parent and student handbook 2018-2019 · contract ict – ipc and imyc ... the aim of the school is...
TRANSCRIPT
Parent and Student Handbook 2018-2019 Birralee International School Trondheim
www.birralee.no
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents.............................................................................................................................. 2
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 3
Welcome to Birralee International School Trondheim ...................................................................... 3
Birralee School Song ...................................................................................................................... 4
School Ethos .................................................................................................................................. 5
Basic Information ........................................................................................................................... 7
Birralee’s place in the Norwegian Education System ....................................................................... 9
School organisation ........................................................................................................................ 10
Structure ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Board of Governers ...................................................................................................................... 10
Overview different committees in the school ................................................................................. 12
Staff List 2018-2019 ...................................................................................................................... 13
School Health Service .................................................................................................................. 14
Pastoral Care Counsellor .............................................................................................................. 14
Career Guidance Counsellor .......................................................................................................... 15
School Life at Birralee ..................................................................................................................... 16
School Hours ................................................................................................................................ 16
School premises (updated 02.11.2018) .......................................................................................... 16
Dress code (updated 15.08.2018) .................................................................................................. 18
Winter clothes .............................................................................................................................. 19
School Holidays ........................................................................................................................... 21
Leave of Absence ......................................................................................................................... 21
Lunch .......................................................................................................................................... 21
Healthy School ............................................................................................................................ 21
Commitment to caring for our planet ............................................................................................ 21
Green Flag School ........................................................................................................................ 22
Green Flag Committee ................................................................................................................. 22
Green Team ................................................................................................................................. 22
Playtimes .................................................................................................................................... 22
Playground Rules ......................................................................................................................... 22
Special educational needs ............................................................................................................ 23
No pets ........................................................................................................................................ 23
No smoking .................................................................................................................................. 23
Use of the Telephone .................................................................................................................... 23
Activity Days and School Trips...................................................................................................... 24
School Equipment ........................................................................................................................ 24
Gym and swimming ..................................................................................................................... 24
Assemblies ................................................................................................................................... 24
Sickness ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Too sick for school? ...................................................................................................................... 25
Accident Procedures ..................................................................................................................... 25
Evacuation Procedures ................................................................................................................. 26
Contingency Plans ....................................................................................................................... 26
School Fees .................................................................................................................................. 26
The Curriculum ............................................................................................................................... 27
Cambridge IGCSE - A guide for parents ......................................................................................... 29
British schemes ............................................................................................................................ 30
National tests and exams .............................................................................................................. 31
Grading ........................................................................................................................................ 31
Certificate for primary and lower secondary education .................................................................. 32
Home-School Cooperation .............................................................................................................. 33
Expectations ................................................................................................................................. 33
Open Door Policy ......................................................................................................................... 35
Communication ........................................................................................................................... 35
Invitations to Birthday Parties ...................................................................................................... 36
Keeping the school informed......................................................................................................... 36
Questions and Concerns of Parents .............................................................................................. 36
Parents’ Meetings, Conferences and Report Cards ......................................................................... 37
Lost and Found ............................................................................................................................. 37
Parent Representation .................................................................................................................. 37
Before and After School Care .......................................................................................................... 40
ASP (Year 1 – Year 4) .................................................................................................................... 40
School Choir (Y3-Y7) ..................................................................................................................... 41
Homework Club (Y6-Y10) .............................................................................................................. 41
Go45! (Year 5 – Year 7) ................................................................................................................. 41
After School Activities outside Birralee.......................................................................................... 41
Your Rights – Legal Framework ...................................................................................................... 43
Behaviour Policy (Ordensreglement) ............................................................................................. 43
Right to a good School Environment - §9a ..................................................................................... 43
Guide for parents: if your child does not thrive at school ................................................................ 44
Right to complain about grades .................................................................................................... 48
Right to Transportation to and From School .................................................................................. 50
Right to exemption from graded assessment ................................................................................. 51
Right to exemption from the curriculum in certain subjects ............................................................ 52
Right to Exemption from compulsory education ............................................................................ 52
Right to exemption based on religious beliefs ................................................................................ 52
Right to counselling and pastoral care .......................................................................................... 52
Right to Student Representation: Student Council ........................................................................ 53
Student representation: School Environmnent Group .................................................................... 54
Student Representation: representative on the School Board ........................................................ 55
Privacy Notices for studetns and their families .............................................................................. 55
Birralee’s Codes of Practice........................................................................................................... 58
Birralee’s Terms and Conditions .................................................................................................... 61
Useful links for parents (new in Norway) ......................................................................................... 66
Useful Forms ................................................................................................................................... 67
Request School Bus Card Replacement ......................................................................................... 67
Request Duplicate Information (Step-Parents) .............................................................................. 68
Request Medication of students during School Hours .................................................................... 69
Contract ICT – IPC and IMYC ........................................................................................................ 72
Contract ICT - Middle School ......................................................................................................... 73
INTRODUCTION
WELCOME TO BIRRALEE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL TRONDHEIM
We are delighted that you have chosen Birralee for
your child / children and we are very happy to
welcome you to the school community.
The School is a thriving community of about 250
children, many with origins in countries other than
Norway. We enjoy our multi-national culture and
hope that while with us your children will not only
learn academic skills but also thrive in this exciting
multicultural environment where almost 50 different
nationalities are represented.
This handbook is designed to give you information
about how the school is run and organised. Parents
are a highly valued part of the school community and
we are constantly working to maintain a good home-
school co-operation, as well as utilise the many skills
and talents you have and may want to contribute to us!
We hope this document will help to give a perspective on the role of parents and how they
can best support the children and our School.
Besides the Parent Handbook, there are other documents available for your reference. A
summary of the curriculum for the school year is presented at curriculum meetings twice a
year, the first being held early in the autumn term. Your class teacher and subject teachers
will present the programme for the term at the Parent Curriculum Evening. If you would like
to see the full curriculum document, please let us know.
One phrase we have accepted in our school is that we are all “learners in a changing world”.
As such, we welcome feedback on the handbook and ways of working in our school. We are
very keen to provide a high standard of education for your children.
We hope that you find the handbook useful and will enjoy using it.
Yours sincerely,
Elin J. Hitchman
Principal
BIRRALEE SCHOOL SONG
LET’S ALL LEARN TO LOVE EACH OTHER,
LET’S ALL LEARN TO MAKE A FRIEND,
FRIENDS CAN TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER,
THAT’S THE BEST WAY IN THE END.
ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER, ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER,
ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER, AND HAPPY AS CAN BE.
MAKING FRIENDS WE’LL SHAPE OUR FUTURE,
SIDE BY SIDE AT BIRRALEE.
LIVING, LEARNING, CARING, SHARING,
AN INTERNATIONAL FAMILY.
ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER, ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER,
ALL FRIENDS TOGETHER, IN SCHOOL AT BIRRALEE.
ROSEMARY TALBOT
FOUNDING TEACHER
5
SCHOOL ETHOS
CREATIVE LEARNING FOR FUTURE LIVING
The aim of the school is to develop the whole child to his or her full potential as a world citizen,
prepared to face the opportunities and challenges of a changing world. The primary responsibility of
the school community is to provide a safe and caring environment in which students acquire
knowledge and skills, and develop the attitudes and values that will help them become thoughtful,
adaptable and responsible citizens of the world.
We are aiming to prepare students for this world of change, to develop the confidence to make
decisions and to follow them through, to be risk takers, to become creative thinkers, all within a safe
and friendly environment.
The school ethos is based around five characteristics. These are:
Each gives the way we work a particular emphasis.
Creativity
“An imaginative activity fashioned to produce outcomes which are original and of value.”
We can interpret this meaning of “creativity” in many ways. We encourage children to be creative in
the classroom in their daily work in all subjects. We expect our children to have a wide range of
experiences that can stimulate many different “intelligences” and children’s ways of learning. This
requires imaginative, enthusiastic, lively and stimulating teaching!
The school also has a strong tradition for creativity in musical and performing arts.
Creativity
Differentation
Responsibility and Respect
English-speaking
International perspective
The children perform in assemblies and school plays. Many children sing in the school choir and take
music lessons or are involved in other arts. The school choir has had a tradition of performing a
musical biennially. Our children gain confidence through regular opportunities to speak and perform
in public. This is a major achievement for 2nd /3rd language English speakers.
Differentiation
All children work in different ways and use different strategies to accommodate their learning.
Each child has his/her own specific learning needs, which the teachers will take into account.
Differentiation is necessary to ensure their learning needs are met. To this end teachers will provide
different learning materials and to use a range of strategies for their classes.
Focus on Responsibility and Respect
A high standard of behaviour is expected from Birralee children. Teachers will help children to achieve
this by focusing on developing their social skills and by ensuring the children are aware of and abide
by the school rules and other policies. These are reviewed regularly and discussed at the Student
Council, Liaison Committee, amongst the staff and at the Board. Through the class meetings,
children take part in developing a good work environment and being responsible for their own actions.
At Birralee we aim to resolve conflicts through negotiation and to use positive reinforcement to
encourage appropriate behaviour
We expect our children to develop a sense of responsibility for their environment. The teachers will
work with their classes to keep the classrooms and corridors clean and tidy; to help children take
responsibility for their belongings and to take care of these as well as books and other school
equipment.
English-speaking environment
One reason for parents choosing Birralee is that English is the main language for teaching and
learning. For many of our children English is a second or third language, so a stimulating and
challenging language environment is crucial to their language acquisition. Teachers will encourage
and stimulate children to develop their use of English during lessons and outside the classroom.
Teachers will use a range of strategies to stimulate children’s language development appropriate to
the age and abilities of the classes.
International perspective
Birralee International School Trondheim includes children whose origins lie in more than 40 different
countries. We therefore celebrate our cultural diversity and respect and tolerate different traditions.
This may be done in many ways, for example, in assemblies, within a class, by inviting a parent and /
or child to share a cultural or religious tradition or by visiting an exhibition. Every year we celebrate
our diversity through International Week and through our art festival.
BASIC INFORMATION
Address Bispegata 9c, 7012 Trondheim
Telephone 73 87 02 60
Principal Elin J. Hitchman [email protected]
Vice Principal Mari-Ana Jones [email protected]
Business Manager Wilco van der Kaaden [email protected]
Office Administrator Alison Myler [email protected]
Special Needs Administrator Trude Farstad [email protected]
Chair of the Board Merethe Baustad Ranum [email protected]
Birralee International School is a private, co-educational day school for children aged 6-16. The
School is run as a non-profit making foundation governed by a Board to provide high quality
education for families in the Trondheim area who require an English-speaking, international
educational environment for their children.
In June 2004 the school was granted the status of an independent private school by the Norwegian
Department of Education and is now receiving state subsidies. The School complies with the Act of
Free Schools “Friskoleloven” as well as the Act of Education (Opplæringsloven).
Birralee International School Trondheim is located at Kalvskinnet in the town centre. The school
building is over 100 years old. It is a four story traditional building containing classrooms and special
rooms for music, gymnastics, home economics, art,woodwork and computing, as well as a library.
