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KEMPSEY HIGH SCHOOL

Student and Parent Handbook

2020

13 Broughton Street West Kempsey NSW 2440

Telephone: 02 65626166 Facsimile: 02 65628570

Email: kempsey-h.schools.nsw.gov.au Website:kempsey-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KempseyHigh/

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TABLE of CONTENTS

3. School Calendar 2020 4. Principal’s Welcome 5. Kempsey High School’s History 6. School Leaders 2020 7. Enrolling at Kempsey High 8. Bell Times 9. Department of Education Core Rules

Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment Code Participation and Representation

10. Kempsey High School Rules 11. Kempsey High School Achievement Program 12. Merit Certificate Criteria 13. How Students Demonstrate Positive Behaviour at Kempsey High School 14. Kempsey High School Welfare and Discipline 15. School Map 16. Attendance 17. Uniform 18. Kempsey High School Curriculum 19. Additional Features of the Curriculum 20. STEM 21. Trade Training Centre Marine Studies Centre Enterprise Centre 22. Agriculture – School Farm 23. Buses Banned Items

Sporting Equipment in the Playground 24. Mobile Phone and Electronic Devices 25. Student Welfare and Support 26. Aboriginal Education 27. Library 28. Homework Centre 29. Parent Committees 30. Student Committees 31. Subject Materials and Requirements 32. Canteen

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School Calendar 2020

Term 1 Tuesday 28 January Wednesday 29 January Thursday 30 January Thursday 6 February Friday 6 March Thursday 19 March Friday 20 March Friday 9 April

School Development Day Years 7, 11, 12 commence Years 8, 9, 10 commence Swimming Carnival School Photos Cross Country Carnival Catchup School Photos Term 1 ends

Monday 13 April – Friday 24 April

School Holidays including Easter

Term 2 Monday 27 April Tuesday 28 April Thursday 21 May Monday 8 June Friday 3 July

School Development Day Years 7-12 start Term 2 Athletic Carnival Queen’s Birthday (Holiday) Term 2 ends

Monday 6 July – Friday 17 July

School Holidays

Term 3 Monday 20 July Tuesday 21 July Friday 25 September

School Development Day Years 7-12 start Term 3 Term 3 ends

Monday 28 September – Friday 9 October

School Holidays

Term 4 Monday 12 October Wednesday 16 December Friday 18 December

Years 7-11 start Term 4 Term 4 ends for students Term 4 ends for staff

Game Art Foundations

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Welcome to Kempsey High School

In an average year about 80 beginning year 7 students will join us at Kempsey High and about 70 students in other years will either return to Kempsey High or transfer from another high school. I welcome all of these students and their parents and caregivers to the Kempsey High School Community. You are joining a very large group of different sorts of people – thousands of them for whom Kempsey High School was their old school and who value their association with the school and the people they shared the school with. We’ve been educating students since 1930 on this site. We’re one of the oldest high schools on the North Coast, certainly the oldest in Kempsey. Despite her age, a refurbishment program begun several years ago continues to lift the quality of our facilities. We’re a comparatively small high school as far as student numbers go. I think this offers particular advantages that are obvious: smaller class sizes, space to learn and play and, I hope, a size that enables good relationships to grow more easily among the students and with the parents and carers with whom we share the important responsibility of raising young people. There are a few things that are different at Kempsey High. We spend extra time improving students’ literacy and numeracy; we have a homework centre providing free after school tutoring two afternoons per week; our agricultural section and farm have been named as one of seven lighthouse schools in NSW; our hospitality trade training centre and the Red Onion Café provide real world experience to students seeking careers in the hospitality industry; students complete an extra 100 hours of Personal Development and Health; partnerships with industry enable our students to be trained in animation and digital technologies and through the Enterprise Centre, students get more personal tuition and develop employability skills as they transition to jobs. We want our students to enjoy these benefits and to accept their responsibilities to keep the school rules mentioned later in this booklet. Students are expected to cooperate with their teachers and fellow students, to show respect to them and receive respect back. We want you to work hard for your future – as the school motto says: Finis Coronat Opus – the end crowns the effort. We will mail you a newsletter twice a term and we hope you’ll read the Kempsey High School News printed in the Macleay Valley Happynings each fortnight. P&C meetings are held once a term at 2.30pm in the school library, usually on the second Thursday of the first month of each term. I want your association with Kempsey High to be happy and satisfying. I hope that you will contact me if something isn’t working for you or your child or if there is anything I can do for you. Mick Eller Principal

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Kempsey High School’s History To quote an extract from departmental records:

“Kempsey has the distinction of being one of the first of the four localities in Australia at which state education was established. This was in 1848.” Other schools were at Botany Bay, Hinton and Dunmore. In Kempsey a private building was leased by parents until a wooden hall and tent in East Kempsey was erected.

