behind the bullied persons back. It is designed to harm someone’s social reputation or cause humiliation, some examples below:

• lying and spreading rumours • playing nasty jokes to embarrass and

humiliate

• mimicking

• encouraging others to socially exclude someone • damaging someone’s social reputation and social acceptance

• cyber-bullying, which involves the use of email, text messages or chat rooms to humiliate and distress

What should you do if you are bullied?

Every incident of bullying is different, but there are some basic guidelines you can use if you are bullied: • firmly ask the bully to stop what they are doing • ignore the comments and walk away • walk calmly to a safer area (towards a teacher or another group of people) • talk to your Mentor Teacher or another staff member who you feel comfortable with • talk to friends or parent/guardians about the best way to deal with the situation • talk to your Team Leader, Co-ordinator, Youth Worker or Student Welfare Coordinator

What should you do if you witness someone being bullied? If you see someone being bullied you need to take action, but never put yourself in danger

• firmly explain to the people bullying that their behaviour is not acceptable or amusing • reassure the student being bullied they do not have to put up with this • ignore rumours and negative comments about other people • encourage the student to talk to a Teacher, Team Leader, Team Co-

ordinator or Welfare Coordinator • listen to the person being bullied

What the College will do? All staff members at Hume Central Secondary College are committed to creating a safe and secure environment free of bullying behaviour. If bullying does occur we will support the person being bullied and work with the person bullying to help them change their behaviours. Parent/guardians will be notified of the incident. The College Student Behaviour Learning Policy will guide our decisions in terms of consequences.

People who may be involved in providing support when bullying occurs:

• Classroom teachers

• Mentor teacher

• Team Leader

• Team Co-ordinator • Youth Worker

• Student Welfare Coordinator

• Educational Psychologist • Assistant Principal • Campus Principal

BULLYING AT SCHOOL IS EVERYONE’S PROBLEM

16

To ensure safety of all students and staff during school hours:

Activity Department of Education & Training (DET) Policy Bicycle riding to and from school and/or use of skateboards, hoverboards, segways, sky walkers

Parents/guardians are responsible for children riding bicycles or using other wheeled mechanism to and from school.

Note: Generally speaking, children under the age of twelve do not have the neuro-physiological and

psychological development to cope with complex traffic situations on their own.

Road safety authorities recommend that before the age of nine or ten years children should not ride a

bicycle in traffic without adult supervision. Depending on their cycling skills and experience, some children

over this age may still require supervision.

Children under the age of twelve may ride on footpaths as may a supervising adult. They are required to give way to pedestrians and to wheel their bicycles over pedestrian and children’s crossings. Children aged twelve years or older are required by law to ride on the road.

Helmets

On school grounds/site

Parents and students should be reminded that the law requires that all cyclists wear an approved bicycle

helmet. Approved helmets have the Australian Standards Mark TM (AS/NZS 2063) and will be marked as

suitable for cycling.

It is encouraged that at all times safety gear be worn for all wheeled devices.

Students are NOT permitted to use any form of wheeled device on school grounds.

Students are NOT permitted to lend to other students any form of wheeled device during school hours on

school grounds. Safety of all our students is of paramount importance at all times.

STUDENT PATHWAYS AND TRANSITIONS

CAREER EDUCATION – FUTURE PATHWAYS PLANNING Hume Central Secondary College assists students in Years 7-12 to develop a carefully tailored career pathway plan. This plan allows students to explore potential careers, seek support and obtain advice with regard to making decisions about their post school education and training options. Our students develop skills in the area of setting goals, developing clear and achievable career directions and experiencing the real world of work.

WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM At Year 10 students undertake two weeks of work experience each year. Extensive career planning and preparation precedes the Work Experience program and is delivered through the Mentoring program.

VCE COURSE PLANNING, CAREERS & TERTIARY ENTRANCE ADVICE Our experienced Careers leaders and Senior Years team provide ongoing advice and

support to students in VCE related to appropriate course planning and careers and tertiary entry pathways. A range of workshops, parent information meetings and course selection days are offered with individual student counselling sessions.