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PREAMBLE
Section 8 of the South African Schools Act provides that a Governing Body of a public school must adopt a Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct must be subject to the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, the South African Schools Act, 1996 and Provincial Legislation.

The Fairmont Code of Conduct is linked to the School’s Rules, Regulations and Procedures. All members of the School are presumed to be aware of and are required to adhere to the Code of Conduct and the Rules, Regulations and Procedures. The purpose of these documents is to provide a framework for the orderly, safe and beneficial schooling environment of all members of the School.

The School’s Mission Statement encapsulates the essence of the type of school environment we want for our School. This environment aims at providing students with skills to take a leadership role in civil society as worthy, self-disciplined, morally responsible members.

SCOPE
The Code of Conduct must be adhered to: -
• on the School Property before, during and after school hours
• at all official School events, both within and outside regular school hours
• in any situation, on or off School Property, where the student is recognisable as a Fairmont student

Areas addressed by the Code of Conduct include: -
a) Absenteeism
b) Cheating
c) Discrimination
d) Disrespect – for property (theft; vandalism)
e) Disrespect – for authority (insolence; defiance)
f) General misbehaviour
g) Intimidation
h) Initiation
i) Misrepresentation of the facts (lying; forgery)
j) Physical / verbal abuse
k) Punctuality
l) Safety and security
m) Substance Abuse
n) Transgression of School Rules
o) Uniform and appearance (hair; jewellery; make-up; nails)

MISCONDUCT
No written set of rules can cover all situations. There are, therefore, times when students are expected to act sensibly according to approved codes of behaviour.

In the event of misconduct, remedial/disciplinary action may be taken against a student. In order to ensure the consistent application of such action, misconduct has been categorised under various levels, according to seriousness. The nature of the remedial/disciplinary action will depend on the level of the misconduct.

Level 1 (Minor Misconduct)
Consequences:
The relevant person in authority will deal with Level 1 Misconduct immediately. Discipline will be administered by the person in authority and could typically be a verbal reprimand and/or the allocation of an appropriate task e.g. meaningful written work, tidying up the classroom, litter clean-up, etc

Misconduct:
Level 1 Misconduct includes, but is not limited to: -
• General misbehaviour on the School premises (Assembly; Classroom; Playground)
• Out of bounds
• Late-coming
• Uniform / ID transgressions
• Grooming (hair; shaving; jewellery; make-up; nails)
• Littering
• Defiance – failure to carry out an instruction
• Discrimination – racial/gender/religious (minor)
• Disrespect for authority, adult or peer
• Crude language / behaviour
• Non-stipulated misdemeanours at this level

Level 2 (Serious Misconduct)
Consequences:
Level 2 Misconduct will be dealt with formally by the person in authority. Corrective action could typically involve counselling (where appropriate) and/or appropriate disciplinary action such as detention, work squad, etc.

Misconduct:

Level 2 Misconduct includes, but is not limited to: -
• Repeated Level 1 transgressions
• Transgression of School Rules
• Failure to submit absentee notes
• Inappropriate physical contact between students
• Writing on School Property, equipment or books
• Serious grooming / uniform default
• Truancy - bunking periods or detention
• Refusal to identify oneself to appropriate authority
• Non-stipulated misdemeanours at this level

Level 3 (More Serious Misconduct)
Consequences:
Level 3 Misconduct will be escalated to and dealt with by the Grade Head/Deputy Principal or could involve a Governing Body hearing. The misconduct will be recorded in writing. Corrective action could include parent involvement, counselling (where appropriate) and/or appropriate formal discipline such as extended detention, community service, etc.

Misconduct:
Level 3 Misconduct includes, but is not limited to: -
• Repeated Level 2 transgressions
• Fighting
• Smoking and/or possession of cigarettes/tobacco/matches/lighter/association with smoker/s at school or in uniform or at a school function
• “Supporting smoking by association”
• Leaving school without permission
• Physical intimidation
• Initiation
• Defacing School Property
• Accommodating unauthorised persons on the School grounds
• Petty theft
• Misrepresentation of the facts
• Serious discrimination – racial/gender/religious
• Non-stipulated misdemeanours at this level

Level 4 (Very Serious Misconduct)
Consequences:
Level 4 Misconduct will be dealt with at the highest level within the School i.e. Deputy Principal, Principal and/or Board of Governors. Corrective action could involve counselling (where appropriate) and discipline could involve a formal disciplinary hearing with consequent suspension or expulsion.
 