By 1917 there were schools at East Kempsey, Frederickton, Smithtown, Euroka and Greenhill as well as at West Kempsey which grew into the high school of today. Aboriginal children were generally restricted from these schools with the “exclusion on demand policy” and separate schools existed on the reserves.

Secondary education had been introduced into West Kempsey in 1903 when the school was given district school’s status. A two year secondary course was provided. By 1920 the school had Intermediate High School status with the enrolment being 123 students.

In 1930, the school comprised 270 students and 14 staff. It was shifted to its present site on what used to be the golf course and was opened on 12 April 1930. The original building now houses the mathematics and learning faculties.

Some Aboriginal students attended Kempsey High in the 1950’s, including some boys from the Kinchela Boys Home, and in 1980 we had our first Aboriginal School Captain.

The school brings together, and keeps in touch with, its past students through the Kempsey High School Ex Students and Staff Association. One or two reunions are planned each year and the help of the Association is invaluable to the organisers.

The school currently has 54 teaching staff, 10 administrative staff and an enrolment of approx. 485 students. Students are mainly drawn from the areas west and north of the Macleay River although some students from out of these areas are also accommodated

Kempsey High School 1930

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School Leaders 2020

Captain

Urshula Clark-Jacky

Vice Captain

Kirra Davison

Prefects

Katherine Honess Maddison Sydenham

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Enrolling at Kempsey High

1. Ring the School office (6562 6166) and inform the Receptionist that you wish to enrol your child. The receptionist will collect your contact details and where your child is currently enrolled. The principal, Mick Eller, will contact you to make a mutually convenient time for a pre-enrolment interview after speaking with the Principal of the previous school.

2. The Pre-Enrolment Interview: at this interview the Principal will ask you about how you would like the school to help your child, the specific needs that your child has, any additional help your child had at his/her last school and will ask your child about his/her previous school and their progress in it so that a school program that suits your child can be developed. It helps to bring along a previous school report.

3. After contact has been made with the previous school, parents will be contacted about a start

date. On the starting day, details of bus transport will be provided and the Deputy Principal will advise about appropriate courses, introduce your child to their Year Advisor and provide a timetable after any course choices have been made. The Year Advisor or Head Teachers will put your child into a class and have a classmate show your child around the school and take them to meet their teachers.

Breakfast Club

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Bell Times For Kempsey High School

MONDAY WEDNESDAY TUES/THURS/FRI

9:00 RAK 8:40 Staff

Meeting

8.55 Tues 9:00

Th/Fri

Assembly RAK

9:20 P1 9:30 RAK 9:20 P1

9:53 P2 9:50 PI 9:57 P2

10:26 RECESS

Staff M/TEA 10:30

P2 10:34 RECESS

10:54 P3 11:10 RECESS 10:49 P3

11:29 P4 11:28 P3 11:26 P4

12:04 RERECESS 12:07 P4 12:04 RERECESS

12:14 P5 12:46 P5 12:14 P5

12:52 P6 1:25

LUNCH 12:52 P6

1:30

LUNCH 2:10 P6 1:30

LUNCH

2:14 P7 2:50 P7 2:14 P7

2:52 P8 3:30 End of Day 2:52 P8

3:30 End of Day 3:30 End of Day

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Department of Education Core Rules

All students in NSW Government schools are expected to: • Attend every school day, unless they are legally excused, be in class on time and prepared to

learn. • Maintain a neat appearance, including adhering to the requirements of the school’s uniform or

dress code policy. • Behave safely, considerately and responsibly, including when travelling to and from school. • Show respect at all times for teachers, other school staff and helpers, including following class

rules, speaking courteously and cooperating with instructions and learning activities. • Treat one another with dignity and respect. • Care for property belonging to themselves, the school and others.

Behaviour that infringes on the safety of others, such as harassment, bullying and illegal or anti-social behaviour of any kind, will not be tolerated.

Anti-Bullying Anti-Harassment Code of Conduct

DO: DON’T:

Treat people the way you would like to be treated Treat people with courtesy and respect Respect people’s property Respect people’s right to be different Respect people’s personal space Give people a fair go Think for yourself Consider other people’s feelings

Don’t swear at people or abuse them verbally Don’t make people feel uncomfortable, threatened or scared Don’t touch other people’s property without permission Don’t spread rumours or talk about people nastily Don’t abuse people physically Don’t gang up on people Don’t be too influenced by your hangout or group Don’t treat people badly because of their age, race or gender

Everyone has the right to a fair go at our school.

Each one of us can help make our school a safe and happy place.

If we see someone being bullied or harassed, we should tell a teacher.

Participation and Representation

Students who are on suspension or monitoring cards (this occurs if you receive 3 or more negative incidents or if you have been suspended or if you have received an Official Caution) cannot represent the school in sport, social or cultural events.

