2021 St Margaret's Anglican Girls School
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Boarding
2021
HANDBOOK
Boarding House Contacts Head of Boarding Lesa Fowler Phone: +61 7 3862 0811 Mobile: +61 438 570 013 Email: lfowler@stmargarets.qld.edu.au Head of Senior House Gracemere Mataia Phone: +61 7 3862 0711 Mobile: +61 404 738 101 Email: gmataia@stmargarets.qld.edu.au Head of Junior House Fiona Spooner Phone: +61 7 3862 0711 Mobile: +61 423 857 233 Email: fspooner@stmargarets.qld.edu.au Pastoral Care Coordinator (Boarding) Sandra Johnson Phone: +61 7 3862 0806 Mobile: +61 420 920 127 Email: sjohnson@stmargarets.qld.edu.au Boarding Reception Phone: +61 7 3862 0800 Fax: +61 7 3862 0747 Email: boarders@stmargarets.qld.edu.au International Pastoral Care Coordinator Tom McCormick Phone +61 7 3862 0703 Email tmccormick@stmargarets.qld.edu.au Global Exchange Coordinator Angelin Achari Phone +61 7 3862 0861 Mobile +61 423 451 876 Email aachari@stmargarets.qld.edu.au Health Centre Bridget Buchanan Phone: +61 7 3862 0778 Fax: +61 7 3862 0872 Mobile: +61 438 797 737 Contents Welcome...............................................................................01 Pastoral Care........................................................................21 Boarding staff.......................................................................03 St Margaret’s Safe School Policy......................................22 St Margaret’s philosophy...................................................04 Safety and security in the Boarding House....................24 Rights and responsibilities................................................05 Communication..................................................................25 Key rules for boarding........................................................05 Boarders Parents’ Support Group....................................26 Facilities................................................................................06 Student leadership in the Boarding House....................27 Year Level Privileges...........................................................07 Appendix I – Code of Behaviour.....................................28 Leave procedures................................................................08 Appendix II – Discipline Policy.......................................29 Academic expectations......................................................11 Appendix III – Student IT Acceptable Use Policy.......30 Life in the Boarding House...............................................12 Appendix IV – School uniform list.................................31 Health....................................................................................14 St Margaret’s location map................................................32 Additional information......................................................17 Term dates............................................................................33 Belongings............................................................................20
01
Welcome
From the Principal
Welcome to the St Margaret’s Boarding House!
St Margaret’s is a true boarding school; with almost a third of our school secondary
student population made up of boarders. Our boarders live in the middle of our
secondary campus; they are very visible, living, dining, socialising in the sight of all
members of the school community.
Boarding also adds to the culture of school – it is hard to define how it does this.
It is likely that many variables make this contribution, including boarders’ high
participation rates in the sport, music and community service programs; their close
bonds with each other; and their structured homework preparation programs.
Our boarding house staff are focused on providing a very positive experience for
your daughters and understand the importance of working in partnership with all
boarding parents.
Our leadership team includes the Head of Boarding, Lesa Fowler, supported by the
Heads of Junior and Senior House and a Pastoral Care Coordinator. Together the
boarding leadership team works with the housemothers to care for your daughters
while they are on their learning journey at St Margaret’s.
The focus of our trained and committed staff is to provide a nurturing and enriching
environment where students’ academic, extra-curricular and pastoral needs are
carefully monitored and catered for.
The School is committed to the high quality care of each student and the boarding
experience at St Margaret’s endeavours to maximise students’ educational
opportunities in academic, spiritual, social, emotional and physical areas.
I wish you and your daughter a very fulfilling boarding experience in 2021, one which
she will cherish well beyond her years at school.
Ros Curtis
Principal
MEd(Leadership&Mgt), MLitSt, BA(Hons), DipEd,
ASDA, FACE, FACEL, FAIM, GAICD
The boarding experience at
St Margaret’s endeavours to
maximise students’ educational
opportunities in academic,
spiritual, social, emotional
and physical areas.
02
Welcome
From the Head of Boarding
We warmly welcome your daughter to St Margaret’s and we look forward to a long and
happy association with her and your family. Boarding at St Margaret’s is a rewarding,
fulfilling and happy time for all. The students come from many geographical areas,
both within Australia and from overseas. This exposure to other cultures is an
enriching experience which gives each of our boarders a chance to develop a wider
understanding about others and the world in which we live.
Boarding House life provides, within a Christian environment, an opportunity for
development of character, self-discipline and leadership whilst nurturing lifelong
friendships. The Boarding House runs smoothly and efficiently when all members
act responsibly, and consciously work toward creating an atmosphere of care and
consideration for others. Harmony exists when everybody understands that they are
obliged to respect the rights of others, fulfil their responsibilities to both the Boarding
House and the School. We aim to instil within the boarders the values of respect,
consideration, trust and honesty which complement the Core Values of the School –
Spirit, Faith, Integrity, Courage, Respect and Passion.
Professional, well-trained staff are always available to offer a caring and encouraging
environment whilst everyone in this large family is learning to cope with success
and/or challenges in her school life. It is important that parents and girls establish
meaningful communication between school and home. Parents and staff are partners
in caring for the girls while they are at St Margaret’s.
Our Boarding House staff members also aim to create a friendly and supportive
atmosphere in which the girls can live happily and develop the necessary social and
community skills to be a successful member of society. As in any community, certain
agreed guidelines are essential and the viewpoints of others must be considered. We
do expect a high degree of self-discipline and respect for others in the Boarding House
community. To achieve this, the girls must have respect for the school traditions and
values, for staff and fellow boarders.
Lesa Fowler
Head of Boarding
Our Boarding House staff members
aim to create a friendly and supportive
atmosphere in which the girls can live
happily and develop the necessary
social and community skills to be a
successful member of society.
03
Boarding staff
Boarding House staff aim to: Head of Senior House (Years 10 – 12)
• Promote positive and professional behaviour in all and Head of Junior House (Years 5 to 9)
situations • Recognise the worth of each student as an individual and
• Inspire and instruct boarders using resources both create a sense of belonging for every girl in Boarding.
human and material to nurture the whole child within • Encourage a cooperative team approach, through sound
the boarding environment and regular communication.
