Glen Forrest Campus Parent Handbook 2021 - Helena College
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Glen Forrest Campus
Parent Handbook
2021
Page 1
Welcome From the Principal
As Principal, I am proud to welcome you to Helena College, a learning community that strives to educate
and inspire students to be the best they can be.
We hope that you and your children will enjoy and make the most of your time with the College. I would
encourage all students to take an active role in their own learning, both across the curriculum and
through the many extra-curricular opportunities that will be available to them. Together these
experiences will develop the cognitive, social and emotional skills that students need to flourish and be
active members of our community.
The sense of community is important to us here at the College and the feeling of being part of something
permeates through the classrooms, playgrounds, performance areas and sports fields. The students
across both campuses are happy, polite, confident and welcoming, which is a testament to a great
school. Of course, parents are an integral part of the College community and we welcome parent
involvement in their child’s learning journey.
Schools are a network of relationships. It is the strength and nature of these relationships that creates
the school culture. Relationships between students, relationships between staff, relationships between
students and staff – all must be built on a foundation of mutual respect. Respect, tolerance and
empathy for others are the cornerstones of the value system of Helena College.
As an organisation we welcome your thoughts and views. Constructive parent feedback assists in
improving the education for children. Together we can all work to bring out the best for each child, a
belief that is at the core of the Helena College experience.
Peter Coombs
College Principal
Page 2
CONTENTS
Welcome From the Principal 2
Contents 3
Vision Mission Values 5
International Baccalaureate Mission Statement 6
International Baccalaureate Framework 7
College Council 8
Glen Forrest Campus Key Staff 2021 9
Executive Team 9
Heads of Department 9
Term Dates 2021 10
Start of term | end of term 10
Public Holidays 10
Contact Procedures 11
College Contact Details 11
Feedback and Complaints Procedure 12
Curriculum 13
Middle School - Years 6-9 13
Upper School - Years 10-12 13
Student Code of Conduct 14
Personal Boundaries 15
General Information (A-Z) 16
Administration Office 16
Accounts 16
Absences 16
Ambulances 17
Animals on Campus 17
Assemblies 17
Awards Night 17
Behaviour Management 18
Bicycles 18
Books and Stationery 18
Boundaries During School Hours 19
Bus Services 19
Bushfire Response 19
Calendar 20
Camps 20
Canteen 20
Casual Dress Days 20
Child Safe Framework 21
Child Safe Programme 21
Class Times 22
Communications 22
Community Code of Conduct 23
Contact Details for Parents 23
Diary 23
Page 3
General Information (A-Z) continued
Drop-off / Pick-Up Zones 23
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 24
Extra-Curricular Activities 24
Facebook 24
Family Holidays In Term Time 24
Hats 24
Health 25
Homeroom Representatives 25
Homework 25
Homework Club 25
House System 25
(Communicable) Infectious Diseases 26
Instrumental Development Programme (IDP) 26
Insurance of Property 26
Library 26
Lockers 26
Lost Property 26
Media Consent 27
Medication 27
Mobile Phones and Personal Devices 28
Newsletter 28
Parent Information Events 28
Parent/Teacher Interviews 28
Pastoral Care 29
Peer Support Programme 29
Photography / Video at College Events 29
Physical Education 29
Policies 29
Privacy 29
Protective Behaviours 29
Reflections 30
Reports 30
School Pyschologist 30
SEQTA 30
Sport 31
Sporting Facilities 31
Student Accident Insurance 31
Student Council 32
Student Illness 32
Student Information Form 32
Student Leadership 32
Student Outlines 33
Uniform 33
Uniform Shop Open Hours 33
Visitors 34
Volunteers 34
Parents’ & Friends’ Association 35
Appendix A – Sustainable School Shop 36
Appendix B - Code Of Conduct For Volunteers 37
Page 4
Vision Mission Values
Vision
To be a school where students are inspired to be the best they can
be; where they are encouraged to develop confidence, ability and
passion to achieve their goals; and to have the skills and
commitment to leave a positive footprint on the world.
Mission
• To educate and inspire students to be the best they can be
by providing a balanced focus on whole child development.
• To be a school where students, teachers and parents
actively engage as partners in the educational process.
• To be a school with high expectations of learning and
achievement by offering creative, engaging and challenging
educational experiences in a nurturing environment.
Values
• Integrity and responsibility
• Inclusivity and participation
• Caring and compassion
• Respect for self, others and our surroundings
Page 5International Baccalaureate Mission Statement
The International Baccalaureate® aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people
who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
To this end the organisation works with schools, governments and international organisations to develop
challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment.
These programmes encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong
learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.
Page 6International Baccalaureate Framework
The IB MYP is a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections
between their studies and the real world.
The MYP is a five-year programme offered at Helena College from Years 6-10. The MYP curriculum
framework comprises eight subject groups, providing a broad and balanced education for young
adolescents.
The eight subject groups are:
language acquisition
language and literature
individuals and societies
sciences
mathematics
arts
physical and health education
design (technology)
MYP students also complete a personal project in Years 9-10, where they decide what they want to learn
about, identify what they already know, discover what they will need to know to complete the project,
and create a proposal or criteria for completing it.
The MYP aims to help students develop their personal understanding, their emerging sense of self and
responsibility in their community.
The text above is taken from the IB website IBO.org.
Page 7College Council
Helena College Council is responsible for strategic oversight and governance of the school at the
Darlington Campus (K-5) and Glen Forrest Campus (6-12). Members are appointed for their professional
skills, areas of expertise and enthusiasm for independent education.
Members of the College Council voluntarily give their time and expertise to oversee the management of
the College and ensure the school achieves its mission to educate and inspire students to be the best
they can be by providing development of the whole child, having high expectations of learning and
achievement, and offering creative, engaging and challenging educational experiences.
