ATTENDANCE

Students should attend school on every day when instruction is offered unless the school receives a valid reason for being absent (eg. Illness).

It is a legal requirement that parents provide an explanation for all student absences. This may be in the form of a letter, note in the diary, medical certificate, phone call or personal contact with teachers.

Parents/caregivers must inform the school prior to an extended absence (3 days or more) and apply in writing (application for exemption is available from the admin) to the Chief Learning Officer (CLO) for an exemption if the absence is for more than 10 consecutive school days. This period excludes school holidays and public holidays. Application must be submitted 20 school days prior to the leave requested.

Teachers shall not be expected to provide detailed classroom work and Homework assignments for students who are away for 2 weeks or more as a result of family- or parent- initiated absences. For absences due to extended illness, parents may contact the classroom teacher to discuss available options.

Students who do not complete Term 4 assessments will be required to sit for the next year level enrolment test (e.g. Year 2 students will sit for Year 3 test) upon their return. The test will be marked and the suitability of the student for the next year level will be determined.

In order to enforce regular and minimum attendance the following procedures has been put in place:

1. A minimum of 80% attendance is required for any student to move up from one grade to another the following
2. Students absence from college for a day or more must be accompanied by a letter from parents or a medical certificate explaining the
3. Further documentation (e.g. evidence of schooling) is required to explain/justify a significant (e.g. one term)
4. ICB uses TASS for recording attendance. If a student is marked absent without an exemption, a text message will be sent to parents at 9:00 am.
5. If a student is absent more than 3 days, the form / class teacher must notify the Year Level Coordinator and the Dean of Students.
6. In the absence of a letter from parent or medical certificate the teachers will send those students to the office where the office secretaries will ring the parents asking explanation and a letter to

7. Any student absent from college for more than 5 days (without medical reasons) will have to meet the Head of Primary/Secondary to discuss and explain their absence from the

 

NB: When a student is required to leave the school grounds for any part of the day (eg. appointments) parents/caregivers are required to sign them out through the front office. If the student returns to school, they must be signed back in.

Late Arrival: Parents are requested to inform the class teacher and admin by email for late arrival.

Early Departure: Parents are requested to inform the class teacher and admin by email for any early pick up by 8: 30 am in the morning so that the teacher can release the students to wait in the office for parents in their specified time. We urge parents to schedule all appointments after school hours, where possible, so that students do not miss out on important learning.

 

PUNCTUALITY

Students should arrive at school between 8:00 and 8:20 am.  As part of the ongoing relationship between home and school, we believe that it is a parental responsibility to ensure that children arrive at school on time. When students come to class late, it can disrupt the flow of a lesson or discussion, distract other students, impede learning, and generally erode class morale. Late arrival disadvantages students and disrupts everyone else so punctuality is expected of all students.

Students who arrive after 8:20 am are considered to be late.

Please find below the school procedures when a student is late for school:

1. Students coming 10 mins late (8:20 – 8:30 am) the Form Class Teacher will sign them late.
2. Persistent late comers will be dealt with through other

 

Next Review Date: 2023

Islamic College of Brisbane has a school wide computer network that supports effective student learning across the school’s curriculum. This network also provides student access to the internet and email.
It is important that you and your child are familiar with the guidelines as outlined below.

Responsibilities of Students:

Respecting and protecting the privacy of others – Students will not -

• share their username and password with anyone else
• use another student’s network account
• attempt to change the network in any way
• distribute private information in any form (including through emails, photographs, mobile phone, or the internet) about themselves or others.
• Store inappropriate material in their network account

Respecting and protecting the integrity, availability, and security of all electronic resources including:

Observing all network security practices;

• Not installing any software onto school computers
• Not accessing any proxy sites that attempt to mask or hide their identity or network activity from the College’s network security;
• Not hacking or attempting to gain unauthorised access to files or the network of any organisation or individual.

Respecting and protecting the intellectual property of others including:

• Not altering, moving, or deleting files belonging to others;
• Not plagiarising, copying, or presenting as their own, the work of others;
• Not infringing or violating copyright laws (including copying and transmitting documents, software, music, games and/or video files) without license or permission.

Respecting and practising the principles of the Guidelines for Mutual Respect including:

• Communicating only in ways that are appropriate and respectful. Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others through any digital communication amounts to cyber-bullying and is not acceptable.
• Not accessing, downloading, sending or displaying offensive, abusive, racist, pornographic, sexist, obscene language or excessively violent material in any electronic communication;
• Not sending emails that contain information which is abusive, impolite, offensive, defamatory, inaccurate, or illegal;
• Not sending spam, chain letters, or other mass unsolicited mailings;
• Not accessing sites, applications or files during class time that are not relevant to the lesson and only accessing appropriate sites to complete school work.

Respecting and protecting ICT equipment including:

• All computers across the school and any peripheral equipment. This also includes interactive white boards, webcams, digital microscopes, lego robotics and cameras.

 

Purpose:	Islamic College of Brisbane is committed to protecting students and employees from unlawful discrimination and to responding appropriately should such discrimination occur.
Scope:	Students and employees, including full-time, part-time, permanent, fixed-term and casual employees, as well as contractors, volunteers and people undertaking work experience or vocational placements.
Status:	Approved	Supersedes: Anti-Discrimination Policy 2008
Authorised by:	Board Chair	Date of Authorisation: 16.08.2021
References:	·         Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld) ·         Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Cth) ·         Age Discrimination Act 2004 (Cth) ·         Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) ·         Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) ·         Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) ·         Islamic College of Brisbane Disability Discrimination Policy ·         Islamic College of Brisbane Employee Code of Conduct ·         Islamic College of Brisbane Complaint Handling Policy
Review Date:	Review every 2 years	Next Review Date: 15.08.2023
Policy Owner:	School Governing Body

Policy Statement

All students and employees at Islamic College of Brisbane have the right to learn and work in an environment free from unlawful discrimination. Islamic College of Brisbane will provide a fair and safe learning and teaching environment where all students and employees have equal opportunities.

Islamic College of Brisbane is committed to protecting students and employees from unlawful discrimination and to responding appropriately should such discrimination occur, including possible disciplinary action. Any instances of discrimination should be reported under the Islamic College of Brisbane Dispute Resolution Policy.

In accordance with relevant law, Islamic College of Brisbane will act to prohibit unlawful discrimination towards its students and employees, on the basis of “protected attributes” relevant to the school, whilst students and employees are engaging in their education and work at Islamic College of Brisbane. Both direct and indirect unlawful discrimination are prohibited.

In accordance with the relevant law, Islamic College of Brisbane prohibits unlawful discrimination against students in all facets of education at Islamic College of Brisbane including:

• admission and enrolment applications
• terms of admission and enrolment
• variation of the terms of a student's enrolment
• denial or limitation of benefits normally resulting from enrolment
• exclusion or suspension of students
• assessment and examination
• access to resources and facilities
• treatment of a student in regard to training or instruction

In accordance with the relevant law, Islamic College of Brisbane prohibits unlawful discrimination against employees undertaking all categories of work, whether it be full-time, part-time, permanent, fixed-term, casual, work experience, vocational placement or voluntary, and in every aspect of work, including:

• recruitment
• terms and conditions
• training
• promotion
• termination of employment

Definitions

• Direct discrimination: Direct discrimination on the basis of an attribute happens if a person treats, or proposes to treat, a person with an attribute less favourably than another person without the attribute is or would be treated in circumstances that are the same or not materially different.
• Indirect discrimination: Indirect discrimination on the basis of an attribute happens if a person imposes, or proposes to impose, a term –

1. with which a person with an attribute does not or is not able to comply
2. with which a higher proportion of people without the attribute comply or are able to comply
3. that is not reasonable.

School Responsibilities

The legislation establishes a legal responsibility on employers to provide workplaces free from discrimination.

Islamic College of Brisbane takes reasonable steps to prevent unlawful discrimination in the school, as follows:

• Develop and implement an anti- discrimination policy to assist in preventing any instances of discrimination.
• Educate and train relevant employees to assist in preventing any instances of discrimination and to appropriately respond to any instances of discrimination.
• Establish appropriate grievance and complaints procedures via its Islamic College of Brisbane Complaint Handling Policy to appropriately respond to any instances of discrimination.
• Remove any discriminatory or offensive materials, rules and practices to assist in preventing any instances of discrimination.
• Encourage employees and students to contribute to a healthy workplace culture to assist in preventing any instances of discrimination.

 

Student and Employee Responsibilities

All students and employees at Islamic College of Brisbane have a responsibility not to engage in discriminatory conduct and to uphold the school’s policy.

If students or employees believe that this type of behaviour is occurring in the school, they should make a complaint under the school’s Complaint Handling Policy.

Implementation

 

All staff are inducted in the Islamic College of Brisbane Code of Conduct. Teachers are reminded to revisit the policy and signatures of acknowledgement are gathered. The Code of Conduct Policy addresses discrimination and any issues associated with discrimination. The consequences for breaching the conditions are explained in the policy.

Teachers will report any form of discriminatory behaviour to the appropriate staff member (Head of Primary, Head of Secondary, Head of Welfare, Chief Executive Officer) and the appropriate procedure will be followed.

Compliance and Monitoring

The school maintains a record of complaints or issues made about a staff member. The information includes: Name, date, issue, investigation, outcome and follow up. As the Code of Conduct is an integral part of our Teacher Appraisal, occurring issues will be addressed according to the Managing Underperformance Policy. Serious issues will necessitate a meeting with the CEO and CLO and all information from this meeting will be considered to determine the outcome.

Appendix 1

FACT SHEET

Not all treatment that seems unfair is unlawful. The Act lists some exemptions that allow conduct that would otherwise be discriminatory. Whether or not an exemption applies will depend on individual circumstances. An overview of some of the exemptions that may apply in educational settings are below.

• Welfare and equal opportunity measures: ‘Special measures’ provisions are designed to benefit or promote equal opportunity for a member of a disadvantaged group or a person with particular needs – for example, special tertiary education entry programs for Indigenous Australians recognise the severe disadvantage they experience compared to others in terms of access to education.
• Educational institutions: Educational institutions for students of a particular sex or religion, or for students who have general or specific impairment, can lawfully exclude students who are not of the particular sex or religion or who do not have a general or the specific impairment.
• Qualifying age: Students may be selected for educational programs on the basis of a minimum qualifying age.
• Supplying special services or facilities: It can be lawful to discriminate on the basis of impairment where special services or facilities are needed for a person or people with an impairment and supplying these would impose an unjustifiable hardship on the educational institution. Factors that are relevant include the nature of the special service or facility, cost of supplying it, the number of people to benefit, the financial circumstances of the organisation, the disruption that the supplying of those services or facilities might cause and the nature of any benefit or detriment to all people concerned.
• Sporting activities: Participation in competitive sporting activities can be restricted on the basis of sex once a person turns 12 years old. Restricted participation must be reasonable and take into account the strength, stamina or physical requirements of the sporting activity. The legislation also allows restriction of participation in sport on the basis of age and impairment. This exemption does not apply to coaching, umpiring or sports administration

 

More information is available from the Queensland Human Rights Commission website at www.qhrc.qld.gov.au. This fact sheet last updated: July 2019.

The Islamic College of Brisbane is an Islamic school drawing from a large area of south western Brisbane.  Most of the students practise the Islamic faith but some do not.  There are many cultures and countries represented in the college.

Islamic Studies and Arabic contribute to the college’s mission to create students who respect and value Islam and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAAW).

The Islamic College of Brisbane’s goal is to give its students a solid grounding in their religion and academic education so that they will be able to go forth from here and succeed in mainstream Australia without compromising their values. The college prides itself in providing a safe and morally healthy environment in which it may foster the social and educational development of students. Here, young Muslims are able to balance their academic and religious education in an environment that allows for and understands their needs and practices. Our teachers consistently engage with the Australian Curriculum to develop teaching and learning programs that build on our students’ interests, strengths, goals and learning needs, while addressing the cognitive, affective, physical, social and aesthetic needs of all students. Teachers promote a positive self-image and self-discipline, a high sense of responsibility, respect and consideration for others and for the authority.