Students need to make a serious attempt at all school work and attend school regularly. Students representing the school should wear full school uniform unless otherwise advised .

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Kempsey High School Rules

By showing co-operation, fairness and responsibility at all times you will ensure you have a successful time at Kempsey High School

1. ARRIVE ON TIME WITH THE CORRECT EQUIPMENT

2. LISTEN TO YOUR TEACHER

3. FOLLOW DIRECTIONS

4. USE POSITIVE LANGUAGE SHOW RESPECT

5. STAY IN YOUR SEAT OR AREA

6. SHOW RESPECT

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Kempsey High School Achievement Program

Merit certificates are issued by teachers in recognition of a student’s efforts and achievements.

When a student has received 5 merits they become eligible for a Bronze Award. Bronze Awards are presented by the Year Advisor at a Year Assembly. At the end of each term a reward opportunity is offered.

When a student has received 10 merits with representation from two categories they become eligible for a Silver Award. Silver Awards are presented by the Principal at a Formal School Assembly each term. At the end of each term a reward opportunity is offered.

When a student has received 15 merits with representation from three categories they become eligible for a Gold Award. Gold Awards are presented by the Principal at a Formal School Assembly each term. At the end of each term a reward opportunity is offered.

When a student has received 25 merits with representation from 4 categories they become eligible for a Platinum Award. Platinum Awards are presented by the Principal at the end of school year Presentation Night. At the end of each term a reward opportunity is offered.

When a student has received 35 merits with representation from 4 categories they become eligible for a Diamond Award. Diamond Awards are presented by the principal at the end of school year Presentation Night. At the end of each term a reward opportunity is offered.

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Merit Certificate Criteria Academic Merit Certificate ‘for determination to succeed’ This merit recognises students’ efforts to do their best. Students can be awarded this merit for:

• Striving to do their best • Participating in all class activities • Showing significant progress

Citizenship Merit Certificate ‘for an act of kindness or thoughtfulness’ This merit recognises student participation in school and community affairs. Students can be awarded this merit for:

• Contributions to SRC, school groups, school service • Leadership • Charity work and support for community groups • Supporting others

Creative Merit Certificate ‘to foster the creative imagination’ This merit recognises student contribution in creative areas. Students can be awarded this merit for:

• Participation in Drama, Music, Band, Choir and exhibitions • Eistedfodds, public speaking, debating, academic competitions • Creation of practical projects in the arts and technology

Sporting Merit Certificate ‘in the sporting realm’ This merit recognizes student participation and contribution to school sport, school carnivals, zone, regional and state representation and the display of the many aspects of sportsmanship. Students can be awarded this merit for:

• Good sportsmanship • Participation in school carnivals • Representation at Zone, Regional or State levels

Positive Behaviour Merit Certificate ‘for the respect of rights’ This merit recognises high standards of behaviour and cooperation so that the right to learn, feel safe and secure and be treated in a polite and considered manner, are enjoyed by all. Students can be awarded this merit for:

• Saying ‘no’ to bullying • Respecting the rights of others • Behaving in a fair, cooperative and responsible manner

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How Students Demonstrate Positive Behaviour at Kempsey

SETTINGS FAIRNESS RESPONSIBILITY COOPERATION CANTEEN • Buy for yourself

• Only be there if you are buying

• Move on when you are served • Speak respectfully

• Quietly wait your turn

OVAL/COURTS • Play by the rules • Include everyone • Speak respectfully to and about others • Respect personal space (30 cm rule)

• Use the bins • Tackle free games • Turn off electronic devices before

entering buildings • Return all equipment on bell • Basketball only on basketball courts

• Play active games • Move directly to class on the 1st bell • Stay in bounds

QUADRANGLES • Speak respectfully to and about others • Respect personal space (30cm rule)

• Use the bins • Handball only • Turn off electronic devices before

entering buildings

• Stay in bounds • Move directly to class on the first bell

PERIOD CHANGES

• Be on time to class • Keep noise to a minimum

• Follow quickest route to class • Keep moving • Keep left in corridors and stairs • Line up outside the class room

• Move directly to class on the bell • Wait for teachers instructions • Be prepared to learn

FRONT OFFICE • Be polite and use good manners • Leave school grounds with an official pass

• Be there on office or deputy business only

• Line up and be ready for your turn • Keep corridors clear

SPORT / EXCURSIONS

• Speak respectfully to and about others • Respect others decisions and play

fairly

• Wear required dress • Have notes and money in by due date • Meet at the correct place and be on time • Represent KHS with pride

• Follow teachers directions • Actively participate in all activities • Be a team player

ASSEMBILES / FORMAL

OCCASIONS

• Acknowledge achievements of others in an appropriate manner

• Keep hands and feet to yourself • Be an Active listener

• Place bags in designated area • Turn off all electronic devices

• Remove hats before entering • Enter and leave as directed

ALL SETTINGS

• Respect personal space (30cm rule) • Actively discourage conflicts • Treat everyone respectfully and fairly

• Use the rubbish bins allocated • Be in the right place at the right time • Report unsafe behaviour • Wear the school uniform with pride

• Follow directions from staff • Care for the school environment • Solve conflicts peacefully

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Kempsey High School Welfare and Discipline How it all fits together.