The Middle School opened in August 2006 and offers an exciting program including the possibilities
of taking IGCSE exams as Birralee International School Trondheim is a fully recognised Cambridge
Exam Centre.
Birralee International School Trondheim is now catering for about 250 children and is a thriving part
of the educational system in Trondheim.
We have children and teachers from many different countries in our school. We are proud of our
cultural diversity and proud to share this with each other. We highlight our diversity through our
International Week every autumn and we are pleased to have such a unique opportunity to learn from
each other in many different ways.
Birralee International School is a good place to learn and grow. The children are encouraged to
respect each other and each student’s rights to learn and at the same time also to respect the teachers’
rights to teach. This enables us to provide a stimulating and exciting learning environment that will
encourage children’s desire to learn.
Birralee International School was founded in 1973. The school recently celebrated 40 years of
excellent education in Trondheim! We now look forward to our next 40 exciting years!
BIRRALEE’S PLACE IN THE NORWEGIAN EDUCATION SYSTEM
Birralee International School is approved as an independent private school by the Norwegian
Department of Education and complies with the Act of Free Schools “Friskoleloven”
Year of birth 2018-2019 School Year
2017
Barnehage
(Kindergarten)
2016
2015
Birralee Kindergarten
2014
2013
2012 Year 1
International Primary
Curriculum (IPC)
Barneskole
1. trinn
2011 Year 2 2. trinn
2010 Year 3 3. trinn
2009 Year 4 4. trinn
2008 Year 5 5. trinn
2007 Year 6 International Middle Years
Curriculum (IMYC)
6. trinn
2006 Year 7 7. trinn
2005 Year 8 Ungdomsskole
8. trinn
2004 Year 9 IGSCE-years 9. trinn
2003 Year 10 10. trinn
2002 Videregående skole (Upper secondary
education and training)
VGS1
2001 VGS2
2000 VGS3
1999 University / University College / Work
SCHOOL ORGANISATION
Stiftelsen Birralee International School Trondheim runs a school and a kindergarten through two separate limited companies, or aksjeselskap.
BOARD OF GOVERNERS
The Board supervises the general running of the school and is responsible for and acts to regulate the financial affairs of the school. Meetings are held approximately eight times per year.
In addition to the board members, the following representatives have the right to meet and speak at the meetings: The Principal, a Trondheim Kommune representative, staff representatives, a parent representative and a student representative.
MEMBERS
Voting Members: Non-Voting Members / Representatives
Merethe Baustad Ranum (Chair) [email protected]
Elin J. Hitchman (Principal) [email protected]
Lisbeth Vassaas (Deputy Chair) Beth Ramsberg (Representative teaching staff)
Harald Ratchje Robin Conway (Representative non-teaching staff)
Liv Aksnes (Representative Trondheim City Council)
Britt Nergård Jostein Nilsen (Parent Representative)
VACANT Chair Student Council (Student Representative)
Trude Sjøhagen Nordgaard (VARA)
(VARA)
Stiftelsen Birralee International School
Trondheim (Foundation)Vedtekter
Birralee International Kindergarten Trondheim
Birralee International School Trondheim AS
Vedtekter
SCHOOL STRUCTURE
Board
Principal(Vice Principal)
Administration
Staff: Teachers and Assistants
OVERVIEW DIFFERENT COMMITTEES IN THE SCHOOL
Students
Em
plo
yees
Par
ents
Health & Safety Group
Assistants’ Union Group
Teacher’s Union Group
Pension Group
Parents’ Committee
School Environment Group (SEG)
Student Council
School
Board
Green Flag Committee
Green Team
STAFF LIST 2018-2019
Please visit http://www.birralee.no/contact-us for a full updated overview.
SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICE
School Nurse Gro Hatlen
Telephone 73 87 02 60
Email [email protected]
Office hours Monday and Wednesday
The school health service is in place to promote good health amongst the children at school and to
prevent illness. Other partners co-operating to achieve this are teachers, physiotherapists, school
psychologists, speech therapists, family doctors and others in the school health service.
The school health service wishes to establish, and depends on, good home – school co-operation, so
please contact us if you would like advice or need to talk something over. You can contact us by
telephone or a visit to the office. You will find the school nurse on the ground floor.
New children joining the school will be called in for a health check. Children coming to the school
from abroad should have their documentation of their vaccinations with them. Please note that the
school office must receive a completed information/health form before a child starts at Birralee
International School Trondheim.
PASTORAL CARE COUNSELLOR
Primary School
Pastoral care counsellor
Trude Farstad
Telephone 73 87 02 60
Email [email protected]
Office hours During school hours
Middle School
Pastoral care counsellor
Inger Loe
Telephone 73 87 02 60
Email [email protected]
Office hours During school hours
The school provides pastoral care for its students. Pastoral care focusses on the whole student:
personal, social and academic. The purpose of pastoral care is to support students with personal,
social and emotional difficulties which can impact their academic progress and social relationships at
school. Staff will cooperate with parents and external agencies.
CAREER GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR
Career counsellor Inger Loe
Telephone 73 87 02 60
Email [email protected]
Office hours In class / by appointment
Career guidance counselling focusses on education and work. The purpose of career guidance is to
increase awareness of and support students in their choices of further education and work. It also
enables students to develop a long term perspective.
The students have the right to:
▪ Counselling for their choice of further education and work
▪ Up to date information about further education in Norway and abroad
▪ Up to date information about work opportunities, locally, nationally and internationally
▪ Training in accessing relevant information
▪ Information about deadlines, admission criteria and financial support
▪ Training in applying for job and other application procedures
Career guidance counselling should enable students to evaluate their own competencies and wishes
and make informed decision for themselves. Staff will cooperate with external agencies.
SCHOOL LIFE AT BIRRALEE
At Birralee we aim to provide a stimulating and caring environment where your child can happily learn
and develop. We are confident that together we can ensure a smooth and secure introduction for
your child at our school. We hope that before starting at Birralee you and your child will be able to
visit us and possibly spend some time visiting your class. In addition, new students are invited to
attend "welcome day" which takes place in June. Here children are offered the opportunity to get to
know their new surroundings, teachers and schoolmates prior to the start of the school year.
SCHOOL HOURS
The school day in the Primary School runs from 8.30 to 14.30. The children have 6 teaching lessons
per day, a total of 30 lessons a week.
Children in Year 1 to Year 4 have the opportunity of using the Birralee ASP (After School Programme
- before and after school care) for an additional fee. The application form can be found on birralee.no.
The school day in the Middle School runs from 8.30 to 14.45. The students have 7 teaching lessons
per day, a total of 35 lessons a week. One of these lessons is Study Hall where the students organise
their own time to effectively meet the demands of their classes. Study Hall is supervised by the
teachers.
If your children walk home or take the bus, please encourage them to leave the school grounds at
dismissal time. If you are personally collecting your child, please be on time. It is not the school’s
responsibility to supervise your children after the school day ends, but we also cannot allow children
to remain unsupervised. If you are late in picking up your child, there will be a 200 NOK charge for
the extra supervision.
SCHOOL PREMISES (UPDATED 02.11.2018)
The school building at Kalvskinnet dates from 1887. Birralee has been in this location since 1975. The
school is located in the centre of Trondheim, easily accessible by public transport. We are fortunate
to be nearby NTNU, museums, galleries and the medieval cathedral.
The school building was completely renovated in 2011. We are currently in the process of renovating
the playground.
The school has a long-term rental agreement with Trondheim Kommune. The building is shared with
Birralee International Kindergarten. Additionally, Trondheim Kommune uses some office space on
part of the third floor.
DRESS CODE (UPDATED 15.08.2018)
There are no uniforms for children at Birralee. Parents are expected to send their children to school
neatly and appropriately dressed and with appropriate clothing for outdoor play and indoor gym.
The physical education teacher will request special clothing and/or shoes to be worn in keeping with
the needs of the P.E. program and the seasons. Hats may not be worn in the building. Students must
have slippers or indoor shoes to wear in the classrooms.
To help ensure good face-to-face interaction, the Norwegian government issued a ban on clothing in schools which covers the face. This ban is valid from August 2018, both in schools and on school supervised activities.
Examples of garments not allowed to be worn:
▪ Niqab, which covers the head and face, and often covers the entire face except the eyes.
▪ Burka, that covers the entire body with a textile grille in front of the face. ▪ Balaclava, which covers the entire face except the eyes and mouth (finlandshetter).
The Hijab, which covers the hair and neck is not considered a garment that covers the face and is allowed.
Allowed Not allowed
WINTER CLOTHES
In Norway temperatures can be extremely cold in winter time. We continue with outdoor playtime
and activities all year round and take advantage of opportunities to ski and skate.
It is important that you ensure that your child is appropriate dressed for their well-being and safety.
This also applies to older students. Not having sufficient clothing may result in them being unable to
participate in physical education activities during the winter.
Please also make sure the children have dry mittens/gloves/hats at school. Wet
mittens/gloves/hats/suits don't dry properly when left at school. They need to be taken home at the
end of the day to ensure that they can be used again the following day.
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
You will find an overview of the school holidays in our school calendar published on the school
website.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE
Class Teachers can grant a leave for up to one day. For absences longer than a day, an application
must be sent to the Principal prior to the leave. We do not encourage families to take holidays during
term time. This can be very disruptive to a child’s education. We undertake to publish holiday dates
and other dates when the school is closed well in advance so that holidays can be planned.
If you wish to remove your child from school during term time you must:-
• apply to the Principal in writing as far in advance as possible ;
• ensure that your child completes work set by his/her teachers during the absence;
• understand that fees must be paid while the child is absent;
• note that the Principal reserves the right to refuse the application. Please note that in Norway a Principal is only permitted to grant a leave for up to two weeks. For longer leaves, the child will have to be taken off the roll. Parents can reapply for a place for their child.
Longer or frequent unauthorized leaves will be reported to the local authorities.
LUNCH
The children eat their lunch in the classrooms. Your child will need a packed lunch and a drink. Please
do not include sweets or fizzy drinks. The school offers a milk and fruit service for a small charge.
HEALTHY SCHOOL
We would like to remind parents that we aim to be a healthy school. We therefore kindly ask parents
to not send any sweets or cakes to school, except for special school celebrations such as Halloween
and Christmas.
Children will be recognised in school on their birthday by their teacher and classmates. However, we
kindly ask you to not send in any birthday treats.
COMMITMENT TO CARING FOR OUR PLANET
Birralee is committed to being an environmental friendly organiation as well as educating children
about the importance of taking care of our planet.
This commitment is evident through:
▪ Recycling throughout the school
▪ Banning of single use plastic
▪ Banning of disposable barbeques
▪ Fairtrade School
▪ Support of SOS Children’s Villages through various fundraisers
▪ Green Flag School
GREEN FLAG SCHOOL
We have been approved as a Green Flag school since 2012. This accreditation means that we are
engaged in systematic work in educating and involving children in caring for our planet.
GREEN FLAG COMMITTEE
The Green Flag Committee is an elected group of students who support Green Flag activities on the
theme of the year and promote environmentally friendly behaviour within the school. They also act
as student coordinators for Fairtrade activities in the school. Each class (Y5-Y8) holds elections for
two representatives to this committee.