The Council’s role is to provide good governance and set the strategic directions for Helena College
through each Strategic Plan. The Principal is appointed by and accountable to the Council to manage
the operations of the College and deliver the Teaching and Learning programme. The Principal and staff
implement the Strategic Plan within the directions and policies established by Council. Progress on the
implementation of the strategic plan and management of strategic risks and whole of school finances is
monitored by the Council through regular reports from the Principal and sub-committees.
Click here to read the 2021-2023 Strategic Plan or view it on the College website, under the Families tab.
The Principal and the Business Manager (as Secretary to Council) attend all Council and sub-committee
meetings.
Families may make submissions to Council, addressed to:
Helena College Council
Secretary of Council
PO Box 52
Glen Forrest WA 6071
or email council@helena.wa.edu.au
Page 8Glen Forrest Campus Key Staff 2021
Executive Team
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Principal Mr Peter Coombs MEd, BA Ed (Secondary)
Deputy Principal - Operations Mr Justin Pitt BPHEd, GDipEd
Deputy Principal - Curriculum Mr Bob Simpson BA, DipEd, AGSM, Cert AOS
Business Manager Mr Michael Papali BCom, GDipBus
Director of Middle School Ms Cathy Light BEd (Hons)
Director of Upper School Mr Craig Hillman BA Ed, GDipBus, GDipEd (Leadership)
Director of Student Services Ms Susan Boyett BPsych, DipEd
HEADS OF DEPARTMENT
Heads of Department
Arts Mr Christian Hansen BEd, GDipEd
Careers and Vocational Education Mrs Corrie Hellema BA, GDipEd
English Ms Rebecca Ewing MEd, BA, GDipEd
Humanities Mr Ashley Hosken BA, GDipEd
Languages Mrs Danielle Horne BA, GDipEd, DipModLang
Mathematics Mr Tim Hayward BComp&MathSc, DipEd
Physical & Health Education Mr Joe Kendall BSc, BEd
Science Mr Geoff Quinton BSc (Hons), PostGrad CertEd
MEd (Leadership), GDipEd, BTh,
Technology Mr Matt Zarb
DipMin
Marketing & Community
Mrs Sherene Strahan BA, BEd, AssocDipBroadcasting
Relations Manager
Registrar (K-Year 12) Ms Anne Kinsella
ICT Manager and Timetabler Mr Justin Hall BSc, CCNA, CNA, MACS, ACHDS
ICT Operations Manager Mr Chris Jeffrey
College calendars
The College uses a web-based calendar, which parents can sync to their devices or access via the SEQTA
Engage welcome page or the website.
Further information on how to sync the College calendar is available on the College website under Families,
Helena Calendars.
Page 9Term Dates 2021
Start of term | end of term
START OF TERM END OF TERM
Term One Monday, 1 February Thursday, 1 April
Monday, 19 April
(Years 11-12 First day back)
Term Two Friday, 2 July
Tuesday, 20 April
(Years 6-10 First day back)
Term Three Tuesday, 20 July Friday, 24 September
Thursday, 9 December
Students conclude at 12.15pm
Term Four Monday, 11 October
Awards Night commences at 7.30pm with
a pre-awards programme from 6.30pm
2021 Public Holidays
2021 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
Australia Day Monday, 26 January
Labour Day Monday, 1 March
Good Friday Friday, 2 April
Easter Monday Monday, 5 April
Anzac Day holiday Monday, 26 April
WA Day Monday, 7 June
Queen’s Birthday Monday, 27 September
Page 10Contact Procedures
Absence from school SEQTA Engage homage, click the link Absentee Notification .
OR
Telephone: 9298 9100
SMS: 0447 100 167
Email: absentees@helena.wa.edu.au
Before 9.00am
Administration staff will contact parents of absent students by phone or SMS
by mid-morning (if the school has not been notified by a parent or guardian).
Late for school (After 8.40am) Sign in at Administration on arrival and obtain late note.
After 8.55am (homeroom finish) sign in at Administration for late
note and parent to provide advice to support student absence.
Pastoral care Director of Student Services (College Psychologist)
Deputy Principal - Operations
Director of Middle School
Director of Upper School
Homeroom teacher
Uniform Shop Telephone: 6114 4888
Email: midland.retail@permapleat.com.au
Contacting staff
Parents are welcome to contact teachers. Email addresses are available via the College website,
or are available via SEQTA Engage. Parents may also use direct messaging (DM) via SEQTA.
Alternatively, a message may be left at reception requesting a return telephone call or an appointment.
Parents are requested not to request that messages be passed on to students through reception, except
in an emergency.
College Contact Details
Glen Forrest Campus Bilgoman Rd GLEN FORREST WA 6071
Postal address PO Box 52 GLEN FORREST WA 6071
Telephone 9298 9100
Email glenforrest@helena.wa.edu.au
College Principal Mr Peter Coombs - pcoombs@helena.wa.edu.au
Darlington Campus Ryecroft Road DARLINGTON WA 6070
Postal Address PO Box 66 DARLINGTON WA 6070
Telephone 9299 6626
Email darlington@helena.wa.edu.au
Head of Junior School Mr Greg Miller - gmiller@helena.wa.edu.auFeedback and Complaints Procedure
The College is committed to responding positively to complaints from external parties (community
members), such as Parents/Guardians, students and/or volunteers regardless of whether they are current
or former members of the Helena community.
The partnership between community members of the College should be a strong and reliable feature of
any school. All College community members must be confident that their needs are valued and that their
concerns will receive a fair hearing.
It is the intention of the College to work with community members to achieve outcomes that are in their
best interests and in the best interests of the students in our care. Each enquiry, concern and complaint
made will be dealt with promptly, fairly and contribute to continuous improvement.