• Provide a rich environment for learning • Establish and maintain a good working relationship with,
• Understand each behavioural issue, its source and and knowledge of, boarding families
contributing factors • Develop and champion administrative procedures in the
• Generate and implement solutions to behaviour boarding house.
problems • Oversee all leave requests in senior/junior house
• Maintain a safe and caring environment for the whole • Oversee the coordination of end of term leave in
Boarding community senior/junior house.
• Oversee all student records are up to date in
senior/junior house.
Staff Roles
• Enforce all boarding house policies and procedures to
Head of Boarding ensure all boarding standards are maintained to the
• Provide effective overall leadership and management of highest level.
students and staff • Remain accessible to boarder parents and providing a high
• Formulate, implement and review all key policies and level of service to them.
processes in relation to the Boarding House • Ensure regular parent communication including a weekly
• Strategic leadership in the financial, resource and newsletter to parents.
facilities-related operations of the Boarding House • Communicate with individual parents about their
• Ensure day-to-day Boarding House operations are children’s progress, where appropriate.
consistent with, and integrated within whole school • Respond promptly to all communication and requests
operations from boarding parents.
• Develop, organise and oversee an effective pastoral care • Write for All Aboard and the school’s eNews, as required.
program for all boarding students • Promote an open door policy for students to gain assistance.
• Actively promote the School and Boarding House • Meet Heads of Year as directed by the Head of Boarding,
within the current and prospective School community regarding boarding student’s academic progress and day
• Oversee the academic needs and performance of school activities.
boarders through regular meetings with the Dean of • Monitor academic progress of each of the boarders.
Students and Heads of Year
• Ensure all phone calls to parents with regards to the
• Effectively communicate with parents on a regular basis student’s progress are made early in the term.
• Attend and actively participate in weekly meetings with the
Head of Boarding and Pastoral Care Coordinator.
• Inform the day school of relevant information on boarders,
as necessary.
04
St Margaret’s philosophy
Pastoral Care Coordinator House Supervisor
• Oversee the pastoral care of boarding students in • Foster quality relationships with boarders while
Years 6 - 10 supervising and monitoring their general routines
• Monitor students’ Leave and weekend movements • Develop rapport with boarders as individuals
• Oversee the Indigenous Student Program • Follow-up minor disciplinary matters and referring
• Coordinate the Beginning-of-Year Orientation Program all serious matters to the Head of Boarding or Deputy
Head of Boarding
• Contact all new boarder parents and discuss their
daughter(s) wellbeing since entry into the Boarding • Create and maintain a safe environment and ensure the
House highest standards are maintained with respect of legal
obligations and Duty of Care
• Follow-up with all new boarders on a regular basis and
ensure that their needs are being met • Interact in a manner that is reflective of students’
developmental stage in relation to their level of
• Liaise with the Health Centre in relation to boarders
autonomy, decision making, academic excellence and
and appointments required
time management
• Encourage students to strive for personal and
• Ensure the security of the Boarding House is
professional goals as well as the development of self-
maintained and closely monitored at all times
esteem and life skills
• Liaise with school staff regarding boarders’ day school
• Support students requiring counselling by being
activities and commitments
available to listen, offering suggestions for dealing with
situations, directing to a professional counsellor if • Ensure that boarders sign in and out when they leave or
required and facilitating this where appropriate enter the Boarding House
• Develop supportive processes between the Boarding • Ensure all visitors sign in the Visitor Register
House and other departments within the School • Consistently and accurately administer the written
policies and procedures on all aspects of the Boarding
House
• Encourage cooperative parent contact and foster
positive community attitudes towards the School
• Ensure all parent and prospective parent contact is
followed up at all times
• Ensure that a fortnightly communication is issued to all
parents by email
Contacting the Boarding House – Student Issues
House Mother
Head of Junior Head of Senior Pastoral Care
House (5 - 9) House (10 - 12) Co-ordinator
Head of Boarding
05
Rights and responsibilities
All members of the Boarding community acknowledge and
agree that they have certain rights and responsibilities:
Rights Responsibilities
• To feel secure and to be safe in a caring and supportive • To treat each other with kindness, courtesy and respect at
environment all times
• To expect that Boarding House rules are fair and • To support and uphold the Boarding House rules and
consistently implemented routines
• To be valued for their uniqueness and individuality • To listen to the views of others and accept differences
• To be treated with fairness, courtesy and respect at all times • To build and maintain positive relationships with all other
• To expect that others respect private space and personal boarders and staff
belongings • To develop self-responsibility
• To undertake academic studies without disruption • To respect the private space and belongings of Boarding
• To express personal opinions with sensitivity to others House staff and students
• To treat each other with kindness, courtesy and respect at • To contribute to ensuring the boarding environment is
all times clean and harmonious
• To support and uphold the Boarding House rules and routines • Use respectful and appropriate language
• To listen to the views of others and accept differences • Participate in Boarding House events
• To build and maintain positive relationships with all other • Follow the Boarding House routines
boarders and staff • Observe study schedules
• To develop self-responsibility • Abide by the Boarding House Mobile Phone Policy
• To respect the private space and belongings of Boarding • Abide by the boarders’ leave policy
House staff and students • Respect Boarding House property and the property
• To contribute to ensuring the boarding environment is of others
clean and harmonious
Key rules for boarding
Standards expected in the Boarding House
Bedrooms
• Nothing to be left on the floor
• Beds made
• Clothes and personal belongings placed in wardrobes
and drawers provided
• Shoes in cupboard or under beds
• Desks and bedside tables left in an orderly fashion
• Lights, heaters and fans turned off
Common Areas
• No personal possessions to be left in the common
rooms
• Wet towels and swimming costumes to be placed in
appropriate areas
• No shoes or sporting equipment to be left in corridors
• All common room kitchens clean and tidy
• Supper duties completed as scheduled
• No bags are to be left in front of fire doors.
06
Facilities
Dormitories Eunice Science and Resource Centre
Each dormitory has been named after a significant woman Boarders have access to the Library in the evening from
from Australia’s short but colourful history. Boarders in Years Monday to Thursday. Additionally, Year 12 students can also
7 to 10 are accommodated in Longman, Macarthur, McKillop request access on weekends. Years 11 and 12 students have
and Sutherland. These boarders mostly sleep in cubicles of access to the Independent Learning Centre in the evening from
four. Students in Years 11 and 12 are accommodated in O’Neil, Monday to Thursday and on weekends.