GREEN TEAM
Green Team is an opportunity for students in years 5-10 to volunteer one lunch time a week to create
a project on a social or environmental issue that they feel passionately about.
PLAYTIMES
The children have two outside playtimes each day. Please make sure your children are properly
dressed for the weather. All outdoor clothing should be clearly marked with your child’s name. Please
note that students will not be allowed to leave the premises during school hours. Children must have
slippers or indoor shoes to wear in the classrooms.
PLAYGROUND RULES
As decided by the Student Council, August 2017.
RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, READY TO PLAY! RESPECT Show respect to all adults on duty and listen to instructions. Show respect to all students on the playground and be kind. Be good friends and take care of each other. Take care of the play equipment. Take turns with the play equipment and share it. Be aware of others when using the scooters/go karts and stay off the football area. RESPONSIBILITY STAY SAFE! Stay off the trees and fences, go down the slide, don’t playfight. Everyone must put the toys away that they have used. Tell the teacher if you need the toilet and all students use the toilets on the first floor. Wear weather appropriate clothes. READY TO PLAY! Thursday is Football Free Day Friday is Scooter Free Day Students are allowed to go to the park at both playtimes. Classes going to the park must be at the gate ready to leave together with an adult. Latecomers will have to stay on the playground.
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
The school will do its best to cater for the individual needs of the children. Children may receive help from Trondheim City Council if they have special educational needs. The school, the parents and any outside agencies will work together to create the best possibilities for the child.
NO PETS
Following the advice on the Norwegian Institute for Public Health, pets and other animals are not
allowed in school buildings, on the school playground or on school trips.
NO SMOKING
Smoking and the use of other tobacco products is prohibited on school grounds and during school
organized activities.
USE OF THE TELEPHONE
Students may request to use the school telephone in case of emergency. The use of mobile
telephones during school hours is not allowed, unless agreed otherwise with the teacher. We also ask
parents not to call their children on their mobile phones during school hours. Messages can be left
with the School Office for delivery to your child.
All mobile phones should be stored away in pockets or backpacks or in the “Mobile Hotel”.
ACTIVITY DAYS AND SCHOOL TRIPS
The children will take part in whole school outings like beach day, ski day, forest day, sports’ day etc.
There will be school and class trips to museums, town library, art galleries and other places of interest.
The children in Years 4-7 will have an overnight trip. The IGCSE-Students will work towards an
international trip at the end of Year 10.
SCHOOL EQUIPMENT
In addition to gym equipment, the children will need a school bag and a pencil case.
The school provides all books and other writing and art materials. Middle School Students will be
equipped with their own Chromebook. Lockers are provided for Middle School Students for safe
storage of personal belongings during the school day.
GYM AND SWIMMING
Your class teacher will inform you when gym classes take place. Please bring appropriate clothing (t-
shirt and shorts) and indoor gym shoes. The children in Years 6 to 10 will need towels as they shower
after the lessons. If for some reason your child cannot take part, please write a message to the teacher.
Swimming lessons are arranged as part of preparation for the obligatory skill test in swimming in Year
4. There is no extra charge for these. Dates will be arranged and parents will be informed when these
take place.
ASSEMBLIES
There are regular assemblies. All parents are welcome to attend. There will also be other whole-
school assemblies throughout the year. Assemblies will be announced on our website and in the
calendar.
SICKNESS
When children are unwell, please keep them at home until they are fully recovered. This safeguards
the health of your teacher and the rest of the class. Please notify the school before 9.00am if your
child is to be absent. It is also important to inform the school about the reason for their absence,
especially in the case of an infectious illness.
TOO SICK FOR SCHOOL?
When your child is unwell, it can be hard deciding whether to keep them off school. These simple
guidelines could help.
Not every illness needs to keep your child from school. If you keep your child away from school, be
sure to inform us ([email protected]) on the first day of their absence. Use common sense when
deciding whether or not your child is too ill to attend school. Please ask yourself the following
questions:
1. Is my child well enough to do all of the activities of the school day (including playtime, gym)?
If not, keep your child at home.
2. Does my child have a condition that could be passed on to other children or school staff? If
so, keep your child at home.
Whether you send your child to school will depend on how severe you think the illness is. Use this
guidance to help you make that judgement. Remember: if you’re concerned about your child’s health,
consult your GP (fastlege).
Vomiting and diarrhoea. Children with diarrhoea and/or vomiting should definitely be kept off
school until at least 48 hours after their symptoms have gone.
Cough and cold. A child with a minor cough or cold may attend school. If the cold is accompanied by
a raised temperature, shivers or drowsiness, the child should stay off school. The child can return to
school 24 hours after they start to feel better.
Raised temperature. If your child has a raised temperature, they shouldn’t attend school. They
can return 24 hours after they start to feel better.
Rash. Skin rashes can be the first sign of many infectious illnesses, such as chickenpox and measles.
Children with these conditions shouldn’t attend school. If your child has a rash, check with your GP
(fastlege) before sending them to school.
Sore throat. A sore throat alone doesn’t have to keep a child from school. But if it’s accompanied by
a raised temperature, your child should stay at home.
Chickenpox. If your child has chickenpox, keep them off school until all their spots have crusted over.
ACCIDENT PROCEDURES
Accident forms are filled in and kept on file for all accidents that occur during the school day. If your
child is involved in a more serious accident at school, the school will also submit an accident form to
the Norwegian Social Services “Nav trygd”. Any taxi expenses or other costs incurred for medical
follow-up are covered. Parents must collect the receipts and submit them to “Nav trygd” themselves.
EVACUATION PROCEDURES
The students regularly participate in fire drills to practice our evacuation procedures. Please follow
directions from staff if you would happen to be in the building during a fire (drill).
CONTINGENCY PLANS
The school has contingency plans in place.
SCHOOL FEES
Upon acceptance of a place, we ask you to pay two months of school fees as an advance payment. This will be used to cover the first two months of school fees for your child. School fees are payable monthly in advance. A table showing the current fees is available on the website. If a monthly fee remains outstanding, a reminder is sent. If the fee is still outstanding, a second reminder is sent before the debt is transferred to a debt collecting agency. Ultimately non-payment of fees will result in your child losing his/her place. We reserve the right to charge interest on outstanding fees in accordance with the late payment interest act. Two month’s notice of withdrawal, effective from the first of the month, must be given in writing to the Principal. Failure to give this will result in fees being charged in lieu.
THE CURRICULUM
We offer a fully international curriculum which meets global standards and prepares students for 21st
century challenges and opportunities.
Our curriculum was approved by the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training, the
executive agency for the Ministry of Education and Research, in 2018.
Please click on the picture below to find more information about the IPC or the IMYC.
CAMBRIDGE IGCSE - A GUIDE FOR PARENTS
This factsheet gives parents an overview of Cambridge IGCSE, the
world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year
olds. Developed over 25 years ago, it is tried, tested and trusted by
schools worldwide.
Cambridge IGCSE - A guide for parents
BRITISH SCHEMES
The school uses British schemes for teaching in addition to a variety of books from class and school
libraries. For the Norwegian teaching, we use Norwegian schemes. The children often work in cross-
curricular topics or through projects where they can carry out research and present results in
cooperation with others. The teachers use varied teaching methods and aim to meet the individual
needs of all students. We promote creativity in both teaching and learning and we are keen to use the
arts in our topic and project work.
NATIONAL TESTS AND EXAMS
Birralee students take part in the Norwegian National Tests every year.
Our Year 10 students take the Norwegian exit exam and, from 2019 onwards, IGCSE exams in the
following subjects:
▪ Maths
▪ Science
▪ English
▪ English Literatrure
▪ History, Geography and Society
▪ Global Perspective
▪ Physical Education
In addition to the seven subjects above, the students will also choose two IGCSE exams of the
following subjects:
▪ ICT
▪ Design and Technology
▪ Music
▪ Art and Design
GRADING
IPC and IMYC students are not assessed with a grade. IGCSE students are assessed on a grading scale
from A* to G. The video below explains how the grades are set. (Click to see video)
UK GCSEs and Cambridge IGCSEs have been reported on an A*–G grading scale for almost 30 years
and offer a good level of differentiation between students’ performance. The grading scale is
understood and accepted by universities and employers around the world.
The Norwegian grading scale is used for the subject of Norwegian in Years 8, 9 and 10.
6 – six (exceptionally high degree of competence in the subject)
5 – five (very high degree of competence in the subject)
4 – four (high degree of competence in the subject)
3 – three (fair degree of competence in the subject)
2 – two (low degree of competence in the subject)
1 – one (very low degree of competence in the subject)
In the subject of Careers, the assessment form "Participated" is used instead of numerical marks.
Marks for order and conduct are given as follows in Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10: Good, Fair, or Poor.
CERTIFICATE FOR PRIMARY AND LOWER SECONDARY EDUCATION
A certificate for primary and lower secondary education (vitnemål for grunnskolen) is issued as
documentation of completed primary and lower secondary education in accordance with the Act of
Private Schools.
IGCSE Certificates are issued by Cambridge following the publication of results.
HOME-SCHOOL COOPERATION
At Birralee we aim to foster close co-operation between home and school. We are sure that this co-
operation is in the best interests of us all: children, parents, teachers and administration.
We aim to keep you informed about what your children are doing at school through parent meetings,
the school newsletter, the school website, the class blogs and email. Messages, questions and
feedback can be communicated through email or a phone call to the school.
Likewise, we ask you to inform us promptly of any significant changes at home that might affect your
child's learning situation or feelings of security. You are the experts regarding your children and we
need you to let us know immediately if they are unhappy or anxious about any aspect of school life.
EXPECTATIONS
Birralee International School Trondheim expects parents to support and follow up their children’s education.
The school will be responsible for organising the home – school co-operation. The school will help set up good routines for parental involvement. Information and knowledge about the school are important factors for parental involvement in the school. The Act of Private Schools makes this possible through the statutory organisation of a Parents’ Association and a Parents’ Committee. At Birralee we also have a School Environment Committee and a parent meets on the School Board as an representative with speaking rights.
It is vitally important to create good routines for co-operation between teachers and students,
between school and home and between school and local community. The school will host Parents’
Evenings several times a year and there will be two Parent-teacher conferences every year. The
school newsletter and other information will be emailed or posted on the website and blogs.
The School
We will
• care for your child
• provide a balanced curriculum and meet the needs of the children
• encourage children to do their best at all times
• encourage children to take care of their surroundings and the people in their school community
• inform you of general school matters through regular newsletters
• inform you of your child’s progress at parent/teacher conferences
• inform you of what the teachers aim to teach the children each term in our curriculum meetings
• be open and welcoming at all times and offer opportunities for you to become involved in the life of our school
• inform you of any concerns we have for your child’s education or well-being
• set homework regularly.
The Family
We will
• make sure our child arrives at school on time
• make sure our child attends school regularly and provide a note of explanation if our child is absent
• when possible, attend parent/teacher conferences to discuss our child’s progress
• when possible, attend parents’ meetings and curriculum evenings
• when possible, attend Assemblies, especially when our child’s class is performing
• make the school aware of any concerns or problems
• support the school’s policies and guidelines for behaviour
• support our child with his or her homework.