In the case of concerns or possible complaints please view the External Disputes and Complaints
Resolution Policy (available on the College website or SEQTA Engage, search Policies) to determine the
most appropriate manner to communicate your concern. The aim is to provide a clear set of guidelines
and reliable expectations. Anonymous complaints will not be addressed.
It is the College's policy that complaints made must not rebound adversely on students, and,
accordingly, complaints will be treated confidentially and information disseminated only when necessary.
The process is accessible to all aggrieved parties from outside of the College including former parents/
guardians, former students or past community members.
For parties that are employed by the College, the Internal Complaints/ Grievance Resolution
Procedures (Staff) should be utilised. For current students, the Child Friendly Complaints Policy should
be followed.
For further information on College policies please contact the Risk and Compliance Officer.
Page 12Curriculum
Middle School - Years 6-9
The Years 6-9 curriculum is drawn from the Western Australian curriculum and delivered using the
framework of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. The programme is made up
of core subjects and rotation subjects.
Years 6-9 Core Subjects (all students, all year)
• Digital Technology • Physical Education and Health
• Humanities • Mathematics
• Language Acquisition (Indonesian or French) • Science
• Language and Literature
Year 6-7 Rotation Subjects (all students, one semester each subject)
• Drama • Media and Film
• Food Technology • Music
• Innovation • Visual Arts
Year 8 Rotation Subjects
• Design Engineering • Media and Film
• Drama • Music
• Food Technology • Visual Arts
Year 9 Electives Subjects
Students choose three semester-long electives (which must include one Arts and one Technology
elective) and must do Outdoor Experiences for one semester. Electives choices may vary from year to
year. For more information about the Year 9 electives, visit the MS Curriculum page on the College
website.
Upper School - Years 10-12
Year 10
Year 10 is an important transition year for our students, providing opportunities for them to apply
recognised academic and personal strengths in a challenging environment that focuses them toward
their course selection for Years 11-12.
All Year 10 students undertake community service and the College’s Vocational Education
programme which helps students understand career pathways so that they make appropriate
choices for their future.
Year 10 Core Subjects
• Humanities • Physical and Health Education
• Mathematics • Language Acquisition
• Science (Indonesian or French)
• Language and Literature
Year 10 Electives Subjects
Students choose three semester-long electives (which must include one Arts and one Technology
elective). Electives choices may vary from year to year. For more information about the Year 10
electives, visit the Year 10 Curriculum page on the College website.
Years 11-12 courses
For studies beyond Year 10, Helena College will have a distinct orientation to qualification for tertiary
entrance in either the university or TAFE system with apprenticeships and traineeships.
Years 11-12 students choose six courses. Each course chosen is studied for five periods per week.
Five periods per week are also allocated for directed private study.
Most senior students will have opportunities within school for directed private study each day.
Accordingly, Years 11-12 students are required to undertake studies responsibly and independently.
The Years 11-12 Course Book will be available on the College website and SEQTA Engage
Documents Page
from13Term Two.Student Code of Conduct
At Helena College we recognise that effective learning can only occur in a secure environment where the
rights and responsibilities of others are known and respected and where standards and rules are fairly
and consistently applied.
Values
Students are expected to uphold the values of Helena College. Our values are:
" Integrity and responsibility
" Inclusivity and participation
" Caring and compassion
" Respect for self, others and our surroundings
These values are to be upheld in the way you conduct yourself not only in the College, but also the
community.
Rights and Responsibilities of Students
Students are expected to observe and uphold this statement of rights and responsibilities:
You have the right to You have the responsibility to
" Reach your full learning potential in a safe " Enable others to learn in a safe and
and supportive environment. supportive environment.
" Follow College policies, procedures and
" Be safe.
the reasonable directions of staff at all times.
" Be treated with respect, courtesy and " Treat others with respect, courtesy and
kindness. kindness.
" Actively participate by engaging in all the
" Be an active part of and contribute
College programmes and contribute positively to
positively to the community.
the community.
" Accept and consider the consequences of
" Be treated fairly and justly.
your actions.
" Have your human rights, privacy and other " Respect the human rights, privacy and
legal rights respected. legal rights of others.
" Have your personal boundaries respected.
Page 14Personal Boundaries
Personal boundaries are parameters that describe the limits of a relationship in circumstances where one
person (a student) interacts with other people including fellow students and staff. A healthy relationship,
whether student to student or student to teacher, consists of two individuals each with a clearly defined
sense of his or her own identity. Setting clear boundaries or limits is essential to a mutually respectful
relationship. Boundaries.
" Establish each person's role within a relationship.
" Protect a student’s emotional wellbeing.
" Help students to feel able to challenge problematic behaviour when necessary.
" Vary between students based on factors such as their personality,
gender, and culture.
Students are expected to be conscious of their personal boundaries and that of others, such as those
between themselves, staff and other students. The following is a list of examples of conduct that may
affect student boundaries:
" Physical contact
" Verbal and electronic communications
" Gifts, loans, borrowing
" Giving praise
" Language
" Information-sharing
" Attire.
Personal boundaries become a concern when they are, or are threatened to be, breached by the
conduct of others. A student’s personal boundaries may be breached by
inappropriate conduct committed by another student or a staff member.
For example:
" Swearing
" The use of sexual innuendo, inappropriate language and/or material
" Unwarranted and inappropriate touching
" Provocative dressing.
Students who are concerned about a breach of their personal boundaries, or suspect that the personal
boundaries of other students are being threatened, should tell a member of staff or a Child Protection
Officer.