Durack 1 and 2, Chisholm and Kenny. They sleep in single or
double cubicles. Prep classrooms
The Boarding House Supervisor oversees the allocation of Students in Years 7 to 10 complete their prep in the Library
beds. In all year levels the bed allocations are changed each and classrooms in Toorak from Monday to Thursday,
term, so that every boarder has the opportunity to make new supervised by teachers.
friends. Bed allocations are non-negotiable. Eton Kitchen
Girls may decorate their areas using the pinboards provided or Boarders have access to Eton Kitchen every afternoon and
photo frames. To maintain the paintwork, boarders are not to on the weekends. Students are required to sign in to use the
attach anything on the walls of these areas. kitchen and must ensure it is clean and tidy when they have
All boarders are asked to play their part in the Boarding finished. The kitchen is fully stocked at the beginning of
House to prevent the wasting of resources and unnecessary term and then restocked as requested. All basic ingredients
damage or wear and tear leading to extra maintenance costs. are supplied but students will need to purchase any special
Any deliberate damage caused by a boarder will be seen as a ingredients they wish to use. There are two work stations in
disciplinary issue, reported to parents and all costs incurred the kitchen – one for Junior House and one for Senior House.
charged to parents’ accounts. This includes deliberately setting Boarders are required to complete a questionnaire about
off smoke detectors and fire alarms. Health and Hygiene to ensure they understand about food
handling procedures.
Lounge/Leisure areas
All year levels have their own common areas. These consist of Sports amenities
lounges, TV, DVD player, fridge and microwave. On weekends, boarders have access to the pool and
gymnasium under the supervision of Boarding Supervisors.
All activities require a supervisor to attend and are therefore
dependant upon numbers. The girls may also use the tennis
courts but must sign out.
07
Year Level Privileges
Terraces are out of bounds for ALL year levels unless
accompanied by a Staff member
Bartley’s Hill is OUT OF BOUNDS
UBER is NOT Permitted. Sheba is allowed for Year 10, 11 & 12
Year 7
• Year 7 may go to Boarders Backyard in pairs/ return by Year 11
4:30pm • May walk to Siriani’s/ Oriel Park in pairs return by 4:30pm
• They may play in Barley Sugar Gardens, Mini Golf, • May walk to McDonalds in pairs return by 4:30pm
Eton Courtyard & Toorak Garden near M’s Café/ return Weekend only
by 4:30pm
• A walk/run to Siriani’s is the only walking track outside of
• They may play in the Primary Playground near the school campus
tuckshop in pairs/ return by 4:30pm
• They may go to Figtree’s/My Mistress, return by
• They are strictly only to go to Siriani’s with a Staff member 4:30pm Mon – Sun
• They may go to McDonalds as a whole group with Staff • Year 11 boarders may take leave for the purpose of
Member (weekend only) shopping, lunch and visiting libraries in Brisbane City in
groups of three to five, between 10.00am and 4.30pm on
either a Saturday or Sunday.
Year 8
• Year 11’s will get the year 12 privileges in term 4 once the
• May walk to Siriani’s/ Oriel Park in a group of 4 on their
current year 12’s have graduated. This is also based on the
own in full school uniform during a school day/ return
year 11 cohort’s behaviour and is approved by Lesa Fowler
by 4:30pm
Head of Boarding
• May walk to Siriani’s/ Oriel Park in a group of 4 on their
own on the weekend/ return by 4:30pm
• McDonald’s Trip must in a group of 4 or more and Year 12
accompanied by a Staff Member or Senior Students/ • May walk to Siriani’s/ Oriel Park in pairs return by 4:30pm
return by 4:30pm Weekend Only • May walk to McDonalds in pairs return by 4:30pm
Weekend only
Year 9 • A walk/run to Siriani’s is the only walking track outside of
school campus
• May walk to Siriani’s/ Oriel Park in 3’s return by 4:30pm
• They may go to Figtrees/My Mistress, return by 4:30pm
• McDonald’s must be in a group of 3 and must return by
Mon – Sun
4:30pm Weekend only
• Year 12 boarders may take leave for the purpose of
• A walk/run to Siriani’s is the only walking track outside of
shopping, lunch and visiting libraries in Brisbane City in
school campus
groups of two or more between 10.00am and 4.30pm on
either a Saturday or Sunday. An adult does not accompany
boarders on this leave.
Year 10 • The girls may go to Racecourse Rd in pairs, must return
before dinner, they still must attend dinner sittings
• May walk to Siriani’s/ Oriel Park in pairs return by 4:30pm
• Year 12 MOVIE Leave to Portside, Chermside or Toombul
• May walk to McDonald’s in pairs/ return by 4:30pm is allowed. Return by 10pm Weekend Only
Weekend only
• A walk/run to Siriani’s is the only walking track outside of
school campus
• The Chermside/DFO/Toombul on the weekend in a group
of 4 - Leave form in by Wednesday, approved by parents,
taxi only and must return by 4pm. Public transport is
allowed only to Chermside and Toombul. This leave is only
to be used once per weekend.
Southbank, Valley and City are still not
accepted after 4pm
Students are not to catch a taxi on their own
unless approved by Parent
08
Leave procedures
The Boarding House has a responsibility to ensure the safety
and security of all boarders in our care. All leave requests
must be in writing from a parent or guardian, and it is the
responsibility of a parent or guardian to confirm all leave
arrangements with the host and the Boarding House.