The Child
I will
• make sure I arrive at school on time and with all the things I need for the day
• always do my best in school and with my homework
• be aware of the feelings and needs of other people.
• keep the School Rules
Together
We will
• support children’s learning to help them achieve their potential.
• address individual needs
• encourage the children to keep the School Rules
OPEN DOOR POLICY
At Birralee we operate an “open doors” policy. This means that you are encouraged to talk to your
child's teacher either informally - before or after school - or by appointment. The Principal will also
be available to listen and give advice wherever possible. Please contact the school office to make an
appointment.
We welcome you into the classrooms to take part in our activities, and to attend our assemblies. If
you have spare time during the week, we always welcome parents helping in school on a more regular
basis, either listening to children read or helping us in other ways. Please contact the school office or
your teacher to set up a suitable time for you to visit the class.
COMMUNICATION
The school will send out regular newsletters to all families and keep the webpage updated. In addition,
the class teachers also send home additional information when necessary. You will receive emails
from school and have access to information posted on the website and the class blogs.
The school will set up and maintain a group email address for the parents of each class (e.g.
[email protected]). All parents and Birralee Staff directly associated with the particular class
will be part of this group email.
Parents may call the office or send messages to [email protected]. Parents may also mail their class
teacher directly. Please make sure you check the class blog regularly as the teachers will post useful
messages, links, assignments and homework on the blog.
Contact information for all staff can be found on our website.
INVITATIONS TO BIRTHDAY PARTIES
We understand that parents have different traditions and possibilities when it comes to organising
children’s birthday parties. However, we strongly urge parents to try to include all boys and/or all girls
when organising a party. At Birralee, we actively promote friendship so that we can be “all friends
together”. Not being invited to a birthday party can lead to a sense of exclusion. Some children take
this “rejection” harder than others and it’s important for us that all children feel included while at
school. We therefore ask parents not to hand out invitations at Birralee if not all boys and/or girls in
the class are invited. Please note that we are most happy to hand out invitations to a birthday party
where all boys/girls or the whole class is invited.
KEEPING THE SCHOOL INFORMED
All parents are asked to complete the information and child's health forms and send/deliver them to
the school office prior to their child's first day at Birralee. If you have any additional information about
your child, which is important for the teacher to know, please discuss this with him or her. All
information is completely confidential.
Please inform the school immediately of any change in your address or telephone numbers at home
or at work. It is vital that the school has the correct contact details.
COURT ORDERS
The Principal must be notified immediately in writing of any court order relating to your child. It may be necessary in exceptional circumstances for the Principal to advise a parent that s/he may not be present on the School premises if this is in a child’s or the School’s best interests.
OTHER AGENCIES
Please inform the Principal in writing if your child is under the care of external agencies, for example, social workers (barnevern) and educational psychologists (PPT).
QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS OF PARENTS
During the course of a school year, questions or concerns inevitably arise. When they do, we
encourage direct communication with the school. The following steps are recommended:
• For classroom concerns, please contact the teacher or the Principal directly.
• For financial questions, please contact the School Office.
Please note that the Principal will always be involved in concerns relating to the students’ school
environment.
If you are not satisfied, please contact the School Principal. The Principal is responsible for resolving
conflict, but may inform or consult the Board as appropriate. If you are still not satisfied, contact the
Parent Representative on the School Board. Please be advised that, if you approach a member of the
Board, he or she will redirect your concerns to the Principal.
PARENTS’ MEETINGS, CONFERENCES AND REPORT CARDS
The School arranges a Parents’ Meeting in September and another one in February/March. There will
be parent/teacher conferences twice a year (autumn and spring term). Each child will receive a written
report at the end of each school year. Students are invited to attend the conference. Students also
have their own conference with their class teacher twice a year.
The teaching staff are available to discuss issues outside of standard meeting times should you have
any concerns.
LOST AND FOUND
Please remember to label your child’s clothing, lunch boxes, etc., with a first and last name. If
something is misplaced, please check the Lost and Found rack located down the stairs, near the door
of the basement.
Unlabeled items in the Lost and Found rack will be donated to charity before each holiday.
PARENT REPRESENTATION
PARENTS’ PLACE IN THE SCHOOL ORGANISATION
All parents in the school together form the Parents’ Association. The Parents’ Association will meet at least once a year. Important issues for the Parents’ Association will, amongst others, be:
• establish a good co-operative relationship between school and home
• help encourage student well-being and positive development
• establish contact between the school and the local community
The Parents’ Association will elect members to The Parents’ Committee. This Committee consists of two class representatives per class in the school. The Parents’ Association will also elect a parent to meet on the School Board as an observer/representative to express the parents’ views. Any parent in the school can be appointed to hold this position. The School Board Observer/Representative will take part in the meeting of the Parents’ Committee to provide the necessary link between the different parties within the school.
PARENTS’ COMMITTEE
The Parents’ Committee shall promote the parents’ shared interests and help to ensure that
students and parents take an active part in working to create a satisfactory school environment.
The Parents’ Committee shall work to promote an atmosphere of solidarity between home and
school, lay a basis for well-being and positive development for the students and foster contact
between the school and the community (Friskolelova §5-4).
The Parents’ Committee will be kept continuously informed of all circumstances – including events, plans and decisions – of major significance for the school environment. The Parents’ Committee has on request the right of access to documentation of the systematic health, environment and safety work at the school.
The Parents’ Committee will at as an early stage as possible, be included in the planning and performance of environmental measures at Birralee, and have the right to state their views and submit proposals concerning all matters of significance for the school environment.
During previous years the Parents’ Committee has been responsible for a variety of events and
activities like the Christmas Fair, Christmas Play refreshments, Family Ski Day, International Dinner,
Jumble Sale, Teacher Appreciation Lunch, School Jumper Sales, Christmas Ball, Valentine’s Party,
Halloween Party, Spring Fair and Summer Picnic.
The school Principal and/or the Vice-Principal will be present at the meetings in the Parents’ Committee to ensure good contact between the parents and the administration of the school.
The Parents’ Committee will elect two members for the School Environment Group.
SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT GROUP (SEG)
The purpose of the School Environment Group is:
▪ To provide a forum for discussion and sharing of opinions related to the school environment.
▪ To review current procedures relating to ensuring a positive school environment e.g. playground rules.
▪ To facilitate planning and carrying out activities related to the school environment.
The Birralee School Environment Group consists of:
▪ the Chair and the Secretary of the Primary and Middle School Student Council ▪ Two Parent Representatives from the Parents’ Committee ▪ The Principal / Vice Principal ▪ The Health and Safety Officer
The School Environment Group meetings are held three times throughout the school year
according to the meeting plan.
How the School Environment Group is organised:
Each group will contribute to the Agenda which will be coordinated by the Principal / Vice Principal
in advance of the meeting. Minutes will be taken and shared throughout Birralee. All members have
the right to have their opinion noted in the minutes.
PARENT REPRESENTATION ON THE BOARD
Election to the Parents' Committee takes place at the first Parent/Teacher meeting in the autumn. At
this meeting a Parent Representative is also elected to serve as an observer to the School Board.
CONFIDENTIALITY:
In accordance with Norwegian Law, all parent representatives and parent helpers must be aware that
total confidentiality is required regarding information about students, parents and other sensitive
information acquired as a result of working in the school.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE
One way to enhance a student's school experience is through organised after school programmes
and extracurricular activities such as clubs or the school choir. At Birralee we strive to provide our
students with positive and worthwhile experiences, giving children the opportunity to develop and
grow while learning to cooperate and having fun together. Our activities are designed to be enjoyable
and stimulating, while helping encourage the children to become caring, responsible, honest and
respectful of others. We want to inspire new interests, encourage creativity and build self-confidence
in our students.
ASP (YEAR 1 – YEAR 4)
Birralee runs a before and after school programme for Primary students from Year 1 to Year 4. At
Birralee we recognise that a child's education does not take place only in the classroom, during
regular school hours. The home, the playground, and the school environment in general can all be an
invaluable settings for a child's personal and academic growth.
Birralee Before and After School Care are fully supervised recreational programmes for primary children. Children attending our programmes can participate in a variety of organised activities in a safe and stimulating environment.
To meet the physical, intellectual, social, emotional needs of the children, our programme will:
• Offer fun, enriching, academically oriented and recreational activities that help promote confidence, self-esteem and responsibility
• Provide children with a safe and secure environment staffed by caring and friendly staff
• Provide a relaxed atmosphere where children can socialise and make new friends
• Provide a nutritional snack/meal
• Provide time for homework assistance
The Birralee After School Programme provides activities that assist with all aspects of a child's
development. Activities include:
• Creative art projects that develop an appreciation of different cultures.
• Dance and drama activities that help children to make friends and express themselves.
• Sports activities that develop physical fitness, hand eye coordination and good sportsmanship.
• Healthy eating and cooking activities that teach valuable life skills.
• Academic activities through our weekly homework clubs and through the use of computers
SCHOOL CHOIR (Y3-Y7)
Students (Year 3 – Year 7) are welcome to join the Birralee School Choir. Activities include songs and
games, drama and movement. The choir performs in school assemblies and gives concerts for
parents and others. The choir is also planning a bigger production at the end of the year.
HOMEWORK CLUB (Y6-Y10)
Homework Club is an opportunity to work on homework in a orderly environment with the support
of a member of staff. Students in Year 6 to 10 have the possibility to join homework club. Homework
club is free of charge.
GO45! (YEAR 5 – YEAR 7)
To fulfill requirements from the Department of Education for additional physical activity during the
school day, we are able to offer more physical activity for the students in Year 5, 6 and 7 this school
year. We are therefore prolonging the school day for children in these years on either Tuesday,
Wednesday or Thursday by 45 minutes (1430-1515).
The physical activities will be varied throughout the school year and will take place in the gym or
outside.
The goals of Go45! are:
• To increase variation in the school day.
• To promote physical and mental health.
• To have fun with physical activity
• To give the students a sense of achievement.
• To improve motor skills.
• To include all students and give them the opportunity to participate regardless of ability.
• To provide an arena for social interaction and friendship between students from the different
senior classes.
We kindly ask all parents to indicate what day they would prefer for their child to attend Go45! Please
note that Go45! is a required component of the school week. For more information please contact
the school office: [email protected]
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE BIRRALEE
Music and More (via Trondheim Kulturskolen)
Band, baritone, recorder, violin, cello, dance, electric bass, flute, guitar, harpe, clarinet, Double
Bass,Cornet and trumpet, Saturday School (talent offers), songwriting (courses), Nidarosdomen
Boys’ Choir – aspirant training, Nidaros Girls’ Choir – aspirant training
obo, orgel, piano, saxophone, sang, bagpipe, circus, percussion, studio equipment (courses),
theater, accordions, trombone, trumpet, tuba, visual arts.