Upholding the Values, Rights and Responsibilities
If a student is aware that another person is not upholding the College values, rights and/or
responsibilities they are encouraged to report this to someone they feel comfortable with such as a staff
member or trusted adult or by using the External Disputes and Complaints Resolution Policy and
Guidelines.
Breach of the Code
Any student breaches of this code will be dealt with according to our Student Discipline Policy.
If a breach is deemed to be of a serious criminal nature, Helena College may seek legal advice, report
the matter to the police and/or other external agencies as required. In some instances, teacher and other
staff may have responsibilities under the Children and Community Services Act 2004 (WA) to follow
mandatory reporting obligations where they have reasonable grounds to suspect a child is at risk of
sexual harm and have current concerns about the wellbeing of the child.General Information A-Z
Administration Office
Administration hours 8.15am-4.15pm in term time.
Administration will be closed for some part of each school holidays. Dates will be advised in the
newsletter and updated on the calendar.
Teachers are on duty from 8.20am-3.35pm each day. The library is open until 4.15pm Monday to
Thursday and 4.00pm Friday.
Parents are advised that if your student arrives at school between 7.45am and 8.00am, they must be
signed in at administration by a parent/guardian. Obviously, there are exceptions to this rule if your
child has commitments such as swimming, ensemble or sport before school.
In the afternoon if your child is not picked up by 3.45pm, he/she must go to administration and wait to
be collected by a parent/guardian. The only exception is where students are attending extra-curricular
school-based activities or using the library. At the conclusion of these activities, or when the library
closes, all students must be collected promptly from the school grounds.
No student should be arriving at school before 8.00am on a regular basis as there are no organised
tutorials, rehearsals or classes prior to this time.
It is important to reiterate that any student who arrives between 7.45am and 8.00am must be signed
in. If students walk or ride to school, they should not arrive before 8.00am.
We understand that some parents may find it difficult to adhere to these guidelines but as a duty of care
to all students, teachers and staff at the College it is important that students are not at the College
outside these hours.
If you have any queries, please email Lorelle Bannister, lbannister@helena.wa.edu.au who will forward all
correspondence to the Principal.
Accounts
The finance office is responsible for the management of all fees accounts. Any matters relating to tuition
fees or the management of school payments should be directed to the finance department. EFTPOS,
credit card and direct debit facilities are available.
Absences
Helena College has online student absentee advice. This can be used instead of phoning, emailing or
writing to the college to inform us of your child's absence from school. Unlike an email or phone call
this form will be accepted as a confirmed absence and it will not have to be followed up with a
signed note. Absences for both campuses, for multiple days and students can be completed on the one
form quickly and easily.
There is a link to the form on the homepage of SEQTA Engage, marked Absentee Notification or you can
download the SEQTA Engage app onto your mobile device. If you are unsure of your login details please
contact seqta@helena.wa.edu.au. It is important that you keep your username and password secure to
prevent unauthorised access.
Page 16Alternatively, telephone, SMS 0447 100 167 or email absentees@helena.wa.edu.au before 9am on the
morning of a student absence. This should then be followed up with the online Student Absentee advice,
via SEQTA Engage (as above) or a signed and dated hard copy note explaining the student’s absence on
the student’s return to school. Students who are absent for more than three days will need to provide
a doctor's certificate with the note. Administration staff will contact parents of absent students via SMS
by mid-morning (if the school has not been notified by this time).
Late arrival - Students arriving at school after the beginning of morning homeroom are required
to report to administration and sign in. Arrival after homeroom has finished (8.55am) will be considered
as absent and Student Absentee advice from a parent/guardian will be required.
Early departure - Students who need to be withdrawn during school time must have a signed
and dated explanatory note from a parent or guardian and are required to record their names and sign
out prior to departure. For your child’s safety please collect and sign them out from administration, not
from the front of the College.
Ambulances
In a first aid or medical emergency an ambulance will be called if it is deemed necessary. It is not always
possible to contact parents before the ambulance is called but the student's health is the first priority.
Animals on Campus
As a duty of care matter regarding the health and safety of all school community members, animals are
not permitted on school grounds unless arrangements have been made with the classroom teacher (for
example a news item). This includes the walking of dogs through the campus at drop off and pick up
times. Please note, this does not apply to guide dogs for the visually impaired.
Assemblies
Assemblies provide a wonderful opportunity for parents to observe students in a different context. The
Directors of Middle and Upper School develop an assembly timetable with homerooms attending
assembly on alternate Fridays, with an extended homeroom session the following week. There are
several combined school assemblies during the year for Darlington and Glen Forrest Campus students
and staff to recognise Anzac Day and other important events.
The dates for these combined assemblies will be published on the College calendars. Parents are most
welcome to join us for assemblies which are usually held in the Gym.
Please remember, assembly pictures and/or recordings are not to be uploaded to public forums (such as
personal Facebook pages, YouTube or Twitter) as the footage will more than likely contain students other
than your own.
Awards Night
The annual Awards Night is the final College function for the school year. The evening provides an
opportunity for many of the students to present performances for families and also to review the major
developments of the school year. Students who have excelled in academic and sporting achievement
and/or effort are also recognised.
Page 17Behaviour Management
Helena College seeks to work in partnership with parents to develop socially responsible young people
who take responsibility for their actions.
Student wellbeing and the prevention of inappropriate behaviours will be enhanced through a focus on
early intervention and prevention.
The College believes that student behaviour is best managed through a restorative approach where
wrong doers are encouraged to reflect on their behaviour and learn from their mistakes. Where
discussions about misbehaviour focus on challenging the behaviour rather than labelling the student.
Corporal and other degrading punishments are prohibited at Helena College. Degrading
punishments means any punishment which is incompatible with respect for human dignity, including
corporal punishment and non-physical punishment which belittles, humiliates, denigrates, scapegoats,
threatens, scares or ridicules a child.