Conditions of Leave
1. All leave from the Boarding House is permitted by 4. It should be understood that boarders who are
the Head of Boarding in the context of trust - that involved in any school activity must give priority to
boarders go to the places and hosts who have been their school commitment. Furthermore, students
approved by their parent or guardian. It is impossible will not be permitted to leave the School unless their
for boarding staff to follow every boarder and conduct and application to study are satisfactory.
telephone every host family to check that boarders
are behaving in an appropriate manner. However, as 5. For all weekend leave, girls may depart and return in
part of our duty of care, spot checks are conducted on good casual clothes. All hosts are to collect boarders
a regular basis to ensure boarders are on leave with from the Boarding House. However, boarders
the host/friend confirmed by a parent or guardian. travelling to hosts outside the greater Brisbane area
If a boarder stays with a host who has not been may travel by taxi to the Transit Centre only for
approved by a parent or guardian or signs out to go connecting buses or trains or by taxi to the airport or
to one place and goes somewhere else, this is seen to meet parents.
as a severe breach of this trust and is treated as a
serious disciplinary situation. This includes returning
to the Boarding House with someone other than her 6. In accordance with school policy, boarders are not
approved host or by public transport which has not permitted to travel in a car driven by another student.
already been pre-arranged. Boarders are also not permitted to travel in a car at any
time, including to or from sporting activities, with a
parent of a day girl unless prior permission in writing
2. It is understood that parents/guardians will allow is received by the Boarding House.
their daughter to take leave only under the care of
people with similar standards of responsibility and
behaviour to their own. It is important that you 7. It is essential that a parent or guardian complete
discuss your expectations and the expectations of a leave form on REACH by the following deadlines:
the Boarding House with such people. Apart from • Weekend Leave – no later than 7.00pm on the
brothers and sisters, all nominated people must be Wednesday prior to the weekend
over 21 years of age. • Week Day Leave – no later than 7.00pm on the day
prior to Leave
3. No boarder may stay overnight at a university • Special / Movie / Shopping Leave – no later than
college unless their host is their sister and a parent or 7.00pm on the day prior to Leave.
guardian has given written approval on the Parent/
Guardian Leave Request Form. Boarders may only
travel in a car with a sibling if he or she is over 18
years of age. If a sibling is under 21 years of age,
approval in writing is required from a parent or
guardian. Parents or guardians will need to complete
the Sibling Drivers section of the Leave Agreement.
TELEPHONE CONFIRMATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
No boarder will be allowed on Leave unless their host signs them out in the Garden Room.
The host must also return the boarder to the Boarding House and sign them back in.09
Leave procedures
Types of leave
Weekend Leave – full weekend Weekend Leave - parents-only
Boarders may take Weekend Leave on their choice of four Boarders may take Parents-only Weekend leave from 3.00pm
weekends per term, from 3.00pm on Friday to either 7.00pm on Friday to either 7.00pm on Sunday or 7.30am on Monday.
on Sunday or 7.30am on Monday. If Monday is a Public This form of leave is at the request of a parent/guardian only,
Holiday, boarders may return on Monday by 7.00pm or and may be submitted at the last minute and outside the terms
Tuesday by 7.30am. that currently apply.
Week Day Leave
The first weekend of every Boarders may take one week day afternoon leave per week, on:
• Monday to Thursday between 3.30pm and 8.30pm. We do
semester is a Closed Weekend not advise returning during the allocated Prep time of
6.30pm – 8.30pm
and all boarders must remain in • Friday between 3.00pm and 10.00pm
the Boarding House. Only under Leave may be spent under the care of a parent/guardian or a host
approved by parent/guardian. It is the responsibility of a parent/
exceptional circumstances guardian to confirm all leave arrangements with the host.
will girls be granted leave on Leave
Girls are only permitted five weekends per term. The fifth
this weekend and a letter in one is with parents only. Weekend leave includes Friday
writing must be made to the and/ or Saturday and/ or Sunday nights. Anything outside
of this must be in consultation with the Head of Boarding.
Principal, Ros Curtis. Special Leave – Years 11 and 12
Year 11 and 12 boarders may take Special Leave for the
purpose of having dinner or seeing a movie at Chermside or
Closed Weekends for 2021 Portside on a Saturday or Sunday in groups of a minimum
Semester 1 Friday 29 January – Sunday 31 January of three (Year 11) and minimum of two (Year 12), and must
Semester 2 Friday 16 July – Sunday 18 July return to the Boarding House no later than 10pm. (Sunday no
later than 7pm)
Special Leave is available to boarders in Years 11 and 12 only,
Weekend Leave – single day and not on Closed Weekends. An adult does not accompany
Boarders may go out on Day Leave on Saturday between boarders on this leave.
6.30am and 10.00pm and Sunday between 6.30am and 7.00pm.
City Leave – Year 11
Leave may be spent under the care of a parent/guardian or a host
approved by parent/guardian. It is the responsibility of a parent/ Year 11 boarders may take leave for the purpose of shopping,
guardian to confirm all leave arrangements with the host. lunch and visiting libraries in Brisbane City in groups of three
to five, between 10.00am and 4.30pm on either a Saturday or
Sunday. An adult does not accompany boarders
on this leave.
City Leave– Year 12
Year 12 boarders may take leave for the purpose of shopping,
lunch and visiting libraries in Brisbane City in groups of two
or more between 10.00am and 4.30pm on either a Saturday or
Sunday. An adult does not accompany boarders on this leave.10
Leave procedures
Leave requests
A boarder’s parent/guardian must complete a Parent/Guardian Leave Request Form on our automated
leave system, REACH, by the following deadlines:
• Weekend Leave – no later than 7.00pm on the Wednesday prior to the weekend
• Week Day Leave – no later than 7.00pm on the day prior to Leave
• Special / Movie / Shopping Leave – no later than 7.00pm on the day prior to Leave
Boarders risk having their leave rejected if they fail to comply by these deadlines.
Sighting Hosts Taxis
All boarders going out must have their parent/host sighted It is expected that boarders will pay for their taxis themselves.
by staff on duty. All boarders returning must have their Should parents request a taxi voucher, one will be given to the
parent/host sighted on return. Boarder. The cost for this taxi trip will be added to parents’
For legal reasons and the added protection of boarders, accounts. Taxi vouchers will only be issued to boarders once
parents/hosts must accompany boarders to the Boarding permission is given by parents on the leave form.
House Reception when collecting and returning the students Time missed from School commitments
and make contact with the senior staff on duty.
Permission must be obtained from the Dean of Students
All visitors, including family members, are requested for any leave or travel which involves boarders missing class
not to enter any dormitory without permission from the time. These requests must be made in writing to the Dean of
Senior Supervisor on duty. Fathers and male guardians will Students (studentleave@stmargarets.qld.edu.au), giving as
understand that most times it is not possible for them to enter much notice as possible.
the dormitory except on the first and last days of terms.