Sports
Football, Ice Hockey, Dancing, Boxing, Basketball, Swimming, Track and Field, Handball, Skiing,
Bowling, Tennis, Rowing, Judo, Baseball, Table Tennis and more…
YOUR RIGHTS – LEGAL FRAMEWORK
BEHAVIOUR POLICY (ORDENSREGLEMENT)
The school’s Behaviour Policy can be found on our website.
RIGHT TO A GOOD SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT - §9A
Birralee works actively, systematically and continuously to ensure that the school environment at
Birralee lives up to the meaning of the School name, which means “a safe place for children”.
The school adheres to the Norwegian Act of Education which describes the requirements for a good
school environment in § 9a. We work hard to provide a safe school and to encourage children to take
care of each other and to work together in positive and socially responsible ways.
Our yearly updated School Environment Plan provides more details about:
• Our definition of a good school environment (according to students and staff)
• Our aim for the school environment
• The characteristics of a good physical school environment at Birralee
• The characteristics of a good psycho-social school environment at Birralee
• The measures to ensure a good physical and psycho-social environment at Birralee (including
our Yearly Plan which details how Birralee works actively, systematically and continuously to
ensure a good school environment)
• Information about what we will do when we receive a complaint about the physical school
environment
• Information about what we will do when a student feels unhappy or unsafe at school (The
School’s Obligation to Act)
• An example of an Action Plan related to the psycho-social school environment
• When and how the school will report to the Board on matters relating the school environment
The School Environment Plan 2018-2019 will be available on our website from August 2018.
The students will also be discussing their work environment and will be able to suggest improvements
or make complaints and take an active part in finding solutions. Also parents have the right to address
the student’s work environment and put forward suggestions for improvements or complaints.
Chapter 9a of the Norwegian Education Act underlines that all Primary and Middle School students
have the right to a good physical and psycho-social environment. If the student believes that his/her
rights are not properly protected, they or their parents may ask the school to rectify any breach of
the law.
If the situation does not improve, or if you as a student or parent believe that the measures taken are
insufficient, you may report the problem to your County Governor.
GUIDE FOR PARENTS: IF YOUR CHILD DOES NOT THRIVE AT SCHOOL
The following information is provided by The Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training Source: https://www.udir.no/nullmobbing/guide-til-skoleforeldre-med-barn-som-ikke-har-det-bra-pa-skolen/guide-for-parents-if-your-child-does-not-thrive-at-school/ Last updated: 30.08.2017.
All children have the right to enjoy a safe and good school environment that promotes health, well-being and learning. This means that your child should not suffer bullying or harassment from other children or from teachers. If your child is unhappy, he or she is entitled to get help from the adults at the school.
It is the child’s own opinion and feeling about his or her environment that matters.
Neither the principal, other teachers nor students – know better than your child how he or she feels about school. For instance, the principal cannot simply dismiss a case and claim that bullying is generally rare at the school. If your child is feeling bullied in any way, the school must take the situation seriously and act accordingly.
What does the law say?
The new law concerning school environment and bullying came into force on 1 August 2017. The principle is a zero tolerance approach to bullying. Students have a right to feel safe and content at school.
Your child does not have to suffer bullying in order to get help
It’s enough that your child is not thriving. He or she may be feeling lonely, or be apprehensive about going to school.
Your child has the right to be heard
Every child is entitled to express their views and to be heard. This is a principle stated in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Norway has ratified the agreement.
To stop bullying and ensure that your child is content and thriving, school staff must first ask the child how he or she feels. Next, the school must ask you as parents - parent - and your child for your view.
The school has a duty to ensure that all students feel safe and thrive at school
All school staff must be observant and make sure that the students are content at school. If an adult at the school is aware of – or suspects – that your child is bullied or harassed, he or she shall act and
• intervene and stop it immediately if possible
• alert the principal
• investigate what has happened
• draw up a plan with concrete measures
The school is obliged to follow up on this plan until the child feels safe and content at school.
The principal ensures that your child receives the appropriate help
The principal shall take all concerns seriously and is obliged to investigate what has happened. The principal is responsible for taking steps to bring the bullying and harassment to an end, and to ensure that your child can once again feel safe and happy. The principal should keep the parents informed of the action is taken. Both you as parent and your child have the right to be heard.
Each school must have procedures in place to ensure a good school environment
These procedures shall describe what the school is doing to safeguard the well-being of all students. This procedure states what the school is doing to prevent and to detect bullying and harassment. It says how they will respond when such behaviours occur.
The procedures should be in writing so that you can read them.
Read more about the school environment and the school’s obligations (text in Norwegian)
What if the bullying happens after school is out?
Incidents that occur among students after school can affect how a child feels at school. If something has happened on the football pitch or online that makes your child feel uncomfortable at school, the school must address the problem – even if the underlying reason is something that has occured outside school grounds. This means that the school may have a responsibility even for bullying that happens after school, e.g. online, on the way to school or at football practice. What matters is whether the student feels happy when at school. Whatever the underlying reasons, it shall not stop the school from addressing the problem.
Getting help to contact the school
You are entitled to ask the school to take action
As a parent, you may ask the school to take action if you believe your child is unhappy. The school must look into the matter. You can approach the school on your own, together with your child, or together with other parents.
We recommend that you raise the issue with the school by email or letter. This means you have proof that you have asked for help.
Address the letter or email to the principal.
Remember that it is not your responsibility to suggest what steps to take.
That responsibility rests with the principal. However, you and your child may suggest measures that you think will help to solve the problem.
You may ask someone to accompany you to meetings with the school
It is common for parents and school staff to meet to discuss measures and solutions. Many parents feel more at ease if they have someone to accompany them, especially if the issue in question has been going on for some time. You may bring a friend, a family member or another person whom you trust.
You may also give someone written authorisation to act on your behalf.
If you are acting on behalf of your child and your child is 18 or older, he or she must give you written authorisation.
Keep the paperwork. Keep any paperwork from meetings and communication with the school. Make sure that you receive copies of all minutes.
What the school must do
The school must investigate the matter as quickly as possible and obtain as much information as it can. Again - you and your child have a right to be heard.
Before taking action in such cases, the school must always draw up a written plan. The plan should describe:
• the issue that needs solving
• what the school is planning to do about it
• at what time the measures will be activated
• who is responsible for implementing the measures
• at what time the measures will be evaluated
The school is legally obliged to keep the measures in place until your child once again feels safe and content at school. The child’s own feelings are what matters here. The plan must be documented in writing so you and your child to see how the case progresses.
May the principal share the contents of my letter or email with others?
The principal will often have to talk to other school staff about what you and your child have told them in order to offer help. However, that does not mean that they are free to talk to just anyone about your case. It is quite possible that the principal needs to talk to other students involved in the bullying/harassment and to their parents.
You may report the problem to the County Governor if your child is still unhappy
In most instances of bullying and harassment, the school will find a good solution together with the students and their parents. If thesituation does not improve, or if you believe the measures taken are insufficient, you may report the problem to your County Governor.
When can I report the problem to the County Governor?
If you or your child feel that the school has not done enough to stop the bullying, you can report the matter directly to your County Governor. This assumes that:
• you have first raised the problem with the school’s principal
• at least one week has passed since you raised the issue with the school
• the bullying is happening at your child’s current school
In exceptional cases, you may still approach the County Governor regardless of the above.
How do I approach the County Governor?
The County Governor’s office has a form that you can use to report the matter. Digital form for reporting bullying (Text in Norwegian)
What will the County Governor do?
The County Governor monitors schools to ensure that they observe the laws and regulations concerning students’ well-being. If the County Governor's office believes that the school has not fulfilled its obligations, it may instruct the local authority to act to ensure that the student in question can feel safe and happy at school. It may also stipulate concrete measures that the school must take. The best interests of the students are the primary consideration when the County Governor addresses the case.
The County Governor will set a deadline and ensure that the local authority follows up on the case by that date. If the local authority fails to follow up on the case, it may be issued with a fine.
The County Governor also gives you advice on your child’s rights.
What if the County Governor believes that the school has taken appropriate action?
If the County Governor believes that the school has done what could reasonably be expected of it and that the school’s plans for additional measures are sufficient, the County Governor will not uphold your claim.
Complaining to the Directorate for Education and Training
If you disagree with the County Governor’s decision, you may complain to the Directorate for Education and Training. You must submit your complaint to the County Governor's office, which will first reassess the case. Next, the County Governor will forward the complaint to the Directorate for Education and Training.
The Directorate for Education and Training will review the case, consider your complaint and decide what happens next.
Can I take legal action?
There have been cases in recent years where former students have received compensation after taking their local authority to court. You can read more about legal action here. (Text in Norwegian)
Other agencies you can seek advice from
You can seek advice from the National Parents’ Committee for Primary and Secondary Education (FUG) and the National Parents’ Committee for Kindergartens (FUB).
The County Governor in your county can give you advice and information about students’ rights and about your right to appeal if you feel that the school is not doing enough to stop the bullying or harassment.
Several organisations, parents’ networks and trusts offer help to parents and are happy to share their experiences of bullying.
RIGHT TO COMPLAIN ABOUT GRADES
The following sections applies to students graduating in August 2019. This sections of the Handbook will
be updated for the 2019-2020 school year.
To ensure that students receive fair treatment in the determination of term grades
(standpunktkarakter) or exam grade (eksamenskarakter), there are clear complaints procedures set
out in Chapter 3 of the Regulations to the Education Act (see attachment)
The right to contest a decision about a grade concerns the term grade (Standpunktkarakter) or the
exam grade (eksamenskarakter). You can also complain if a term grade (Standpunktkarakter) is not
set. All complaints must be sent to the school.
WHO CAN COMPLAIN?
Students or those who are given written authorization, can complain. The parents of a student who
is a minor, has an independent right to complain. Students under the age of 15 cannot complain
without written consent from their parents/guardians.
COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE AND DEADLINES
The appeal period is 10 days after the student/guardian is made aware of the grade. The appeal period
is interrupted when the student ask for an explanation or reason for the grade set. Once the student
have received an explanation/reason, a new 10-day appeal period starts.
The complaint must be put forward in writing and signed by the complainant. The complaint must
refer to the grade that the complaint relates to and state a reason for the complaint.
Students have the right to ask for the reasons for the determination of the grade for:
• Oral examination grade
• Term grade in subjects (standpunktkarakter i fag)
• Term grade in organisation and behavior (standpunktkarakter i orden og oppførsel)
• Decision that a student does not receive a term grade (standpunktkarakter)
COMPLAINT ABOUT A TERM GRADE (STANDPUNKTKARAKTER)
Chapter 3 of the Regulations to the Education Act describes the student’s rights in relation to
assessment and grading.
The students may for example complain about the following:
• That other elements than the competence aims from the curriculum form the basis for the
term grade, for example effort or behavior.
• That they have not been given reasons for grades set or guidance/feedback when they have
received grades
• That they have not had the chance to discuss assessment criteria
• The teacher has weighted the goals of the curriculum incorrectly
• That they have not received a term grade (standpunktkarakter), due to high absences,
when the teacher still could have assessed them
• That the determination of grades in behaviour , organisation and physical education do not
take into account any spacial condition/prerequisite (forutsetning) or their effort.