No negative Millenium registers, 95% or better attendance, consistent wearing of uniform for a term

earns a Meritorious Merit Award Eligible for reward days each term and representing the school at any level

↑ Receives merit awards – class merits, then Bronze ,Silver etc

See Merit over view sheet for more detail ↑

Follows 6 school rules ↑

Student ↓

Breaks one or more school rules Classroom discipline procedures initiated -Class teacher responsible.

Behaviour recorded in Millenium ↓

Continued misbehaviour – referred to Faculty HT HT detentions and faculty sanctions put in place

Behaviour recorded in Millenium After 3 negative Millenium reports the student is placed on HT monitoring for 5 school days

↓ Failure to comply with HT monitoring results in an Official Caution and Deputy monitoring for 10

school days ↓

Continued persistent misbehaviour will result in suspension Short suspension –up to 4 school days Long suspension –up to 20 school days

On return from suspension the student is placed on Deputy monitoring for 10 school days

While on monitoring students are ineligible to represent the school in any sporting or other extra-curricula activity

Reasons for suspension Short Suspensions Long Suspensions Aggressive Behaviour Physical Violence Persistent disobedience Continued Disobedience Use or possession of a prohibited weapon, firearm or knife Possession, supply or use of a suspected illegal substance Serious criminal behaviour related to the school Use of an implement as a weapon Persistent or serious misbehaviour

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School Map Students must be in the school grounds and remain within the in-bounds areas at all times. These are clearly marked with red lines. Students should take pride in the area where they choose to sit. It should be litter and graffiti free. Lack of care may result in the loss of the area.

Gate

……

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Sea Street

G BLOCK HSIE

G BL

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Hall

GA

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First

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Fi

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Libr

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Gate

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Gate

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Gate

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Bus Gate 1

Outdo

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Attendance

All students are required to attend school on every day the school is open unless they have a valid reason to be absent.

School starts at : 9.00 am –on Monday, Thursday and Friday 8.55 am – on Tuesday 9.30 am - on Wednesday School finishes at 3.30 every day. All absences need to be explained by parent/carers Absences can be explained:

- in a note which the student brings to the front office on the day they return from their absence eg. Medical certificate.

- by phoning the school and verbally supplying the reason for the student’s absence. - by coming to the school in person and explaining the reason for the absence.

Lateness Students must report to the front office to sign into school if they arrive after the RAK period has ended. Absences for late arrivals also need to be explained. They can be explained in a note or verbally either over the phone or in person. Early Leavers If students are required to leave school early they need to have a note stating the reason for leaving early, which is signed and dated by their parent or carer. Personal Reasons not accepted. This note needs to be signed by the Year Advisor or a Deputy and then taken to the front office at the beginning of the day. A pass out will be issued to the student. This passout must be kept by the student until they reach home as they may be asked by a Home School Liaison Officer or the police why they are not at school.

Kempsey High Girls CHS Football Team

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Uniform Girls—Junior • White Polo or Button Shirt with or without

School Logo • School Dress • Navy skirt, shorts, trousers or track pants • Navy Blue Jumper, School Jumper or Jacket • Closed in leather shoes/joggers

Boys - Junior • White Polo or Button Shirt with or without

School Logo • Navy shorts, trousers or track pants • Navy Blue Jumper, School Jumper or Jacket • Closed in leather shoes/joggers

Girls— Senior • Light blue cotton shirt or official senior shirt • School Dress • Navy skirt, shorts, trousers or track pants • Navy Blue Jumper, School Jumper or Jacket • Closed in leather shoes/joggers

Boys – Senior • Light blue cotton collar shirt or official

senior school shirt • Navy shorts, trousers or track pants • Navy Blue Jumper, School Jumper or Jacket • Closed in leather shoes/joggers.

Where to purchase the uniform The in coming shirt can be purchased online from Team Spirit. Other uniform items can be purchased from The Uniform Shop, Target, Big W and K and A Boutique.