Visitors
Boarders may receive visitors at the Boarding House between
3.45pm and 5.00pm from Monday to Friday, and between
1.00pm and 5.:00pm on Saturday and Sunday, with parent
permission in writing.
Visitors should enter and leave the School by the Towers Street
gate by the red letterbox. They must go immediately to the
Boarding House Reception and ask for the boarder they wish
to see. Girls must sign in visitors in the Visitors’ Book, and sign
them out when they depart. Visitors are entertained in the
courtyard area immediately adjacent to the Boarding House.
They do not have permission to be in any other area of the
school grounds. Failure to comply with these rules will result in
visiting privileges being forfeited.
St Margaret’s is very happy to extend these visiting hours for
parents at any time when they come to Brisbane. In the event
of an unexpected trip to Brisbane by parents, the School aims
to be as flexible as possible.
Rideshare Services
Students are not permitted to use Uber unless they are over
18 years of age. Students may use the ridesharing service
provided by Shebah. This is a service that provides only women
drivers who have a working with children check. Shebah is the
only legal ride share for children to ride in alone.11
Academic expectations
The Boarding experience at St Margaret’s endeavours to maximise
students’ educational opportunities in academic, spiritual, social,
emotional and physical spheres. The School recognises that all
girls have different academic abilities, strengths, weaknesses and
approaches to learning. Just as students are encouraged to take
sport and music seriously, and practise hard, it is expected that
boarders approach academic life with similar determination.
Boarding staff are fundamentally interested in effort, rather
than simply results. Boarders’ academic progress is monitored
by the Boarding House Supervisors and they are in constant
communication with teachers and Heads of Year.
Prep Support services
An effective student is one who manages a good balance Boarders have access to the School Counsellor and Pastoral
between her study time and leisure time. In the Boarding Care Coordinator (Boarding) for support with personal issues.
House there are specific, supervised study times to enable In some cases, students and their parent/guardians
everyone to work without interruption for a certain time each will be referred to an external qualified professional for
evening. Many boarders will need to spend some extra time further assistance.
on homework as well. On the weekends, girls are expected to
keep dormitory areas reasonably quiet in order to allow girls to Tutors
study if they wish. It is important that minimal interruptions Boarders desiring additional academic assistance may have
occur during supervised prep time; regular study routines are external qualified tutors come to the School to help them with
most helpful for good results. their academic work. This can occur at any suitable time, even
Boarders have scheduled daily prep time in the afternoons. during prep. All tutors must hold a Blue Card and sign in at
Students in Years 7 to 10 complete their prep in the Library Boarding House Reception before commencing the tutoring
and classrooms in Toorak from Monday to Thursday, session. All tutoring must take place within the designated
supervised by teachers. Students in Years 11 and 12 can areas provided. No tutoring can occur during scheduled
complete their prep in either the Library, Independent Chapel services
Learning Centre or Boarding House. Girls in all year levels
have access to teachers for help with any academic issues they
may have.
Year 12 Boarding
Any students who do not present for or complete a prep
session will be tracked by the supervising teacher and reported Under the ATAR system, the Year 12 program in
to Boarding House Supervisors. Absence from prep is viewed boarding will run as follows.
with concern and may affect the student’s privileges. Repeat During the first week of the September holidays the
instances will be subject to a range of consequences including boarding house will remain open for Year 12 boarders
loss of leave privileges. who wish to partake in extra tutorials and mock
If a student demonstrates a lack of effort concerning prep, exams. While this is not compulsory, attendance is
parents will be contacted and an interview arranged between strongly advised.
the teacher/s, student, parents, and Boarding House staff. All students must leave the boarding house at the end
of the week.
Classroom behaviour Year 12 students are not required to attend school
Behaviour exhibited by students such as repeated rudeness, after their final QCAA External Assessment. Year 12
lack of effort or other misbehaviour during day lessons, is boarding students must leave the boarding house
unacceptable and of great concern to Boarding House staff. 24 hours following the final external assessment.
Should this situation arise, parents will be contacted and
The three weeks of Term 4 leading up to external
interviews arranged with teachers if the circumstances warrant
exams is normal school business of classes and
such intervention.
tutorial with compulsory attendance.12
Life in the Boarding House
Monday to Friday Routine
Junior House - Years 6 - 10 Senior House - Years 11 - 12
Time Routine Time Routine
Breakfast Breakfast
Between 6.00am and 7.00am, students may 6.00-8.10am Between 6.00am and 7.00am, students may
wear sports uniform in the Dining Room wear sports uniform in the Dining Room
6.00-8.10am
Between 7.00am and 8.10am, students Between 7.00am and 8.10am, students
may only wear school uniform in may only wear school uniform in
Dining Room Dining Room
7.00am Wake up 7.00 am Wake up
Make bed and tidy room Make bed and tidy room
Dress for school day in full school uniform Dress for school day in full school uniform
7.30am (only students with a Health and Physical 7.30am (only students with a Health and Physical
Education lesson in Period 1 may wear Education lesson in Period 1 may wear the
sports uniform) sports uniform)
7.15-7.45am Laundry open 7.15 and 7.45am Laundry open
Boarding House closed/Dining Room Boarding House closed/Dining Room
8.10am 8:10am
closed closed
8.20am School day starts 8.20am School day starts
10.25am Morning Tea served in the Dining Hall School day ends
Change out of uniform
12.45/1.05pm Lunch served in the Dining Hall 3.20pm
Shower before dinner
School day ends Start homework
Afternoon Tea served in Dining Hall
3.30- 4.30pm Walks permitted (conditions apply)
3.20pm Change out of uniform
Dinner according to dinner sitting list
Shower before dinner
Good casual clothes or full school uniform
Start homework 5.15-6.15pm
and closed in shoes
3.30- 4.30pm Walks permitted (conditions apply) Laundry openings
Dinner according to dinner sitting list 5.00-6.15pm Sports girls change and shower
Good casual clothes or full school uniform
5.15-6.15pm 6.30-8.30pm Prep (Monday-Thursday)
and closed in shoes
Laundry openings Mobiles off
(No showers permitted)
5.00-6.15pm Sports girls change and shower
Supper and preparation for bed
8.30-9.00pm
6.30-8.30pm Prep (Monday-Thursday) Showers permitted
Second prep session (Monday-Thursday)
Mobiles off and handed in 9.00-10.00pm
No mobile phones
(No showers permitted during this time)
10.00-10.30pm Preparation for bed
8.30-9.00pm Supper and preparation for bed
11.00pm All lights out
8.45pm Mobile phones handed in (Years 6, 7, 8, 9)
8.50pm Mobile phones handed in (Year 10)
Weekday Tea Leave
9.00pm All lights out If a girl goes on Weekday Tea Leave, her return time must be
at 6:30pm or 8:30pm. We do not advise returning during the
allocated Prep time.
