Middle Years Matters
As of Monday, all Middle Years students will be back on site. Staff are very excited and have been working extremely hard to ensure a smooth transition back into classroom-based learning. Without doubt, school will still feel a little different for students and parents alike. Some social distancing restrictions are still be in place, which will continue to impact our community, especially around drop off and collection times. It is vital that parents and caregivers pay attention to the arrangements outlined in the College communication (21 May).
Before everyone returns, I would like to remind families of some College expectations regarding uniforms, personal appearance, jewellery and mobile phones. These are explained in full in the student diary and some of the more pertinent points are highlighted below:
Uniform
The College uniform is a compulsory component associated with the enrolment of all students. It is a sign of unity and belonging for students and should always be worn with pride. Students are expected to present in a complete uniform, being neat and well-groomed in their appearance and exhibiting exemplary behaviour at all times.
In extreme cold, students are encouraged to layer using appropriate thermal undershirts in addition to the College pullover. As the cooler weather is fast approaching, please check the status of your child’s pullover now. If they have grown out of it or it is in a state of disrepair, please visit the College Uniform Shop or our online uniform partner Wearitto (http://www.wearitto.com.au/schools/our-lady-of-the-southern-cross) to replace the item before the cold weather has set in.
Shoes
- shoes should not show any colour other than black in their appearance, including the logo and foam support.
- shoes should also have a sturdy upper, be it leather, vinyl, suede or similar material.
- canvas shoes, such as Dunlop Volleys and Converse All Stars and any shoe with an open section are unsuitable.
Personal Appearance
- hair should be well groomed, brushed and sensible/conservative in nature (e.g. natural hair colours)
- boy’s hair must not be longer than their collar, not tied back and not hanging over the face.
- girl’s hair must not hang over the face and shoulder length hair must be tied back with a black, red and/or white ribbon or scrunchie.
- only clear nail polish is to be worn and makeup must be neutral.
- boys must have their formal socks pulled up and their shirts tucked in.
Jewellery
Jewellery is to be limited to:
- one watch
- one discrete necklace or chain (a plain crucifix or other Christian religious symbol on a chain)
- girls can wear sleepers or studs (one per lobe only)
Note: Any student who chooses to get piercings should ensure the piercing can be removed during school hours, or suitably covered or inserted with a clear stud. Students will be directed to remove non-compliant and/or unsafe jewellery.
Mobile Phones
The College takes no responsibility for mobile phones and other electronic devices brought to school. It is our preference that these items be left at home. If it is necessary for the student to bring such a device to school, then the following guidelines apply:
- Accessing the College network falls under the Student Network Access Agreement
- The device should be only used under the direction of the classroom teacher
- When not being used under teacher direction, the College expects that the device will be switched off and secured, with their belongings, in the student’s locker or at the College office.
- A student needing to leave the College because of sickness or emergency must report to the College office or in sick bay, and parents will be contacted by the office staff.
- Parents who need to contact their child, during the school day, should do so through the College office.
Students found not following these guidelines will have their mobile phones immediately confiscated to be collected from the College office at the end of the school day. Continued disregard for these guidelines will result in parent meetings.
Please discuss the points above with your child and ensure they are ready to return before the Monday next week.
Technology
A number of College laptops were distributed to families in Year 5 and 6 to support Remote Learning. These devices will be required for use on Monday 25 May in all classrooms. Please ensure these devices are returned with all chargers and bags by Monday before school. They can be signed in by students before school in the Library.
If families in Year 6 would like to purchase the computer bag they were loaned in preparation for the 1-to-1 Computer program in Year 7, please contact the administration office to make the necessary arrangements.
Year 7/8 Electives
On Monday, Year 7 and Year 8 students will be issued with new timetables indicating the new elective rotations. The rotations are as follow:
Rotation |
Teacher |
Class |
Visual Art |
Mrs Patterson |
8A |
Food, Nutrition and Textiles |
Mr Fraser |
8B |
Business |
Mrs Connellan |
7A |
Music and Drama |
Mrs Garside |
7B |
Industrial Technology |
Mr Nott |
7C |
Craig Cullen
Assistant Principal Middle Years