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The Kempsey High School Curriculum Years 7 and 8 (Stage 4) All students in Years 7 & 8 study - English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, Visual Arts, Music, STEM Technology Mandatory, Agriculture (Year 7), French (Year 8) and Sport. Years 9 and 10 (Stage 5) Following the foundations laid in Years 7 and 8, students in Stage 5 continue to study - English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education. Students also choose 3 Electives from a range of KeyLearning Areas’s Sample of Electives offered: Agriculture, Child Care, Equine Studies, Food Technology, French Elective, Information and Software Technology, History Elective, Aboriginal Studies, Marine & Aqua Technology, Photography, Physical Activities and Sports Studies, Visual Arts, Visual Photography, Industrial Technology Wood, Textiles & Design, Industrial Technology Multimedia (ITMU Engineering/Metal. Years 11 and 12 (Stage 6) English (Advanced, Standard, Studies) and the 25 hour Life Ready course are the only compulsory courses in Years 11. English (Advanced, Standard, or Studies) are the only compulsory course in Year 12. Students then choose 10 units from the following which they continue to study in Year 12. Some students study TAFE classes outside of normal school hours. Sample of Electives offered: Agriculture, Ancient History, Agriculture, Biology, Business Studies, Business Services, Chemistry, Construction, English (Ext 1), Geography, Hospitality, Industrial Technology, Legal Studies, Maths (Standard), Maths (Advanced), Mathematics (Ext), Modern History, Certificate 3 in Muiltimedia, Music, PDHPE, Photography, Primary Industries, Physics, Sport Lifestyle and Recreation, Textiles and Design and Visual Arts.

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Additional Features of the Kempsey High School Curriculum

Sport Program Sport is compulsory for Years 7 to 11. In Years 7 and 8 students participate in a sporting program designed to further develop sporting skills in a variety of sports. Sport for Year 8 is held on Thursday’s during periods 7 and 8 and sport for Year 7 is held on Tuesday’s during periods 7 and 8.

In Years 9, 10 and 11 students can choose from a wide variety of sports. A new choice can be made each term. Sport for Years 9, 10 and 11 is on Wednesdays during periods 6 and 7. Learning Support Programs Improving students’ literacy (reading, writing, language) and numeracy is a high priority for our school. Students, especially in Years 7 and 8, will sometimes have an additional teacher or Student Learning Support Officer (SLSO) in the room with their regular teacher. These additional staff assist the teacher to cater for a variety of needs that students in the class have.

Vocational Education Kempsey High is linked to the other schools TAFE and external providers in the valley for the delivery of some of the courses listed below. This offers a range of options for our senior students looking to gain dual accreditation for the HSC and Vocational subjects. Vocational courses count towards an HSC program of study, lead to nationally recognised qualifications recognised by industry, have a mandatory 35 hour work placement and include an optional HSC examination. Some are ATAR category B courses. Only one category B course can be included in calculating a student’s Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR). TAFE and External Providers A range of vocational courses are offered in Years 11 and 12 through Kempsey TAFE. A vocational course will equip students with knowledge and skills valued by employers and make students more job ready. Some of the courses available include Automotive, Children’s Services, Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Metals and Engineering and Retail.

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STEM is a school-based initiative for Year 7 and 8. Students rotate through a variety of specialised programs that are designed to enhance each students’ literacy, numeracy, information and computing skills and social skills. Each STEM Unit combines elements of the Technology design process, Mathematics, Science and Engineering allowing students use their individual innovation within groups to study, model and test projects constructed to solve real world problems. Projects included construction paper planes and boats, a scenario in which students use catapults to help survive the Zombie Apocalypse and building model bridges to resupply isolated communities after a major flood event scenario. New units for 2019 include computer coding, programming and using Spheros, building and testing rockets, exploring our water resources, designing and building racing cars and using maths to examine space. Teachers leading in this program were able to attend a 5 day professional development with Sydney Universities STEM Teacher Enrichment Academy in preparation for the designing and implementation of these units.

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Trade Training Centre

Our Hospitality Trade Training Centre is also known as “The Red Onion Cafe`” and this facility is a fully operational Cafe` on Wednesdays. The students who become a part of “The Red Onion Cafe`” learn the full process of running a Cafe` and excellent teamwork .

Years 7 & 8

CAFE plus Barrista Workplace Hygiene Serving Food & Beverage & Food presentation Kitchen Hand duties Cashier & money handling

Years 11 & 12 CAFE plus Barrista

Food Production retail Cashier & money handling Catering

Years 9 & 10

CAFE plus Barrista Food Production retail Hospitality Introduction Workplace Hygiene Serving Food & Beverage & Food presentation Kitchen Hand duties Cashier & money handling

Marine Studies Centre The Marine Studies Centre houses a variety of equipment and resources which support the teaching of the Marine Studies course. There is a strong emphasis placed on safe and enjoyable first hand experiences with aquatic organisms and the exploration of aquatic environments. The Centre houses both Marine and Freshwater Aquariums, Aquaculture and Aquaponics systems, as well as snorkelling equipment, kayaks and a range of boats. This course is designed to build a comprehensive range of knowledge and skills for students to undertake further training in a diverse range of occupations. Including Hospitality, Tourism, the Outdoor Recreation sector, the Seafood & Aquaculture Industry, and the Maritime and Boating Industries.