 

Misconduct:
Level 4 Misconduct includes, but is not limited to: -
• Repeated Level 3 transgressions
• Premeditated fighting, assault and battery
• Vandalism resulting in serious damage
• Cheating in an examination/test
• Forging signatures / writing own letter / impersonation
• Possession of a dangerous weapon
• Swearing at an educator
• Sexual harassment of educators, adults, peers
• Substance abuse and/or possession of drugs, alcohol, etc.
• Non-stipulated misdemeanours at this level

Level 5 (Criminal Acts – Violates School Code + Law)
Level 5 Misconduct relates to criminal acts and repeated serious violations of the School Code. Misconduct will be escalated to the appropriate authorities in conjunction with the Department of Education. In addition, the School would reserve the right to implement Level 4 consequences.


PROCEDURES, RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Procedures
• Level 2 Misconduct is dealt with by the relevant person in authority in line with the guidelines in this document. Students have the right to appeal to the Grade Head in the event that they believe they have been unfairly treated.

• Level 3 Misconduct is dealt with by the Grade Head/Deputy Principal, Principal or Governing Body in line with the guidelines in this document. Students have the right to appeal to the
Principal or Deputy Principal in the event that they believe they have been unfairly treated.

• Level 4 Misconduct could result in a formal disciplinary hearing and possible consequent suspension and/or expulsion. In such cases, the provisions of the SA Schools Act and other relevant legislation will apply.

Rights and Responsibilities of Students:
Every student has the right: -
• to be treated fairly and responsibly
• to be taught in a safe and disciplined environment; and the responsibility to uphold school security and be co-operative
• to be treated with respect, regardless of personal, racial, religious or other beliefs; and the responsibility to show respect to others
• to express opinions politely; and the responsibility to listen to and be tolerant of the opinions of others
• to security of oneself and ones possessions; and the responsibility to respect others personal safety and property
• to basic learning materials; and the responsibility to look after School Property
• to learn in a clean and healthy environment; and the responsibility to ensure that the School premises are kept clean and are not damaged or defaced
• to proper tuition; and the responsibility to take charge of his/her own work
• to punctual and consistent lessons; and the responsibility to attend them on time

Responsibilities of Parents – with regard to Pupils and School:
Parents must make sure that: -
• their children go to school every day and are punctual
• academic reports and follow-ups are forthcoming
• the rights of their children to learn are upheld
• their children follow the rules and codes of the School
• their children are healthy, neat and clean
• they tell school authorities about any problem concerning their children or other children/people in the School
• they don’t use abusive language or behave in an abusive way
• they discuss reports, homework and assignments with children
• they supply their children with the basic resources needed for school and homework
• they become involved in the School’s activities

Parents should at all times be supportive of the structures and general ethos of
the school.

A number of unwritten procedures apply from time to time. These are always announced and explained at the School. All regulations are subject to annual revision.

1. Communication
All communication with the School, except in cases of an emergency, should be during school hours. Members of staff may be interviewed only by appointment.

2. Uniform
Please refer to the specified section in the Prospectus.

3. Illness
3.1 A register is kept by the Secretary.
3.2 Pupils will not normally be allowed to remain in the Sickbay during school hours. If the condition is serious, the Secretary will telephone the parents.
3.3 Pupils who are ill in the morning before school should not be sent to school.
3.4 A medical certificate must be provided if a pupil misses a standardised test, an examination, or a test contributing to the Year Mark. Actual dates must be specified.
3.5 A pupil must not be sent to school on an examination/test day unless the child can remain for the full school day. Pupils may not come to write an examination, and then leave, or come just in time for the examination/test. If a pupil is too ill to stay the whole day, there is an obvious risk of infection to other pupils. No special venues can be provided. A medical certificate must specify actual dates.
3.6 When a child misses an examination or standardised test for medical reasons, other procedures for marks are applicable.

4. Textbooks and Stationery
In keeping with the ethos of the School, we expect all books to be appropriately covered.
Textbooks provided by the Western Cape Education Department is the property of the
school. These books must be returned to the school at the end of an academic year or
when pupils leave the school before the end of a year. Any book lost or defaced will be
paid for by the parents.