The complaint should be sent to your school. The Principal will provide necessary documentation
and send the complaint on to the County Governor of Sør-Trøndelag without undue delay. The result
of the complaint may result in a confirmation of the grade set or a change in the grade. The grade
will then be final.
COMPLAINT ABOUT THE GRADE SET IN THE ORAL EXAM
The oral examination can only be appealed on procedural errors that have influenced the result.
Examples of procedural errors can be:
• Delayed information about the subject of the exam
• Harassing behavior by the examiner or the external examiner
• That the teacher has not provided relevant information to the sensor in time
• External examiner falling asleep or obviously not engaged
• External examiner in a conflict of interest (eg . being a relative )
• That the external examiner uses irrelevant assessment criteria (like effort, attitude etc. )
When putting forward a complaint about the oral exam, you must include all relevant information
about the implementation of the exam.
A successful complaint, will result in the annulment of the exam. The student will get a chance to take
the exam again, with a new examiner.
COMPLAINT ABOUT THE WRITTEN EXAM
Students cannot ask for the reasons for the grade, however they have the right to familiarize
themselves with their own answers, and get a copy of the exam. In addition, they can also request to
have the guidelines sensors have received for their consideration.
Students need not give reasons for their complaint.
The grade may stay the same or it may be changed. The appeal board considers whether the grade is
correct, and possibly provides a new grade if they think the grade is unreasonable.
Please also see: Forskrift til opplæringslova. Kap 5. Klage på vurdering.
RIGHT TO TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM SCHOOL
According to Norwegian Law (Act of Private Schools § 7-3), students in Year 1 and up are entitled to
transportation to and from school if they live more than 4 km away from school. For children in Year
1 the required distance is 2 km. The standard means for this transportation is a free school bus card.
If you believe the walking distance between your child’s home and school might be more than 4 km
(or 2 km in Year 1) then you can apply for a free bus card by submitting the form below. You can also
check the walking distance here: http://skoleskyss.stfk.no/
Parents can apply for other means of transportation if they are of the opinion that this student bus
card is not sufficient in their situation. This request in the form of a letter can be sent to the school.
We will then forward it to Sør Trøndelag Fylkeskommune who will make the decision.
Students with disabilities or temporary injuries might also be entitled to free transportation. There
may also be circumstances where students are entitled to have someone accompany them on their
way to and from school. In some cases, students might be entitled to supervision while they wait for
either school to start and/or their means of transportation to arrive. Please contact the school office
for more information about this.
Parents of students can also apply for free transportation if they are of the opinion that the road to
school is too dangerous or difficult for their child to walk. This request in the form of a letter can be
sent to the school. We will then forward it to Trondheim Kommune who will decide if the
circumstances justify free transportation for the student. Please note that this request is only granted
by Trondheim Kommune in very special cases as the roads around Birralee are considered safe and
manageable by Trondheim Kommune.
RIGHT TO EXEMPTION FROM GRADED ASSESSMENT
In all instances the students will participate in the teaching and learning of the subject. Students will
continue to complete assessment activities and receive feedback, however, grades are not assigned.
NYNORSK (SIDEMÅL)
Students who have received adapted Norwegian during some or all of their time in Middle School, are
entitled to exemption from assessment with grades in Nynorsk. This is an administrative decision taken
by the school.
Students who due to illness, injury or another disability have extra challenges coping with both Bokmål
and Nynorsk as diagnosed by a professional, are entitled to exemption from assessment with a grade in
Nynorsk. This is an administrative decision taken by the school.
Children who have an IEP (Individual Education Plan) in Norwegian are entitled to exemption from
assessment with grades in Nynorsk. This decision is taken by the parents.
NORWEGIAN
Students who are following the curriculum for adapted Norwegian do not receive grades in Norwegian
or New Norwegian (Nynorsk).
INDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PLAN (IEP)
Students who have an IEP in specific subjects are entitled to assessment without a grade in these subjects.
This decision is taken by the parents. The exemption can be for the oral or the written assessment, or
both where applicable.
NEW IN NORWAY
Children who start at Birralee in the final half year of year 11 may be have the right to be exempt from
assessment with grades. This will be discussed on individual basis with the administration.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Students who are unable to follow the regular programme in physical education will receive an adapted
programme. If the activities in this adapted programme are unable to be assessed, the student may be
eligible for exemption from assessment with grades. This is an administrative decision taken by the
school.
RIGHT TO EXEMPTION FROM THE CURRICULUM IN CERTAIN SUBJECTS
Students with an IEP may be given exemption in one or more subjects based on external professional
assessment (sakkyndig vurdering).
Based on the following: forskrift til opplæringsloven §1-11.
RIGHT TO EXEMPTION FROM COMPULSORY EDUCATION
After external professional assessment and with written consent of the parents a student may be given
exemption from all or part of compulsory education.
Based on the following law: Opplæringsloven §2-1
RIGHT TO EXEMPTION BASED ON RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
Birralee shows respect for the religious beliefs of students and parents. Students have the right to
exemption from aspects of the educational program at Birralee if they consider this to be in conflict with
their religious beliefs and/or experience these aspects as practicing of another religion. In the case of an
exemption, the school will provide an alternative programme. Exemptions can not be requested for
content that is part of the curriculum. Request for exemption must be given in writing by parents.
Students over the age of 15 can apply for exemption themselves. Parents/students over the age of 15
have the right to complain if the school disagrees with their request for exemption.
Based on the following laws: Opplæringsloven § 2-3a and Friskoleloven § 3-12.
RIGHT TO COUNSELLING AND PASTORAL CARE
All students have the right to pastoral care and career guidance counselling. The school sees these in
connection with each other.
Pastoral care
Pastoral care focusses on the whole student: personal, social and academic. The purpose of pastoral care
is to support students with personal, social and emotional difficulties which can impact their academic
progress and social relationships at school. Staff will cooperate with parents and external agencies.
Career guidance counselling
Career guidance counselling focusses on education and work. The purpose of career guidance is to
increase awareness of and support students in their choices of further education and work. It also enables
students to develop a long term perspective.
The students have the right to:
▪ Counselling for their choice of further education and work
▪ Up to date information about further education in Norway and abroad
▪ Up to date information about work opportunities, locally, nationally and internationally
▪ Training in accessing relevant information
▪ Information about deadlines, admission criteria and financial support
▪ Training in applying for job and other application procedures
Career guidance counselling should enable students to evaluate their own competencies and wishes and
make informed decision for themselves. Staff will cooperate with external agencies.
Based on Fsl. § 3-11, Generelt om retten til rådgivning, se Forskriften § 7-1, Om sosialpedagogisk rådgivning,
se Forskriften § 7-2
RIGHT TO STUDENT REPRESENTATION: STUDENT COUNCIL
The Birralee Student Council consists of 2 student representatives from each class from Year 2 to Year
10. The Student Council meetings are held in the main school library every month.
The purpose of the Student Council is:
• To be positive role models for the students in the school
• To work with the teachers and the students to improve the school
• To represent the views of the students in the school and to put these views forward to the administration
• To bring forward matters relating to the school environment.
• To actively fundraise and work within the community
• To organise social events for the students
• To help to create a happy, safe and welcoming school
The input from the student council is much valued by the school’s administration.
The student representatives will gain valuable experience from participating in the Student Council. They
will learn about democratic working methods and gain experience in running and participating in meetings
and events.
The class meetings and the Student Council give the students good opportunities to work together, to
learn about their rights and duties, to learn to voice opinions and take part in class meetings and
discussions. They will be able to take initiative, plan and carry out ideas in the class or in the school. The
students and the class teacher are both responsible for the work in the class meetings. When electing
student representatives, there should be equal representation of boys and girls.
The Student Council is the link between the students and the administration of the school. The student
representatives represent the students in their classes.
The Student Council contact teacher this year 2018-2019 is Mrs Jones, the Vice Principal.
Election of Student Council Members Procedure:
• All classes from Year 1 to Year 10 elect representatives to the Student Council.
• Election of student council representatives must take place in the first week of school
• Class teachers explain the role of the student council
• Students volunteer for election
• Students are given the opportunity to present their candidacy
• Members of the class elect their representatives by secret ballot.
• At the first meeting of the Student Council, the council elects the Chair and Secretary of the Student Council. The Chair and Secretary are also the School Environment Representatives and sit on the School Environment Committee.
STUDENT REPRESENTATION: SCHOOL ENVIRONMNENT GROUP
The purpose of the School Environment Group is:
▪ To provide a forum for discussion and sharing of opinions related to the school environment. ▪ To review current procedures relating to ensuring a positive school environment e.g.
playground rules. ▪ To facilitate planning and carrying out activities related to the school environment.
The Birralee School Environment Group consists of:
▪ the Chair and the Secretary of the Primary and Middle School Student Council ▪ Two Parent Representatives from the Parents’ Committee ▪ The Principal / Vice Principal ▪ The Health and Safety Officer
The School Environment Group meetings are held three times throughout the school year according to
the meeting plan.
How the School Environment Group is organised:
Each group will contribute to the Agenda which will be coordinated by the Principal / Vice Principal in
advance of the meeting. Minutes will be taken and shared throughout Birralee. All members have the
right to have their opinion noted in the minutes.
STUDENT REPRESENTATION: REPRESENTATIVE ON THE SCHOOL BOARD
The Chairs of the Student Councils are invited to every Board Meeting to represent the views of the students. They are given the opportunity to report to the Board on have their opinion noted.
PRIVACY NOTICES FOR STUDETNS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Who processes your information?
Birralee International School Trondheim AS is the data controller of personal information about
students and their families. This means the school determines the purposes for which, and the manner
in which, any personal data relating to students and their families is to be processed.
Why do we collect and use your information?
Birralee holds the legal right to collect and use personal data relating to students and their families. We
may also receive information from other authorities such as previous schools, kindergartens or city
councils.
We collect and use personal data in order to meet legal requirements and legitimate interests set out in
Norwegian law and in accordance with GDPR, including those in relation to the following:
▪ Article 6 and Article 9 of the GDPR
▪ Norway’s Act of Private Schools (Frikoleloven)
▪ Norway’s Personal Data Act (Personsopplysningsloven)
The personal data of students and their families are collected and used for the following reasons:
▪ support our students’ learning
▪ monitor and report on their progress
▪ provide appropriate pastoral care; and
▪ assess the quality of our services
Which data is collected?
▪ The categories of student information that the school collects, holds and shares include the
following:
▪ Personal information – e.g. names, addresses
▪ Characteristics – e.g. language, nationality, country of birth
▪ Attendance information – e.g. number of absences and absence reasons
▪ Assessment information – e.g. curriculum assessment results
▪ Relevant medical information
▪ Information relating to special needs
▪ Behavioural information – e.g. number of temporary exclusions
Whilst the majority of the personal data students and families provide to Birralee is mandatory, some is
given on a voluntary basis. This will be specified when the data is collected.
How long is your data stored for?
Personal data relating to students and their families is stored in line with the school’s Data Protection
Policy.