Purpose

Our college’s goal is to embed the use of rich interactive technologies to transform and support teaching and learning in the classroom. Our focus is to use technology to support collaborative and co-operative learning, to develop higher order thinking skills and to help all students to realise their educational potential. Islamic College of Brisbane has a school wide computer network that supports effective student learning across the college’s curriculum. To use the device on campus it is required that the device be set up and connected to the college’s network. This provides students with secure access while working on the college network.

Students are required to follow college policy for ICT use while on college grounds.

Procedures

 

• Students and parents/caregivers must read, understand and sign the BYOD Policy and Student Use Agreement before students will be permitted to connect their device to the college’s internet services.
• Students can only use a personal technology device at college, with the knowledge and written approval of parent/guardian and Islamic College of Brisbane.
• Students use the device for educational purposes whilst on the college premises and/or connected to the college network. Activities such as downloading files, playing computer games or watching movies not related to school work is not permitted.
• When resolving cases where a student-owned device has been damaged, existing college policies and procedures will apply.

Program Participants

 

This BYOD Policy has been developed to inform Islamic College of Brisbane’s community (students, staff, parents and Administration) of the roles and responsibilities of maintaining a responsible, safe and effective BYOD program.

Equity and Access

Islamic College of Brisbane understands that the BYOD program may be a financial burden on some families. Parents may allow students to bring pre-owned or second-hand devices to school, provided they have sufficient memory capacity. We strongly recommend you consider the longevity of devices and storage capability.

Accidental Damage and Theft

The college does not provide accidental damage or theft cover for 3rd party (student-owned) devices and shall not be liable for any damages or theft that occurs on the college’s premises. Therefore, Islamic College of Brisbane encourages parents/ guardians to source accidental damage and theft insurance from an external insurance provider.

 

Responsibilities of Stakeholders – Students, Parents/Caregivers, and the College

Student Responsibilities

As part of the Islamic College of Brisbane’s BYOD Program, students will ensure that they:

• Participate in the BYOD program induction;
• Acknowledge that the main purpose of use of such devices at college is for educational purposes;
• Only log on to services and devices using their own name;
• Charge the device at home, leave enough storage space for learning tasks and keep devices secure to enable daily use;
• Obey general college rules concerning behaviour and communication in line with The College’s Code of Conduct and ICT Use Agreement;
• Protect their devices by contacting their teacher about any security problems they may encounter;
• Secure devices in the designated area within their classroom when devices are not in use;
• Report any damages that may occur to their teacher immediately so that the teacher may investigate and inform the Assistant Principal and parents of the child(ren) regarding the circumstances;
• Use the internet in a safe and appropriate manner (as set out by The College’s Acceptable Use of ICT Policy) and will report any inappropriate or offensive websites to their teacher so that the administration can block those sites;
• Respect and look after all devices, including those that belong to themselves, others and The College;
• Understand and sign the BYOD Agreement.

 

Transporting Your Device

When students are transporting their devices in and around the college, they should ensure that they are closed and that they are carrying it with two hands. Students should never run with these devices as this may lead to damage.

Devices Left in Unsupervised Areas

Under no circumstances should devices be left in unsupervised areas, (including, but not limited to, college grounds, buildings, specialist areas, library, offices, unlocked classrooms or toilets). Any device left in these areas is at risk of being stolen or damaged. If a device is found in an unsupervised area, it will be taken to the office. Violations of this section may result in loss of BYOD privileges and/or other privileges.

Device and Screen Care

Screens may be damaged if subjected to rough treatment. The screens are particularly sensitive to damage from excessive pressure on the screen or dropping of the device.

Devices should be on a stable surface at all times and kept clear of liquids and foods.

Students need to ensure that they do not apply pressure to, lean on or place anything near the device that could place unwanted pressure on the device’s screen. Students must ensure they wash their hands, dry any liquids and keep drink bottles away from devices.

Charging Your Device’s Battery

Devices must be brought to college each day with a fully charged battery; it is expected they will be charged each evening.

 

Parent/Caregivers Responsibilities

Parents/caregivers are essential to the success of Islamic College of Brisbane’s BYOD program. They reinforce college expectations and thus create bridges between college and home expectations while further assisting in ensuring the safety of our students is maintained. As such, we ask that all parents/caregivers:

• Acknowledge that main purpose of use of the device on campus is for educational purposes;
• Consider taking up accidental damage and theft insurance (offered by most insurance providers and retailers) in case their child’s device is damaged;
• Provide a protective case for the device;
• Understand that the child and parent hold full responsibility for the device and that Islamic College of Brisbane is not liable for any mistreatment, breakages, vandalism or loss of the device;
• Engage in regular discussion with their children and establish standards and values that their child(ren) must follow when using their device and the internet and applications at home;
• Make sure their child’s device is clearly labelled with their name;
• Ensure that their child’s device has the required apps installed and ready for educational use;
• Understand students under the age of 13 may not take part in age-restricted social networking sites such as Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram at college;
• The college recommends that all home use of devices should be conducted in a place that is clearly visible for parents/caregivers to supervise;
• Understand and sign the BYOD Agreement.

College Responsibilities

The college provides the foundation of the BYOD Program and has an essential role in ensuring not only educational value but also social responsibility and safety is developed by students. As part of the program Islamic College of Brisbane will:

• Provide BYOD program induction — including information on connection, care of device at college, appropriate digital citizenship, and cybersafety;
• Provide Internet filtering (when connected via the college’s computer network);
• Ensure all staff are trained in using common programs and applications, and are familiar with the processes pertaining to the BYOD Program;
• Train teachers in the BYOD program about cyber safety and allow curriculum time for teachers to teach cyber safe practices to students;
• Educate and assist students with research and device use to ensure compliance with the college’s ICT Acceptable Use;
• Provide lockable areas to store devices.

Evaluation

This policy will be reviewed annually.

Islamic College of Brisbane has a school wide computer network that supports effective student learning across the school’s curriculum. This network also provides student access to the internet and email.
It is important that you and your child are familiar with the guidelines as outlined below.
Responsibilities of Students:
1.    Respecting and protecting the privacy of others – Students will not -
•    share their username and password with anyone else
•    use another student’s network account
•    attempt to change the network in any way
•    distribute private information in any form (including through emails, photographs, mobile phone, or the internet) about themselves or others.
•    Store inappropriate material in their network account
2. Respecting and protecting the integrity, availability, and security of all electronic resources including:
•    Observing all network security practices;
•    Not installing any software onto school computers  
•    Not accessing any proxy sites that attempt to mask or hide their identity or network activity from the College’s network security;
•    Not hacking or attempting to gain unauthorised access to files or the network of any organisation or individual.
3. Respecting and protecting the intellectual property of others including:
•    Not altering, moving, or deleting files belonging to others;
•    Not plagiarising, copying, or presenting as their own, the work of others;
•    Not infringing or violating copyright laws (including copying and transmitting documents, software, music, games and/or video files) without license or permission.
4. Respecting and practising the principles of the Guidelines for Mutual Respect including:
•    Communicating only in ways that are appropriate and respectful. Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others through any digital communication amounts to cyber-bullying and is not acceptable.
•    Not accessing, downloading, sending or displaying offensive, abusive, racist, pornographic, sexist, obscene language or excessively violent material in any electronic communication;
•    Not sending emails that contain information which is abusive, impolite, offensive, defamatory, inaccurate, or illegal;
•    Not sending spam, chain letters, or other mass unsolicited mailings;
•    Not accessing sites, applications or files during class time that are not relevant to the lesson and only accessing appropriate sites to complete school work.
5. Respecting and protecting ICT equipment including:
•    All computers across the school and any peripheral equipment. This also includes interactive white boards, webcams, digital microscopes, lego robotics and cameras.
Islamic College of Brisbane:

Acceptable Information Technology Use Policy – Agreement Form
To make any inquires please contact the school between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm.
Please complete the form.
Student and Parent or Carer Agreement
 I have read and understand the Information Communication Technology Acceptable Use Policy
 • I understand that the school provides my child with access to the school’s network (including the internet) for valuable learning experiences. In regards to internet access, I understand that this will give my child access to information on computers from around the world; that the school cannot always control what is on those computers; and that a small part of that information can be illegal, dangerous or offensive.
• I accept that, while teachers will always exercise their duty of care, protection against exposure to harmful information should depend finally upon responsible use by students/my child. Additionally, I will ensure that my child understands and adheres to the school’s appropriate behaviour requirements and will not engage in inappropriate use of the school’s ICT network.
 • I believe my child understands this responsibility, and I hereby give my permission for him/her to access and use the school’s ICT network (including the internet) under the school rules. I understand that students breaking these rules will be subject to appropriate action by the school. This may include loss of access and usage of the school’s ICT network for some time.

Consent required via the Parent Lounge-Student Details-General Details-Consent menu.

Date of Authorisation	16.08.2021
Authorised by	Board Chair
Review Date	2 years
Next Review Date	15.08.2023
Policy Owner	School Governing Body

 

 

Purpose:	The purpose of this policy is to outline the Islamic College of Brisbane’s response to matters in relation to family law issues.
Scope:	The policy covers parents/carers, students and staff and describes how the college responds to requests by parents/carers who have no contractual arrangements with the college for information about, and access to, their child (ren).
References:	·         Child Protection Policy ·         Islamic College of Brisbane Enrolment Agreement Form P-12 ·         Privacy Policy

 

Rationale

 

1. Colleges have contractual obligations to the person who enrols the child and who is responsible for payment of the fees.
2. Colleges have a duty in tort to take reasonable care for the safety of the child.
3. Colleges have no way of knowing as a fact who the natural parents of a child are
4. Colleges should not need to determine the current state of orders in a Family Court matter.
5. The Family Court seldom makes an order which a college is directed to obey.

 

Policy

 

Except in exceptional circumstance outlined below, the college does not become involved in Family Court matters.

It is the policy of Islamic College of Brisbane to provide information about a child and access to the child to those people whom the college believes are the natural parents of the child and to others as per the college’s contractual obligation to the enrolling party. Under the Australian Education Act 2013 and s59 of the Australian Education Regulation 2013, the college is required to provide reports to the “persons responsible for students”. Islamic College of Brisbane will provide college reports to the “persons responsible” as per the above definition.

In all other matters, the college will, unless aware of information to the contrary, follow the directed course of the enrolling party, as per the college’s contractual obligations to the enrolling party. If there is a disagreement between the enrolling party and others who believe they have the right of access to information about or access to the child, it is the responsibility of those parties to reach agreement independently from the college, either through consultation or court action. The college will not become involved as the arbiter in disputes of this kind.

 

 

Exceptional Circumstances

 

The policy is subject to 3 qualifications:

 

1. Where a court orders otherwise and the order binds the college
2. Where it is reasonably foreseeable that the safety of the child could be jeopardised
3. Where the child objects and the college believes it is in the best interests of the child to heed the objection.

 

Legislation

 

Family Law Act 1975 (Cth)

Australian Education Act 2013 (Cth)

Australian Education Regulation 2013(Cth)

 

Definitions

 

Parental Responsibility: In relation to a child, means all the duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which, by law, parents have in relation to children. Each of the parents of a child who is not eighteen (18) has parental responsibility for the child. This is not affected, for example, by the parents becoming separated or by either or both of them marrying or re-marrying. [Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) s61(B); s61(C)(1)and(2)]

 

Parent(s): Usually a child’s parents are the father whose sperm fertilizes the mother’s ovum and the mother who conceived and gave birth to the child. These are called the “natural parents”. Other circumstances of parenthood include:

• Adoptive parents
• Step-parents may have a duty to maintain a child but only under a court order[Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) s66M]
• Where there has been artificial insemination by a donor
• Where an ovum provided by one woman is fertilized in vitro and inserted in another woman
• Where a woman acts as a surrogate and agrees to bear a child for another woman

 

Persons responsible for students: The natural parents of a student are legally responsible for the student until the student turns 18 unless a parenting order has been made by the Court removing responsibility from one or both of the natural parents.