There are a range of consequences that students will face if they breach College rules, or are
disobedient. These include:
" Warnings or reprimands (verbal and written)
" Time outs
" Community service
" Cancellation of privileges
" Withdrawal from College activities
" In school withdrawal
" In school suspensions
" Suspension
" Expulsion.
Parents will be contacted when there are serious or ongoing concerns about a student.
Bicycles
Students who ride bikes to school must wear a helmet. Please provide a lock for any bike parked in
school bike racks. Students should walk their bikes whilst on school grounds. Bikes parked on campus
are at each rider’s own risk.
Books and Stationery
Booklists will be distributed toYear 11 and Year 12 students in Term Three. whilst students in Years 6-10
will receive their booklists in Term Four. Future Year 7 students are issued booklists in their orientation
package. Year 6 students will receive all their stationery and book requirements from their teachers as
the need arises. These include diaries, headphones for their laptops, writing implements, scientific
calculator, exercise books, document wallets etc.
Spare copies of booklists are available at the College (please enquire at reception) or can be
downloaded from SEQTA Engage Documents, search Booklists.
See Sustainable School Shop for information on buying and selling secondhand uniforms and
textbooks. The P&F has funded an annual subscription for this service for parents.
Page 18Boundaries During School Hours
Students are expected to stay within the bounds of the vehicle access roads and oval during school
hours unless under the direction of a teacher. Students are not to leave the College grounds during
school hours without permission from the Deputy Principal - Operations or appropriate Director, usually
in response to parent authorisation.
Bus Service
The College provides dedicated bus services to six main regions: Bassendean/Midland, Bickley/
Lesmurdie, Darlington/Helena Valley, Gidgegannup/Toodyay, Mt Helena/Chidlow, and York.
All buses arrive at the Glen Forrest Campus (GFC) in the morning and depart from the GFC in the
afternoon. There is a free bus service, morning and afternoon, between the two campuses for Junior
School students who use the buses.
Bus services are subsidised by the College and cost $5 or $10 per one-way trip, depending on the route.
Discounts are offered for purchases of 50 or more tokens (except for the York and Gidgegannup/
Toodyay routes).
Families must complete a Bus Use Form (available from administration and SEQTA Engage) before the
first journey. Please notify administration when there are changes to a student’s bus use, such as taking
a new route or no longer using the bus service.
Bushfire Response
The Glen Forrest Campus has a well-developed policy and procedure for responding to a bushfire or
bushfire threat. Parents need to be aware of the following aspects of that policy.
If a Catastrophic Fire Weather Warning (CFWW) is declared, with sufficient warning, parents will be
informed that the school will be closed until the warning is downgraded. Parents will be contacted
(through one or more of the following forms of communication – SMS, telephone, post on College
Facebook page, website or via email) to inform them of when the school will be closed. Parents should
not return their children to the school until a notification is received to say that it is safe to do so. It is
extremely important to ensure that the school has up to date contact details for parents.
If the Catastrophic Fire Weather Warning is declared with insufficient time for us to pre- emptively close
the school the College will employ the policy and procedures for responding to a bushfire threat. In this
instance, the school will remain open and parents will not be contacted. We ask that parents do not
attempt to telephone the school (with regard to the CFWW) as this may hinder our ability to
communicate with the appropriate emergency services.
In the serious event that a fire is approaching the Glen Forrest Campus the gymnasium is our safer
building. Please do not attempt to come to the school to collect your student unless asked to do so
by the school. In the event of such an emergency, the school will contact radio station ABC 720 and ask
that parents tune in for regular updates.
Students will be safer in the gymnasium than on the roads and the less traffic there is to get in the way of
emergency services the safer your student will be. Evacuating/exiting from the gymnasium would occur
only under the direction/direct instruction from the appropriate emergency services and this information
will be communicated to parents as soon as is practicable.
Please be assured that the safety of our students is our first priority.
Page 19Calendar
The College uses a Google calendar, which parents can sync to their devices or access through SEQTA
or the website. Further information on how to sync the College calendar is available on the College
website under Families, Helena Calendars.
Details of important school events are communicated to parents in newsletters; and the What’s On email
every Friday. Term dates are listed at the front of this handbook.
Camps
Camps are an essential and integral part of the Helena College curriculum.
All students are expected to attend the year camp/s unless a medical condition prohibits their
participation in the activities. Parents are required to submit the HC Absence From Camp/Excursion
form which is available on SEQTA Engage. Please attach a medical certificate to support a request for
absence from a College camp for medical reasons.
The specialist camps (eg Languages, Politics and Law, Music, ski trip etc) are optional.
Canteen
The College canteen is run by a manager and an assistant with the help of volunteers. The canteen
menu is varied throughout the year according to season.
Casual dress days
Casual dress days are a way of fundraising for worthy causes. Students can wear adequate casual
clothing that will protect them whilst in school.
Please note:
" Normal jewellery and hair restrictions apply.
" Closed shoes must be worn – no thongs, open sandals or high wedge/stiletto shoes.
" Students must have their midriffs, stomachs and lower backs covered
(whilst standing and sitting).
" Skirts and shorts should be no shorter than mid-thigh length.
" No inappropriate, provocative or revealing clothing should be worn.
" Sport uniform must be worn for physical education classes.
Note: Even on casual dress days, all students are expected to wear a hat in Terms One and Four for
physical education lessons, sporting activities, excursions and during recess and lunchtime activities in
the sun. See Uniform Policy and Sun Smart Policy.
Any student who fails to comply with the casual dress day standards will be sent to administration
where they will wait until adequate replacement clothes or shoes can be brought from home.
Page 20Child Safe Framework
Helena College has adopted the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations. The National
Principles collectively show that a child safe organisation is one that creates a culture, adopts strategies
and takes action to promote child wellbeing and prevent harm to children and young people.
A child safe organisation consciously and systematically:
" Creates an environment where children’s safety and wellbeing is the centre
of thought, values and actions.
" Places emphasis on genuine engagement with and valuing of children
" Creates conditions that reduce the likelihood of harm to children and young people
" Creates conditions that increase the likelihood of identifying any harm
" Responds to any concerns, disclosures, allegations or suspicions of harm.
Child Safe Programme
Statement of Commitment to Child Safety
Setting the tone for the College’s entire Child Safe Programme is our Statement of Commitment to Child
Safety. This Statement is designed to be Helena College’s public statement of commitment to the
protection of children from abuse and grooming and a demonstration of the College’s leaders’
commitment to champion child safety in all College environments.
Statement of Commitment (extract)
Helena College is committed to providing education and care to children and young people to assist
them to develop into high-achieving, supported students, positively connected to each other and to the
communities in which they live and which they will serve.
Page 21The College is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare and wellbeing of all children and young people
at the College and is dedicated to protecting them from abuse and grooming by implementing robust
policies and procedures to deter abuse and grooming and facilitate detection and reporting at the
College.
The College’s Statement of Commitment to Child Safety has been designed to reflect the NATIONAL
PRINCIPLES FOR CHILD SAFE ORGANISATIONS and focus on what is best for children.
At Helena College, we have a zero tolerance for child abuse and grooming. The College regards its child
protection responsibilities with the utmost importance and as such is committed to providing the
necessary resources to ensure compliance with all relevant child protection laws and regulations and to
maintain safe and supportive College physical and online environments for all children and young
people.
If you have any child protection concerns please contact our Glen Forrest Campus Child Protection
Officers:
Ms Susan Boyett Mr Justin Pitt
College Psychologist Deputy Principal - Operations
sboyett@helena.wa.edu.au jpitt@helena.wa.edu.au
Class Times
Each day starts at 8.40am with Homeroom and then moves through 7 periods, concluding at 3.15pm.
Please have your child here by 8.30am in order for them to prepare themselves and get to class in a
timely manner.
Each student is issued with an individual timetable detailing the week’s schedule and displaying class
subject, Teacher, room and period. A copy can be provided upon request.
Communications
We endeavour to provide excellent communication to parents by email, newsletters, website, College
Facebook page and SEQTA Engage. If you have a query about communication please contact
Community Relations team.
Page 22Community Code of Conduct
Helena College has a body of enthusiastic community members who are involved with many aspects of
school life. Through partnerships with our community members we have developed a very high standard
of education and civic responsibility in our students with both being highly valued in our community.
It is an expectation that all members of the Helena College community, including parents, carers and
guardians will demonstrate and model our Vision Mission and Values at all time within the school, setting
an example with their own actions, behaviour and speech. Further details are outlined in the Community
Code of Conduct available on SEQTA and our website.
Contact Details for Parents
Parents need to keep family contact details up to date at all times. Please advise administration if your
address, phone number, mobile number, emergency contacts, or custody arrangements change, so they
can be promptly updated on the College database.
Diary
Students are encouraged to maintain an electronic diary on their laptops. SEQTA Learn is able to be used
for a record of homework and assignments etc. Students may use a hard copy diary if preferred.
Drop-off/Pick-up Zones
Please use the dedicated lane within the school grounds on Bilgoman Road for drop-off and pick-up. Do
NOT use the area outside administration for this purpose. This entry is only for people who are intending
to park, even if just briefly.
" Turn left into the College off Bilgoman Road at the oval end.
" There is NO RIGHT TURN into the College from this entry.
" There is NO RIGHT TURN out of the drop-off/ pick-up lane.
Drivers in the school grounds are reminded that the maximum speed is10km/hour.
Parking areas
There is some parking at the oval end of the College but the main parking areas are at the administration
end of the College.
" Turn into the College at the roundabout, at the intersection of Bilgoman and Marnie Roads.
" Turn right at the flag poles for Year 6 families parking bays.
" Turn left at the flag poles for all other visitor parking.
There is NO STOPPING ON BILGOMAN ROAD for dropping off or picking up students. Please do not
use the bus lane on Bilgoman Road for dropping off or picking up.
Parents are reminded that classes finish at 3.15pm. Please note that students need 5-10 minutes to
access lockers before being ready for collection. Please arrange for pick up after 3.25pm. Make a
specific time with your student eg 3.25pm or 3.30pm. Early arrival may result in unnecessary blocking
which can result in delays for everyone.
Thank you to all parents for your support with making the process as safe as possible for our students.
Teachers on after school duty have been asked to request parents to please move on, if they are in
vehicles that are parked and holding up traffic flow. Your cooperation would be appreciated.
Page 23Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
All Year 9 students have the opportunity to enrol in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and undertake
community service, recreation and skill development activities. They will also participate in expeditions
during Years 9-10 towards achieving the Bronze award level. Students in Years 11-12 are encouraged
to progress to the Silver award level.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, completed by students before the end of Year 12, counts as an
endorsed unit that will be included in the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) issued at
the end of Year 12.
Extra-curricular activities
Extra-curricular clubs and courses are run when there is a demand and an instructor or facilitator is
available. Fees may need to be charged to cover the cost of the leader, materials and rent for the use of
College facilities. See College website for details of the extra-curricular activities.
Facebook
The College Facebook page is one way to stay up to date with events, news, announcements, student
achievements and photos. The College is always mindful of privacy and media consent requirements
when posting on social media.
The College Facebook page is HelenaCollegePerth
If you have any queries, please email the Marketing and Community Relations Manager.
helena@helena.wa.edu.au
Family Holidays in Term Time
Under the Education Act students are required to be at school during term time. To ensure continuous
teaching and learning, family holidays during term time are strongly discouraged and parents are
requested to arrange family holidays in school holiday breaks.
The College is not obliged to provide learning programmes, nor catch-up work when a student is
absent, except in the case of illness. Apart from emergencies, written notification requesting leave
during term time for students should be addressed to the Principal at least three-four weeks prior to the
leave.
Please use the form included in the College Attendance Policy ie Student Absence from School for
Family Holiday Reasons. The policy and form are available for download from the College website
(search policies) and SEQTA Engage (search policies).
We appreciate your support in helping us maintain the continuity of your child’s education.
Hats
All students are expected to wear College hats in Terms One and Four for physical education lessons,
sporting activities, excursions and during recess and lunchtime activities in the sun.
Page 24Health
Prescription medication must be submitted to administration and will be dispensed as per the
medication authorisation form. Parents need to update changes to student health information promptly
to ensure records are correct.
Students are not permitted to possess or consume alcoholic drinks, cigarettes or prohibited drugs at
College, or at any associated activities of the College such as camps, socials and sports functions.
An infringement of this rule will place a student’s enrolment in jeopardy.
Helena College is a smoke free zone. Smoking is prohibited on the College grounds.
Homeroom Representatives
The Homeroom Representative takes an active role in leading Homeroom activities. The Homeroom
Representative is a positive role model for others to follow. Each Homeroom will have an elected
Homeroom Representative. Students can nominate themselves and there can be a secret ballot for the
position. The term for Homeroom Representative can be for either a semester or for the year. Elections
are held in week two of Term One.
Homework
In Year 6 homework will be given at an age appropriate level, working to establish a regular homework
pattern by the end of the year. By Year 7 a pattern of weekly homework is established. In Years 7-10 it
is expected that students will learn to work without supervision for one and a half to two hours each
weekday evening. By Year 11, two and a half hours each weekday evening should provide a guide for an
average student undertaking a Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) programme. Study
time, including review and revision, is important as well as set homework.
Homework Club
The Homework Club provides an opportunity for students to access assistance after school in a
supportive environment. Teachers and mentors are available and students are encouraged to work
together and support each other in their learning. Days and times are updated early each year and are
advertised on our website.
It is not compulsory for students to attend every week, but once students sign up for the day, they will
be expected to stay for the hour, unless a signed note from parents or guardians is presented. The
teachers keep records of each session, identifying who has attended and the nature of the work, along
with any relevant comments.
The Homework Club teachers will liaise with relevant teachers of students regarding any concerns that
are identified in the Homework Club.
House System
House spirit is strong at the Glen Forrest Campus. Students are placed in either Cardan (red; racehorse
goanna), Kiara (yellow; sulphur crested cockatoo) or Waughul (green; rainbow serpent). The Houses are
named after local fauna, with the names derived from the Aboriginal Noongar language.
Students from Year 7 upwards are allocated to a homeroom that is aligned with their House. This
alignment to Houses will roll up until all homerooms are in House groups. This is to promote House spirit
and to further strengthen the students’ overall sense of identity and community.
Page 25The House t-shirt is a compulsory uniform item that should be worn for a variety of inter-house
activities that are held during the year such as swimming, athletics and cross-country carnivals. The
House t-shirt may also be worn during physical education lessons.
House Captains
The Year 12 students are elected to leadership positions to act as mentors to younger students in their
House. These student leaders will play a key role during House events and carnivals (at both Glen
Forrest and Darlington Campus) to promote House spirit, inclusivity and participation. Elected House
Captains are supported by Head of Department Health & Physical Education to develop their leadership
skills.
(Communicable) Infectious Diseases
In the case of all confirmed infectious diseases students must be excluded from school. Your health
professional will give you guidance on what actions to take. Please advise administration of all instances
of infectious diseases affecting your child.
Students may only return to school when they are no longer infectious.
Instrumental Development Programme (IDP)
If you have any queries regarding the music instrumental development programme, timetables or wish to
change a tutorial time please email Ruth Gallagher, Instrumental Development Programme Coordinator
rgallagher@helena.wa.edu.au
Insurance of Property
Parents are reminded that the school's property insurance only covers capital items purchased by the
school. Privately owned property brought to school by parents or children is not covered.
Library
The library is open for both students and parents 8.30am-4.15pm Monday to Thursday and 4.00pm on
Friday. It is closed on Fridays at recess. Parents are most welcome to borrow library resources. Please
see the library staff for assistance to register as a borrower.
Lockers
Lockers are provided for all students in Years 7-12. Students in Year 6 have a pigeonhole in their
classroom to store their books and laptop, plus a hanging rack outside for backpacks. Students in Years
7-12 are provided with a combination lock on enrolment to secure their laptop and bag in their locker.
Students are responsible for providing replacement locks, which can be purchased from administration.
For security purposes, locker combinations should not be given to other students.
Lost property
Enquiries regarding lost property should be directed to administration. Named items are returned to
their owner. It is important that all items brought to the College are named, including shoes and socks.
Property not claimed by the end of the year is either recycled or donated to charity.
Page 26Media Consent
During any school year, photographs, audio, digital or video images may be taken of your child. These
may be used in College publications and promotions, including newsletters, classroom displays, the
yearbook (Reflections), website, Facebook page and any new technologies, and for our College archives
collection.
The permissions given by parents in the media consent form will remain in place until the student leaves
Helena College or until we are advised, in writing, of any changes you wish to make. To change your
media consent please send a letter or email to the College Registrar (and a copy to the Community
Relations Department) giving specific details of the changes you wish to make.
Parents should be aware that it is not possible to exempt the image of any student from Reflections
as it includes photos from a variety of sources, including professional photos of homeroom groups,
music ensembles, sports teams and groups. The College newsletter is password protected for
members of our community only.
Medication
Some students will have a need to access medication during school hours on a regular basis for medical
conditions (for further information, please see below).
● Minor analgesics
Analgesics (eg paracetamol) can have undesirable side effects. They are not administered to
students without the parent/guardian’s instruction indicated on the student information form.
Occasions may arise where consent may need to be obtained by a phone call to parents or family
emergency contacts.
● Prescribed medication
All prescribed medication may be handed in to administration for safe keeping and must be
accompanied by a completed student medication request / record form, advising specific
details of the dosage required and the time to be administered by first aid staff.
● Emergency action plans
An emergency action plan must be developed for students with medical conditions, after
consultation with the Student Services team and parents/guardians. Parents are required to notify
the school of students with special medical conditions, including the health information pertaining
to the management of anaphylaxis and asthma. Please note, parents must notify the College of
special requirements for students who have severe asthma.
All school activities, including excursions and camps, make provision for an emergency action
plan. Emergency action plans will be revised and updated annually, or more often if necessary as
directed by parents, with written instructions.
Please note: with regard to anaphylaxis management, Helena College is NOT a nut free school.
Parents are also required to supply the College with a current action plan (no more than 12
months old), signed by their doctor, with an up-to-date Epipen and/or other medication
prescribed for their student. Parents are also responsible for replacing expired and used
Epipens/medication.
Page 27Mobile Phones and Personal Devices
Students are required to keep mobile phones switched off and secured in their lockers between
8.40am-3.15pm.
The responsibility for the security of mobile telephones, personal music devices and other valuables
brought to school is solely with the student. Ensure that the student has and uses a combination lock
on his/her locker. Please view the Mobile Phones (Acceptable Use of) Policy on SEQTA Engage.
Newsletter
The College newsletter, The Helenian, is published three times each term (Thursday of weeks two, six
and final week of term) for the Helena College community. See calendar for newsletter publication dates.
The newsletters are password protected and the password is changed each year. The password is
included in the What’s On email to parents whenever a newsletter is published. Archived newsletters are
available on the newsletter website.
Community contributions to the newsletter
Newsletters are compiled by the Community Relations department and include contributions from the
College Principal, Head of Junior School, as well as other staff, students and parents.
Parents are invited to let us know about student achievements by emailing details and photos to
newsletter@helena.wa.edu.au. We may also post student achievements on our College Facebook page.
There is also a community notices section for parents, clubs and organisations to advertise events and
notices for the hills community.
The deadline for all contributions is 4pm Friday of the week preceding each newsletter.
If you have any questions about the newsletter please contact the Community Relations Department
Parent Information Events
Dates, times and venues are advised well in advance by email and the College Calendar.
Events:
Year 12 - Parent information evening
Year 6 - Meet the teachers afternoon
Music - Information evening
SEQTA and IB MYP information evening for new parents
Year 11 - Making sense of results evening
Information Evenings on Cyber Safety and Bullying, Protective Behaviours etc
Parent/Teacher Interviews
Parents are welcome to make an appointment at any time if they are concerned about any aspect of
their child’s education. However, the College arranges a time each year for parents to meet and discuss
their child’s progress. Details of the day, time and locations will be provided directly to parents and
carers well in advance.
Page 28Pastoral Care
Pastoral care and behaviour management are linked and all staff are responsible for effective care of a
student. The first point of contact for pastoral care issues regarding a student’s general welfare and
progress is the homeroom teacher, followed by the Director of Middle or Upper School and/or Deputy
Principal - Operations as appropriate. Specialist guidance and support is also available from the College
Psychologist. The Principal exercises overall responsibility for the welfare and progress of the College
community and will also become involved in a pastoral matter if a student’s continued enrolment at the
College is in question.
Peer Support Programme
Year 9 students are invited to apply to be trained as peer support leaders at a two-day camp held in
Term Four. Selected students facilitate the peer support activities with the incoming Years 6 students the
following year. The purpose of peer support is to support the transition of the new students into the Glen
Forrest Campus.
Photography/Video at College Events
The College understands that parents and guardians attending events may want to take photographs or
video of their child. Please respect that other families may not want their child's image taken so
please refrain from taking photographs of other students. The Australian Privacy Principles, which
underpin the College's Privacy Policy, require that an image cannot be published, or posted online,
without the individual's explicit permission. Please see Privacy Policy on the College website or SEQTA
Engage, Documents, Policies.
We ask that our families support our efforts to safeguard all students by complying with this legal
requirement and refrain from posting images of other students on personal social media sites.
Physical Education
If a student is to be excused from a sports session for any reason a signed and dated note must be
supplied by a parent beforehand. Sports uniform (either the blue College OR House polo shirt may be
worn) must be worn to all Physical Education classes unless specifically instructed otherwise. Hats
must be worn during Terms One and Four for all physical education and outdoor education
classes. Non-marking sports shoes should be worn.
Policies
College policies applicable for parents are placed on the College website and are also available on
SEQTA Engage. Any queries on College policies should be directed to the Principal.
Privacy
In the course of Helena College’s activities, we manage and protect personal information in accordance
with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act) and the 13 Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). For further
information, please see the College website and our Privacy Policy.
Protective Behaviours
Helena College is committed to ensuring that it is a child safe organisation’ All staff are trained with
respect to identifying child abuse and grooming behaviours and are aware of their moral and legal
responsibilities to report child abuse. Great care is taken in the recruitment and supervision of all staff
and volunteers and the Staff Code of Conduct comprehensively covers the College’s expectations for
every employee in relation to Protective Behaviours.
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