In accordance with the GDPR, the school does not store personal data indefinitely; data is only stored
for as long as is necessary to complete the task for which it was originally collected. Certain data may
be retained for legal purposes.
Will my information be shared?
Birralee is required by law to provide certain information about our students/families to:
▪ The Norwegian Directorate of Education (Utdanningsdirektoratet)
▪ The Municipality the child is registered in (Kommune)
▪ The Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteettaten)
▪ The Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV)
▪ The County Council (Fylkeskommune)
Birralee will share the minimum information required to fulfill our obligations with the following third
party processors:
▪ The School’s Accountant (Accountor AS)
▪ The School’s Auditor (Orkla Revisjon)
▪ The School’s Student Database System (iSams)
▪ Digital Learning Tools (Google Apps for Education, Seesaw)
What are your rights?
Families and students have the following rights in relation to the processing of personal data.
Families and students have the right to:
▪ Be informed about how Birralee uses personal data.
▪ Request access to personal data that Birralee holds about them.
▪ Request that their personal data is updated if it is inaccurate or incomplete.
▪ Request that their personal data is deleted where there is no compelling reason for its
continued processing.
▪ Request that the processing of their data is restricted.
▪ Object to their personal data being processed.
▪ Where the processing of data is based on consent, families/students have the right to withdraw
this consent at any time.
▪ Students or parents/guardians who have a concern about the way Birralee is collecting or using
personal data, can contact the Principal or our Data Protection Officer. They can also raise the
concern with the Norwegian Data Protection Authority (Datatilsynet).
More information?
Wilco van der Kaaden is the Data Protection Officer. His role is to oversee and monitor the school’s data
protection procedures, and to ensure they are compliant with the European Union’s GDPR, as well as
Norway’s Personal Data Act (Personopplysningsloven). For questions, our data protection officer can
be contacted on 73 87 02 60 or [email protected]
BIRRALEE’S CODES OF PRACTICE
1. Purpose
Birralee International School Trondheim AS is an independent, private school for children between the ages of six and fifteen years. The school offers a full primary and middle school programme. The language of instruction is English.
2. Ownership
2.1 Stiftelsen International School Trondheim is a non-profit making foundation. The foundation runs the school through Birralee International School AS, a limited company. The school board is the board of both the foundation and the limited company.
2.2 Birralee International School Trondheim is recognised by the Department of Education and Research and complies with the Norwegian Act of Private Schools "Privatskoleloven".
3. Admittance – termination
3.1 Birralee International School Trondheim admits children from Norway and from abroad. It is
open to children who fulfil the criteria to be enrolled in Norwegian Public schools. 3.2 In the case of over subscription, the criteria of admittance are the following in order of priority:
1) children of Norwegian or foreign origin with English as a first language
2) international mobile children who transfer directly from an international/English speaking
school abroad
3) children of Norwegian or foreign origin with English as a second language
4) siblings of children who are attending the school
5) children transferring directly from Birralee International Kindergarten
6) other children
3.3 Birralee International School Trondheim admits children by application. The deadline for application for the following school year is April 1st. Children can be admitted during the school year if necessary and /or possible.
3.4 The Principal and the Vice Principal make the ultimate decisions about admittance to the school
in accordance with Norwegian law (The Public Administration Act). Complaints about admission
decisions can be made to the County Council “Fylkesmannen i Sør-Trøndelag”.
3.5 Notification of the withdrawal of a child must be given in writing two full months in advance.
3.6 Students may be transferred to a public school when circumstances dictate that this would be advantageous to the child and/or other children in accordance with the terms of the Act of Private Schools.
3.7 Non-payment of fees could result in losing the place at Birralee International School as outlined in the school's Terms and Conditions.
4. Fees 4.1 The Board of Birralee International School Trondheim AS sets the school fees. Any changes in
fees will be communicated to the parents in writing at least one month in advance. 4.2 The school fees are paid in 11 instalments. July is free. 4.3 The school offers after school care ASP for the children in Y 1 to Y 4 for an additional fee. 4.4 Upon acceptance of a place, we ask you to pay an Advance Payment. This will be used to cover the
first two months of school fees for your child. 5. Areas for education, recreation and play
5.1 The groups Y1 to Y8 are situated on the first to third floor of the school building. In addition to
the classrooms, the children other use facilities, which comprise a gym, music room, library and computer room. The groups Y9 to Y11 are situated on the fourth floor where the facilities comprise classrooms, a library, music room and an art and “hands on” room for the students.
5.2 The School has an adventure playground including a football pitch. 5.3 Birralee International School Trondheim meets the requirements of the Act of Private Schools
regarding areas for education, recreation and play. 6. Relevant laws and regulation
6.1 Birralee International School Trondheim adheres to the Norwegian Act of Private Schools, the
Act of Education and the Public Administration Act concerning confidentiality of information. 6.2 In compliance with the Norwegian Act of Private Schools all parents are part of The Parents'
Association. In addition parents have two representatives from each class on the Parents’ Working Committee. Parents are elected to sit on the School Liaison Committee.
6.3 In compliance with the Act of Private Schools one parent representative sits on the school board with the right to meet, to give opinions and have these opinions noted in the minutes. The parent representative does not have the right to vote.
6.4 Birralee International School Trondheim conforms with Trondheim City Council Health and Safety Policy, partly in co-operation with Trondheim “Kommune”.
6.5 The school is under the care of the local Health Authority. A health form must be completed and documentation provided before a child can start at Birralee. The health form is updated each year.
Copies of these codes are sent to Trondheim City Council and to the parents of children who start at
Birralee International School.
BIRRALEE’S TERMS AND CONDITIONS
1. Introduction We are very pleased that you have decided to send your child to Birralee International School Trondheim. We look forward to working with you and your child. We are aiming to provide a caring, safe and stimulating environment in which your child’s academic potential and social needs can be met. The following information is intended to help you gain a clear understanding of the ways in which the School works. This document is part of the contract we make with you. Further information is provided in the Parents Handbook that will be given to you at the start of the School Year. This handbook includes our Behaviour and Anti-bullying policies. 2. Education provided by the school 2.1 Curriculum We use a curriculum and teaching strategies designed to bring the best out of each child. The curriculum is outlined in the Prospectus and in the Parents Handbook. However, the curriculum is not part of the agreement between Birralee and the parents. We reserve the right to make changes to the curriculum if the teaching staff consider these necessary. We will give parents notice of any major changes. 2.2 Religion Birralee International School does not actively promote any religion. The main Christian festivals are celebrated along with other religious festivals. The key features about the main world religions are taught. We welcome children of any faith. 2.3 Expectations of parents We like to work closely with parents to ensure we can help to fulfil each child’s potential and to meet his/her needs. Therefore, we expect parents to:-
• Meet regularly with teaching staff by attending parent conferences and meetings arranged by the School, your child’s main teacher and/or class parent representatives.
• Participate in our reading programme and help and support your child with homework.
• Take the advice of teaching staff regarding your child’s progress at school, including any recommendations to test for learning difficulties, ascertain special educational needs or invite the involvement of external agencies.
Our home – school cooperation is described in more detail in the Parents Handbook. 2.4 Special educational needs The school will do its best to cater for the individual needs of the children. Children may receive help from Trondheim City Council if they have special educational needs. The school, the parents and any outside agencies will work together to create the best possibilities for the child.
3. General conduct 3.1 School dress and equipment The School provides exercise books, textbooks, reading books, workbooks, paper, craft materials and access to pens, pencils and other basic equipment. Parents are expected to send their children to school neatly and appropriately dressed and with appropriate clothing for outdoor play and indoor gym. The Parents Handbook gives further details. 3.2 Electronic equipment on School premises Mobile phones are not to be used in school, either for calls or text messages. If you need to contact your child during the day, please do this through the School Office. Children may use the school telephone to make contact with a parent. Other electronic equipment such as CD players, electronic toys, radios and hand-held or lap-top computers may not be brought into school. We recognise that circumstances may require children to use lap-top or hand-held computers. These will be agreed by the teacher as necessary. 4. Behaviour 4.1 School environment We make every effort to ensure that the environment at Birralee lives up to the meaning of the School name, which is “a safe place for children”. The school adheres to the Norwegian Act of Education § 9a. We work hard to encourage children to take care of each other and to work together in positive and socially responsible ways. However, in any community difficulties may occur from time to time. We therefore ask you to inform us immediately of any concerns you have about the safety, care, discipline or progress of your child and in particular of any instances of bullying. We will do our best to investigate these and to resolve issues as they arise. 4.2 Behaviour policy We seek to create a positive and caring atmosphere within the school and to work actively with parents to ensure good behaviour in our children. The School’s Behaviour Policy is provided in the Parents Handbook and our home – school cooperation is described. We expect that all children will abide by the school rules that have been agreed by the Board, the teaching staff and the students. These will be addressed with the children at the start of each school year. We expect parents to:-
• support the School’s implementation of the behaviour policy;
• ensure their child attends School punctually and is collected from School promptly
• inform us of circumstances such as serious illness, accidents, death, separation or divorce that may affect the child’s behaviour in School;
• inform us of behaviour difficulties you may be experiencing with your child at home;
• inform us promptly about your child’s health and any absences arising from this;
• agree to reasonable physical contact with their child to restrain or comfort him/her. 4.3 Removal and exclusion of a child
A child may be excluded from School following a discussion with the parents if the school considers that the removal is in the best interest of your child, the School and/or other children. This will be done in accordance with the Norwegian Act of Independent Schools. 4.4 Drugs and Alcohol Children may not bring alcoholic drinks, tobacco products or any other drugs to School or on a school-supervised activity. 5. Long-term absence 5.1 Holidays in term time (up to two weeks) We encourage families to not take holidays during term time. This can be very disruptive to a child’s education. We undertake to publish holiday dates and other dates when the school is closed well in advance so that holidays can be planned. If you wish to remove your child from school during term time you must:-
• apply to the Principal in writing as far in advance as possible ;
• ensure that your child completes work set by his/her teachers during the absence;
• understand that fees must be paid while the child is absent;
• note that the Principal reserves the right to refuse the application. 5.2 Absence for other reasons (up to two weeks) Sometimes children need to be absent from school for reasons other than holidays. In this case you must:-
• apply to the Principal in writing as far advance as possible;
• agree to ensure that the child continues a programme of school work while absent;
• understand that fees must be paid while the child is away from school;
• note that the Principal reserves the right to refuse the application. 5.3 Leaves for more than two weeks Please note that in Norway a Principal is only permitted to grant a leave for up to two weeks. For longer leaves, the child will have to be taken off the roll. Parents can reapply for a place for their child. 6. Consent We seek your consent for your child’s occasional participation in events occurring in the wider community around the School. You agree to the following without further consent being sought:-
• your child taking part in trips in Trondheim and the locality for outdoor activities, research and to attend arts events such as exhibitions, concerts, the cinema and the theatre;
• (for years 7 and 8 only) your child making short, unsupervised visits to the library or other museums to collect information or carry out research;
• distribution of a class list including the child’s name, his/her parents / guardians names, home address, work and home telephone numbers to everyone in the class;
• photographs including children taken at School or on a School-supervised activity appearing on the Birralee International School website or in other publicity.