Special conditions
On special occasions, girls may seek permission from their
Boarding House Supervisor to work until 10.30pm.
Music is permitted in the mornings from 7.30am.13
Life in the Boarding House
Weekend Routine
Time Saturday Time Sunday
Breakfast served in the Dining Hall Breakfast served in the Dining Hall
6.00-8.30am 7.30-10.00am
(no pyjamas) (no pyjamas)
9.00-11.00am Walks permitted (Years 9 to 12) 9.00-11.00am Walks permitted (Years 9 to 12)
12.00-1.00pm Lunch served in the Dining Hall 12.00-1.00pm Lunch served in the Dining Hall
2.00-4.30pm Walks permitted (Years 9 to 12) 2.00-4.30pm Walks permitted (Years 9 to 12)
Dinner smorgasbord served in the Dinner smorgasbord served in the
5.00-6.00pm 5.00-6.00pm
Dining Hall Dining Hall
7.00-8.00pm Prep
8.00-8.30pm Supper and clean up
9.00pm Lights out (whole Boarding House)14
Health
The St Margaret’s Health Centre is staffed by Registered Nurses and
is available to students, staff and visitors seven days a week during
term time.
Nurse Monday – Friday 6.30am – 9.00pm + on-call
Saturday and Sunday 4.00 – 8.00pm + on-call
School Counsellor +61 7 3862 0709 Monday – Friday by appointment
Health Centre +61 7 3862 0778
Health Centre mobile +61 438 797 737
Email healthcentre@stmargarets.qld.edu.au
The mission of the Health Centre is to:
• Provide a professional, supportive and safe environment for students, staff and
visitors at St Margaret’s to receive treatment and care.
• Promote happy, healthy and positive behaviour towards social, emotional,
physical, holistic health and wellbeing.
• Work in partnership with girls and their families nurturing an open and honest
relationship, while also maintaining confidentiality.
• Recognise the importance of continually updating and ensuring parents are
always aware of their daughters’ wellbeing.
Staff
Lisa Tomczak
Registered Nurse
Saturday and Sunday
4.00 – 8.00pm (shared)
Kellie Bamford
Registered Nurse
Saturday and Sunday
4.00 – 8.00pm (shared)
Bridget Buchanan Mary Jo Sutton
Supervisor – Registered Nurse Registered Nurse
Monday - Friday Monday - Friday
6.30am - 2.30pm 1.00 - 9.00pm
+ on-call week nights15
Health
Medication Medical Information Form
In accordance with school policy all medication including pain Every year parents will be sent a new Medical Information
relief, antibiotics, cough mixture and prescription drugs should Form for completion.
be clearly labelled and handed into nursing staff at the Health This form contains critical information required by staff to
Centre. Medication is not to be kept in the Boarding House. ensure the safety and welfare of students. It is vital that this
Reasonable exceptions to this may include asthma medication, form be completed by a parent/guardian for each student
emergency allergy medication (such as an EPI-pen, diabetic attending St Margaret’s and returned within the first two
medication), and any boarder’s medication that may be weeks of Term One to the School Support Office. Students
required overnight at the discretion of the evening nurse. whose forms have not been submitted will not be able to
Boarding Staff have access to a medicine box stocked with basic participate in school excursions/camps or be administered
analgesia and medications if required overnight. This remains medications as required.
in a Boarding House Supervisor’s locked room. Boarders The staff members at the Health Centre are happy to answer
are encouraged to seek assistance from the Boarding House questions or assist completion of any sections of this form if
Supervisor should medication be required outside Health required. Please contact School Support on +61 7 3862 0794 if
Centre hours. If deemed appropriate by Boarding Staff, the you do not receive a form.
Registered Nurse on duty will be called in to attend to a student. Students diagnosed with anaphylaxis, asthma or diabetes
These guidelines and policies are in place to ensure must also have an Action Plan completed by her General
medications are stored safely and cannot be accessible to Pratitioner/Specialist submitted to the Health Centre within
others. It also ensures that the correct student receives the the first two weeks of the school year.
appropriate medication as prescribed, and the safety of all
other students. Multi-disciplinary services
The Health Centre has a basic supply of pain relief medication Working alongside staff at the St Margaret’s Health Centre,
(for example Panadol, Nurofen). If a boarder requires any other other services available to Boarding students include:
medications, or pain relief is sought on a regular basis, this • General Practitioner
will be purchased from the pharmacy and charged to their • Physiotherapist
parent’s account. • Podiatrist
On occasion there can be cases of headlice amongst the day • Orthodontist
and boarding students. Please check your daughter’s hair
regularly and treat with a headlice treatment available at • Dietician
pharmacies. Ensure you complete the treatment as per the • Naturopath
guidelines on the bottle. If required, headlice treatment for • Dentist
boarders will be purchased and charged to parents’ accounts.
• Counselling/Psychiatry/Psychology services
Illness • Child and Youth Mental Health Service
Boarders who become unwell will be cared for in the Health These services are provided by external qualified professionals.
Centre by a Registered Nurse. Students seeking medical attention should first attend the
Staff in the Health Centre stay in regular contact with the Health Centre for discussion and assessment of their needs.
parents of any admitted students to update them on the Should Health Centre staff recommend additional services
progress of their daughter. from an external qualified professional, this will be discussed
If the nurse on duty deems a student too unwell to return with a parent/guardian, before an appointment is made via the
to the Boarding House, the evening nurse will remain in the Boarding House.
Health Centre overnight. It is expected that, wherever possible, any major work or
If it becomes apparent that a student will require an extended hospitalisation will be carried out during school holidays.
period out of School or the Boarding House, arrangements Appointments during term time should be made outside of
may need to be made for her to be collected by parents/ school hours if possible, so that interruptions to study are kept
guardians or an authorised carer in Brisbane. to a minimum.