Date of Authorisation	16.05.2023
Authorised by	Board
Review Date	Annually
Next Review Date	16.05.2024
Policy Owner	CEO

 

 

Purpose:	The purpose of this policy is to provide parents& guardians with a guide to the principles in which they are to uphold when interacting with all ICB stakeholders and members, in-person and online.
Scope:	This policy applies to all adults, including parents, guardians, stepparents, grandparents, extended family, caregivers, and others, while involved in onsite and offsite (communication) activities. The term "parent" refers to all caregivers as listed above.
References:	Islamic College of Brisbane Complaint Handling Policy

 

About this Code of Conduct

 

The Islamic College of Brisbane's community includes diverse groups and individuals with various opinions, striving to work towards a better future for students. The Islamic College of Brisbane recognises and promotes this; however, it must be delivered appropriately without risking the College or its members. The Parent Code of Conduct establishes the College's expectation on how parents are to conduct themselves on school grounds and in any setting in which they are representing the College, in-person or online. It also details the correct avenues that should be used when parents would like to voice their concerns or provide the school leadership with feedback.

 

In developing this Code of Conduct, the College recognises the importance of balancing the interest of all stakeholders (parents, students, staff and their right to a safe and positive work environment).

 

This Code of Conduct works in line with the College's policies and procedures relevant to parents and may be varied from time to time by the College in absolute discretion.

 

Guiding Principles

 

The Islamic College of Brisbane prides itself on its educational and Islamic ethos that models the College's principles. Parents are expected to implement these principles and model them positively to their child(ren) to embed the behavioural standards expected by the College when interacting with all members of the College.

"The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever"- Bukhari and Muslim

The Australian Government Alice Spring Declaration (2019) acknowledges that parents, careers and families are the first and most important educational influence in a child's life.

Parents can positively model the College's principles by adopting the following:

1. Comply with the College's policies and procedures and ensure their children do the same. This includes local and College traffic management processes.
2. Respect that the College is inclusive and welcomes students and staff from a variety of different backgrounds.
3. Be responsive and engage with all concerns raised by the College about their child by being cooperative, providing information and attending meetings when scheduled.
4. Inform the College of a child's behavioural or educational needs by providing accurate and updated medical information. The College will take such information and provide the support needed with the resources available. However, parents must be aware that the College will not be able to accommodate everyone's needs.
5. Inform the College of all parenting arrangements, including any court orders that may be in place. The College will not be involved in any disputes between parents.
6. Inform the College of any situation of conflict and restrain from engaging in such situations with any College member or visitor while on school grounds. The College will deal with all behaviour related incidents. (link complaints procedure).
7. Parents must recognise the damage gossip does in a school community and its adverse impacts on students, staff and parents alike. Unconstructive commentary such as uniformed rumours or speculation in person or via social media is not tolerated.

 

Ethical Conduct

 

Parents are asked to adhere to the highest ethical conduct standards while attending school grounds or offsite school events. Parents should:

• Sign in at the administration block before attending engagements on school grounds.
• Not engage in any smoking activities on school grounds or near the College entrance. Any breaches of this will result in a penalty.
• Attain consent from the relevant person to take photos of students, parents, staff, volunteers, or the College. If consent is not provided, parents are not permitted to take photographs of anyone or anything other than their child.
• Not enter their child's classroom unless accompanied by a staff member. Parents are not permitted to demand engagement with a teacher without 'booking an appointment.
• Appointments must be requested at least 24 hours in advance by the parent and will only be conducted once the staff member has accepted the request if it is reasonable and valid.
• Respect all attending members' contributions when attending assemblies or meetings.

 

Communication

 

The Islamic College of Brisbane expects all parents to communicate respectfully at all times. The term 'respectfully' is used by the College to determine the behaviour it deems unrespectful. This includes both verbal and non-verbal behaviour:

1. Bullying, intimidation, discrimination and violence.
2. Defamatory or offensive comments.
3. Gossip, rumours or innuendo.
4. Harsh tone and volume of voice when communicating with a College member.
5. Age-inappropriate language when communicating with students.

Use of technology and social media

 

The Islamic College of Brisbane expects parents to support the College by upholding the Code of Conduct when using technology and interacting online. Appropriate use of technology and ethical online behaviour ensures the interest of all ICB community members. When communicating with members of the College community, in person or online, parents should:

• Refrain from using their online presence to raise College-related issues online. All issues must be addressed via the College Complaints process (link).
• Avoid publishing information about the College or its members. An example of this is not using social media platforms to discuss grievances with a specific staff member or publishing their professional or personal details.
• Avoid discussing confidential or sensitive matters online.
• Not engage in any malicious conversation or gossip online or in-person. Parents are accountable for ensuring that the information that they discuss is correct.
• Not set up any online websites, forums, or social media groups that feature the College's names or imply that it is sanctioned or operated by the College.
• Not contact students on social media without consent from the child's parents.

 

All communication with the College will be responded to during work hours. If administration staff cannot directly attend due to their engagement with another College member or parent, they will be in contact soon after. 

Parents have the right to raise issues and concerns about the wellbeing and education of their child(ren). The College has provided all its members with access to the complaints process available on the College website: https://www.icb.qld.edu.au/index.php/component/sppagebuilder/?view=page&id=221

The College will only respond to matters put forward via the complaints policy and procedure. When putting forward a complaint, parents must provide the College with complete and accurate information. The College will attend to the matter and ensure that it is solved, with the interest of all parties considered. 

 

Drop off & pick up

 

When dropping off and picking up students from the College, Parents are expected to do so in a safe manner that guarantees the health and safety of all ICB community members. Parents are required to comply with the traffic road rules and any other traffic management process in place by the College. This includes adhering to speed limits, minimising the use of car horns, using the pick-up and drop off bays and following the direction of the College's traffic team.

 

Breaches of this Code of Conduct

The College Management team will have complete discretion for deciding the best response to a parent's vexatious complaint or noncompliance to this Code of Conduct. This may include: 

• The College banning the parent from entering school grounds or attending College events.
• The College may direct that a parent only communicates with staff members through a nominated College representative.
• The College's termination of the enrolment of the parent's child if the parent's breach is extreme or has been occurring for a prolonged period.
• Other steps the College deems appropriate, according to the nature of the breach.
• The College involving other authorities. S359 of the Educational Act 2006 provides for the reporting by the CEO or governing body of parents or visitors who disrupt the good order and management of schools or who threaten the safety of staff or students in schools.

The Islamic college of Brisbane Dress Code Policy has been developed in accordance with the Department of Education, Training and Employment’s policy: Student Dress Code. We value understanding, inclusion, responsibility and modesty. It is an expectation that upon student enrolment at Islamic college of Brisbane that parents consent to uphold our Student Dress Code by way of signing the Enrolment Agreement Form. 

                                 Dress Code Regulations 

Department of Education, training and Employment policy on Dress Codes provides the following: 

• The right for school councils to determine school dress policy
• Consultation entitlements and processes
• Enforcement obligations and exemption conditions.

Dress code must: 

• be developed in consultation with school community.
• be consistent with health and safety considerations.
• comply with anti-discrimination legislations.
• consider affordability, functionality and durability of uniform items.
• provide uniform options.

Compliance Obligations:

• Students not wearing school dress code will be spoken to by a staff member and encouraged to observe the dress code policy.
• Parents/carers will be contacted by letter or diary note from the classroom teacher/form teacher if the student persistently breaches the dress code.
• Further discussions may be required if non-compliance occurs.
• If dress code is not worn on any school function (Photo day, Assembly, End of Year Award Ceremony etc.), the student will be given a clean shirt from the second-hand supply for use on that day, if an alternative arrangement cannot be made.

The Student Dress Code Policy provides for the following:

• Standards of what is acceptable in relation to the clothing worn by the students, including headwear and footwear;
• Standards of what is acceptable in relation to other aspects of the personal presentation of the students.

Our student dress code consists of an agreed standard and items of clothing. This includes a school uniform that all students will wear when:

• attending or representing their school;
• travelling to and from school; and
• engaging in school activities out of school hours.

The policy is under constant review with resulting changes being effective from the commencement of the following year. Any changes to the school uniform are phased in over a period of not less than two years.                             

Islamic College of Brisbane Uniform

Why uniform:  Unity, Neatness, Inclusion, Formality, Right, Manners  

At Islamic college of Brisbane we aim to provide safe and supportive learning environment to children to fully participate in learning. ICB chosen uniform supports positive behaviour and discipline. It: 

• Promote ICB vision by providing safe, supportive and moral learning environment.
• Promotes the college values and Islamic ethos of:
• Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be Safe
• Promotes pride in our school, a sense of equity, inclusiveness and unity.
• Minimizes visible evidence of economic or social differences.
• Is the link between dress standards, school discipline and academic success.
• Develops mutual respect among students and the wider community.
• Enables the early identification of unauthorised persons or may not belong on the school site.
• Allows for the easy identification of our students on school premises and during regional sporting and cultural events and excursions, critical incidents, safety drills or evacuations.
• Reflects the Islamic college of Brisbane’s community expectations of student safety and is consistent with the Department Health and Safety and Anti-discrimination Legislation and Sun Safe Strategy.

Uniform guidelines: 

• All aspects of the uniform (except shoes / socks / belts for primary students) are to be purchased in the college uniform shop.
• Students are required to wear their formal uniform for all formal occasions such as excursions (unless otherwise specified), awards nights, college photos, other college or public functions.
• Jumpers, other than those with the official ICB logo, are not permitted.
• Hoodies are totally banned.
• ICB uniforms are not to be altered in any fashion (cutting/shortening, rolling up/down etc)
• The head scarf should be simply tied with no intricate styles including protruding buns. No hair should be showing.
• Undershirts must remain tucked in and not be visible around the waist, neckline or sleeve.
• Socks must be plain white at least ankle length and visible (no coloured trim).
• School sport team apparel (e.g. Futsal) to be worn at training/games ONLY.
• The College understands and accepts that some religions, cultures have specific dress and head wear requirements.
• Students must not mix and match between the formal and sports uniforms. For example, if wearing the formal shirt, the formal pants (boys) or skirt (girls) must be worn. Trousers/skirts are to be maintained at a height that does not expose a student’s skin.

Personal appearance: 

Islamic College of Brisbane requires all students to come to school with a clean and tidy appearance. Personal hygiene is a very important consideration for each student and will be encouraged by the school. We encourage good looking, cleanliness and beauty. We promote the safety of our learners. Regular check will be conducted fortnightly by school staff (teaching and non-teaching). 

Hair, Jewellery, Make up 

• Hair is to be washed, combed/brushed. Hair must be pinned away from eyes.
• Hair (for girls) that is shoulder length or longer should be tied back with appropriate accessories in school colours. (Health and Safety requirement)
• Hair colour is to be natural tones i.e. not bright or multi-coloured (such as pink, blue, green).
• Hair styles are to be neat and tidy e.g. no mohawks, no patterns, no undercuts, no wedges, no words/symbols shaved into the scalp, no shaved haircuts etc.
• Appropriate protective eyewear (safety glasses), are required to be worn in some Science and Design & Technology classes.
• No makeup (lip colours, eyeliner, mascara or eye shadow)
• Fingernails are to be short in length as to not present a Workplace Health & Safety hazard.
• No facial piercing permitted. Religious piercings require approval by the Principal.
• No necklaces, bracelets, bands or anklets are allowed. Medical alert necklaces or bracelets are permitted.
• No visible markings/drawings on skin including stick-on tattoos.
• No coloured nail polish.
• No studded belts.
• No handbags permitted for schooling purposes.

The only items of jewellery allowed are:

• One earring (plain studs or sleepers) per ear for pierced ears, or sleepers without dangling parts or beads.
• One wrist watch
• Appropriate school badges
• Items required for identification of medical conditions
• Religious or cultural necklaces may be worn out of sight
• Plain hair accessories to be worn and only if needed. Students may wear hair ribbons or clips in the college colours (white and green). All other accessories are not permitted. These include but are not limited to bandanas, beanies and bright coloured headwear.

(This is a WH&S requirement and any additional jewellery will be confiscated.)

*The above jewellery standards apply to any occasion during or out of school hours including, but not limited to, where a student is at the College, representing Islamic college of Brisbane in any way, dressed in College uniform including uniforms for various sporting, extra-curricular or other programs where the College is represented by the student, or the College is on display in the community. 

The school assumes NO responsibility for loss or damage to any item of jewellery at school.

SHOES   

Due to our responsibility and commitment to keeping our learners’ health and safety standards, along with Workplace Health and Safety regulations students’ footwear must provide adequate protection and cover the entire foot. Footwear selection must also take into account the health benefits of growing children wearing supportive footwear to minimize future health risks. We care and encourage a great public image for ICB. 