5. Latecomers
Pupils who arrive late must report at the Reception Office.

6. Detention
6.1 A teacher may require a pupil to stay in the afternoon. A day’s warning is usually given.
6.2 School detention sessions are held on Mondays and Thursdays to accommodate sport practises. However, if there is a clash with a practise or fixture, this can under special circumstances be negotiated with the Deputy Principal, the teacher in charge of detention and other parties concerned.
6.3 Prefects, under the control of a Senior Teacher, have the right to place pupils in a Prefects’ Detention, which is held for one hour on Wednesday.
6.4 School detentions ate held for one and a half hours on Monday and Thursday 14:30 to 16:00 and for three hours on Friday afternoons from 13:30 to 16:30.
6.5 Pupils “on report” may be required to stay after school, even on the same day.
6.6 Pupils may be required to report to those in authority after school on any school day.
6.7 Pupils may be detained until 14:35 Monday to Thursday and 13:35 on Fridays for disciplinary reasons on any school day without prior notice.

7. Visitors to the School
7.1 Pupils may not see visitors (e.g. boyfriends/girlfriends) during school hours.
7.2 Parents who wish to consult with teachers must do so either at one of the Parent-Teacher Meetings, or may make an appointment with the teacher by telephoning the School.
7.3 Anyone visiting the School must report at the reception office immediately upon entering the building–before meeting with the teacher.

8. Accidents and Emergencies
Parents are contacted immediately. The School may not refer a child to a doctor or a hospital until arrangements are made by the parents. If the parent cannot be contacted, the School will refer the child to the family doctor, the nearest doctor, or the Casualty Section at the nearest hospital.
Please ensure that the Secretary is informed of changes of address and telephone numbers.

9. First Day
9.1 All new pupils have an Orientation Programme on the day prior to the official start of the first term.
9.2 All pupils enrolling during the year must report at Reception on their arrival.

10. Valuables
The School cannot be held responsible for the loss of valuables/money/cell phones. All
payments must be made at the start of the School day. The Payment Office opens at 07:30
daily.

11. Correspondence
All written communication with the School should have the parent’s name and contact telephone numbers printed below the signature. The pupil’s name, grade and class must be
indicated.

12. Absence
Absence can only be condoned for medical reasons or urgent private affairs. Phone calls
are appreciated, but a letter explaining the circumstances must be provided not later than the
day on which the pupil returns to school. The note must stipulate name, register class, the
period of absence and reason(s) for absence.

Should a pupil miss a Tuesday test or examination, then a Medical Certificate is required.

Absence from school for study purposes prior to or during tests and/or examinations is NOT
allowed.

As with any organisation, it is necessary to have a set of rules and regulations in order that all are able to co-operate and interact beneficially.

A formal set of rules and regulations is usually unnecessary for the majority of our pupils who conduct themselves sensibly and in a manner that is mutually advantageous. However, there are pupils who need the guidance of rules and regulations and instructions.
A number of unwritten procedures apply from time to time. These are always announced and explained at the School. All rules are subject to annual revision.
We are satisfied that all our rules, regulations and instructions are educationally based and as such we expect all pupils to co-operate with ALL of them.
Any pupil organising, planning, or being involved in, a contravention of Regulations and Rules will be appropriately punished.

1. Participation in the School programme
1.1 A pupil shall participate in the educational programmes as prescribed by the Education Department, unless exemption has been granted by the Department.
1.2 When a pupil has joined a co-curricular school activity, he/she shall fulfil his/her obligations and carry out his responsibilities in that connection, unless he/she is granted exemption by the principal teacher.
1.3 Pupils may not enter school premises before or after school hours or use any of the School’s facilities and equipment, including those for sport, before or after school hours, without permission.
1.4 Appropriate action will be taken in the case of conduct that discredits the School in the eyes of the community.
1.5 Hitchhiking while in school uniform is not allowed.

 

2. Appearance
Pupils’ general appearance directly influences the way in which a school is perceived in terms of the norms and standards advocated and upheld by that institution.
It creates an undeniable sense of entity within the School context and contributes positively towards issues such as discipline, orderliness and goal-orientated academic achievement.