If you do not consent to one or more of these, please indicate this in writing to the Principal with your registration. 7. Welfare, confidentiality and insurance 7.1 Urgent medical care If your child requires urgent medical attention while at school, every effort will be made to contact you. If we are unable to contact you, a decision will be made on your behalf should consent be required for urgent treatment recommended by a doctor. You must tell us on the child’s health information form if your child has a medical condition which may require such treatment. The School Office must receive this form before the child starts at Birralee International School Trondheim. Please inform us of any new telephone numbers or changes to your work and home addresses. This is important to keep our files up to date in case of emergency. 7.2 Court orders The Principal must be notified immediately in writing of any court order relating to your child. It may be necessary in exceptional circumstances for the Principal to advise a parent that s/he may not be present on the School premises if this is in a child’s or the School’s best interests. 7.3 Other agencies Please inform the Principal in writing if your child is under the care of external agencies, for example, social workers (barnevern) and educational psychologists (PPT). 7.4 The child’s welfare off school premises We do not have any responsibility for your child’s welfare off the School premises when not taking part in a school activity. Also, we do not have any responsibility for your child’s welfare after the end of the School day. 7.5 Insurance The School has insurance for all children while at School or on School-supervised activities. However, this does not extend to cover personal property. The School does not have any liability for loss or damage to personal property while at School or on School-supervised activities. We advise parents to insure their child’s personal property. Parents/Guardians are responsible for their child’s loss of school property and/or wilful damage to school property and equipment. 7.6 Confidentiality and references
We will regard any information provided by you about your child and your family’s circumstances as confidential. Children’s records will be kept secure. You consent to us providing a reference and information about your child’s progress to any other educational establishment on their request. We will do our best to ensure that the information we provide is an accurate and fair reflection of his/her work while at Birralee International School Trondheim. You agree to inform us of any applications made to other educational establishments. 8. Finances 8.1 Advance Payment Upon acceptance of a place, we ask you to the first two months as an Advance Payment. This will be used to cover the first two months of school fees for your child. 8.2 Withdrawal Two month’s notice of withdrawal, effective from the first of the month, must be given in writing to the Principal. Failure to give this will result in fees being charged in lieu. 8.3 School fees School fees are payable monthly in advance. A table showing the current fees is available on the website or from the School Office. 8.5 Unpaid fees If a monthly fee remains outstanding, a reminder is sent. If the fee is still outstanding, a second reminder is sent before the debt is transferred to Lindorff Inkasso, a debt collecting agency. Ultimately non-payment of fees will result in your child losing his/her place. We reserve the right to charge interest on outstanding fees in accordance with the late payment interest act. 9. Other points 9.1 Proper Law and Forum Your child’s stay at Birralee is governed by Norwegian Law. The contract formed between Birralee International School and parents (of which this terms and conditions document forms a part) is governed by Norwegian Law. 9.2 Variations The terms and conditions may be varied by the School. If changes are made, notice will be given.
USEFUL LINKS FOR PARENTS (NEW IN NORWAY)
http://www.nyinorge.no/en/ (New in Norway – practical information)
https://helsenorge.no/ (Rights related to the Norwegian Public Health Service, Norway’s
vaccination program etc)
http://www.tannlegerinorge.no/tannleger.asp?CMD=By&By=Trondheim&Kategori=2161 (Public
dentists in Trondheim)
https://www.trondheim.kommune.no/utstyr (Lending equipment like skis, canoes etc.)
https://biblioteket.trondheim.kommune.no/globalassets/50-biblioteket/om-
biblioteket/sprakkafeibyen2016nov.pdf (Language cafes)
https://www.trondheim.kommune.no/english/ (Information in English from the municipality)
USEFUL FORMS
Sign up Forms for After School Clubs, ASP, School Milk can all be found on the school website:
www.birralee.no
REQUEST SCHOOL BUS CARD REPLACEMENT
School Bus Card Lost
If your child loses his/her bus card, please inform the school office as soon as possible. The school will
send you a form to fill in before a new card can be ordered. It usually takes two weeks before the new bus
card arrives. Please note that the cost of the replacement card is NOK 150 payable to the school office.
There is no fee for children in Years 1-4.
If there are any changes to your home address, the old bus card must be returned to the office. A new
bus card will be issued if the student is still eligible under the current rules. Please note that it is illegal to
continue to use a bus card once your permanent address changes.
Please note that all bus cards are only valid for the home-school stretch indicated during the allotted
hours.
REQUEST DUPLICATE INFORMATION (STEP-PARENTS)
To: Birralee International School Trondheim
Bispegate 9c
7012 Trondheim
Norway
Date:
Regarding the following child or children:
______________________________________________________________________
(Names of Children)
There is frequent communication among the parents and stepparents regarding the health, education
and general welfare of their children.
This is to advise you that it is agreed between:
______________________________and____________________________
(Legal [biological/adoptive] Mother) (Legal [biological/adoptive] Father)
that all record-keeping, verbal information, and written correspondence regarding the named children
is to be equally available to their parents and the following stepparent(s):
(Stepfather’s Name)
(Stepmother’s Name)
(Stepfather’s Email)
(Stepmother’s Email)
(Stepfather’s Phone number)
(Stepmother’s Phone number)
(Legal Mother’s Signature)
(Legal Father’s Signature)
In case of any changes to this arrangement, please inform the school in writing .
It is helpful to attach a photocopy of the page in your divorce agreement that specifies legal
arrangements for each parent.
REQUEST MEDICATION OF STUDENTS DURING SCHOOL HOURS
Birralee will help facilitate the medication of students when possible so that students will be able to stay
in school and so that parents can feel safe that all the medicine is administered correctly.
However, no student will be medicated unless an agreement is made with the parents and all forms are
filled in and returned to the office.
Students are not allowed to carry any medicine or drugs including painkillers, unless given special
permission and supervised by staff.
AGREEMENT AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION FOR
STUDENTS IN SCHOOL.
Child's Name Date of Birth
Class
This is an agreement between the parents/guardians and the school to administer medication to specific
instructions and routines. By signing this form, parents/guardians give permission for medicines to be
administered to their child.
Name of medication:
Procedure/doses/frequency:
Possible side effects. Parents must supply package insert (or pharmacy printout) for complete list of possible side effects.
AND/OR
What action should be taken if side effects are noted?
□ Contact parent □ Other (describe):
Starting date: Until:
Who is allowed to administer the medication:
Who should be informed?
Fellow classmates Yes / No
Parents of classmates Yes / No
All parents in the school Yes / No
Parents/Guardians:
1. Provide sufficient medicine as required. 2. Provide equipment for the medication as required. 3. Provide written instructions and information about the medicine.
The School:
1. Give medicine to the child in a safe and reassuring manner. 2. Ensure that the child takes the medicine correctly according to the instructions. 3. Ensure that the person giving the medicine has full understanding and knowledge of the correct
procedures.
Date:
Signature Parent/Guardian: Signature Principal:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR EMERGENCY MEDICINE:
Details of Condition (e.g. allergic reaction, anaphylactic shock, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy)
Type of Reaction:
Symptoms:
What to do in case of an emergency:
What the child can do in case of an emergency:
Additional ways of helping the child:
Contact the doctor if:
Doctor's Contact Details:
Doctor's Name Telephone No.
Signature Parent:
Parent/Guardian
CONTRACT ICT – IPC AND IMYC
IPC and IMYC
Agreement for use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
Birralee International School Trondheim expects all members of the school community to be
responsible users of ICT. This means:
1. Only use ICT for educational purposes.
2. Respect equipment.
3. Respect each other’s privacy.
4. No bullying.
5. Don’t share personal login details with others.
6. Tell the teacher about any suspicious emails
I, __________________________________________________________ agree to
...Follow the rules stated above.
…That any breach of the rules listed may result in the school applying suitable consequences.
…That the Principal can in specific cases decide to access a student’s Birralee Account and/or Birralee
Device. This will only be done in accordance with Personopplysningsforskriften §9
Please note that all internet use during school time is logged.
Signed _______________________________________________ (student)
Date _________________
□ I hereby give consent for my child to have a @student.birralee.no account.
Signed _______________________________________________(Parent/Guardian)
Date __________________
Please deliver this form to your class teacher on your first day of school.
CONTRACT ICT - MIDDLE SCHOOL
IGCSE
Agreement for use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
Birralee International School Trondheim expects all members of the school community to be
responsible users of ICT.
All students in Year 9 and Year 10 will be provided with the opportunity to loan a device for the period that they are at Birralee. This means that they will take responsibility for the care of the device and bring it to and from school every day.
EXPECTATIONS AND ROUTINES: ICT
1. Only use ICT for educational purposes. Please note that all internet use during school time is logged.
2. No bullying.
3. Inform a teacher about any emails/messages you are concerned about. 4. Students should respect each other’s privacy. Students must not share their log in details with
others and are required to change their password immediately should they suspect that another person knows it.
5. Students will use appropriate and respectful language in all communications both at school and at home.
6. Any breach of the rules listed may result in the school applying suitable consequences. 7. The Principal can in specific cases decide to access a student’s Birralee Account. This will only
be done in accordance with Personopplysningsforskriften §9
EXPECTATIONS AND ROUTINES: DEVICE
1. Students are RESPONSIBLE for their device at ALL TIMES. This means they should not leave their device unattended at any time.
2. Students will bring their Device to school EVERY DAY and ensure that they are available for potential use in any lesson.
3. Students will ensure that they are READY TO LEARN by charging their Device overnight. 4. Students will use their Device in lessons when instructed by teachers. 5. Students will keep their Device closed until they are needed. 6. Students will not have food or drink near their Device.
7. Students will store their Device safely and ensure that they take care when transporting it 8. The school may ask parents to cover costs incurred through loss or damage of the Device due to
negligence or intent 9. The Device remains the property of Birralee International School throughout the loan period
and should therefore be made available for inspection by staff when required 10. The Device should be handed in before the Summer Holiday and when a child is no longer
enrolled at Birralee. 11. Any behaviour, materials, communications or downloads involving the Device that are seen as
inappropriate, likewise any breach of the copyright laws may result in the device being required for inspections and/or the use of the Device being suspended.
12. the Principal can in specific cases decide to access a student’s Birralee Device. This will only be done in accordance with Personopplysningsforskriften §9
STATEMENT OF AGREEMENT Name:______________________________________
Students will only be given a Device once this form has been signed and submitted.
Parent Agreement
By signing this agreement, I agree I have read and understood all the ‘Expectations and Routines’ for the use of the Device. I agree to oversee my child’s use of the Device. I agree to hold my child accountable for following the ‘Expectations and Routines’ when my child has the Device away from school.
Parent/Guardian name:
Parent/Guardian signature:
Date:
Student Agreement
By signing this agreement, I agree I have read and understood all the ‘Expectations and Routines’ for the use of the Device. I agree to follow these rules at all times while the Device is under my care. I agree to keep the Device safe and secure at all times and understand I am responsible for returning the Device to Birralee International School at the end of my time at the school.
Student Name:
Student Signature:
Date: