Boarders’Parents’Manual ))) AMAZING)) - wilderness.com.au links/2014... ·...

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Boarders’ Parents’ Manual AMAZING be courageous

Transcript of Boarders’Parents’Manual ))) AMAZING)) - wilderness.com.au links/2014... ·...

     

                               

Boarders’  Parents’  Manual      AMAZING    

be courageous

BOARDERS’  PARENTS’  MANUAL  INDEX                         Page    Term  dates   2  Exeat  dates   2  Boarding  House  Contact  Numbers   2  Boarding  House  Postal  Address   2    Welcome  /  Introduction   3-­‐4    Boarding  House  staff   5  Boarding  House  organisation   5  Role  of  staff   6-­‐7    Telephone  Times   8  Direct  Lines  to  Boarding  House  rooms   8    General  Behaviour   9  Expectation  of  Students   9  Mobile  Phones   9    Homework/Prep   10  Bikes   10    Church   11  Computers   11  Meal  Times   11    Dress  and  Clothing   12  Electrical  Appliances   12  Forms   12  Laundry   12    Bus  Multi  Trips/Phone  Cards  and  Mail   13  Newspapers   13  Pocket  Money   13  DVDs   13  Visitors   13  Damage  to  Boarding  Facilities   13  Medication/Health  Care   13    Travel  in  Private  Vehicles   14  Leave  Policy   14-­‐16    Exeats/End  of  Term   16-­‐18  School  Day  Program   18    Saturday  /  Sunday  Program   19    Security   20  Cab  Charge   20  Homesickness   20    Room  Allocation   21  Parents’  Committee   21    Year  Level  Representatives   22  What  to  Bring   22    Insurance   23    Wilderness  School  Medical  Policy   24-­‐25    Boarders  Medical  Consent  Forms   26-­‐28

TERM  DATES  2014  

 New  Boarders  are  due  in  on  Monday  27  January  

                       Current    Boarders  return  on  Tuesday  28  January    

 TERM  1    Wednesday  29  January  –  Friday    11  April      

Boarders   return   to   the   Boarding   House   the  Monday   (new)   or   Sunday     (existing)  prior   to   school   starting.     The  Boarding  House  will   open  at   10.00am.     If   you  need  access   earlier   in   the   day   please   contact   the   Boarding   House   Office   or   Rosie  Broderick  0411246514.  

 TERM  2   TUESDAY  29  APRIL  –    FRIDAY  27  JUNE     Boarders  return  to  the  Boarding  House  the  Monday  before  school  commences.    TERM  3   WEDNESDAY  23  JULY    –    FRIDAY  26  SEPTEMBER  

  Boarders  will  return  on  Tuesday  22  July  as  school  classes  resume  on  Wednesday        TERM  4   MONDAY  DAY  13  OCTOBER    –    WEDNESDAY  11  DECEMBER                                                          Boarders  will  return  on  Sunday  12  October.      EXEAT  DATES    TERM  1   8-­‐10  March    (10  March  Adelaide  Cup)     29-­‐30  March      

 TERM  2   18-­‐19  May     7-­‐9June    (Queen’s  Birthday)  

 TERM  3   9-­‐10      August     7-­‐  8      September  

 TERM  4   1-­‐2  November           22-­‐23  November    

 BOARDING  HOUSE  OFFICE  CONTACT  NUMBERS    Boarding  House  Reception  telephone   8344  7670  Boarding  House  Reception  facsimile   8344  8003  Head  of  Boarding  -­‐  Rosie  Broderick   8343  1071  All  hours  -­‐  Rosie  Broderick   0411  246  514  Annex                                                                                                                                                      83422198  POSTAL  ADDRESS  

 

   c/-­‐  Wilderness  School  Boarding  House  PO  BOX    93    Walkerville      SA        5081  

 

 

WELCOME    Sending  your  daughter/s  to  Boarding  School   isn't  an  easy  decision;   it  requires  adjustment  for  you  and  your  daughter/s.    Boarding  will  be  a  challenging  experience  for  your  daughter  as  she  leaves  the  familiarity  of  home  and  moves   to   a  more   communal   style   of   living.     It  will   not   always   be   easy   but   the   gains   to   be  made   are  enormous.      Boarding  provides   a   unique  opportunity   for   your  daughter   to   achieve  her  potential.     She  will   be  part   of   a  close   community,  which  will   help   her   to   develop   independence,   self-­‐confidence   and   tolerance   for   others.    While  the  academic  life  of  the  School  is  a  key  focus  for  your  daughter,  the  boarding  philosophy  at  ‘Wildy’  also  strives  to  foster   independence  while  responding  to  the   individual  needs,  gifts  and  talents  of  each  girl.    Her  time  in  the  Boarding  House  will  provide  her  with  choices  about  how  she  spends  her  time  and  what  activities  she   pursues   so   that   she   can   determine   her   own   experiences   at   school   and   grow   as   a   person,   not   just  academically.     This   process  of   growth   in   independence,  meeting  new  people   and  pursuing  her   interests   is  often  fun  and  very  rewarding.    The   primary   concern   of   the   staff   is   to   provide   your   daughter(s)   with   a   safe   and   happy   environment   that  represents,  as  closely  as  possible,  a  home  environment.    At  the  same  time,  living  with  a  large  group  of  girls  is  not   the   same  as   living  with   siblings.    Boarding   is  a  unique  and  unforgettable  experience  –  overwhelmingly  positive  but  not  without  its  challenges.    When  your  daughter  first  arrives  at  Wilderness  as  a  boarding  student  she  will  be  entering  a  new  phase  of  her  life  and  initially  she  will  be  operating  outside  her  comfort  zone.    She  will  need  to  deal  with  a  new  school,  a  new  ‘shared’  home  environment,  new  carers  and  she  will  inevitably  experience  concerns  about  establishing  friendships.     It   is  only  natural   that   she  will   feel  uncomfortable  but   this   feeling  will   pass.     It   takes  different  lengths  of  time  for  different  girls.    Even  returning  boarders  need  to  go  through  a  readjustment  phase  each  time  they  return  from  a  long  break.    Life  in  the  Boarding  House  complements  the  broad  principles  of  Wilderness  School.    At  Wilderness  we  aim  to  provide   the   best   education   possible   for   each   girl   so   she   reaches   her   potential   and   is   prepared   for   the  multitude   of   challenges   and   opportunities   which   life   will   present.     Boarding   House   life   encourages   high  standards  and  provides  a  positive  environment  for  academic  studies.    There  are  also  varied  opportunities  to  participate  in  sport  and  many  other  co-­‐curricular  activities.    The   Boarding   House   staff   and   current   boarders   look   forward   to   welcoming   the   new   boarders   and   their  families   into   our   community.     We   are   confident   you   will   find   your   association   with   Wilderness   and   the  Boarding  House  a  rewarding  and  enjoyable  experience.      INTRODUCTION    The  Boarding  House  at  Wilderness  offers  care  and  accommodation  for  up  to  85  girls.    The  communal  nature  of  boarding  life  necessitates  the  establishment  of  certain  rules  and  procedures  to  ensure  the  provision  of  the  best  care  possible  for  the  girls  in  our  charge  and  the  smooth  operation  of  the  household.    Curfews  and  rules  will  be  part  of  life  at  any  boarding  house.    Any   community   needs   to   establish   common   rules   and   expectations   to   achieve   its   collective   aim.     In   the  Wilderness   boarding   community   we   attempt   to   keep   the   rules   to   a   minimum.     However,   we   are   very  conscious   of   our   duty   to   care   for   the   girls   and   have   given   careful   consideration   to   the   regulations   and  procedures  that  operate  in  the  Boarding  House.    Because  of  the  legal  duty  of  care  responsibilities  boarders  will   face   some   restrictions   to   their   leave   and   it   is   expected   that   the   girls   respect   these   and   that   parents  support  the  School’s  decision.    There  are  times  when  a  boarder  will  need  to  accept  the  word  ‘no’.        