2.1 Boys’ Hair
2.1.1 Hair must at all times be neat. This means that it should not bunch at the back of the head or above the ears but must be shaped and graded
2.1.2 Hair must be clear of the collar.
2.1.3 Length:
• Hair from any part of the head may not cover any part of the ear.
inappropriately short styles are not acceptable
• Sideburns may reach no longer than halfway down the ear.
• Fashionable hairstyles or any hairstyles likely to cause
comment/distraction are unacceptable within the School context.

2.2 Girls’ Hair
2.2.1 Hair must be clear of the collar.
2.2.2 Hair which is collar-length or longer must be tied up.
2.2.3 Hair that hangs down to cover the eyes must be tied up.
2.2.4 The following different kinds of hair bands are allowed:
• Plastic white or brown Alice bands
• Elastic bands (thin elastic or towelling) - white or brown
• Clips/combs: white or brown
• Brown or white ribbons one centimetre in width
2.2.5 Fashionable hairstyles or any hairstyles likely to cause comment/distraction
are unacceptable within the School context.
2.2.6 Where the hair is of an ulotrichous nature, some form of “corn rows” or
single braids held neatly at the back of the head is acceptable (i.e. “fancy or
unusual styles” are unacceptable).

2.3 Jewellery, with the exception of watches, will not be allowed.

2.4 Medic-alert discs and, when girls have pierced ears, plain 15mm gold or silver sleepers, or small round gold or silver studs, may be worn. Not more than one stud or sleeper may be worn in each ear lobe. Studs/sleepers must be worn in the lobe of the ear only. Boys may not wear earrings.

2.5 Girls may not:
2.5.1 wear plain nylon stockings in summer
2.5.2 use make-up
2.5.3 use coloured nail polish, or grow their nails longer than their fingertips.

2.6 No exceptions will be made for pupils involved in modelling.

3. Bounds and behaviour
3.1 Pupils are restricted to certain areas.
3.2 No unsupervised ball games are allowed during breaks.
3.3 Bullying is forbidden.
3.4 Pupils may not remain in the passages during breaks unless they have special permission.
3.5 Where a pupil damages school property, he/she will be expected to pay for the repairs and must report such damage to Reception or to one of the Deputy Principals.
3.6 Fighting will be punished.
3.7 The front foyer is out of bounds during school hours.
3.8 The Hall is out of bounds unless the pupil(s) is/are accompanied by a teacher.
3.9 The stage is out of bounds, unless a teacher instructs the pupil to go onto it, and is present him/herself.
3.10 The Sound and Lighting Room and the catwalks are out of bounds.
3.11 Curtains are not to be touched or adjusted by pupils.
3.12 The Students’ Centre and Multi-Purpose Centre is out of bounds, unless the pupil(s) is/are supervised by a teacher.

4. Cycles, Motorbikes and Cars
4.1 Cycles, mopeds and motorbikes must be ridden slowly (under 20 km/h) inside the school property.
4.2 Cycle-racks will be in designated areas. Motorbikes may be parked in the
designated area provided permission has been granted by the school

5. Classrooms
Pupils may not remain in classrooms before or after school, or during breaks, without the permission of a teacher. Pupils who are found writing on or scratching on doors, tables or chairs will be punished. All apparatus and furniture must be treated with respect.

6. Media Centre
6.1 Book-bags and cases must be placed in the designated areas.
6.2 No eating will be allowed.
6.3 Reasonable silence is expected.
6.4 A card-operated copier is provided. Cards may be purchased from the Librarian.

7. Sport
7.1 Sports Practices and Matches
Those who commit themselves to play for a team may not absent themselves from practice or matches without permission. The correct uniform must be worn at all times.
7.2 Pupils who commit themselves to a sport are expected to honour that commitment for the full season. This involves attending all practices, fixtures and meetings including those held during the examination and test weeks.

8. Telephones
8.1 The public telephones may be used only during the breaks, before, or after school.
8.2 No telephone messages will be taken for pupils.

9. Litter
9.1 Students are encouraged to keep the buildings and grounds free from litter.
9.2 Litter must be placed in the receptacles provided.

10. Displays of affection
Public display of behaviour such as kissing, embracing, holding hands or other indiscreet behaviour violates the norms of good taste and, as such, is unacceptable.

11. Initiation
No form of initiation is allowed.

12. School-sponsored activities
The School rules apply to all school-sponsored activities such as school bus transportation, tours, trips, dances, meetings etc.