Enterprise Centre The Enterprise Centre is an innovative educational program attached to Kempsey High School. Students are given the opportunity to continue their education and gain skills to prepare them for the workforce, in a supportive environment. The Enterprise Centre provides senior school education where skills based training is a focus. Students participate in a combination of regular classes at The Enterprise Centre and a choice of either school, distance education or TAFE based vocational subjects. It provides students with an alternate HSC program with an individual study pattern supported by a core teacher and a full time Student Learning Support Officer.

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Agriculture The Kempsey High School Agriculture programs have the dual aim of building students’ knowledge and skills in modern agricultural production methods and building character through teamwork, leadership and service. These aims are accomplished at the Kempsey High School Farm which is located behind the residences on the northern side of Broughton Street. Additional paddocks and a dam for irrigation are located in Tozer Street, south of the school oval. The farm is being progressively upgraded and accommodates facilities for thirteen student run enterprises: beef cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, poultry, rabbits, guinea pigs, honey, vegetables, horticulture, worm farming, goats and landcare operations. Beef Cattle production is particularly strong and students win many ribbons for judging and parading. All students study Agriculture in Year 7. Many of these students continue a strong association with the farm in year 8 through voluntary membership of the farm enterprise teams that manage the husbandry and care of the animals. Students can elect to study Agriculture in years 9 to 12. Agriculture Extension is available in years 9 and 10 which effectively enables students to study Agriculture for double the time. The Primary Industries vocational education course is also taught in years 11 and 12. The Kempsey High Agriculture Students Association (KHASA) has a strong association with primary producers and agriculture businesses in the valley and beyond and offers agricultural enrichment and leadership opportunities to students, many of which are conducted out of school time. Many of the school’s student leaders have learnt leadership skills through their involvement with KHASA. The school was named as one of seven Agriculture Lighthouse Schools in 2015 for its extensive record of high achievement in agriculture coupled with innovation in agricultural education. Within this role, the school supports other schools to enrich their agricultural education programs.

Afternoon School Buses (guide only—always check with bus company)

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Buses

SEA STREET GATES

Gate Route Name 1 Collombatti Rail /Frederickton 2 Bellbrook / Willawarrin 2 Collombatti Link 2 Moonebah 2 McKenzie’s Creek 2 Crescent head 2 Stuart’s Point / Clybucca 3 Wittitrin / Greenhill 4 Sherwood Road / Aldavilla 4 Moparrabah / Turner’s Flat / Willi Willi

BROUGHTON STREET GATES

Banned Items

The following items are banned and should not be brought into the school at any time. Students who bring any of these items into school or knowingly associate with other students who possess or use these items will be dealt with in accordance with the school’s discipline code. Alcohol Spray deodorants (only pump action allowed) Cigarettes/papers/tobacco Knives, scissors or metal rulers Matches and lighters Illegal drugs and bongs or similar equipment Laser pens Liquid white out and permanent marker

Sporting Equipment in the Playground

• Handball with a tennis ball is the only sporting game to be played in the main quad area. • There should be no running or chasing in the main quad area. • Footballs, soccer balls, basketballs, and similar equipment should not be brought to school by

students. If you bring this equipment to school, it can be confiscated, stored securely and returned to you or your parents or carers at a later date.

• No bats, sticks etc. are to be used in any handball games. • Footballs, soccer balls, basket balls and similar equipment are available from the PE faculty for

borrowing by students for lunchtime use on the oval or basketball courts. The oval and basketball courts are supervised by teachers during lunchtime.

Gate Route Name 1 Old Station Rd 1 Port Macquarie 1 Euroka 1 Dondingalong 1 North Street 1 South Kempsey

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Mobile Phone and Electronic Devices Policy

• All students at Kempsey High School are encouraged to leave their mobile phones at home and their parents/carers are encouraged to contact students through the school office on 6562 6166. In the case of emergencies this ensures students receive any support they may need.

• If students bring their mobile phones or other electronic devices to school they are the student’s responsibility at all times. School staff will not be responsible for their loss or damage.

• Mobile phones which are brought to school must be used appropriately at all times. A mobile phone will be considered to have been used inappropriately if: a. It disrupts the learning environment or interferes with the operation of the school. b. It threatens, or is likely to threaten, the safety or wellbeing of any person through SMS, text,

messaging, photographic, video or other data transfer system available on the phone. c. Its use is in breach of the law, such as sending sexually explicit or suggestive pictures or

photos to websites.

• Mobile phones may be used before school, at recess, lunch and after school. Phones are not to be used in the buildings or during lessons and cannot be used between lessons.

• All phones must be placed on silent or turned off once the bell rings to signal movement to class and before students enter the school buildings.

• Other electronic devices such as IPods, including their earphones, and Laptops should also be turned off and placed in bags once the bell rings to signal movement to class and before students enter the school buildings. They may only be used in class if directed by the teacher.

• Phones and other electronic devices which are used inappropriately are to be handed to the teacher. Appropriate action, as per the school’s Discipline Policy, will be taken. This may include contact with the police if a phone is used in a way which is in breach of the law.

• Students using their phone in class are required to hand their phone to the teacher who will store the phone securely for collection at the end of the day. A second offence will result in parents/carers being contacted to collect the phone. Further offences will be viewed as Persistent Disobedience in which case the school’s Discipline Policy will be implemented. This also applies to all other electronic devices which are used in class without the teacher’s permission.

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Student Welfare and Support Aboriginal Education Workers Aboriginal Education workers assist Aboriginal students with their study and are a point of contact within the school for the Aboriginal community. They liaise between school staff and the Community, between students and teachers and with parents as needed. Breakfast Club. Breakfast is available before school Monday to Friday for students who may need it. It is located in the Staff Common Room on the ground floor of B Block. Careers Teacher The Careers Teacher is available to students to assist them in all matters relating to work, training and further education. The Careers Office is on the 2nd floor in the Library and students are free to see the Careers Teacher at any recess or lunch time or at other times with the permission of their teacher. Deputy Principal The Deputy Principal can help advise you with problems you may have concerning school. They can refer you to the right person to receive the assistance you need. They are located in A Block. Girls Advisor The Girls Advisor is available to support female students. She is located in the school Library. Learning Support Team The Learning support Team (LST) meets regularly to plan support for students with particular needs. Students, parents and caregivers who have a concern can speak to the Year Advisor, Deputy Principal, School Counsellor or class teachers for referral to the LST for appropriate support to be organised. Medical Conditions and Medication If your child suffers from any ongoing medical condition please inform the school of any special needs, treatment to be given and the requirements for emergency situations. If your child needs to take medication at school please contact the front office so that arrangements can be made for this to occur. School Counsellor

School Counsellors are available four days per week to provide counselling support to parents and students. Year Advisors

Year Advisors for each year support student welfare. They are available to discuss any difficulties affecting school performance with parents and students and to liaise with staff.

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Aboriginal Education

Aboriginal community groups and Aboriginal parents are important partners in creating challenging and culturally appropriate programs in courses at Kempsey High School. These programs are designed to teach all students about Aboriginal Australia.

The Dunghutti community has helped the school to design significant educational programs including:

• The Gooris on the Job Year 9 and Gooris in Business Year 10 Elective Courses • Academic support in Years 10,11 and 12 • Year 11 traineeships • Year 7 and 8 intensive literacy and numeracy tuition • Year 6 - 7 Transition Program (Mission Australia) • Cultural activities i.e. dance, murals, workshops • NAIDOC Assembly and celebrations • Personal Learning Plans

The team of Aboriginal Education Workers provide in school support to students and teaching staff and form an important link with parents and the community.

Links with the Community Kempsey High School has a long history of developing links with the community and continues to develop this in new ways. Elders and Community members are invited into the school as guest speakers, lecturers and mentors as well as are many people from community organisations.

The school has developed a formal partnership with the Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG).

Aboriginal Resource Centre

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Library Programs Information Services – Why come to the library? Students’ gain lifelong learning skills when they are supported on the information to knowledge journey and enjoy reading. Leadership opportunities– Why be a leader? Student leaders in cooperative learning teams; eg, SRC and interest groups, do better Student Wellbeing – Why does resilience matter? Developing strategies for dealing with life’s challenges helps students understand themselves and grow as caring members of our community and as global citizens. Facilities We offer a variety of specialist learning areas to facilitate different teaching and learning styles including: Large learning Areas with subject specific resources for study

and relaxation. Media Room with interactive digital whiteboard and video

conferencing equipment, enabling Webinars and virtual excursions

• Computer kiosks connected to a printer • Small Learning Areas for individual and group work • Mezzanine Study Area for independent learning.

Resources Professionally qualified, trained and committed staff are available in the Library to help with all our student and staff needs and we are committed to supporting our students gain the best results possible. The Library has an extensive collection of quality resources selected by trained staff in consultation with teaching staff. These include:

Print resources including books and magazines E-resources – ClickView Digital Video Library (accessed

via the school portal at home or at school) Additional e-resources – via personal membership at

Kempsey Shire Library. Access to a wide variety of online resources including encyclopaedias and journals

Technology hardware and software to support learning – technology includes computers, video and still cameras, digital interactive whiteboard

We encourage students to feel welcome and make the most of the wonderful programs, facilities and resources we have to share.