Students must wear: 

• All black, full leather shoes with black laces for Secondary students and sports shoes with Velcro or laces for Primary students. Any shoes required for a particular sport, e.g. white soled shoes, running spikes, etc can only be worn for participation in sport. The student will then be required to return to the correct College uniform of black shoes with a leather upper and black laces (Secondary) and black sport shoes (Primary).

The following items are unacceptable: 

• Boots that come above the ankle, whether they are black leather or not;
• Shoes with coloured trims or logos, canvas lace up shoes, canvas shoes without laces, slip on shoes of any style or colour, regardless of whether they are black or not or footwear that does not cover the entire foot.
• Boots that come above the ankle, whether they are black leather or not;
• The College has strict expectations and requirements concerning appropriate and regulated footwear. The College reserves the right to make judgements on the acceptability or otherwise of footwear and will not enter further discussion on decisions made in this regard.

Sensible footwear is to be worn at all times – e.g. closed-in shoes. Thongs (except Wudu and Prayer), Crocs or high platform shoes are not permitted.

 

Acceptable Footwear

 

PRIMARY PREP to Year 6 Black SPORT Shoes Laces or Velcro	PRIMARY Year 3 - 6 White SPORT Shoes Black or Grey Markings Allowed for HPE lessons	SECONDARY Year 7 -12 Black Leather Shoes (Canvas material is not acceptable)

 

 

 

 

 

HATS 

Islamic College of Brisbane has a No Hat, Play in the Shade policy for Terms 1 and 4. Students are required to wear a style of hat that gives protection to the face, neck and ears. Sunsafe hats are available from the uniform shop. Hats cannot be ‘on loan’ if a student has forgotten or lost their hat.  Children are encouraged also to wear a hat to and from school, and to wear 30+ or greater sunscreen. 

The School Staff may apply the following sanctions on any student who does not comply with our schools Dress Code:

• No hat, no play (under cover play only).
• Not sun safe, no play/ no water activity.

Students must wear hats whenever they are exposed to the sun - for HPE lessons, sport activities or when participating in games or sports during recess.

SCHOOL BAGS 

School bags / library bags are available for purchase at the uniform shop, labelling student’s clothing, hat and bag is strongly advised.

Free Dress Days:

Students must wear appropriately modest clothing. The usual safety regulations regarding the wearing of closed in shoes and approved jewellery also applies on free dress days.

Clothing worn: 

• Must be sun safe.
• No inappropriate logos, images, slogans or wording (e.g. alcohol/tobacco).
• Safe footwear (must be covered in; no thongs, high heels etc).

Islamic College of Brisbane Uniform (clothing):    

Primary Formal Uniform (Prep - Year 6)  

• Prep - Year 2 don't have formal uniform. Students wear sport uniform every day from Term 1 to Term 4.
• Year 3 - Year 6 wear formal uniform except for HPE lessons in Term 2 & 3 and sports uniform in Term 1 & 4

Girls Formal Uniform	Boys Formal Uniform	Unisex Formal Uniform
Formal blouse (white)	Formal shirt (light green)	Winter tracksuit jacket (Green)
Pinafore (green)	Formal pants (grey)	Winter tracksuit pants (Green)
Formal pants (grey)	White socks
Hijab (white)	Black shoes
White socks	Formal hat
Black shoes
Formal hat

   

      Primary Sport Uniform (Prep - Year 6) 

Girls Sport Uniform	Boys Sport Uniform	Unisex Sport Uniform
Sport shirt (green)	Sport shirt (green)	Bucket hat (Blue, Red , Yellow)
Sport pants (green)	Sport short (green)
White socks	White socks
Black sport shoes	Black sport shoes
White hijab (Yrs 3-6)

      Secondary Formal Uniform (Year 7- Year 12) 

Girls Formal Uniform	Boys Formal Uniform	Unisex Formal Uniform
Formal shirt (white)	Formal shirt (white)	Green blazer (Year 12 only)
Formal skirt (green)	Formal pants (grey)	Winter jumper ( green )
Formal hijab (white)	White socks
White socks	Black leather shoes
Black leather shoes	Formal tie (Year 12 only)

 

 

 

 

Secondary Sport Uniform (Year 7 - Year 12) 

Girls Sport Uniform	Boys Sport Uniform	Unisex Sport Uniform
Sport shirt (green)	Sport shirt (green)	Winter tracksuit jacket (black)
Sport pants (black)	Sport short (black)	Winter tracksuit pants (black)
Sport visor	Sport cap	Winter tracksuit (green)
Sport scarf (white)	White socks
White socks	Sport shoes
Sport shoes

 

HIJAB:  

ICB uniform conforms to the Islamic values of modesty for young Muslim learners. The school will support the spiritual development of students by offering experience of Islamic living through the traditions of Islamic life and prayer. Formal Hijab and sport headscarf are available at the uniform shop in school colour (white). ICB is Hijab encouraging and welcoming school. Year 2-12 Muslim learners will be required to pray in the praying hall. We are committed to providing safe and supportive learning space for all our students. In keeping with our inclusive ethos, Islamic College of Brisbane embraces the differences and values the cultural diversity of ICB multicultural community. 

School Representation: 

A school blazer will be loaned to students from the uniform shop when representing the school at formal occasions if needed. These items are to be worn with the Everyday Uniform. It is expected that blazers will be returned to the school in good condition at the conclusion of the relevant event.

Items that are not returned, lost or damaged will be charged to the student.

 

Out of uniform procedures: 

Staff and school leaders monitor the dress code across the school on a regular basis. Students unable to wear an item of the uniform for good reason must follow the procedures below: 

PRIMARY SCHOOL (PREPARATORY – YEAR 6) 

Students unable to wear an item of the correct uniform must comply with the following procedures: 

• Report to class as per normal each morning;
• Teachers note the uniform breach and give a verbal reminder.
• Teachers will contact the parent/guardian to negotiate a solution to the uniform breach;
• Persistent non-compliance with the ICB Dress Code Policy will result in a meeting between the Head of School and parents to resolve the uniform breach;
• Incorrect uniform items may be confiscated by a member of administration/class teachers.
• In rare, extenuating circumstances the Head of School may issue a temporary uniform exemption pass for a finite period of time e.g. temporary medical condition. Students are to present appropriate documentation to the office.

 

SECONDARY SCHOOL (YEAR 7 – YEAR 12) 

Students unable to wear an item of the correct uniform must comply with the following procedures: 

• Report to the Year level Coordinator / class teacher after roll class.
• Record the note in the student dairy.
• The Year Level Coordinator will contact the parent/guardian to see if the uniform breach can be corrected;
• If the breach cannot be corrected, the student will complete their learning for the remainder of the day and consequences applied and recorded in students pastoral care profile.;
• Persistent non-compliance with the ICB Dress Code Policy will result in a meeting between the Head of School and parents to resolve the uniform breach;
• Incorrect uniform items may be confiscated by a member of administration;
• In rare, extenuating circumstances the Head of School may issue a temporary uniform exemption pass for a finite period of time e.g. temporary medical condition. Students are to present appropriate documentation to the office.

Non-compliance with Student Dress Code Policy:

Students unable to wear their uniform for valid reason are required to bring a note from their parent/caregiver indicating when the student will be able to wear their uniform. If there is no note, the school will presume that the student is deliberately resisting the uniform policy without parental permission

ICB educators value understanding and support the students learning experiences. If learners choose to display unacceptable behaviour and conduct in school, then they will enter into a system of staged sanctions.

Uniform Exemption Pass: In exceptional circumstances where a student is unable to wear the approved uniform, a uniform exemption pass may be issued for a negotiated period of time by the Year Coordinator and/or Head of School.

Safety Regulations Note: Should the dress of students not comply with the safety regulations set down for certain subjects, those students will be refused entry to work in those areas.

Where a student is inappropriately dressed and does not hold an exemption card, the following non-compliance process should be undertaken during the student’s free time, not during lessons which are part of the essential educational program of the school.

A number of strategies may be employed by the school staff in the event students are non-compliant with the school’s mandatory Student Dress Code. These strategies will be compliant with the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006.  Strategies include:

• Seeking parental support for compliance e.g. letter or telephone call.
• Requesting correct uniform be brought to school for the student.
• Assisting students with genuine economic hardship to acquire uniform e.g. uniform loan.
• Imposing a penalty, e.g. reflection/detention time. Continued breaches will incur a stronger penalty.
• Preventing the student from taking part in important school events inside and outside the school.
• Preventing the student taking part in a school activity that is not part of the essential education program of the school (this can include school excursions, extracurricular activities).
• Continued non-compliance reverts to the school behaviour support plan.

Families with students who have a history of dress code non-compliance are encouraged to contact the Head of School to discuss the matter. 

In circumstances where the Principal is satisfied that the student’s non-compliance is beyond the student’s control, disciplinary sanctions will not be applied.

Whatever the strategy implemented it is the intention of the school Administration to ensure every student complies with the Student Dress Code Policy every day.

Special Circumstances

ICB Student Dress Code incorporates strategies to accommodate special needs and circumstances of students. These arrangements are negotiated between parents and the Principal. Examples of special circumstances may include:

• student medical conditions (allergies etc.);
• student disability, physical attributes or requirements;
• religious, ethnic or cultural background;
• economic hardship;
• constraints of time and economic hardship at the time of enrolment.

An exemption can be sought by writing to the school Principal outlining the reason/s. 

                         

Students with disability or identified medical condition: 

On occasion students with a disability or identified medical condition may require specific adjustments to their school uniform under their Education Adjustment Program as a result of additional specialist input from: - Advisory Visiting Teacher - Occupational Therapist - Orientation and Mobility Specialist - Physiotherapist - Speech-Language Pathologist. 

Where a student requires a specific uniform adjustment, the Chief Learning Officer will advise school personnel on the specifications of their uniform adjustment. Students with a disability may undertake a sensory profile supported by the identified Occupational Therapist to identify a specific sensory difficulty relating to the adjustment of wearing items of the school uniform.

Application Process (form to be provided or you can create it)

An application for individual circumstances for exemption should be made to the  Head of School. The Head of School in considering the application may require additional information from an applicant to satisfy themselves that the application has a genuine basis (as opposed to a mere preference or dislike). The school Principal's decision is final.

Consequences of approval

The exemption allows the student to attend school without receiving a disciplinary consequence applied for the uniform non-compliance, but these students may however be prevented from attending, or participating in, any school activity that, in the reasonable opinion of the Head of School, is not part of the essential educational program of the school (this can include school excursions, extra-curricular activities where the student is associated with the school) and /or be prevented from attending, or participating in, any school activity for which the student would have been representing the school.

Next Review Date: 2023

Review date: October 2022

Background

The Australian Student Wellbeing Framework is a foundation for Australian schools which provides a vision and a set of guiding principles to support school communities to build positive learning environments. It also encourages schools to perform periodic reviews of safety and wellbeing policies.

The five key elements of the Wellbeing Framework are:

Leadership

Principals and school leaders play an active role in building positive learning environment where the whole school community feels included connected, safe and respected.

Inclusion

All members of the school community are active participants in building a welcoming school culture that values, diversity, and fosters positive, respectful relationships.

Student Voice

Students are active participants in their own learning and wellbeing, feel connected and use their social and emotional skills to be respectful, resilient and safe.

Partnerships

Families and communities collaborate as partners with the school to support student learning, safety and wellbeing.

Support

School staff, students and families share and cultivate an understanding of wellbeing and support for positive behaviour and how this supports effective teaching and learning.

The Wellbeing Framework is aligned to state, territory and other national wellbeing and safety initiatives and to the Australian Curriculum, the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and Principals. The Wellbeing Framework is based on evidence that recognises the strong linkages between student safety, wellbeing and learning outcomes.

 

The Islamic College of Brisbane’s vision

The Islamic College of Brisbane is committed to adopting these principles and shaping the educational environment to increase our students’ opportunity and encourage positive choices in life within the Islamic ethos. ICB embraces the opportunity to promote positive mental health and wellbeing and understands that it has a core role in education.

Aim for our students:

• To actively participate and flourish in their best education journey
• To build resilience against adversity
• To develop regulated emotional skills and protective factors from mental ill-health
• To provide a rich learning environment for personal and social development
• To create a culture and encourage partnerships that are open, respectful and caring
• To provide the skills for positive behaviour and confidence to seek help for intervention.
• To provide spiritual guidance via referral to the Imams
• To provide guidance and counselling services

ICB’s Welfare/Wellbeing Team works to support optimum health and wellbeing for students and staff and to ensure a positive, safe and caring school community. The Team provides both targeted and small group support for students as well as support for ongoing staff development. The Wellbeing Team contributes to the whole school ‘best school, best learning journey’, with the intentional promotion of optimal learning, social and emotional development, personal strengths and resilience. We place the focus on achieving the best for the individual student.

 

The Welfare/Wellbeing Team

The Team provides a range of student and family mental health supports, as well as building a network of services and community links. Our team:

• Builds strong relationships with students, teachers and families.
• Liaises and documents outcomes, plans and strategies
• Increases staff awareness of mental health interventions and strategies.
• Provides small group, individual and peer support/counselling
• Enables a strong team approach to case management of students.
• Provides support for teachers and learning and development teams by supporting students with complex needs; medication, referrals and liaison with medical specialists
• Utilises a wide range of physical, learning and mental health assessments.
• Adopts and develops frameworks to shape appropriate intervention strategies to enable the best outcome for the student, family and school in line with the school values.
• Provides input into Social and Emotional learning programs.
• Compliments the school’s health, social and emotional curriculum.
• Supports the transition of students’ movement through the campus from P-12 and beyond.

Other aspects that the team members look after include:-

• Sun safe activities
• Active school travel/road safety/pick up and drop off
• Before and after school care
• Pandemic management and infectious disease management
• First aid measures and training, maintain first aid kits and defibrillators
• Provide first aid to students, staff and visitors
• Provide health care, support and advice on asthma, allergies, anaphylaxis, diabetes, cardiac conditions, epilepsy or seizures, etc
• Medication administration guidelines
• Referral to the Welfare Team/SWAN team
• Privacy and confidentiality- maintaining sensitive information
• Incident management and documentation
• Suicide and self-harm- intervention and postvention
• Behaviour management and support student self-regulation
• Vocational/Alternate education pathways
• Student support and counselling
• Family support - increase awareness of local services
• Networking- strengthening connections to services in the local community
• Referrals and liaison with other health care professionals
• Coordination of care both internal and external in the mental health framework
• Referral to the Welfare Team/SWAN team
• Conduct classroom observations, document and share information
• Perform surveys, collect data and implement/promote wellbeing programs for students during Achieve lessons
• Hearing and Vision assessment to prep students
• National Immunisation Program for students
• Preventative immunisation programs for staff.

 

First Aid

Our school nurse promotes and protects the optimal health status of all students and develops procedures and policies to monitor the health status of the College, standards of care and complies with legislative and policy requirements around privacy and safety.

 

Restorative Justice/Behaviour Management

ICB uses the Restorative Justice Process as a whole school approach to assist teachers and students to build, maintain and restore relationships. Restorative justice promotes resilience in both the person who is harmed and the person who causes the harm. It is about helping our students to become aware of the impact of their behaviour by encouraging empathy, accountability, expression of feelings and thoughts, and problem solving.

Affective questions are used to assist in managing conflict or a potential conflict situation and work towards resolution. This process enables the students to be heard, ascertain what has happened, understand the impact on both parties and identify ways to move forward.

Primary Behaviour Management Plan

Secondary Behaviour Management Plan

 

Cultural and Religious Diversity

ICB has a dynamic and diverse community with many cultures and languages. The College embraces this multitude of experiences, skills and customs and encourages students to grow and develop as a whole person in particular regarding acceptance of others beliefs, values and attitudes.

All teaching within the College is mindful of the Islamic faith and ethos and it is embedded into the curriculum. Our College Imams are encouraged to participate in Welfare/Wellbeing activities and assist with proactive, Islamically sensitive advice for the whole school community.

The College observes morning dua daily and each student participates in mid-day (Zuhur) prayer, Islamic Studies and Quran reading.

 

Attendance

Attendance is monitored for all students in the College. Absences must be recorded and a parent acknowledgement received. Extended leave requires an exemption form to be presented to the principal. (For further information please contact school administration) Returning to school after a long absence can be difficult for some students and our Welfare/Wellbeing Team is available to assist with the transition.

 

School Attendance Policy

 

Sun Safety and Excessive Heat

ICB ensures that our staff and students are protected from the harmful effects of the sun. Sun Safe Policy

 

Physical Activity

ICB encourages participation of all our students in structured and unstructured play. The curriculum provides access to health and physical education and our College participates in a number of extra-curricular sporting events. Students are actively encouraged to participate, and our Welfare/Wellbeing Team understand that physical activity has a positive effect on learning.

 

Road Safety

ICB implements a cooperative approach regarding road safety initiatives and promotes road safety messages. Our staff are encouraged to monitor students at drop off and pick up and be role models for safe travel and use of the roads and crossings. We encourage our parents to be road safe, buckle up and be mindful of road safety laws in and around the college.

Our College actively encourages the Qld Police Service Liaison officer to participate in delivering safety messages to our community.

 

Mental Health and Wellbeing Promotion

ICB has adopted a whole school approach to promoting wellbeing, including targeted curriculum activities (HPE). The College has embraced ‘Be You’ initiatives from P-12 and understands that early intervention strategies for positive mental health, create a supportive environment, reducing absences, and allows our students to participate in developing resilience, coping skills and understanding of mental health needs.

Within the Australian Curriculum, students develop personal and social capability as they learn to understand themselves and others, manage relationships, live, work and learn more effectively. Some of these lessons involve recognising and regulating emotions, developing empathy and establishing and building positive relationships, making responsible decisions, teamwork and handling challenging situation constructively. We encourage the development of Leadership skills. BeYou Framework
Australian Student Wellbeing Framework

 

Counselling and Mental Health Support

The ICB Wellbeing Counsellor and Guidance Officer provide counselling and support for a range of welfare, wellbeing and mental health conditions. All our staff play a very important role in identifying times or situations when students may require additional support and a referral pathway is available to access these services.

Secondary students can self-refer, or a teacher may make a recommendation for assistance (primary & secondary). Parental consent is required for primary students. Parents are also encouraged to reach out if they feel that they need support for their student. Speaking to the class teacher or year level coordinator can also be of assistance in the first instance.

It is essential that the school, parents, teachers and students work together to ensure healthy development, provide adaptable support strategies and ensure that suitable safety mechanisms are in place for a full educational and social emotional support plan.

There are many areas of support that may be required during a student’s school life. Some intervention may be short term and other interventions and support may be long term. Some of the support provided by the College Welfare/Wellbeing Team may be internal or referral to outside providers may be suggested.

Our College Welfare/Wellbeing Team can develop a strategy in collaboration with staff members and parents. This plan may require complex management and psychological
intervention. Our team is able to liaise with your GP or other health care provider as necessary, to coordinate care.

Supportive planning and assistance are available for a range of conditions:

• Separation or generalised anxiety- short or long term
• Challenging behaviours
• Diagnosis of disorders affecting learning – ADD/ASD/ODD
• Stressful events- moving house, world events, natural disasters
• Divorce or family upheaval/ court orders/ DVO/AVO
• Trauma- refugee health/ post traumatic episodes
• Neglect or financial distress
• Abuse- physical, mental or sexual
• Self-harm, depression, suicidal thoughts
• Bullying
• Cyber safety
• Drug and alcohol use or abuse
• Grief and loss
• Friendship or relationship issues

Our staff are mandatory reporters and bound by a number of laws and legislation surrounding Child Safety, Privacy and management of sensitive information. Our role is to identify, monitor, observe document, implement and review all strategies related to case managing a student with identified needs. Our aim is to work constructively to facilitate a safe, supportive environment within the bounds of legislation, national health and educational regulations.

Child Protection Policy

ICB Privacy Policy

Family Law Policy

Bullying – Prevention and Response (included in Behaviour Management Plans)

Cyber Safety

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Student Code of Conduct

Student Referral Form

Counselling Consent form

Alternative Education and Pathways

Alternative education settings are an important option for young people. These pathways provide a wide range of high quality, individually tailored programs designed to provide hope, self-worth and a bright future.

Our guidance officer can provide constructive advice and support to our students to engage in alternate pathways which addresses their health, safety and wellbeing needs in a structured educational or vocational environment. These systems achieve optimism, engagement and support positive relationships.

Contact the School Guidance Counsellor for further information.

 

Partnerships

ICB facilitates collaborative and productive partnerships with and between students, teachers, parents and carers, support staff and community groups by engaging a range of school-based services and external agencies to support the education, health and wellbeing of students and families.

These resources are dynamic and change to suit the needs of our students. Permission from parents is required to attend these drama productions, talks, shows or clinics, etc.

Risk assessments are performed as required and assessed prior to the event, and all performances and presentations from outside agencies are vetted by the Director of Islamic Studies for Islamic suitability.

 

WHS/Health and First aid

ICB employs a Nurse to support the health, wellbeing and first aid needs of our students and staff. Health care plans, including action plans for life threatening conditions are prepared and maintained to protect the health of our students and to provide instructions for all staff and partners interacting with students. We ask our parents to maintain current health information and provide adequate medication to care for their students.

The health and safety of students, visitors and staff is paramount, and our policies and procedures comply with WHS legislation, the Public Health Act and are completed in a manner that is in line with current nursing practices.

Nursing services may include:

• developing individual (daily routine) and emergency health plans for school
• training (including refresher training) staff to manage student health needs and perform health procedures
• providing supervision and support for staff in emergency situations only

 

Workplace Health and Safety Policy

 

References

• Australian Student Wellbeing Framework -

https://studentwellbeinghub.edu.au/educators/framework/

• BeYou - https://beyou.edu.au/

• Education Queensland Supporting Student Health and Wellbeing Policy Statement - https://education.qld.gov.au/students/student-health-safety- wellbeing/student-health/supporting-students-policy-statement

SUMMARY

The Islamic College of Brisbane does not permit a student to use/possess mobile phones/broadband devices/smartwatches/tablets/Computers with SIM cards anywhere on school grounds unless the school directs otherwise.

PURPOSE

This policy aims to ensure the Islamic College of Brisbane provides an improved academic outcome, decreases bullying and limits exposure to outsiders via social networking platforms.

DEFINITIONS

Mobile Phone is a portable device for connecting to a telecommunications network to transmit and receive voice, video, or other data, including smart watches.
Mobile broadband portable device provides wireless Internet access via mobile networks using various technologies, including 3G, 4G, LTE, HSPA, 5G etc. USB dongles and mobile broadband modems are an example of this category.
Tablets, Laptops and Surface devices with SIM cards in them. Such devices' SIM cards must be removed
School Hours: 8:00am---3:10pm

SCOPE

This policy covers all primary and secondary students. Under the policy, students cannot have a mobile phone, smartwatch, or portable broadband devices in their possession during school hours.

EXCEPTIONS

Exceptional circumstances will be managed by individual applications. Such cases will be allowed to bring a mobile phone to the school and kept by the admin office during the school day. All communication, including emergencies between parents and students during school hours, should occur via the school's administration.

GENERAL INFORMATION

If staff, students or parents have any questions about this policy or wish to clarify any issues, they may contact the College via email.

IMPLEMENTATION

No students are allowed to possess mobile devices mentioned in this policy during school hours.  Any phones seen during school hours will be confiscated, and parents will be informed. The parent will need to apply in person by submitting the attached form for the release of the mobile device.

Due to safety reasons, any student, whose phone has been confiscated, will not be permitted to walk home.  A parent must arrive at school.
Devices with SIM card ports, SIM card, must be removed before coming to school
Non-compliance and/or repeated non-compliance with these expectations will be dealt with through the Behaviour Management Policy.

Can teachers confiscate the personal property of a student?
Yes.

What else can be confiscated?
All mobile devices are listed under this policy. Staff can confiscate other personal belongings if misused by students, including, but not limited to:
•    Any portable devices, including laptops, computers, cameras, or various recording devices
•    Toys, games, or other play items

Definition of "inappropriate use."
•    bullying, intimidating or harassing others through SMS or through photo, video or other data transmission methods available on the phone or mobile device
•    recording conversations, and lessons, without the knowledge and permission of the teacher/staff or those involved in the conversation,
•    downloading, possessing, or accessing inappropriate content on the internet, such as pornographic or other offensive content,
•    video recording of fights or other criminal behaviour involving students at the College or while on the way to or from the College,
•    using it in a way that poses a threat or is likely to threat any person/s safety or wellbeing
•    using it in a way that disrupts any student/s learning or is likely to disrupt the classroom environment for others or interfere with the school operations
•    using it in a way that is in breach of any law.

Confiscating personal property

Staff must securely store any personal property confiscated from a student. Students' personal property must not be left in unlocked desk drawers, on teachers' desks or in a staffroom unless it is locked away.

Students who refuse to hand over the property

Staff should not confiscate the item in question by force. A refusal to comply with a reasonable confiscation request of any item or property will be dealt with by the Deans of Students and Heads of Schools. The confiscation process must not put anyone at risk of injury.

School liability in the event of loss or damage
Students bring personal devices and belongings to the school at their own risk: the College will not be liable for loss/damaged personal property.
However, responsibility for the security and safekeeping of the student's confiscated personal property is the responsibility of the school. If a student's confiscated personal property is lost, damaged or destroyed while not having been properly secured by staff, the school is liable to compensate the student.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

School Staff

•    Deliver and maintain a safe and productive learning environment. Take measures to minimise distractions from the non-educational use of personal devices in the school environment.
•    Respond to cases of non-compliance in line with the school's policy.
•    Ensure that any confiscated personal devices handed in are stored securely and returned to parents

Students

•    All mobile phones must be stored either in their school bags or their lockers during school hours
•    Comply with the school's policy requirements and follow all reasonable directions from school staff.
•    Under special circumstances, if a student is permitted to use a mobile phone or other devices listed in this document, the student must comply with this policy, and use it safely, responsibly and respectfully.
•    Communicate respectfully, and do not use a mobile phone or other devices to harass, bully, or threaten anyone.
•    Respect everyone's right to privacy. Taking photos, recording video and audio of other students, staff and anyone present on school premises without their knowledge or consent is not permissible.

Parents

•    Support the implementation and execution of the school's policy including the consequences for non-compliance with the policy.
•    Use the school's formal communication channels to communicate with the College.
•    Recognise your important role in supporting your child to use mobile phones/devices (or another personal device) safely, responsibly, and respectfully.

RETURN OF THE CONFISCATED EQUIPMENT

Any confiscated device due to non-compliance will be returned to the parent/guardian only. Parents/guardians must fill out the Equipment Release Form and provide it to the school administration in person.

COMPLAINTS

Under no circumstance should surveillance technologies be partially or fully obstructed, altered or interfered with. Complaints relating to CCTV and security systems will be managed in accordance with the ICB's Dispute Resolution/Complaints Handling Policy published on the school website.
Complaints can be made by using the Complaints and Feedback form.

We have guidelines in place for all our staff at Islamic College of Brisbane to follow in order to ensure that food served in the school is Halal.

We request parents to follow the guidelines below on food that can be brought or provided from outside for class functions:

• Food should be strictly from a Muslim owned and Muslim operated restaurant.
• The restaurant should have a valid Halal Original Certificate (not photocopies or expired certificates) from a recognised organization (not individuals).
• The restaurant by no chance must be selling or allowing alcohol on the premises and selling pork or pork related products.
• Food from non-Muslim outlets like Pizza Hut or Mc Donald’s will not be acceptable even if the menu is vegetarian or seafood due to the issue of contamination with pork/pork related products and non-halal meat sources during the preparation process.
• Sweets, cakes and ice creams should be gelatine free and free from all animal derivatives unless it is stated as halal gelatine or from soy or vegetable source. Glycerol or glycerine must also be of vegetable origin.
• E numbers are codes for substances which can be used as food additives. E numbers E120 and E422 are not Halal and should be abstained from. The entire list of E numbers is extensive and it is upon the individual to check if it seems doubtful. There are now iPhone and Android apps available such as iEat Halal and iHalal Food Guide that allow its user to check the ingredients using the phone. They are very useful apps to have when in the supermarket.
• Students are not allowed to order or get food delivered through “uber, deliveroo” etc

There are few additives which are "always" of animal origin, such as:
E120 Cochineal: a red colour obtained from female insects
E441 Gelatine: derived from the bones and/ or hides of cattle and/ or pigs
E542 Edible Bone Phosphate: an extract from animal bones
Whilst some additives with a common code such as E471, can be either of animal or plant origin and this latter type needs to be investigated on a case-by-case basis per product/ manufacturer.
Most of the other additives are suitable.
Parents are requested to phone the school and check with the Principal or the Imam if they have any doubts.

ICB Technology

All technology owned or provided by ICB to authorized users, including Internet/Intranet/Extranet- related systems, computer hardware, software, Wi-Fi, electronic devices such as tablet computers, USB drives, cameras, smart phones, telephone and data networks (including intranet and Internet access), operating systems, storage media, wireless access points (routers), wearable technology, PDA's, network accounts, web browsing, blogging, social networking, and file transfer protocols, email systems, electronically stored data, websites, web applications or mobile applications, any wireless communication device including emergency radios, and/or future technological innovations, whether accessed on or off site or through ICB-owned or personally owned equipment or devices.

Chain e-mail

E-mail sent to successive people. Typically, the body of the note has directions to the reader to send out multiple copies of the note so that good luck or money will follow.

E-mail

The electronic transmission of information through a mail protocol such as SMTP or IMAP. Typical e mail clients include Gmail.

Flaming

The use of abusive, threatening, intimidating, or overly aggressive language in an Internet communication.

Hacking

Gaining or attempting to gain unauthorized access to any computer systems, or gaining or attempting to gain unauthorized access to ICB Technology.


Instant Messaging

A type of communications service that enables the creation of a kind of private chat room with another individual in order to communicate in real time over the Internet.


Internet Resources

Websites, instant messaging applications, file transfer, file sharing, and any and all other Internet applications and activities using either standard or proprietary network protocols. Examples of websites that pose a risk to ICB, or are counter to its mission, are malware repositories, sites advocating violence against civil society or against persons based on race, religion, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, color, creed or any other protected categories, sites offering gambling activities or that are pornographic in nature.


IP Address

Unique network address assigned to each computing device connected to a network to allow it to communicate with other devices on the network or Internet.


Malware

Malware is any software, application, program, email or other data or executable code which is designed to cause harm to a network or computer or violate any law, statute, policy or regulation in any way. Accessing or storing malware is prohibited unless authorized by designated employees.

Mobile devices

Cellular phones, Blackberry type devices, PDAs, MP3 players, iPod type devices, and portable computers such as laptops, iPads, notebooks, tablets and netbooks as well as portable storage devices, including those not owned by ICB.


Network

Any and all network and telecommunications equipment, whether wired or wireless, controlled or owned by ICB which facilitate connecting to the Internet.


Phishing

Attempting to fraudulently acquire sensitive information by masquerading as a trusted entity in an electronic communication.

Plagiarising

Reproduce or use words, ideas or other work of another person and claim this as your own. 

Proxy Server

Acts as a gateway between you and the internet. It’s an intermediary server separating end users from the websites they browse. They can allow you to surf anonymously.

Sensitive information

Classified as Protected Health Information (PHI), Confidential Information or Internal Information

Slogging

An online journal that is frequently updated and intended for general public consumption.


Spam

Spam is unsolicited nuisance Internet E-mail which sometimes contains malicious attachments or links to websites with harmful or objectionable content.

Spoofing

IP Address spoofing is the act of replacing IP address information in an IP packet with falsified network address information. Each IP packet contains the originating and destination IP addresses. By replacing the true originating IP address with a falsified address a hacker can obscure their network address and hence, the source of a network attack, making traceability of illegal or illegitimate internet activity extremely difficult.


System Administrator

ICB employees whose responsibilities include ICB Technology, site, or network administration. System Administrators perform functions including, but not limited to, installing hardware and software, managing a computer or network, auditing ICB Technology, and keeping ICB Technology operational.


Unauthorized Disclosure

The intentional or unintentional act of revealing restricted information to people, both inside and/or outside ICB, who do not have a need to know that information.

User or Users

Individual(s) whether students or employees, full or part-time, active or inactive, including interns, contractors, consultants, vendors, etc. who have used ICB Technology, with or without ICB's permission.

User ID

Uniquely assigned Username or other identifier used by a student to access ICB network and systems.

RATIONALE

 

At the Islamic College of Brisbane, we believe in the Primary School that homework benefits students by complimenting classroom learning, fostering and creating good study habits and providing an opportunity for students to be responsible and developing learners. 

AIMS

• To support the development of independent learners
• To foster lifelong learners
• To develop quality homework tasks that challenge and engage all students
• To offer tasks that suit the needs, abilities and levels of the individual child

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

 Schools can support students by:

• Fostering lifelong learning and connecting families with the learning of their children, as part of a comprehensive and balanced curriculum
• Ensuring the school’s Homework policy is relevant to the needs of students
• Encouraging parents/carers of early primary school aged children to read to and with their children for enjoyment

Teachers can support students by:

• Equipping students with the skills to solve problems
• Encouraging real-life problem solving, logical thinking, creativity and imagination
• Setting varied, challenging and meaningful tasks related to class work to suit the students' learning needs
• Giving students enough time to complete Homework, considering home obligations and extracurricular activities
• Assessing Homework and providing timely and practical feedback and support
• Helping students develop organisational and time-management skills
• Developing strategies within the school to support parents/carers becoming active partners in Homework.
• Offering a wide range of opportunities for families to engage in their children's learning.

 

Early Years (Prep-3)

• Homework will consist of reading with parents, by parents and independently.
• Simple extension activities associated with classroom learning.
• Gathering of additional information or materials.
• Homework will not exceed 30 minutes a day. This includes all homework assigned by Specialist teachers.
• Homework will not be set over holiday periods.

 

Middle Years (4-6)

• Independent reading on a daily basis.
• Tasks that are continuation of classroom work. This may include project and research tasks.
• Homework will not exceed 50 minutes a day. This includes all homework assigned by Specialist teachers.
• Teachers must avoid excessive overload of work/tasks.
• It is acceptable for teachers to assign unfinished class work as homework tasks.
• Basic tasks that support continuation of class work can be sent home as holiday homework.

IMPLEMENTATION

• All teaching staff must set appropriate tasks that suit the age and ability of students.
• Homework must be interesting, engaging and challenging for students.
• Homework must support educational requirements.
• Homework must be seen as supporting and fostering the learner.
• Homework must be assessed with feedback.
• Homework must take into account the personal and developmental needs of the individual student.
• Teaching staff must work collaboratively to ensure that children are not receiving excessive amounts of homework.
• Policy will be available on the school website.

 

EVALUATION

This policy is to be reviewed at the end of every school year.

Last Update Date	:2023
Next Review Date	:2026
Policy Owner	: Islamic College of Brisbane Ltd

2023 Behaviour Guidance Policy and Procedures

This policy addresses issues in relation to: Safe and Supportive Environment – Student Welfare and Discipline

RATIONALE AND PURPOSE

 

All school excursions must be educational, curriculum based and school directed.

Excursions that are not curriculum based should not be undertaken. They are aimed at complementing and assisting classroom learning. 

Excursions or special events are an important part of the curriculum program and all students are expected to participate as it allows students to consolidate classroom learning in real life contexts. 

While recognising the potential benefits of an educational excursion, schools need to

recognise that excursions do interrupt normal learning routines and place additional

financial pressure on parents. Furthermore, staff need to be aware of the legal and

moral responsibility for student welfare and their duty of care.  

APPROVAL

 

The Principal approves excursions after giving due consideration to the planning, safety of all participants, adequate supervision and child protection.

Principals have the right to exclude a student from an excursion on the grounds of behaviour, risk to others or to the school’s good name.

RISK ASSESMENT

 

• A risk assessment must be completed to show that the excursion is safe in nature

and location. The risk assessment should be completed in writing and signed by

the teacher leading the excursion. The risk assessment pro-forma provides

data on: travel arrangements, location, insurance, staff accreditation, activities,

age group, equipment, supervision, access, egress (fire escape), emergencies, and first

aid. Foreseeable and potential risks with documented control strategies must be

provided.

Excursion planners must cater for bad weather, altered schedules and emergencies.

 

• Where another educational institution is being visited, it is important that duty of

care issues are agreed to e.g. school rules, travel arrangements, supervision, restricted areas and dress code.

• Outside organisations e.g. sporting venues must provide their risk assessment and

give evidence that they have fulfilled all child protection measures. It is the responsibility of the school to obtain these documents and to subsequently have a representative visit the site and verify the assessment.

• If the excursion involves adventure activities e.g. bush walking, swimming, a

parent must sign permission for each specific adventure activity.

• Clear written guidelines for the excursion must be prepared and issued. These

guidelines should contain information and directions about the duties and expectations of all those working in a supervisory capacity.

COSTS

 

• The cost must be affordable and reasonable for all families.

 

• The School Accountant will provide guidance for excursion budgets and will maintain the necessary records.
• All receipts are to be given to the school office.

 

PARENTS

 

• Students who do not possess a signed, parental or guardian’s permission note, must not go on the excursion.

• Parents must be advised well beforehand in writing of the reasons, the details and the desired outcomes for the excursion, cost, itinerary, travel and transport plans, activities, clothing requirements, hygiene and health requirements, spending money, medical requirements and supervision so that they can complete or not complete the necessary consent form.

• Schools must advise parents that schools cannot be held responsible for students’ property during an excursion.

 

PRIVATE TRAVEL

 

• Only in exceptional cases will staff and parents be allowed to provide transport and approval will only be given to those persons with the correct licence, a good driving record, correct vehicle registration and insurance.

LEADERSHIP

 

• Each excursion must have one nominated leader. The leader must be:

• A teacher at the School.

• Know the excursion area.

• Be responsible for all aspects of the excursion.

• Have a sound awareness of the risks involved.

• Supervisory staff, parent-helpers and students must be advised of the position of nominated leader for the purposes of authority and risk management.

 

ON EXCURSION

 

Medical

• Every excursion must have at least one teacher with knowledge of basic first

aid and emergency care procedures.

• In general, the school will be responsible for all students on an excursion

under the normal basis of student-teacher relationship.

• All overnight and all water excursions must have at least one adult staff

member in attendance at all times who has a current qualification in First Aid

and CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation).

• Copies of medical information must be taken on excursion. If at any time a student requires medical attention and the parents cannot be contacted, the school’s office must be asked for medical information from the school’s file. Advice can also be sought from the Principal.

• Provisions must be made for students with special health or medication needs.

• Staff on excursions must carry a mobile phone and First Aid Kit.

• Consent should be sought for teachers in charge of the excursion to authorise medical treatment for a student in the event that teachers were unable to contact the parents or guardians of a sick or injured student.

 

SCHOOL UNIFORM

• Full school uniform must be worn to all excursions except when the nature of the activity requires alternative clothing (modest clothes for boys and girls including hijab for girls).
• Students who are not in full school uniform will not participate in the excursion.
• Girls from Grade 3 onwards are required to wear a hijab.

BEHAVIOUR

• Students must behave appropriately at all times while on excursions, including when animals are encountered.
• Students, who demonstrate that they cannot follow instructions, will face the schools’ disciplinary action upon returning to school.

SUPERVISIONS

 

• The ratio of teachers and supervisors to students for an excursion will depend

on the teacher’s risk assessment.

• If an excursion is to take place in a public place, the student-teacher ratio needs to be 6:1 with the exception of Camp.
• The students must be adequately supervised at all times.

• Excursions must not include films that are of an inappropriate classification or

nature.

• The excursion roll must be taken at intervals during the excursion appropriate

to the activity being undertaken.

• Teachers cannot transfer their responsibilities to non-teachers.

• No supervisor is to be placed in a situation where there is potential for the

           making of allegations of improper conduct, e.g. accommodation or sleeping

           arrangements.

• Students are never allowed to leave supervision unaccompanied by another. E.g. travelling, shopping, going to the toilet, etc.

• Briefings are to be held daily during overnight excursion.

• Alcohol, Pork and all pork products must not be consumed by teachers and helpers whilst on an excursion and in charge of students.

 

 

EXCURSIONS WITH WATER ACTIVITIES

 

• Parents must be advised in writing about any planned water activities.

• A consent form must be received from the parents.

• Parents should indicate whether their child is a strong, average, below average or non- swimmer. This will not affect the supervision.

• Some special requirements may be required for some students, e.g. flotation devices.

• Immediately before the commencement of any water activity, the prevailing

condition must be examined by the supervising teacher for any possible dangers.

• For water or near water excursions, at least one adult staff member in attendance at all times must have a current qualification in First Aid and CPR.

BRIEFING OF STUDENTS AND VOLUNTEER PARENTS

Parents, caregivers and volunteers may have an opportunity to assist with some excursions.  This may be restricted by numbers and parents must be aware that their attendance is to support the teacher and the excursion program.

• Prior to any excursion, students should be briefed on the school’s expectations of their behaviour.
• Students should also be briefed about unexpected situations and risks that might occur during the excursion and to discuss strategies, consistent with the risk management plan, for eliminating or controlling risks.
• Students participating in excursions to communities which are culturally different to their own should be briefed on cultural sensitivities and appropriate communication in cross-cultural contexts.
• Prior to any excursion, parent volunteers should be briefed regarding:
• Their role, responsibilities, duty of care and the risk assessment;
• The school’s expectations regarding student behaviour and their role to refer misbehaviour or other issues to the class teacher or executive in charge of the excursion;
• The clothing requirements (Please refer to College Dress Code Policy).

EXCURSION/CHANGE OF ROUTINE REFUNDS

According to the Behaviour Management Policy, any student who has paid for an excursion, then moves to Red Level or gets Yellow Behaviour Card before the excursion date will not be issued a refund.

 

 

PROCEDURES

 

Before excursion

When planning excursions the following points should be considered:

• Preliminary organisation with venue for suitable dates, times, costing.

• Contingency plans – In the event of inclement weather or change in the excursion environment
• A risk assessment is to be conducted and a risk management plan developed before seeking approval for any excursion.
• Transport – the Teacher in Charge is responsible for organising appropriate and adequate transport. The College Admin Officer will assist with all bus bookings. NB. Any teacher, parent or other approved person providing transport to or from an excursion must be appropriately licensed and the car registered (with comprehensive motor vehicle insurance). A permission note must be obtained from parent/carer whose child is travelling in a private vehicle.
• Permission letters – all excursions must use the Notification of an excursion template. Notification of an excursion and permission note must be sent at least two weeks before the excursion. The permission note must be approved and signed by the Principal before it is distributed.
• Student medical details – a print out of students’ emergency medical details can be obtained from TASS.
• Ensure that a First Aid kit is adequately stocked and that emergency procedures are drawn up
• Ensure all permission slips are returned and complete.

 

Excursion day

• Take First Aid kit and student medical details.
• Ensure adequate and active supervision is maintained at all times. This will depend on the nature of the excursion, the age of students, etc. When taking a group with two teachers one teacher should be at the head of the group and the other at the back.
• Should an accident occur follow the following procedures:

- The student should, if possible, be treated on the spot by the teacher.

 - Assistance/help (eg ambulance) should be sent for on the mobile phone

 - Contact the College – Admin Officer, Deputy Principal, Principal (only one person  needs to be contacted)

 -  Parent/carer should be informed as to the exact nature of the accident and the treatment the student has received.

• Any assault on a student by an outsider during an excursion, must be reported to the police without delay, by calling 000.

 

Post Excursion

• Return First Aid kit.
• Liaise with Accountant regarding any students who have missed excursion.
• If an accident occurred, an incident Report filled out on return.
• Evaluate excursion.

Social Media Policy

 

Our Context

 

The Islamic College of Brisbane is an Islamic school drawing from a large area of south western Brisbane.  Most of the students practise the Islamic faith but some do not.  There are many cultures and countries represented across the school.

Islamic Studies and Arabic contribute to the college’s mission to create students who respect and value Islam and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAAW).

The Islamic College of Brisbane’s goal is to give its students a solid grounding in their religion and academic education so that they will be able to go forth from here and succeed in mainstream Australia without compromising their values. The college prides itself in providing a safe and morally healthy environment in which it may foster the social and educational development of students. Here, young Muslims are able to balance their academic and religious education in an environment that allows for and understands their needs and practices. Our teachers consistently engage with the Australian Curriculum to develop teaching and learning programs that build on our students’ interests, strengths, goals and learning needs, while addressing the cognitive, affective, physical, social and aesthetic needs of all students. Teachers promote a positive self-image and self-discipline, a high sense of responsibility, respect and consideration for others and for authority.

 

Purpose

 

The purpose of the Social Media Policy is to set standards of behaviour for the use of Social Media that are consistent with the values and expectations of Islamic College of Brisbane.

 Islamic College of Brisbane aims to protect the safety and wellbeing of students, staff and the college community. If however, there is a breach of the Islamic College of Brisbane's Social Media Policy the college will undertake disciplinary action and each matter will be dealt on individual basis.  

All reports of cyberbullying and other technology misuses will be investigated fully and may result in a notification to police where the college is required to do so.

 

Definitions

 

Social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share, and exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks.

Social Media: refers to all social networking sites. These sites include, but are not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+, Instagram, SMS, Class Dojo and YouTube and includes emails and mobile applications.

 

Rights and Responsibilities

Staff, students and parents are expected to show respect to all members of the college community.

Staff will: Plan for the inclusion of cyber safety awareness within the curriculum with guidance from relevant education authorities.

Parents will: Be responsible for being aware of and informed about their children’s online activity and be proactive in the supervision and guidance of their children taking into account this policy and in particular the college’s core values.

STUDENT GUIDELINES

When using Social Media, students are expected to ensure that they:

• Read and agree to the terms and conditions of various Social media sites as many of them have age restrictions for their use. Eg Facebook, Instagram and Gmail are all restricted to those 13 years of age and above.
• Are aware of what they are posting online and that Social Media sites and applications are public forums.
• Are not permitted to join a staff member’s areas on networking sites. If students attempt to do this, the member of staff is to refuse the student access and inform the Principal. The student’s parents will be informed if this happens.
• Will not access social networking sites during the school working day without permission from a member of the College teaching staff.
• Do not post content that is hateful, threatening, pornographic, or incites violence against others.
• Respect the rights and confidentiality of others.
• Do not impersonate or falsely represent another person.
• Remain safe online and never give out personal information. This includes last names, phone numbers, addresses, exact birth dates and pictures.
• Do not bully, intimidate abuse, harass or threaten others.
• Must not write/post mean, unkind words about another student.
• Must not make up stories or tell lies about another student.
• Do not use offensive or threatening language or resort to personal abuse towards each other or members of the college community
• Do not harm the reputation of Islamic College of Brisbane or those within its community
• Do not upload video, audio or photographs of any member of the Islamic College of Brisbane’s community (student, parents or staff) without seeking and gaining appropriate permission.
• Do not upload any video or photographs of any student where they can be identified as an Islamic College of Brisbane student by their uniform or any other means.

 

Please note that breach of any or all of the above will lead to disciplinary action against the offenders.

PARENT GUIDELINES

Classroom blogs and other Social Media tools open up communication between students, parents and teachers. This kind of communication and collaboration can have a large impact on learning at Islamic College of Brisbane. The college encourages parents to participate in such activities when appropriate but requests that parents act responsibly and respectfully at all times, understanding that their conduct not only reflects on the college community, but will be a model for our students as well.

Parents should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Be aware that many Social Media sites have age restrictions that DO HAVE implications for their primary aged children. E.g. Facebook, Instagram and Gmail are all restricted to those 13 years of age and above.
• Parents need to monitor their children’s online social media activity, and read the terms and conditions of various Social Media sites and applications their children are interested in using. Parents need to be aware that many of them have age restrictions for their use. Parents need to be aware that they are in breach of terms and conditions if they set up a personal account for their children to use when they knowingly understand that age restrictions apply.
• Before taking photos, audios or videos on college premises, parents need to seek appropriate permission from individuals being recorded or photographed. This particularly applies in relation to the Privacy Policy of the Islamic College of Brisbane that protects the staff and students of the College.
• Online postings and conversations are not private. Do not share confidential information, internal college discussions, or specific information about students, staff or other parents.
• Be conscious of the fact that expert advice given is that all users of Social Media sites should do whatever they can to not identify any child by name or associate them with a particular school.
• Parents will be asked to sign a consent form for students when teachers set up social media activities for classroom for learning use.
• Parents will not attempt to destroy or alter any information online.
• Parents will not use classroom social media sites for any illegal activity, including violation of data privacy laws.
• Parents should not distribute any information that might be deemed personal about other students participating in the social media activities. This includes photographs, videos or audio recordings.
• Parents should not upload or include any information that does not meet the student guidelines above.
• Parents should not participate in spreading false or unsubstantiated rumours or false information in regards to any of the Islamic College of Brisbane’s stakeholders.
• Parents assisting with classroom activities should not make use of social media sites while involved in such activities, incursions or excursions.

Please note that breach of any or all of the above will lead to disciplinary action against the offenders.

STAFF AND TEACHER GUIDELINES

Social Media in relation to staff and teacher relates to blogs, wikis, podcasts, digital images and video, instant messaging and mobile devices.

• Social networking sites such as Facebook or Instagram must not be used by staff as a platform for learning activities with students.
• Staff and student online interaction must occur only in an educational context.
• Staff should not accept students as 'friends' on their social network sites or interact with students on personal social networking accounts.
• Staff are advised to maintain professional discretion in matters like discussions about our college or staff members that would affect the reputation of the college or staff members in any capacity.
• Staff must not discuss students or colleagues or publicly criticise college policies or personnel on social networking sites.
• While staff have permission to post photographs of students to the class blog with the permission of parents, they do not have permission to post details that would identify any child.
• Staff are personally responsible for content they publish online. Staff need to be mindful that all postings leave a digital footprint and can be used against them.
• Staff online behaviour should reflect the same standards of honesty, respect and consideration consistent with the standards that apply on college premises and in accordance with the college's values and ethos.
• The lines between public and private, personal and professional are blurred in the online world. If staff are identified as members of Islamic College of Brisbane, they need to be aware that they are, by definition, representing the entire college community. Staff should ensure that content associated with them is consistent with their work at the college and the college's values and ethos.
• Staff should not participate in spreading false or unsubstantiated rumours or false information in regards to the Islamic College of Brisbane’s community and its members.
• When contributing to online forums, staff should not post confidential and/or sensitive student information.
• Staff should visit their profile's security and privacy settings on social networking sites. At a minimum, staff should have all privacy settings set to 'only friends'.

Please note that breach of any or all of the above will lead to disciplinary action against the offenders.

 

 

MANAGING CHANGE AND ISSUES ARISING

• We acknowledge that technology changes rapidly. If any member of the Islamic College of Brisbane’s community has a concern or question pertaining to Social Media or Social Networking sites, this should be directed to the Principal.
• Parents, students or staff who have a complaint or issue that may arise from Social Media should contact the Principal.

Evaluation

• Due to the ever-changing nature of the social media world, it is recommended that this policy be reviewed at least every two years.

Background information

Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Skin cancers account for 80 per cent of all new cancers diagnosed each year in Australia, making it by far the most common type of cancer diagnosed each year.

Skin damage, including skin cancer, is the result of cumulative exposure to the sun. Research shows severe sunburn contributes to skin cancer and other forms of skin damage such as sunspots, blemishes and premature ageing. Most skin damage and skin cancer is preventable.

Research on children’s exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation has shown that exposure is generally higher on weekdays than during the weekend. While physical education and athletics are beneficial and recommended for overall good health, they are also associated with high UV radiation exposure. Therefore, given students and staff are at school during peak UV times, schools play a major role in providing an environment where policies and procedures can positively influence long-term SunSmart behaviour.

With this in mind, Islamic College of Brisbane takes into account the need to support students, staff, parents and visitors to the school by providing and promoting a SunSmart environment.

 

Aims

The policy aims to:

• Provide ongoing education that promotes personal responsibility for skin cancer prevention and early detection;
• Provide environments that support SunSmart practices; and
• Create an awareness around scheduling outdoor activities to support SunSmart practices.

 

Our school will support a SunSmart environment by

Providing education and information:

• Inform parents of the Sun Safety policy when they enrol their child;
• Include information about sun safety in regular communication to the school community and staff;
• All students will have at least one SunSmart lesson per year;
• Have information available to students, parents and staff on sun safety (Annex A);
• Conduct activities that promote sun safety amongst students;
• Provide sun safety training and education opportunities.

Creating a supportive environment for physical activity:

• Remind students to be SunSmart throughout the day;
• Provide education around sun safety and the early detection of skin cancer in curriculum;
• Make dress requirements, uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) SunSmart as per Cancer Council Queensland recommendations;
• Create and maintain shaded areas (e.g. eating areas, sporting and swimming events, fetes);
• Encourage the use of sunscreen products on days when the sun is strong during lunch breaks in summer, during PE lessons and on school trips. Extra sunscreen will be made available in case children forget to bring their own;
• Plan and schedule outdoor activities and events during low UV times (e.g. carnivals, fetes, PE classes) using the SunSmart UV alert (Annex B);
• Tint windows on buildings where appropriate;
• Participate in relevant health awareness campaigns;
• Identify other strategies to support sun safety and the early detection of skin cancer at the school.

Extreme Heat Policy

 

ICB considers extreme heat to be one of the following:

• If the ambient temperature is between 31 and 35 degrees Celsius and the relative humidity is over 50%.
• If the ambient temperature is over 36 degrees Celsius and the relative humidity is over 30%.

In both the above cases the risk of heat related illness is high to extreme and outdoor activities, such as lunchtime play and sports lessons will be shortened or cancelled at the discretion of the Assistant Principal – Primary or HPE teaching staff.

SOURCE: https://education.qld.gov.au/students/student-health-safety-wellbeing/student-health/managing-excessive-heat-schools

Our Expectations

Parents/carers will:

• Be encouraged to apply to their child a SPF 30+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before leaving for school;
• Act as positive role models by practising SunSmart behaviour; and
• Support the school’s Sun Safety policy.

Students will:

• Be aware of the school’s Sun Safety policy;
• Take responsibility for their own health and safety by being SunSmart. i.e. wearing their hat, playing in the shade;
• Act as positive role models for other students in all aspects of SunSmart behaviour;
• Participate in curriculum related activities where they access, evaluate and synthesise information to take positive action to protect, enhance and advocate for their own and others’ health, wellbeing, safety and physical activity participation across their lifespan.

Review

Management and staff will regularly monitor and review this policy by consulting available resources, information and the school community.

 

References

• Cancer Council Queensland website, cancerqld.org.au
• Cancer Council Queensland, 2010, Personal Protection brochure Personal_Protection.pdf
• Cancer Council Queensland skin cancer fact sheet, 2013, http://www.cancerqld.org.au/icms_docs/61399_skin_cancer_fact_sheet.pdf
• Cancer Council Australia, SunSmart position statements, http://www.cancer.org.au/policyand-advocacy/position-statements/sun-smart/, viewed 11 October 2013.

 

Annex A – SunSmart guidelines

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the major cause of skin cancer. UV can’t be seen or felt and can be damaging even on cool or cloudy days. Sun protection is required when the UV index reaches 3 (moderate) or above – the level that can damage skin and eyes and increase your risk of skin cancer.

In Queensland, the UV index is 3 or above all year round therefore sun protection is required in every season. Remember to take multiple sun protection measures when outdoors to reduce your skin cancer risk:

• Slip on sun protective clothing (UPF50+ rated, long sleeved collared shirts and long pants, material should be dark coloured with a close weave)
• Slop on SPF30 or above broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen on exposed areas of the skin 20 minutes before going outdoors, and reapply every two hours (or more often if perspiring or swimming)
• Slap on a broad brimmed, bucket or legionnaire style hat that fully covers the face, neck and ears. Baseball caps and visors are not suitable.
• Seek shade whenever outdoors including natural, portable or permanent shade and avoid being outdoors during peak UV times.
• Slide on wrap-around sunglasses that are a close fitting style which meet the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1067:2003 (lens categories 2, 3 or 4) and are marked eye protection factor (EPF) 9 or 10, or labelled UV 400. Outdoor workers should wear safety glasses that meet the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1337. Sunglasses are as important for children as they are for adults.

Be extra cautious in the middle of the day, when UV levels are more intense. Where possible, avoid outdoor activities between 10am-3pm.

Check the SunSmart UV Alert daily online, in newspapers or via the SunSmart app for local sun protection times anywhere in Australia.

 

 

 

Annex B - What is the SunSmart UV Alert?

The SunSmart UV Alert can be used to plan outdoor activities for the time of day when the UV levels are low. The Alert is issued by the Bureau of Meteorology when the UV index is forecast to reach 3 or above. At that level, it can damage your skin and lead to skin cancer. Check the Bureau of Meteorology website for more information on the UV Index www.bom.gov.au/uv/.

Check the Alert for your city or town on the SunSmart UV widget on Cancer Council Queensland’s website, or alternatively on ICB website.

For smartphone users, Cancer Council has a free SunSmart app which is a great way to check the UV Alert when you are out and about. iPhone and iPad users can download it from the iTunes App Store, Android users from Google Play and Samsung users from Samsung Apps.

Consent required via the Parent Lounge-Student Details-General Details-Consent menu.

Islamic College of Brisbane Library caters to all teachers and students from Prep to Year 12. Our collection is continually growing so we can provide our students with the best resources to support their learning and high quality fiction to develop life-long readers.
It is important that you and your child are familiar with the guidelines as outlined below and to then sign and return the agreement slip to the college.
•    ALL students in the Primary School are required to have a library bag for use when they borrow and return books. Their name needs to be clearly seen on the front of the bag.
•    ALL students are responsible for the care of the books they borrow. Any lost or damaged books must be paid for. It is also the responsibility of students to ensure their books are returned within the borrowing period.
Borrowing for Primary Students:
•    Please ensure you know which day your students have Library so you can check they have their bag and books ready.
•    Prep – Year 2 students borrow 2 books, each week with their class.
•    Year 3 and 4 students borrow fortnightly with their class and can borrow 3 to 4 books at a time.
•    Year 5 and 6 students borrow fortnightly with their class and can borrow 5 books at a time.
•    Students may borrow for a period of two weeks but they can extend this at any time.
•    Students are welcome to come to the library in the morning from 8.00 am – till 8.20 am and again after school, until 3.30 pm to borrow and return books or to print.
•    Students with seriously overdue books will not be able to borrow until they have been returned and parents will receive notification to return the books or pay for them.
Borrowing for Secondary Students:
•    ALL Secondary Students are required to have their school ID card to borrow.
•    Secondary Students may borrow as many books as they wish – there is no restriction on the number of books they can borrow.
•    Books may be borrowed for a period of three weeks.
•    NOTE: The library is open at 7.30am for students to borrow and return and again after school until 4.00pm.

1.    Printing:
•    The library has two printers for all students to use to print school work. Students have a printing account which they can ‘top-up’ during break times and before and after school.
•    ALL Secondary Students are required to have their ID card to print or to ‘top-up’ their printer account.

2.    General:
•    Students are not to bring food or drink into the library, including water bottles.
•    Any student found with a mobile phone, will have them confiscated.
•    Students should not be in the library unless a teacher or library staff is present.
•    Appropriate levels of behaviour and courtesy towards library staff must always be displayed.
•    Any loss or damage to equipment in the library will be paid for by the student.

Consent required via the Parent Lounge-Student Details-General Details-Consent menu.

Year 3-6 Arabic and Islamic Textbooks Hire Scheme 

 

Please note that Years 3-6 Arabic and Islamic Textbooks have been taken out from the Primary Booklist and added into the Textbooks Hire Scheme.  

 

• A hiring charge is included into school levies which parents need to pay at the beginning of the year.
• Students will hire the book/books from the library at the beginning of Term 1 and return the book at the end of the school year.
• ALL students are responsible for the care of the books they hire. Any lost or damaged books must be paid for. 
• Islamic and Arabic textbooks are NOT to be taken home for revision as the workbooks have all the relevant information students need.