All   rules   are   in   place   for   a   reason   and   these   are   reviewed   regularly   to   ensure   the   safety,   well-­‐being   and  happiness  of  each  girl  in  our  care.      Whilst  it  is  necessary  to  have  common  guidelines  we  make  every  attempt  to   be   flexible   to   accommodate   the   individuality   of   each   girl.     We   aim   to   be   fair,   firm   and   consistent   in  addressing  inappropriate  behaviour.    Sometimes  adolescents  learn  most  when  they  make  a  mistake  and  are  given  a  chance  to  learn  from  that.    So  “second”   and   even   “third”   chances   are   not   uncommon.     Just   as   at   home,   some   actions   will   require   a  disciplinary  response,  and  parents  will  be   informed   immediately  of  serious  breaches  of  guidelines  and  may  be  involved  in  the  process  of  deciding  an  appropriate  consequence.        It   is   our   experience   that,   once   the   girls   are   used   to   the   way   in   which   the   Boarding   House   functions,  adherence  to  the  guidelines  is  not  generally  a  problem.    

The  overarching  aim  of  the  Boarding  House  is  to  provide  a  secure  and  caring  environment  in  which  the  girls  will  grow  and  develop  academically,  socially,  physically  and  morally.  

This  is  based  on  three  important  interrelated  principles:    • Co-­‐operation  • Responsible  leadership  and  positive  interactions  with  others  • Respect  and  acceptance  of  others’  differences    Like   any   home,   a   sense   of   co-­‐operation   comes   from   shared   aims,   a   concern   for   others   and   a   sense   of  solidarity.    This  co-­‐operation  extends  to  areas  such  as  assisting  in  running  socials,  taking  part  in  House  events  (Athletics  etc),  duties,  helping  another  boarder  with  home  work  and  ensuring  rooms  are  clean  and  tidy.    As  a  member  of  the  boarding  community,  each  student  is  expected  to  adhere  to  high  standards  of  behaviour  that  reflect  responsibility  to  and  care  for  others,  oneself  and  the  environment.      A  major  aim  of  Wilderness  Boarding   is  to  produce  self-­‐respecting,  successful,   independent  and  responsible  young  people  who  are  equipped  to  enter  the  next  stage  of  their  lives.    To  achieve  this  aim  there  will  be  an  emphasis   on   the   boarders   gradually   accepting   responsibility   as   they   progress   in   the   Boarding   House   and  assume  informal  and  formal  leadership  positions.    In  the  boarding  community  there  will  be  a  wide  variety  of  people  of  varying  backgrounds,  personalities  and  values.    To  ensure  a  harmonious,  happy  and  successful  community  each  boarder  will  need  to  be  tolerant  of  others.     Girls   are   encouraged   to   treat   everybody   with   respect.     Unacceptable   behaviour   such   as   teasing,  bullying  or  any  form  of  discrimination  will  not  be  tolerated.    Respect  should  be  shown  to  all  property.    Any  damage  resulting  from  deliberate  or  thoughtless  actions  may  incur  a  damage  fee.    Clear  consequences  for  students  who  do  not  adhere  to  the  code  of  behaviour  are  outlined  in  detail  in  the  School’s  Behaviour  Management  Policy.    The   healthy   development   of   your   daughter   will   proceed   most   successfully   when   we   work   as   a   true  partnership  in  her  best  interests.    This  requires  close  communication  and  frequent  contact.    It  is  important  that  you  contact  the  Head  of  Boarding,  Rosie  Broderick,  at  any  time  if  you  have  concerns  of  any  nature  in  relation  to  the  happiness  of  your  daughter.    Mrs  Broderick  can  be  contacted  on  83431071  or  0410  246  514  or  8271  1864  (home)  or  on  the  School  contact  numbers.        

 HEAD  OF  BOARDING   Rosie  Broderick     [email protected]     (08)  8271  1864  (Home)     O411  246  514  (Mobile)     (08)  8343  1071  (Boarding  House  Office)      SENIOR  STAFF     Mary  Evans  

Sandy  Nolan               Sue  O’Kelly               Jillian  Ergec                                                      TUTOR/SUPERVISORS         Annabel  Heyward      Jess  Powell  

Natalie  Webb  Tara  Rowhani-­‐Farid    

            LucyMacLeod    HEALTH  CENTRE  Registered  Nurse   Jill  Ahmed    

   BOARDING  HOUSE                                                                                                      Olivia  Stoeckel  CATERING  STAFF   Kira  Bayliss         Jessica  Olds     Karen  &  Bobby  Nilsson     Kulwinder  Kaur          BOARDING  HOUSE  ORGANISATION    The  Boarding  House  is  composed  of  three  sections,  all  linked  by  connecting  corridors.    Mary  Home  House  is  disposed   as   the   office,   visitors’   lounge,   kitchen,   dining   area,   music   practice   rooms   and   co-­‐educational  recreational  room  linked  to  an  outside-­‐decked  area.    Rankine  House  consists  of  shared  bedrooms  in  the  original  building  with  extensions  currently   incorporating  communal  lounges  and  single  room  accommodation.  The  catacombs  apartment  provides  accommodation  for  2  students.      In  addition,  female  staff  members  are  on  passive  “sleepover”  duty  every  night.    Number  23  House  has  a  combination  of  double  and  single  bedrooms.    The  annexe  house   is  directly  opposite   the  school  gates  on  Hawkers  Road  and  houses  8   students   in   shared  bedrooms.    They  have  a  house  guardian  in  attendance.        

ROLE  OF  STAFF      Head  of  Boarding      The  Head  of  Boarding  has  overall  responsibility  for  the  co-­‐ordination  of  all  Boarding  House  matters  and  the  leadership  of  all  staff.    This  includes:    § the  care  and  guidance  of  boarders  including  discipline.  The  overarching  aim  is  to  create  a  nurturing  and  

not  a  punitive  environment  for  all  boarding  students.  § the  establishment  of  appropriate  policies  and  practices.  § liaising  with  boarders’  parents  to  ensure  the  best  care  for  each  boarder  in  relation  to  her  medical,  social,  

emotional  and  physical  well-­‐being.    The  Head  of  Boarding  in  conjunction  with  all  boarding  staff  and  students  strives  to  develop  a  house  spirit  and  character   that   is   friendly,   supportive  and  recognises   the  worth  of  each  student  as  an   individual,   creating  a  sense  of  belonging  in  all  members  of  the  House.    Deputy  Head  of  Boarding  and  Senior  Supervisors    The  Senior  Supervisor  is  responsible  for:    § day  to  day  management  of  the  girls  and  the  daily  supervision  of  the  girls  and  the  respective  staff.  § the  welfare  of  the  students,  on  a  day-­‐to-­‐day  basis.  § in  the  absence  of  the  Head  of  Boarding  she  communicates  directly  with  parents  regarding  domestic  and  

exeat  arrangements  and  any  matters  relating  to  the  boarding  aspect  of  the  girls’  school  lives.    Tutor  Supervisors    The  Tutor  Supervisors  :    § undertake  duty  shifts  in  their  particular  boarding  area.    § attend  and  supervise  other  boarding  functions.    § are  responsible  for  the  general  care,  guidance  and  discipline  of  all  the  boarders  and  the  general  running  

of  their  boarding  area  while  on  duty.    § ensure  security  checks  occur  regularly.  § provide  academic  support  to  the  girls.    § develop  in  conjunction  with  the  other  boarding  staff  and  students,  a  house  spirit  and  character  which  is  

friendly,   supportive   and   recognises   the  worth   of   each   student   as   an   individual   and   creates   a   sense   of  belonging  in  all  members  of  the  House.    

 Chefs    § The   Chefs   prepare   some   healthy   meals   but   also   take   an   interest   in   the   girls’   general   well   being   and  

communicate  any  concerns  they  have  to  the  Head  of  Boarding  or  Senior  Supervisor.        

Health  Centre  Registered  Nurse    A  Health  Centre  Officer  is  on  duty  every  weekday.    It   is   important   that  your  daughter’s  health  details  and  permission  to  medicate  are  up  to  date.        Please   refer   to   our   medical   guidelines   for   details   of   our   Medical   Policy   (pages   24-­‐25)   and   complete   the  medical   forms   as   well   as   the   permission   to   administer   medications   before   your   daughter   arrives   at   the  Boarding  House.        A  senior  residential  staff  member  is  on  duty  each  night.    All  senior  staff  and  tutors  hold  a  Senior  Certificate  in  First  Aid.    Parents  can  contact  the  nurse  on  8344  6688  during  School  hours.    Boarders  are  to  place  all  medication  in  the  Reception  area  unless  arranged  otherwise.    The  Registered  Nurse  attends  to  the  medical  needs  of  the  girls  and  provides  home  nursing  first  aid  during  the  day.      The  Registered  Nurse  will  be  available  at  8.30am  each  school  morning  to  assess  boarders  who  are  unwell  or  need  to  have  an  appointment  made  for  them.    She  will  make  appointments  and  travel  arrangements  for  girls  and  where  necessary  arrange  to  have   the  student  accompanied  by  an  adult   to  her  appointment.    A   locum  service  is  accessed  after  hours  and  there  is  a  staff  member  on  duty  after  hours  if  girls  require  medical  help  during  the  night.    It  is  recommended  that  you  ensure  you  have  ambulance  cover.    If  your  daughter  is  unable  to  attend  School  due  to  illness  or  injury,  and  the  recovery  period  is  relatively  short,  she  will  stay  in  the  Health  Centre  under  the  care  of  the  School  nurse  or  with  permission  remain  in  her  room  in  the  Boarding  House.    If  the  recovery  period  is  likely  to  be  for  an  extended  time  or  the  illness  is  highly  contagious,  parents  may  be  contacted  to  arrange  for  their  daughter  to  return  home  or  to  another  appropriate  location  to  recuperate.    In  such  circumstances  the  Head  of  Boarding,  nurse  or  Senior  Supervisor  will  contact  parents.        

GENERAL  INFORMATION  and  ROUTINES  

   

Telephone  Times      If  you  need  to  telephone  your  daughter  the  most  convenient  times  are:    Weekdays:     Monday  –  Friday     3.30pm  –  6.00pm                 8.30pm  –  10.00pm  

       

Urgent  calls  will  be  received  at  any  time  through  the  Boarding  House  Office  ~  (08)  8344  7670  

or  Head  of  Boarding  ~  (08)  8434  1071  /  0411  246  514  /  (08)  8271  1864  (home)  

 Dinner  is  at  5.50  –  6.30pm  so  the  Office  will  not  always  be  attended  to  take    

phone  calls  at  this  time.    

Mobile  phones  are  not  permitted  in  the  dining  room  at  meal  times  so  please  refrain  from  calling  your  daughter  between  5.50  and  6.30  pm  

   Weekends:     Anytime  except  during  meal  times,  which  are:         Lunch     12  noon  to  12.30pm         Dinner     6.00pm  –  6.30pm          

     DIRECT  LINES  TO  VARIOUS  BOARDING  HOUSE  ROOMS  

 The  following  phone  numbers  are  to  be  used  to  contact  girls  who  are  residents  of:    Upper  North  Wing     8344  5573      Upper  South  Wing     8344  1292      Rankine  and  Lower  North  Wing  (by  stairs)   8344  1241      Rankine  and  Lower  South  Wing  (Common  Room)   8344  5600      Number  23   8343  1049      Kitchen   8344  1220      

GENERAL  BEHAVIOUR    Students   are   encouraged   to   become   responsible   members   of   the   Boarding   community,   showing  consideration  for  others  and  doing  all  in  their  power  to  help  the  house  run  harmoniously.    

Rules   are   kept   to   a   minimum   and   these   are   based   on   the   expectation   of   responsible   behaviour   by   all  members  of  the  House.  

Students  are  expected  to  treat  each  other  and  staff  as  they  would  like  to  be  treated.    Normal  good  manners  are  expected:  ‘please’  and  ‘thank  you’  are  expected.  

Bad   language   is   not   acceptable   and   a   constructive   attitude   towards   the   rules   and   routines   is   expected.    Truthfulness  and  honesty  are  highly  respected  qualities.  

 Expectations  of  students    Students   are   asked   to   use   appropriate   language.     Swearing   lowers   the   tone  of   the  Boarding  House   and   is  offensive  to  many  people.      

The  Wilderness  School  Drug  Policy  opposes  the  inappropriate  use  of  legal  substances  and  the  possession  and  use  of  prohibited  substances.    This  policy  applies  to  Boarders  while  in  residence  and  on  leave.  

Smoking  and  the  consumption  of  alcohol  or  other  drugs  are  not  permitted.    No  student  may  be  in  possession  of  tobacco,  alcohol  or  other  drugs  while  associated  with  the  School.    These  are  considered  serious  breaches  of  our  trust.  

 MOBILE  PHONES            Wilderness  has  adopted  a  mobile  phone  policy  and  as  part  of  that  policy  mobile  phones  are  permitted  in  the  Boarding  House  and  are  considered   to  enhance   the   safety  of   the  girls.   The  girls  will  be  given   staff   contact  numbers  to  place  in  their  phones.      However,   while   we   recognise   mobile   phones   can   improve   the   communication   between   you   and   your  daughter,   they   could  also  paradoxically   increase  and   intensify   the   feeling  of  homesickness,  particularly   for  younger  girls.    Conditions  of  Use    § Boarders  bring  mobile  phones  to  the  Boarding  House  at  their  own  risk.    The  School  accepts  no  liability  in  

the  event  of  loss  or  damage  to  the  mobile  phone.    Parents  should  organise  their  own  insurance  policy.    § Girls  must  give  their  mobile  number  to  the  Head  of  Boarding.    § Mobile  phones  must  at  all  times  be  used  discreetly  and  should  not  impose  on  other  boarders.    § Parents   are   requested   to   advise   their   daughters   to   consider   others  when   using   the   phone.    Mobile  

phones  must  be  switched  off  during  all  communal  activities:  e.g.  meals,  study  periods  and  after  lights  out.      

 § Mobile  phones  should  not  be  used  by  other  students      Inappropriate  use  of  a  mobile  phone  will  result   in  the  withdrawal  of  permission  to  use  the  mobile  phone  for  a  defined  period  of  time.  

 Repeated  breaches  will  result  in  the  student  not  having  permission  to  have  a  mobile  phone.        

HOMEWORK/PREP    

Year  10  to  12  girls  do  their  homework  in  their  rooms  from  6.30  to  8.30pm  Monday  to  Thursday.    If  they  want  to  work  in  another  area  of  the  house  they  must  seek  permission.  

A  staff  member  supervises  the  House  during  prep  and  a  quiet  working  environment  is  expected.    Help  may  be  sought  from  the  tutoring  staff  on  duty.    At  times  it  may  be  necessary  for  girls  to  work  together  during  prep  time.    This  may  be  negotiated  with  the  staff.  

Junior  Boarders  (Years  7  to  9)  do  one  hour  of  supervised  homework  and  a  half  hour  of  supervised  viewing  of  a  news  or  current  affair  program.    Girls  who  have  a  heavy  homework  load  will  need  to  attend  both  or  work  beyond  the  supervised  time  to  complete  their  assignments.    Girls  in  single  rooms  may  work  later.    

Access  to  the  music  practise  rooms  is  rostered  throughout  the  afternoon  and  evening.  

During  study  time  there  should  be  no  recreational  TV,  social  telephone  calls  or  visitors.    

 Junior  Each  Year  8  and  9  girl  must  attend  both  the  TV  viewing  of  current  affairs  and  1  hour  of  prep.    

 7.00pm  to  7.30pm    

news  viewing  7.30pm  to  8.30pm  

 Senior  Years  10  and  11  Year  12  determine  when  they  finish  on  an  individual  basis    

 6.30-­‐  8.30pm    

(or  later  if  needed)    

 It  is  expected  that  the  House  is  quiet  after  9.30pm  each  evening  including  weekends  so  girls  may  study  or  go  to  bed  early.    Gatherings  on  the  weekends  should  be  in  communal  areas,  not  in  bedrooms.    This  is  to  ensure  a  reasonable  balance  between  opportunities  for  relaxation  and  the  need  to  establish  quiet  places  for  people  to  study  and  rest.      BIKES    At  Wilderness  we  try  to  make  boarding  as  similar  to  a  home  environment  as  possible  and  consequently  bikes  are  permitted.    However,  busy  arterial  roads  surround  Wilderness  and  in  order  to  ensure  the  safety  of  all  girls  the  following  conditions  apply.    Parents   should  arrange   their  own   insurance,   as   the   school  does  not   carry   insurance  on   students’  personal  property.    Conditions  of  Use    § Girls  must  wear  a  helmet  and  obey  all  road  rules.  § Within  the  School  they  may  only  ride  within  permitted  areas.  § Outside  the  School  they  should,  whenever  possible,  only  use  minor  roads  and  bike  paths.  § Bikes  should  only  be  used  at  night  with  permission  from  staff.    Such  permission  would  be  given  only  in  

very  special  circumstances.  § Bikes  should  not  be  used  by  other  students  WITHOUT  PERMISSION.    A  breach  of  any  of  the  above  conditions  will  result   in  the  withdrawal  of  permission  to  use  the  bike  for  at  least  one  week.    Repeated  breaches  will  result  in  the  bike  being  sent  home  permanently.      

CHURCH    Wilderness  fosters  spirituality  and  is  a  Christian  School  independent  of  particular  denominational  affiliation.    Students   who   wish   to   practice   their   faith   on   a   regular   basis   are   encouraged   to   do   so   and   the   staff   will  facilitate   this.     Please  discuss   your  wishes   in   regard   to   this  matter  with   the  Head  of  Boarding.   This  will   be  arranged  by   the  Boarding  House.    Wilderness  also  accommodates   the  cultural   and   religious  beliefs  of  girls  practising  any  other  faith.        COMPUTERS        The  Boarding  House   has  wireless   internet   connection   so   girls   are   able   to   access   the   internet   and   intranet  from  all  areas  of  the  House.      The  Digital  Technologies  Policy  applies  to  boarders  at  all  times.  Social  networking  sites  and  internet  are  shut  down  at  various  times  to  encourage  a  healthy  routine  for  study  and  sleep.          MEAL  TIMES  

 Unless  engaged   in  School  or   sporting  commitments  or  on   leave,  all  Boarders  are  expected   to  come   to   the  dining   room   for   the   evening  meal.     Boarders  must   arrive   at   dinner   promptly   so   announcements   can   be  made  before  the  meal  is  served.    The  Boarding  House  provides  a  nutritious  and  varied  menu,  and  all  efforts  are  made  to  accommodate  specific  dietary  requirements  (vegetarian  food  is  provided).    

Breakfast:       A  range  of  cereals,  toast  and  fruit  are  available.    Recess:   A  snack  is  provided  by  the  kitchen.    In  addition,  fruit  is  always  available  for  students.    Lunch:   Prepared   by   students   from   a   selection   of   ingredients.     Hot   meals   are   provided  

during  the  winter  Terms.    Afternoon  Tea:     Fruit   is   always   available   for   an   after-­‐school   snack   and   cakes,   biscuits,   cheese  

platters  etc.  are  provided  by  the  kitchen  staff.    Dinner:   Dinner   consists   of   a  main   course   and  dessert,   or   soup   and  main   course   (students  

have  some  opportunity  to  suggest  menu  items).    Supper:   A  light  snack  is  provided.  

     

DRESS  AND  CLOTHING    For  Leave    Smart  casual  dress  is  required.    Girls  must  not  go  to  local  shops  or  the  city  in  sports  uniform.    If  girls  leave  the  Boarding  House  in  uniform  it  must  be  full  uniform.    

 

For  Meals    Meals   are   eaten   in   the   dining   room.     Dress   for   the   evening  meal   is   School   uniform   or   informal   and   neat  casual  clothes.    Occasionally  there  are  special  functions;  in  particular  a  birthday  tea  each  Term.    These  tend  to  be  either  semi-­‐formal  or  themed  dress  up.        ELECTRICAL  APPLIANCES    

Girls  may  bring  with  them  an  ipod  dock/  hair  dryer/straightener,  and  lap  top,  provided  they  are  not  used  too  loudly  or  at  inappropriate  times.    However,  for  safety  reasons,  electric  blankets,  radiators,  personal  electric  fans  and  kettles  are  not  permitted.    Air  conditioners  or  ceiling  fans  are  installed  in  each  room.    All  electrical  goods,  cameras,  watches  etc  should  be  engraved  with  your  daughter’s  name.  

 

Please  note:  candles  must  not  be  used  in  the  Boarding  House.  

 FORMS    In  order  to  have  the  information  we  need  to  care  for  your  daughter  and  to  ensure  her  welfare  at  all  times,  there  are  several  forms  that  must  be  completed.    WHEN   ENTERING   THE   BOARDING   HOUSE   FOR   THE   FIRST   TIME   THE   FOLLOWING   FORMS   MUST   BE  COMPLETED.        

§ Driver  Permission  Form  § Medical  Record  Sheet    § Personal  Data  Form    

   Information  should  also  be  updated  on  a  regular  basis  by  current  families.    LAUNDRY    Each   girl   is   required   to   have   a   personal   laundry   bag   and   laundry   baskets   are   provided   in   the   laundry.     All  clothes   need   to   be   marked   with   the   girl’s   name.     Girls   are   responsible   for   their   own   laundry   and   are  encouraged  to  hang  clothes  onto  the  lines  rather  than  use  the  driers  when  the  weather  is  fine  as  a  matter  of  respect   for   energy   consumption   and   the   environment.     Please   note   our   machines   are   front   loaders   and  appropriate  powder  should  be  used.    Sheets  must  be  changed  every  Sunday  and  put  into  the  laundry  bag  ready  for  the  linen  service  collection.    If  you  wish  to  have  your  daughter’s  washing  done  for  her,  please  contact  the  Boarding  House  office  and  this  can  be  arranged.    A  fee  of  $10  per  week  applies.        

   NEWSPAPERS    A  newspaper  is  delivered  each  day  to  the  Boarding  House  office.        POCKET  MONEY    The  most  convenient  way  to  manage  spending  money  is  to  open  a  key  card  account  and  put  money  into  it  as  required.    This  way  the  girls  do  not  have  a  lot  of  cash  at  any  time.      DVD’s/FOXTEL  If  Boarding  House  DVDs  are  borrowed,  it  is  the  responsibility  of  the  girl  signing  it  out  to  ensure  it  is  returned.    They   will   be   charged   for   DVDs   not   returned.     The   Boarding   House   subscribes   to   Foxtel   funded   from   the  recreation  allowance.    Movies  can  be  ordered  through  our  Foxtel  box  office.    VISITORS  

Parents   may   visit   at   any   convenient   time   and   similar   policies   apply   for   visits   by   grandparents   and   other  relatives.    All  visitors  are  asked  to  contact  the  staff  member  on  duty  upon  arrival  as  a  security  precaution.  

Male  visitors  are  not  permitted   into  the  bedroom  areas  except   for   return  days  and  holiday  exeats  and  are  restricted  to  the  lounge,  dining  or  outside  BBQ  area.  

DAMAGE  TO  BOARDING  FACILITIES    Damage  incurred  by  girls  where  undue  care  or  irresponsible  behaviour  is  involved  will  result  in  an  appropriate  repair  charge  being  added  to  your  school  account.    

MEDICATION/HEALTH  CARE    Generally,   all   prescription  medication   is   administered   under   the   care   of   the   Health   Officer   or   Supervising  staff.    Students  are  not  allowed  to  have  any  tablets,  capsules  or  mixtures  in  the  Boarding  House  unless  the  doctor  has  recommended  that  they  be  kept  at  hand.    The  Boarding  House  staff  must  be  made  aware  of  this  and   the   nurse   has   agreed   to   them   self   medicating.     Asthmatic   relief   sprays,   for   instance,   come   into   this  category.    A  First  Aid  Cabinet  is  in  the  Health  Centre  and  the  Boarding  House  office  for  Panadol,  antiseptics,  band-­‐aids,   etc.     The   School   covers   the   cost   of   all   first   aid   needs.     Personal   medication   or   other   special  personal  supplies  not  supplied  by  the  School  will  be  charged  to  your  account.    Parents   or   girls   should,   upon   arrival,   hand   in   all   prescription   medication   with   written   information   to   the  Health  Officer  and  alert  the  Head  of  Boarding  to  any  major  medical  conditions.     It   is   imperative  that  action  plans  are  provided  for  ongoing  medical  conditions  that  require  medications  not  normally  dispensed.    Please  review  our  school  medical  policy.  

   

TRAVEL  IN  PRIVATE  VEHICLES      

Parents  are  asked  to  provide  specific  documentation  if  they  do  not  agree  to  allow  their  daughter  to  be  driven  by   Boarding   House   staff   or   School   staff,   and   school   parents   for   sporting   or   other   School   activities.     This  includes  coaches  employed  by  the  School.    If  no  written  request  is  received  disallowing  this  it  is  assumed  that  parents  have  consented.  

 Year  12  students  can  apply  in  writing  to  the  Principal  to  have  access  to  a  private  vehicle.    Each  case  will  be  assessed  and  conditions  of  use  apply.    Keys  must  be  left  at  the  Boarding  House  office  when  the  car  is  not  in  use.     Under   exceptional   circumstances   Year   11   girls   may   apply   to   have   accessed   to   a   car.   Very   strict  conditions  apply  to  a  Year  11  driver.    Cars  may  not  be  stored  on  the  school  premises.            Girls  may  not  travel  with  other  students  until  the  appropriate  school  and  Boarding  House  forms  have  been  completed.    These  forms  require  the  signature  of  all  girls’  parents,  passengers  and  drivers.    

Boarders  are  not  permitted  to  be  driven  by  a  P  plate  driver,  subject  to  these  exceptions:  

§ Brothers  or  sisters    

§ With   expressed   written   permission   of   parents.   (Parents   should   complete   a   Boarder   Driving   list   form  and/or  fax  permission).    

 LEAVE  POLICY    

Boarders  may  be  granted  leave  from  the  Boarding  House,  provided  it  does  not  impose  upon  their  academic  commitments.    Leave  will  not  be  approved  if  your  daughter  has  behaved  inappropriately.  

A   condition   of   leave,   even   when   approved   by   parents,   is   that   a   boarder   complies   with   the   behavioural  expectations  of  the  school.    

Younger  girls  and  new  boarders  are  allowed  shopping  leave  in  small  groups  under  the  care  of  an  older  girl,  until  they  are  familiar  with  the  various  shopping  locations.  

Leave   should   be   arranged   to   avoid   conflict   with   the   normal   daily   routine   of   the   Boarding   House.     Girls  planning  leave  on  Saturday  morning  must  consider  sporting  commitments.  

When  a  student  is  invited  to  visit  friends  or  relatives  of  a  family  not  on  the  host  list,  it  is  necessary  for  either  the   host   or   the   girl’s   parents   to   phone   or   fax   and   confirm   the   proposed   arrangements   with   the   Head   of  Boarding.    Parents  will  also  need  to  approve  the  leave.  

All  girls  leaving  the  Boarding  House  at  any  time  must  record  their  movements  on  the  biometric  leave  system.    Overnight  leave  and  weekend  day  leave  must  be  applied  for  using  the  computerised  leave  system.  It  must  be  pre-­‐approved  by  the  Senior  Supervisor  or  Head  of  Boarding.  

We   believe   parents   should   be   aware   who   their   daughters   are   mixing   with   and   what   activities   they   are  involved  in  during  their  recreational  time,  therefore  overnight  leave  applications  are  emailed  to  the  parents  for  approval  each  time  a  request  for  leave  is  made.    The  form  provides  information  regarding  the  details  of  leave  with  the  host  family.  Please  do  not  agree  to  leave  if  your  daughter  has  not  provided  a  full  description  of  her  planned  activities.      

 

 

Duties  and  Responsibilities  of  Hosts  

The  school  strongly  encourages  you  to  contact  the  host  family  as  a  way  of  developing  connections  with  the  parent   community   of   the   School   and   to   thank   those   families   who   have   offered   their   hospitality   to   your  daughter.  

The  school  also  recommends  you  check  the  nature  of  the  activities  your  daughter  will  be  involved  in  and  the  level  of  supervision  the  host   family   is  providing  to  your  daughter.  The  Boarding  House  does  not  undertake  Police  checks  on  host  families.      

Hosts  take  on  the  responsibility  of  the  parents  of  a  boarder  with  the  consent  of  the  boarder’s  parents.    Hosts  therefore   need   to   be   of   sufficient  maturity   and   experience.    Wilderness   Boarding   House   leave   guidelines  recommend  a  minimum  age  of  21  years.    

The  Boarding  House  requires  your  written  consent  for  overnight  leave.  

The  Duty  of  Care  infers  the  following  responsibilities  on  a  host.  

§ Adequate  supervision  of  the  boarder  at  all  times  § Ensuring  that  a  boarder  in  their  care  returns  to  the  boarding  house  at  the  stipulated  return  time  or  

communicates  the  change  of  plans  to  the  office  staff.  § Ensures  the  boarder’s  behaviour  is  law  abiding  and  in  adherence  to  the  behavioural  expectations  of  

the  school.    § Accountability  for  any  avoidable  or  deliberate  harm  to  a  boarder  in  their  care  § Not  permit  a  boarder  to  travel  in  a  car  driven  by  non-­‐  approved  drivers.    

Wilderness   Boarding   School   does   not   recommend   for   boarders   to   be   hosted   overnight   by   anyone  under  the  age  of  21.    

Leave   with   siblings   under   21   –   Requests   for   outings   with   older   brothers   and   sisters   (under   the  recommended   age   of   21)   will   be   negotiated   on   an   individual   basis   with   the   Head   of   Boarding.  Overnight   leave,   if  approved,  with  older  siblings   is   restricted   to   the  sibling  boarder  and  will  not  be  granted  to  other  boarders.    

There  maybe  occasions  where  leave  is  not  approved  even  if  parents  have  provided  their  permission.    

 

 

The  principle  behind  the  approval  of  leave  is  to  ensure  parents  have  given  informed  consent.  

Procedure:    § Each   girl   must   notify   the   Boarding   House   office   of   any   planned  weekend   outing   by   Thursday   8.30am  

(preferably  by  Wednesday  7.30pm).        

§ Girls  apply  for  leave  using  the  on-­‐line  leave  application.    If  the  leave  includes  an  overnight  absence  from  the  Boarding  House,  an  email  with  all  the  details  is  automatically  sent  to  the  parents.    After  reviewing  the  details   of   their   daughter’s   leave   request   they   sign   and   return   by   fax   (08   8344   8003)   to   the   Boarding  House  office.     Parents   can  decline  or  modify   the  details   and   there  may  be   consultation  with  Boarding  House   staff   in   respect   to   leave   requests.    Where  parents  do  not  possess   a   fax  machine  a   response  by  return   email   is   accepted   as   permission   granted.     Verbal   approval   may   also   be   accepted   in   some  circumstances.    Our  preference  is  for  a  signed  approval.  

 § It  is  important  for  security  reasons  that  a  member  of  staff  sights  the  person  collecting  your  daughter.    § Visitors   are   to   be   introduced   to   staff   before   proceeding   to   move   through   the   house.     Girls   are   not  

permitted  to  answer  the  front  door.    Sometimes  it  is  very  busy  and  staff  may  be  on  the  phone,  so  there  may  be  a  short  delay  in  responding  to  the  door  bell.  

 § Where  possible,  girls  should  be  collected  and  returned  to  the  school  by  an  adult.    § After  school  on  Friday  girls  may  go  to  the  city  by  signing  out  on  the  general  town  list.      § All  girls  are  expected  to  be  home  by  5.45pm  for  dinner  after  a  Friday  city  visit.  

 

The  School  is  concerned  at  the  manner  in  which  some  student  parties  have  been  known  to  proceed.    The  consumption   of   alcohol   and   other   drugs   and   the   use   of   cars   in   association  with   such   events   cannot   be  condoned.    The  Senior  Supervisor,  in  consultation  with  the  Head  of  Boarding  and  relevant  staff,  will  review  invitations  to  large  parties  to  assess  what  effective  supervision  will  be  in  place.    If  there  are  serious  doubts  about  the  safety  of   the  arrangements   in  place,  we  may  recommend  to  parents  they  do  not  agree  to  the  leave  and  the  staff  will  support  this  or  the  parents  themselves.    

 

§ Short  term  leave  during  the  week  is  approved  on  a  daily  basis    § Weekend  and  overnight  leave  requires  the  completion  of  a  leave  form.    It  is  the  parents’  responsibility  to  

contact  the  hosts  to  ensure  they  are  aware  of  the  arrangements.    § Weekend  leave  will  be  reviewed  and  approved  by  the  Senior  Supervisor  or  Head  of  Boarding.    § Overnight  leave  requests  will  be  emailed  to  parents  for  approval.    § All   leave   arrangements   must   be   organised   by   students.     However,   staff   are   happy   to   assist   with   cab  

bookings,  cab  charges  etc.    § Girls  are  expected  to  check  out  and  in  through  the  Boarding  House  Office  using  the  Biometrics  system.    In  all  cases  a  Duty  Person  must  approve  leave.    The  onus  is  on  the  students  to  get  the  approval.    Even  in  a  family  environment  it  is  an  expected  courtesy  for  children  to  communicate  their  plans.    This  is  even  more  important  in  a  boarding  environment  for  safety  reasons.  

Junior   boarders   need   to   arrange   leave   in   groups   of   2   or   more,   not   by   themselves,   unless   approved   by  supervising  staff  on  behalf  of  parents.    Where  possible,   leave   should  not   cut  across  meal   times  or  prep   times.     Ideally   if   taking   leave  after   school  Monday  –  Friday  girls  must  not  return  after  5:00pm  if  they  are  attending  first  prep.    Friday  visits  to  town  will  not  be  approved  for  girls  who  have  not  complied  with  Boarding  House  routines.    As  not  every  leave  possibility  can  be  described  in  this  booklet,  other  leave  arrangements  may  be  permitted  at  the  discretion  of  the  Head  of  Boarding  upon  consultation  with  parents  where  possible.    Sometimes  leave  will  be  restricted  or  denied  if  a  student  has  behaved  inappropriately.    The  electronic  leave  system  alerts  staff  when  a  student  is  more  than  half  an  hour  overdue.    EXEATS/END  OF  TERM    Details  of  leave  and  travel  arrangements  should  be  finalised  by  Wednesday  evening  prior  to  the  exeat,  earlier  if  possible.    Parents  will  be  emailed  details  of  the  exeat  leave  for  confirmation  of  the  details.    While  missing  school   days   before   and   after   exeat   weekends   is   not   encouraged,   the   Day   School   and   Boarding   House  acknowledge  the  difficulties  experienced  if  travelling  long  distances.    Any   anticipated   early   departures  must   be   negotiated   through   the   appropriate   Head   of   School   in   the   Day  School  and  the  Boarding  House  should  be  informed  of  the  details.    Departure  from  and  return  to  the  Boarding  House    Girls  are  expected  to  sign  out  and  in  through  the  Boarding  House  office.    Visitors  are  to  be  introduced  to  staff  before  proceeding  to  move  through  the  house.    Staff  will  decide  whether  it  is  appropriate  for  visitors  to  be  in  the  house.    Girls  are  not  permitted  to  answer  the  front  door.    Sometimes  it  is  very  busy  and  staff  may  be  on  the  phone  so  there  may  be  a  short  delay  in  responding  to  the  door  bell.    Outings  during  the  week    Girls  may  go  to  the  local  shops  or  the  city  during  the  week  and  club  sport  matches  but  shopping  visits  should  be  minimised.    Exeats    These   are  weekends   on  which   students   leave   the  Boarding  House   to   go   home  or   stay  with   friends.     They  provide  an  important  break  from  the  regimen  of  boarding  life.    Generally  boarders  are  expected  to  leave  by  7.00pm  on  the  final  day  of  school  preceding  the  exeat  weekend  and  return  after  5.00pm  on  the  day  they  are  due  back.  If  an  evening  meal  is  provided  on  the  Sunday  night  there  is  an  additional  charge  and  this  service  is  only  available  if  the  house  has  been  open  over  the  exeat.    Boarders  staying  in  the  Boarding  House  are  charged  $50  per  day  to  cover  staff  and  meal  costs.    This    option  is  only  available  if  the  House  is  open  for  international  students.      Students  may  leave  any  time  after  3.30pm.    In  special  circumstances,  parents  may  request  an  early  departure  from  the  Head  of  Boarding  and  Head  of  the  relevant  Day  School.    It  is  our  firm  recommendation  that  where  ever  possible  minimal  school  hours  are  missed.    If   the   House   is   closed   fro   an   exeat   international   boarders   are   accommodated   in   Home   stay   arranged   by  Australian  Homestay  National.  International  students  may  choose  to  remain  in  the  Boarding  House  for  term  breaks,  during  which  time  they  will  be  fully  supervised  and  a  range  of  activities  will  be  available.        

Beginning  of  the  Year    New  boarders  arrive  at  the  Boarding  House  by  mid-­‐morning  two  days  prior  to  the  commencement  of  school  for  an  orientation  program.    Returning  Boarders  should  aim  to  arrive  by  lunchtime  on  the  Tuesday  in  2009.    Lunch  is  provided  for  all  boarders  and  their  parents  in  the  cafe,  commencing  at  12.30pm.    All  boarders  should  be  checked   in  by  5.00pm  at   the   latest.       If   there  are  any  difficulties  with   transport   times  please  notify   the  School  Office  on  8344  6688  or  Head  of  Boarding  on  0411  246  514.    Returning  to  the  Boarding  House  at  the  beginning  of  each  Term    The  Boarding  House  is  open  from  11.30am  to  receive  boarders.    All  boarders  are  to  be  in  by  5.00pm  on  this  day.    If  there  are  problems  with  transport  please  advise  the  Boarding  House  Office  on  8344  7670.    Boarders  may   go   out   during   the   day   once   they   have   checked   in   but   must   return   by   5.00pm.     It   is   expected   that  boarders  will  stay  home  on  the  first  night  of  term  in  order  to  organise  themselves  for  school  the  next  day.    Packing  for  the  End  of  the  Year    This  is  done  progressively  over  the  last  weeks  of  term.    Boarders  will  be  provided  with  final  arrangements  for  leaving  the  Boarding  House  during  Term  4  to  accommodate  the  boarders’  attendance  at  the  official  functions  that  mark   the   close  of   the  Day   School.     Boarders  who  need   to   travel   a   long  way  may   leave   some  of   their  belongings  in  sealed  and  labelled  boxes  over  the  Christmas  break.    This  needs  to  be  negotiated  with  the  Head  of  Boarding  in  advance  as  space  is  limited.    The  school  takes  no  responsibility  for  items  left  on  the  premises.    Departure  at  the  End  of  Term    Generally  boarders  are  expected  to  organise  their  travel  arrangements  so  that  they  do  not  miss  any  school  time.    The  school  realises  that  this  is  not  always  possible.    If  missing  school  is  unavoidable,  permission  to  be  absent  may  be  requested  from  the  appropriate  Head  of  School  -­‐  Mrs  Ann  Moxham,  Head  of  the  Senior  School,  ([email protected]);  Ms  Arnfield,  Head  of  the  Middle  School  ([email protected])  –  contact  the  school  office  by  telephone  on  (08)  8344  6688  or  facsimile  on  (08)  8344  1094.    If   students   cannot   attend   a   compulsory   school   function   such   as   Speech   Night   at   the   end   of   year   then  permission   to   be   absent  must   be   obtained   from   the   Principal,  Mrs   Jane  Danvers.     This   should   be   done   in  writing  well  in  advance.      At  the  end  of  Terms  1,  2  and  3  all  boarders  are  to  vacate  the  premises  by  7.00pm    

At  the  end  of  year,  Middle  School  boarders  may  depart  after  Middle  School  Presentation  Night  and  parent  dinner  or  earlier  depending  on  the  Day  School  Program.    Senior  School  boarders  who  are  going  home  after  Speech  Night  must  remove  their  luggage  before  Speech  Night.    Senior  School  boarders  who  need  to  stay  in  the  Boarding  House  after  Speech  Night,  because  they  are  going  home  by  public  transport  the  next  day,  must  negotiate  this  with  the  Head  of  Boarding  by  Wednesday  of  Week  7  so  that  staffing  may  be  organised.            SCHOOL  DAY  PROGRAM  

 Mornings  6.30am  to  8.20am    § All   boarders   are   responsible   for   getting   themselves   up,   tidying   their   rooms,   having   breakfast   and  

preparing  for  school.  § They  may   go   for   runs   and   sports   practices   etc   early,   however,   no   one   is   allowed   to   leave   the   house  

before  6.30am  and  they  should  check  with  the  staff  member  on  duty.  § A  staff  member  is  on  duty  from  6.30am.    This  person  opens  the  gates,  and  does  a  wake-­‐up  walk  through  

the  house,  health  centre  tasks  and  supervises  breakfast.    It  is  not  always  possible  for  this  person  to  be  in  the  office  or  to  hear  the  phone,  so  this  may  not  be  a  good  time  to  contact  the  office.  

§ All  girls  are  to  leave  the  house  by  8.20am.    Evening  Program  Weekdays    3.30pm  to  5.50pm  Monday  to  Thursday    § Arrive  home  from  school;  afternoon  tea  available.  § Sport  practices,  housekeeping,  exercise,  free  time,  showers.  § Girls  may  go  to  the  local  shops  if  they  have  approval.    5.50pm  to  6.30pm   Dinner  6.30pm  to  8.30pm   Senior  Prep  7.00pm  to  8.30pm   Junior  Prep    § No  one   is  allowed   to   inter-­‐dorm  visit  during   this   time  unless   referenced  via   the   tutoring   staff.    A  prep  

book  is  kept  to  check  attitude  and  attendance.  § If  a  boarder  has  special  circumstances  she  is  expected  to  demonstrate  she  has  made  up  this  time  or  will  

make  up  the  time.  § After  8.35pm  Senior  girls  may  watch  a  TV  program  and  then  return  to  individual  study.    Students  are  expected  to  be  settled  and  in  bed  asleep  by  the  following  times  for  the  different  year  levels  Year  7     9.00pm  Year  8/9       9.30pm  Year  10   10.00-­‐10.00pm  Year  /11/12   The  house  needs  to  be  quiet  by  10.40pm  and  staff  finish  active  duty  

at  11.00pm      FRIDAY  night  the  house  closes  at  12.00pm  for  Seniors  &  10.30pm  for  Juniors  

SATURDAY    

6.30    am         Gates  opened    

7.00-­‐8.00am   Breakfast  and  preparation  for  sport  commitments    

12.00pm   Lunch    6.00pm   Dinner    

10.00pm   Years  7  to  9    All  in  bed  and  lights  out      

12.00am   Years  10  to  12  In  bed    12.30am   Close  of  House  

   SUNDAY    

7.30  am         Gates  opened    10.00  am     All   girls   are   woken   and   up   unless   the   staff   member   has   been   advised   otherwise,  

having  showers  and  breakfast.    10.00  am   Tidy  rooms  and  laundry  if  necessary    12:00  pm   Lunch    6.00  pm     Dinner    8.30  -­‐9.00  pm   Prepare  for  bed    9.00  pm   Year  7    9.30  pm   Years  8  /  9  bed  and  lights  out    10.00  pm   Year  10  prepare  for  bed    10.30  pm   Bedtime  Year  10  and  lights  out    11.00  pm   Bedtime  Years  11  /  12     Lock  all  back  doors  

 

SECURITY    Camera  Surveillance  -­‐the  perimeter  of  the  Boarding  House  has  camera  surveillance.    Phones   -­‐   There  are  protocols  for  students  to  follow  when  answering  the  phone  so  that  nuisance  calls  may  be  stopped.    If  a  person  is  unable  to  supply  the  full  name  of  a  student,  girls  have  been  instructed  to  hang  up  immediately.    Doors  -­‐  Girls  are  not  permitted  to  answer  the  front  door.    Girls  are  not  permitted  to  access  or  exit  the  house  other  than  through  the  front  door  or  via  the  back  door  during  day  light  hours.    All  other  doors  are  to  be  kept  locked  at  all  times.    Blinds/curtains  –  Curtains  and/or  blinds  are  to  be  drawn  at  dusk  to  deter  unwanted  attention.  

 CAB-­‐CHARGE    Cab  Charge  is  available  for  girls  to  access  in  order  to  limit  the  need  for  additional  cash  and  these  charges  will  be  charged   to  your  school   fee  account.     If   you  do  not  want   to  make  use  of   this   service,  please   inform  the  Head  of  Boarding.    Students  are  advised  to  have  an  account  they  can  access  cash  from  using  an  ATM  card.    HOMESICKNESS    It  is  perfectly  normal  for  a  student  living  in  completely  new  surroundings,  and  in  a  communal  environment,  to  feel  strange  and  miss  home  and  her  family.    We  think  it  is  important  for  students  to  realise  that  they  are  likely  to  feel  homesick  from  time  to  time,  that  it  is  quite  normal  and  something  they  should  acknowledge.    It   is   important   for   parents   to   emphasise   the   benefits   of   involvement   in   and   out   of   the   classroom.    Involvement   in   sport,   music,   drama   and   other   activities   is   very   beneficial   and   should   be   encouraged  wherever  possible.    It  also  serves  as  a  distraction  from  feelings  of  homesickness.    In   the   early   stages,  while   it   is   comforting   to   you   as   a   parent   to   touch  base  with   your   daughter   often,   the  contact  with  home  can  often  accentuate  feelings  of  homesickness.    Often  a  student  who  is  apparently  coping  quite  well  will  suffer  a  set-­‐back  after  ringing  home.    Always  try  to  end  phone  calls  on  a  positive  note.    It   is   important   for   you   to   realise   that   you   will   hear   of,   or   experience,   the   worst   of   your   daughter’s  homesickness.    She  will  tend  to  contact  you  when  she  is  feeling  at  her  lowest.    She  may  focus  on  the  negative  aspects.    Try  to  encourage  her  to  think  positively.    Poor  grades  and  difficulty  with  work  can  be  symptoms  of  homesickness  in  the  early  stages.    Contacting  the  Head   of   House   in   the   Day   School   is   recommended   if   you   believe   her   academic   development   is   being  compromised.     The   Head   of   House  will   work   closely   with   you   and   your   daughter’s   teachers   to   assist   her  through   this.    A   recurrence  of   the  problem   is  quite   common  after  exeat  weekends  or  after   term  holidays.    However,  usually  this  is  overcome  very  quickly  on  returning  to  school.    Please  encourage  your  daughter  to  see  the  Head  of  Boarding  or  a  member  of  the  staff  if  she  is  unhappy.    It   is   our   aim   to   help   you   and   your   daughter   cope   positively   with   the   settling   in   period.     Understanding,  patience  and  firmness  make  for  a  quick  and  relatively  smooth  adjustment  to  the  new  environment.    Above  all  please  do  not  hesitate  to  contact   the  Head  of  Boarding   if  you  wish  to  discuss  any  problems  your  daughter  may  face  once  she  has  joined  our  community.      

ROOM  ALLOCATION    With  the  exception  of  Year  12,  boarders  are  relocated  to  either  a  new  room  or  new  room  mate  each  Term.    Year  12s  are  all  allocated  a  single  room  and  remain  in  the  same  room  for  the  year.    Moves  are  only  made  in  special  circumstances.    Girls  in  other  year  levels  change  rooms  or  room-­‐mates  at  the  end  of  each  term.    This  is  to  encourage  them  to  get  to  know  all  the  girls  in  their  year  level.    Depending  on  the  Year  12  numbers,  Year  11  students  may  have  a  single  room  for  at  least  one  term.  Year  10  and  some  Year  11  girls  have  twin  share  bedrooms.      Staff  considers  a  range  of  factors  when  allocating  rooms  and  room  mates  in  the  hope  of  fostering  the  most  positive   living   environment   and   development   of   your   daughter.     Consideration   is   given   to   such   factors   as  friendship,   compatible   study   habits,   supportive   students   with   less   confident   girls   and   sport   training  commitments,  particularly  early  morning  schedules.    It   is  not   reasonable   for  girls   to  expect   special  privileges   in   regards   to   room  allocations  without   reasonable  justification   and   we   do   our   best   to   ensure   each   girl   gets   fair   consideration   of   all   the   circumstances   that  influence  our  room  plan.    If  however,  you  have  any  concerns  at  any  stage  regarding  room  allocations,  please  contact  the  Head  of  Boarding  to  discuss  your  concerns  as  there  may  be  issues  you  are  aware  of  that  the  staff  is  not  and  vice  versa.    This  is  an  area  where  we  really  appreciate  your  support,  as  the  girls  tend  to  be  more  accepting  of  the  allocations  if  parents  are  not  drawn  into  the  discussion.    Cleaners  clean  the  houses  each  weekday.    However  girls  are  expected  to  tidy  their   rooms  each  day  before  school  and  before  dinner  on  Sunday  evening.    Girls  are  expected  to      § Make  their  bed  each  day  § Draw  curtains,  switch  off  AC  units,  lights  etc  § Hang  clothes  in  wardrobes  § Hang  towels  § Put  dirty  laundry  in  the  laundry  bag  § Tidy  the  desk  top.      § Clear  the  floor  of  objects.  § Change  linen  each  Wednesday  and  take  dirty  linen  to  the  laundry  for  collection  by  the  linen  service.      PARENTS’  COMMITTEE    The  Boarders’  Parent’s  Committee  is  an  informal  group  of  boarders’  parents  who  meet  on  the  day  boarders  return   to   the   Boarding  House   at   the   beginning   of   each   term,   to   discuss   any   boarding   issues   and   organise  social  occasions.    We  recognise  that   it   is  not  possible   for  all   families  to  attend  each  meeting;  however,  we  would  encourage  you  to  be  involved  to  whatever  extent  you  can,  to  help  in  developing  the  Boarding  Community  and  to  assist  in  improving  the  communication  between  the  parents,  the  Boarding  House  and  the  school.    

Boarders’  Parents  Weekend  will  be  planned  for  2014.    Information  will  be  sent  to  all  parents.      

YEAR  LEVEL  REPRESENTATIVES  FOR  2014  A  number  of  boarders’  parents  have  accepted  the  position  of  year  level  representative  for  2013.    Their  role  is  to  act  as  a  conduit  for  information  between  parents,  the  Boarding  House  and  the  school  and,  in  particular,  to  welcome   new   parents   to   the   boarding   community.     Parents   should   feel   free   to   approach   the   Year   Level  Representative  if  they  have  any  questions,  which  might  best  be  answered  by  another  parent  or  have  an  issue  or  concern  they  do  not  wish  to  raise  directly  with  the  school.    

PARENT  REPRESENTIVES            Rachel      &  Luke  Hampshire      Kate  and  Nick  Wadlow  

85887032    Rachel  0429350456    88942179  Kate  0427942179  

Years  8  and  9  

     Fiona  and  Mick  Dahlitz        Sharyn  and  Charles  Dolling        Ros  and  Mitchell  

86762050  Fiona  0428762059  86354314    Sharyn  0427718996  85531200    Ros  0427531200  

Year  10  

 Anna  and  Bruce  Stanley  

 Anna    0408393400    

Year  11  

Sam  Tiller     Sam  Tiller    0409096434   Year  12    

WHAT  TO  BRING  In  addition  to  casual  clothing  and  personal  toiletries,  students  require:    

§ Bath  towel  and  face  washers    § Pillow  § Doona  § Laundry  bag  § Thongs  for  use  in  the  shower  and  a  second  pair  for  footwear  in  the  house  § Shoe  cleaning  kit  (black  shoe  polish  is  essential).  § Washing  powder  for  front  loader  machines  –  low  suds    § Sporting  equipment  if  involved  in  recreational  activities  § Beach  towel  § Desk  Lamp  § Coat  hangers    § Posters  and  photos  for  the  pin  up  boards  § Blu-­‐tack  § 4  x  AA  batteries  § Personal  trinkets  § Radio/clock/CD  player/hair  dryer/camera  (optional)  

             

INSURANCE    All  uniforms  and  personal  belongings  should  be  labelled.        Some  insurance  policies  cover  contents  anywhere  in  Australia.        You  may  wish  to  review  your  insurance  policy  to  establish  if  your  company  covers  personal  contents  in  the  Boarding  House  as  the  school  does  not  cover  the  girls’  personal  belongings.    Boarding  House  reports  will  be  prepared  at  the  end  of  each  Semester.  

WILDERNESS  SCHOOL  MEDICAL  POLICY      

     PLEASE  TAKE  THE  TIME  TO  READ  THIS  DOCUMENT  CAREFULLY  IT  CONTAINS  IMPORTANT  INFORMATION.  

   Wilderness  School  Safe  Medication  Policy    These   guidelines   comply   with   the   recommendations   of   the   Department   of   Education   Training   and  Employment,   the  Nurses   Registration   Board   and   the   Controlled   Substances   Act   1984   and   the   Therapeutic  Drug  Act.    Medical   issues  relating  to  day  students  will  be  referred  to  their  parent  or  guardian.  When  a  day  student   is  unwell  their  parent/guardian  will  be  contacted  to  make  arrangements  for  them  to  be  collected  from  school.    The  primary  responsibility  for  the  Boarders  medical  care  is  with  the  Head  of  Boarding  and  in  her  absence  the  Deputy   Head   of   Boarding   in   consultation   with   the   school’s   Health   Officer   (a   Registered   Nurse)   and/or  General  Practitioner.    Wilderness   School   is   a   school   that   supports   a   minimum   medication   policy.     The   school   policy   follows   a  homely  remedy  protocol  for  the  administration  of  non-­‐prescribed  medications  and  a  written  protocol  for  the  administration  of  certain  S2  drugs  and  prescribed  drugs.    How  can  families  help  with  safe  medication  management?    Recommendations    All  parents  are  encouraged  to  administer  medication  outside  of  school  hours.  (Medication  taken  three  times  a  day  can  be  given  before  school  after  school  and  at  bedtime)    Boarders  will  follow  this  schedule  and  all  medication  and  the  time  administered  will  be  recorded.    Informed  Consent:   It   is   important   that  parents  and   students   recognise   that  even  over   the   counter  drugs  have   some   risk   and   therefore   it   is   imperative   parents   familiarise   themselves  with   the   possible   reactions  and   side   affects.   Eg   Nurofen   is   not   recommended   for   asthmatics   OR   can   produce   severe   allergic  anaphylactic  shock.  Where  possible  gentler  effective  medications/remedies  should  be  considered.    Prescribed  Medications    A  medication  Plan  completed  by  a  Doctor  must  accompany   all  prescribed  medications.  Scheduled  4  drugs  must  be  stored   in  a   locked  cupboard  either   in  the  Health  Centre  or  the  Boarding  House  Medical  Storage  Centre.    Action  Plans  authorised  by  a  doctor  must  be  provided  to  the  Health  Centre  and  Boarding  House  Staff  for  any  existing   condition   with   directions   for   observation,   preventative   treatment   and   emergency   response.     Eg.  Allergic  reactions  /  Migraines  /  Asthma  /  Menstrual  distress  /  Epilepsy  /  Diabetes          

Over   the   counter  medication  not  held  by   the  Health  Centre  must  be  supplied  by   the  parent  or  guardian.    The  medication  must  be  in  the  original  container,  labelled  with  the  student’s  name,  recommended  dose  and  written  instructions  from  the  parent/guardian.    The  school  holds  the  following  drugs  for  boarders  use  and  parents  must  provide  permission  for  these  to  be  administered   on   the   Medication   Permission   Advice   Form.     Any   other   medications   required   need   to   be  supplied  by  the  parents  and  named  and  in  their  original  containers.    S2  and  S3  medications    A  range  of  S2  and  S3  medications  is  available  to  boarders.    General  first  aid  creams  and  supplies  will  be  maintained  in  the  Health  Centre.    Self  medication    The  common  law  duty  of  care  does  not  extend  to  administering  prescribed  medication  to  the  student  who  is  reasonably  able  to  self  administer.    However,   the   common   law   duty   of   care   requires   staff   take   reasonable   steps   to   ensure   that   the   self  administration  is  carried  out  safely  and  documented.    With   the   exception   of   oral   contraceptives   and   in   instances   when   for   reason   of   confidentiality   it   is   a  recommendation  of   the  School  Policy   that  boarders  store  all  medications   in   the  Boarders   locked  medical  cupboard.    Boarding  House  staff  should  be  made  aware  of  students  self  medicating,  this  includes  herbal  or  vitamin  treatments  as  these  can  sometimes  cause  complications.    The  school   requires   families   review  their  Private  Health  Cover   to  ensure  Ambulance   cover.    Some  policies  cover  emergency  rating  only  and  this  is  NOT  considered  adequate.    Medical  Providers    Day   students  will   be   registered  with   their   own   general   partitioner   unless   in   an   emergency.     The  Boarding  House  refers  boarders  to   local  practices  with  availability  our  prime  concern.    However  any  student  has  the  right   to   request   to  see  any  doctor  of   their  choice.  Dentists   that  offer  discounted  rates   to   the  boarders  are  also  available,  however,  families  are  also  free  to  chose  their  dental  provider.    Confidentiality    Confidentiality   of   the   student   is   respected.   However,   in   providing  medical   and   nursing   care   to   a   student,  particularly   boarding   students,   it   is   recognised   in   order   to   provide   appropriate   care   certain   medical  information  may  need  to  be  passed  on  to  certain  parties,   ideally  with  the  student’s  prior  consent.    Day-­‐to-­‐day  medical  information  needed  to  care  for  boarders  will  be  passed  from  the  Health  Officer  to  the  Boarding  House  duty  staff  in  a  daily  handover  process.