A medical appointment may be made for a student if clinically Students with a specialist medical appointment may be
indicated. In an emergency, an ambulance will be called for accompanied by a senior boarding student upon request
transportation to a hospital. (outside of school hours), a family member or approved carer,
or a boarding staff member (for a fee of $15 for the first two
hours, and $10 for each hour following, charged to the parent/
guardian’s account).
Transportation to an appointment can be made via foot, taxi,
or school vehicle – each requiring written permission from the
student’s parent/guardian.16
Health
General Practitioner
Ascot Family Practice
Address: 153a Racecourse Road, Ascot
Ph: 3268 2318
Email: reception@ascotfamilypractice.com.au
When multiple Boarders need to be seen by a GP, Dr Sharmani Singh of Ascot Family Practice attends one day
a week to see the Boarders on campus.
Physiotherapist
A regular triage service provided by Twelve9teen is offered to students via appointments made at the Health
Centre.
Physiotherapy appointments can also be made after consultation with the Health Centre and a parent/guardian at
the Twelve9teen studio.
Twelve9teen
Address: 336 Sandgate Road, Albion
Telephone: +61 7 3256 1219
Website: www.twelve9teensportsphysiotherapy.com
For information on costs please contact Twelve9teen or access their website. Prices are subject to change and
additional costs may apply depending on taxi required, or use of stock such as tapes.
Dental Care
The School uses the services of a nearby dentist. Orthodontic treatment may require visits to the city or to
other suburbs.
Personal Counsellor
All boarders and their families may access the services of the School’s Counsellor, Sharon Stone who is a
helpful and supportive resource for students and families in times of need.
The Counsellor can offer guidance/advice to assist parents in supporting their daughter’s emotional, social
and psychological wellbeing.
Boarders may make appointments to access the Counsellor, Monday to Friday.17
Additional information
All meals are catered for in the Dining
Room, and boarders are provided with a
selection of healthy choices.
Menus are emailed to parents at the
beginning of each term. Dinner is a
formal arrangement with Year 12 students
at the head of each table, a dress code,
expected behaviour, and a roll taken to
ensure all boarders attend. At all other
meals, students are able to take their food
anywhere within school grounds..18
Additional information
Activities/Leisure Parents should ensure that boarders understand the difference
between ‘whites’ and ‘coloured’ clothes. Hanging rails are
The Boarding House has a unique culture and identity of its
situated in all dormitory bathrooms, and dryers are situated in
own, which is very valuable in boarders’ overall development.
some dormitory bathrooms. There are also washing machines
The Boarding Activities Coordinator ensures that there is a
available to boarders, however they are encouraged to have
variety of activities on the weekends and afternoons available
most of their clothing, particularly the school uniform,
for all boarders. These activities can range from beach trips,
laundered by the School Laundry.
shopping, events with other schools, ice skating, swimming,
gym and others. Requirements
Social activities are planned for relaxation, to learn about the The complete St Margaret’s school uniform list is appended to
city environment and to enhance friendships. However, parents this handbook. All boarders’ additional clothing items must be
and staff care about boarders’ safety and security, and are durable enough to be washed in the School Laundry.
concerned that students balance their social life to allow enough It is recommended that boarders bring the items listed below
time for sport, extra activities, school outings, rest and study. for use during each school term.
In order to cater for the number of attendees, bookings for After-school wear
each activity are confirmed 24 hours prior and boarders are
• Neat outfits for casual wear, dinner meals, and informal
therefore required to sign up for each weekend activity by
activities
4.00pm the Friday prior. Students whose names are on the list
at that time are required to attend the activity and will only be • Dresses, skirts, formal trousers and blouses for wearing
allowed to forgo this activity under exceptional circumstances. to the evening meal
A schedule of activities is emailed to Boarding families at the • One outfit suitable for an evening theatre visit
start of each term. • Night attire – two pairs of pyjamas or nightdresses
Shopping • Underclothes (sufficient for eight days and durable
enough to be washed in the School Laundry)
A supervised St Margaret’s bus departs St Margaret’s at
3.40pm each Friday for Toombul Shopping Centre and returns • Footwear, including formal and informal shoes (at least
by 5.30pm. two pairs must be enclosed), plus something to wear
to the bathroom. Closed-in shoes are required for the
All girls must be in full St Margaret’s school uniform. No
dining room.
student will be permitted on the shopping centre trip without
wearing her panama hat. Students are only permitted to eat or • Swimsuit for weekend use (optional)
drink in a designated food area. • A hat or suitable headwear
Clothing and laundry • A container for cosmetics and toiletries
Boarders are not required to bring their own linen, doonas Non-uniform clothes
or pillows to the Boarding House, as these are supplied and These should be selected according to taste, season, luggage
laundered onsite. However, all boarders may bring their own room and suitability for garment maintenance (for example,
doona cover and matching pillowcase, which must be taken colourfast and durable materials for washing).
home at the end of each term.
Crop tops and other clothing items of a revealing nature are
All uniform items, casual clothes, underwear, night attire, not permitted.
bedding and towels are laundered by the School Laundry.
Each boarder is allocated a laundry number, which remains her Miscellaneous items
number for the duration of her stay in the Boarding • Sleeping bag for school camps
House. It is essential that all clothing is named and numbered. • Doona cover, pillowcase(s) (optional)
Please do not use iron-on labels as they cannot withstand • Coat hangers
commercial laundering. It is recommended that boarders bring • Shoe cleaner
additional name tags so that new items purchased during the
• Battery-operated alarm clock (mobile phones cannot
term can be named.
be used)
Boarders are permitted to take washing to the laundry at any • Small quantity of washing powder/soap/pegs (for
time, and laundered items are available for collection within hand washing)
two days. There is no limitation to the amount of clothing
• Swimming towel
that students may send to the School Laundry. However, it is
advised that only clothing that is made of both colourfast and • Small sewing kit including extra name tags and
durable material be brought to the Boarding House. marking pens
• Weekend travel bag
The Boarding House provides each boarder with laundry bags
to store and protect all clothing requiring laundering. Two • Small container/tin with fitted lid for food snacks
mesh bags for underwear and socks and a bra-bag are provided • Coffee mug
for each student. Any lost bags can be replaced at a cost of $20, • Ream of A4 paper
debited to the parent/guardian’s account. • Heat pack
A lock is available for each student to purchase from the
Boarding House Reception at the beginning of the school year.
Girls need to take responsibility for items left in storage and
regularly take their items home.Additional information 19
20
Belongings
The Boarding House operates on a system of trust, but from
time to time there are problems with missing personal items.
Although belongings reported missing have usually been
misplaced or left lying about, unfortunately, theft does
sometimes occur.
To minimise this temptation, the following should be observed: suitcases (during term time and term holidays, but all
• Amounts of money greater than $30 should be handed items must be cleared at the end of the school year). No
in at the Boarding House Reception for safekeeping. responsibility is taken for items stored in the Port Room during
the vacation. The School does not store personal computers or
• As a general rule, valuable jewellery should not be
other valuable electronic equipment.
brought to the Boarding House. If it is brought for a
special occasion, it should be handed in at the Boarding Only international students and boarders flying home may
House Reception for safekeeping. store two bags in the Port Room over the Christmas period.
• Items such as airline tickets, passports and other All other areas of the Boarding House are totally cleared for
valuable documents should be kept in the Boarding airing and cleaning each holiday period. Occasionally, other
House office. groups may use the Boarding House for holiday/sporting camps.
• Girls have a lockable drawer provided for the Pocket money
safekeeping of small amounts of money and other Pocket money should be submitted to Boarding House.
valuable possessions. This should be kept locked at Students are discouraged from keeping large sums of money
all times. on their person or in their rooms.
• All belongings should be clearly and permanently
named as soon as purchased. Boarding House Flexi Schools
Supervisors have a laundry marker pen. Please link your Flexi Schools account with your daughter’s
school ID. If for any reason a boarder needs to hold a large
amount of money, she must visit the Garden Room where the
Parents may also wish to investigate an insurance policy which money can be kept for safe keeping.
covers loss of belongings anywhere in private or public places
or during the course of travel. Boarders may access their key card accounts on Friday
afternoons at Toombul Shopping Centre. Any items under $10
Storage and removal of belongings from the School Supplies Shop must be paid for in cash.
It is essential that boarders pack appropriate items to suit the Information has been provided by the school about linking
season and the school term’s planned activities. Many students your flexischools account with your daughter’s School ID. This
bring too much each term, and the end-of-term clean/pack-up will give your daughter the ability to withdraw small amounts
is often fraught with unnecessary angst. Please discuss your of pocket money up to $10 and also to pay for boarding house
daughter’s needs with her to alleviate some of this stress. activities directly with the Garden Room.
Suitcases must be clearly named on the outside. There is
some storage under each student’s bed for overnight bags and
other items, and the Port Room is available for storage of larger21
Pastoral Care
The emotional health and wellbeing of students, staff and
families is a priority at St Margaret’s. Through a holistic
approach to personal development, the School aims to develop
the spiritual, social and emotional competencies of individuals
in addition to enhancing the relationships of students.
Chapel Homesickness
A variety of worship expressions and liturgical traditions are Homesickness is perfectly normal for all boarders, who live in a
offered throughout the school year to enable students and their new environment, perhaps having to share a room with others
families the opportunity to experience Church in its many for the first time, getting used to new routines, and being
forms, and to explore their relationship and understanding of supervised during almost everything they do in the Boarding
God. Baptism, Admission to Communion, and Confirmation House.
are available to all members of the Both students and families experience a degree of emotional
School community. upset during this time, which results when students feel the
A list of Services scheduled for each term is available at the loss of security, comfort and emotional support that home life
beginning of that term from Boarding House Reception. represents, and families strongly feel the absence of their child.
The School Chaplain welcomes questions and enquiries: In the early stages of settling in to Boarding House life, we
The Reverend Susan Crothers-Robertson strongly encourage boarders to focus on involving themselves
SCrothers-Robertson@stmargarets.qld.edu.au in getting to know their peers, signing up for school sport
+61 7 3862 0716 and cultural pursuits, and becoming a part of all Boarding
activities. Boarders are often comforted by discussing their
No tutoring or Afternoon Tea Leave is to be taken during
feelings with staff, both Boarding and support staff such as the
scheduled Chapel services. Application to be on leave during a
Personal Counsellor and the nurse, as well as their peers and
Chapel service must be made directly to the Head of Boarding.
older boarders.
To assist students with the adjustment, parents are asked to
Big Sister Program/Buddy Program limit contact, as daily contact can actually make the transition
The Big Sister Program in Boarding at St Margaret’s is a very more difficult. Naturally, students need to be reassured of
powerful way to enhance the lives of all new boarders at family love and support, however excessive contact with home
St Margaret’s. The characteristics of a Big Sister is that they can be counterproductive.
would be honest, dependable, caring and empathetic. Girls Boarding families are encouraged to:
in Year 11 Boarding become the Big Sisters for new girls in • Understand that homesickness is a passing phase of
boarding and they are required to fulfil their commitment adjusting to boarding school life
to their buddy for two years. The role of the Big Sister is to • Limit contact to that which will be the normal pattern of
encourage their buddies in a positive way, establish positive communication during the School term
self-worth, self-efficacy and identity with their buddies and
to help their buddies establish positive bonds with others, the • Encourage the student’s participation in the life of the
boarding house, peers, family and community. School and Boarding activities
The Eight Principles of being and effective “Big Sister” • Understand that the settling-in process may be an
underpin this program: emotional rollercoaster, as often parents will receive
distressing phone calls when the student is feeling at her
1. Be a friend – you are a role model and can provide support lowest
and gentle guidance.
• Discuss with Boarding House staff the student’s feelings
2. Have realistic goals and expectations and activities, as well as the care and support she is
3. Have fun together receiving through this time
4. Be positive • Remember that homesickness is quite common after the
5. Let your little sister have most of the control over what the first few weekends out on Leave and at the beginning
two of you talk about. of each school term; continue contact with Boarding
6. Listen House staff and discuss the student’s involvement in
both day school and the Boarding House
7. Respect the trust your little sister places in you.
• Contact the Head of Boarding at any time regarding
8. Remember that you are responsible for building any concerns
the relationship.You can also read