Essential Information

Staff Teacher Librarian

Linda Sneddon

Library Assistants Leanne Williams Annette Mayhew

Opening Times Library Opening Hours Before School from 8:30am Recess 2 Lunch 1 – 10,11,12 Lunch 2 – all years Study Periods and Tutorials Homework Centre – Tues/Thurs 3:30-5pm

After Hours Online Access Login to Student Portal KHS Library link to view catalogue and access e-resources Research and study skills help is always available.

Libraries are more than a space to hold resources……they are a space to foster innovation and promote excellence.

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Homework Centre Our Homework Centre runs in the school Library from 3.30pm to 5.00pm each Tuesday and Thursday. All students are welcome to attend the Homework Centre to receive help with assignments, assessment tasks and homework. Computers, internet and printers are available in this time. Students need to book into the Homework Centre at the canteen by the end of Recess 2 so that their afternoon tea can be catered for. Transport is available for out of town students: TUESDAYS – Armidale Road to Bellbrook THURSDAYS – Frederickton & Collombatti Road. Parents may need to meet students at drop off point.

Matsushige High School visitors

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Parent Committees Parents & Citizens Association The P & C Association meets once a term at 2.30pm on the second Thursday of the first month of each term. At these meetings parents hear a report on recent school events and have the opportunity of contributing their ideas about school improvement. Dates are advertised in the school Newsletter. Meetings give parents the opportunity to:-

• meet with other members of the school community • express concerns and ask questions • contribute to planning ideas for the school i.e. policy endorsement • keep up to date with events and issues that affect the school and the students • assist in providing facilities and equipment for the school.

The Annual General Meeting is held in March of each year. The AGM is when Office Bearers are elected for the year. All parents and citizens are welcome.

Red Onion Café - Trade Training Centre

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Student Committees

Student Representative Council The Student Representative Council (SRC) provides the opportunity for students:

• to be involved in making decisions that make our school a better place • to represent and be a voice for other students • to develop leadership skills • to promote the positive image of our school

The SRC is led by our elected Year 12 student leaders. Any interested student, Years 7 – 12, may nominate themselves and become part of the SRC. All you need is self-motivation, a willingness to help others and to work in a team. What does the SRC do?

• Meets regularly to report about progress on projects and to hear about leadership opportunities • Develops leadership skills through training, planning and teamwork. • Works on projects in teams

SRC Teams

Charity Community Involvement School Improvement Sport Student learning and support Technology Transition

Opportunities exist for students from all years to participate in SRC projects that interest them. Students who would like to find out more about the SRC should talk to Mrs Sneddon (SRC Coordinator) and the Yr 12 student leaders.

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Subject Materials and Requirements Year Subject

Year 7 (Yr 7 book pack can be purchased at the school canteen)

Year 8 (Yr 8 book pack can be purchased at the school canteen)

English 2 x 192 page Exercise Book 1 x A4 Display Folder – 20 Pocket

2 x 192 page Exercise Book 1 x A4 Display Folder – 20 Pocket

Mathematics 1 x 240 page 5mm Grid Book 224 x 175 1 x A4 Display Book - Black 1 x Geometry Set 1 x scientific calculator with fraction a b/c key

240 page 5mm Grid Book 224 x 175 1 x A4 Display Book - Black 1 x Geometry Set 1 x scientific calculator with fraction a b/c key

Science 1 x 192 page A4 Binder Book 1 x 90 Page Grid Book A4 Safety Glasses

1 x 192 page A4 Binder Book 1 x 90 Page Grid Book A4 Safety Glasses

Agriculture 1x A4 Display Folder - 20 pockets 1 x Spiral Notebook 64 Page

1x A4 Display Folder - 20 pockets 1 x Spiral Notebook 64 Page

Geography 1 x 160 page Exercise Book 1 x 160 page Exercise Book

History 1 x 160 page Exercise Book 1 x 160 pg Exercise Book

Music 1 x 96 page Music Book 1 x 11 x 14 120 Page Art Diary

1 x 96 page Music Book 1 x 11 x 14 120 Page Art Diary

T.A.S 1 x A4 Lined Exercise Book Safety Glasses

1 x A4 Lined Exercise Book Safety Glasses

PD/H/PE 1 x 96 page Binder Book 1 x 96 page Binder Book

General 1 x 15cm Plastic Ruler 1 x 15cm Plastic Ruler

• Students will be notified by their teachers if they require additional equipment. • Years 9 – 12 will be notified of their equipment requirements by their teachers. • Calculators and aprons can be purchased at the school canteen.

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School Canteen

Our school canteen is open 5 days a week and provides healthy food and drink options for students. It also sells a range of equipment including Year 7 and 8 Book packs, Art diaries, exercise books, calculators, aprons, pens and pencils. All income made in the canteen is used to support the school to provide teaching resources and equipment for our students. You can become involved in, and support, the school by volunteering your time to assist in the school canteen. Contact Leanne Westerman on 6562 4811 if you can help.

Sporting Achievements

Agriculture