13. Off-Campus behaviour
No pupil shall in any manner bring the name of the School into disrepute.

13.1 Behaviour on buses and in public places must be such that no inconvenience is caused to others. The School has the right to take action whenever a pupil is wearing the School uniform or part of it and his/her behaviour is such that it will bring the School’s name into disrepute.
13.2 This will also apply when pupils are not in uniform but are in school parties or groups where they may be readily identified as pupils of the School.
13.3 The School reserves the right to take action against pupils who attend private parties and by their behaviour bring the School’s name into disrepute.
13.4 Appropriate action will be taken in the case of conduct that discredits the School in the eyes of the community.

14. Health and Safety: General duties of pupils
Every pupil shall:
14.1 take reasonable care for the health and safety of himself and of other persons who may be affected by his acts or omissions;

14.2 not obstruct any staff member in the carrying out of his duties;
14.3 carry out any lawful order given to him, and obey the health and safety rules and procedures laid down by the Principal or by anyone authorized thereto by the Principal, in the interest of health or safety;
14.4 if any situation which is unsafe or unhealthy comes to his attention, as soon as practicable report such situation to the Principal or to a member of staff, as the case may be, who shall report it;
14.5 if he is involved in any incident which may affect his health or which has caused an injury to himself, report such incident to the Principal or to a member of staff as soon as practicable but not later than the end of the particular school day during which the incident occurred, unless the circumstances were such that the reporting of the incident was not possible, in which case he shall report the incident within twenty-four hours;
14.6 not intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything that is provided in the interest of health or safety e.g. fire extinguishers.

(Note: All masculine pronouns are applicable to girls as well. No gender discrimination is intended)

15. Announcements
Pupils are expected to listen attentively to all announcements and respond appropriately.

16. Circular
A circular is issued every Thursday to every pupil during the school terms. These circulars also appear on our website every Friday.

MISSION STATEMENT
We of Fairmont strive for excellence
by seeking opportunities for all
to realise their unique potential
through self-discipline
in a trusting, enjoyable
and caring atmosphere of mutual respect.
 

 

CONTACT DETAILS

Fairmont High School
Private Bag X11 Durbanville 7551
Medway Durbell Durbanville
Tel: (021) 976-1147 Fax: (021) 976-8735
e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
website: www.fairmont.co.za

1. INTRODUCTION

Fairmont has a Christian character and ethical foundation based on Biblical truth. We encourage service, mutual respect for cultures, religion, and people of different backgrounds and the maintenance of authority in Government, School and Family.

 

2. GENERAL
2.1 A past pupil’s perspective of Fairmont

Saying goodbye to Fairmont - By Shanna Heyes (A past pupil’s perspective - Speech on Matric Day)

Good morning teachers, matrics and the rest of the school, I know I’m not a prefect or even an SRC member, geez I’m not even an A-aggregate student, but I have been in this school since grade eight and you have all kind of become like family and so I couldn’t leave without saying something.

I don’t know about the rest of the matrics but I most certainly cannot believe that this is our second last day of school EVER. Honestly, I don’t want to believe it. Whenever people hear the word school, negative thoughts pop into their heads, it’s kind of made out to be like prison. Call me weird but whenever I hear the word school, my face lights up because school is the place that I have met some of the most important people of my life, my friends! It amazes me how many new friends you can make in just one year. I think it’s maybe because when you have come this far you realise that we’re all the same, trying to achieve similar things, together. Nobody can do it alone!

One thing that gets in the way of many friendships is judging, something everyone does. From the first of high school, this judging is present. All that judging is just one huge waste of time, in the end you’ll find yourself being friends with those you judged because actually you realize you have a lot in common: Who are we, that we think we are better than someone else, that we can place ourselves above them! OK, some people never get over the judging but it’s just something you can laugh about because in the end, they are the one’s who are going to come out short.

My high school career has been one massive roller coaster, with many highs and lows. At the moment I can’t figure out if I am at a high or a low. At a high because I am opening a new chapter of my life and I have no doubt it is going to be exciting and adventurous. And at a low because I am leaving so many people I love behind.

The other night I was speaking to my gran and I told her that it has all just come to an end so quickly and I am quite sad and I think unprepared. She told me that that’s what life is all about, opening and closing chapters of your life, it’s just unfortunate that we have no choice. But on the other hand, there are new and exciting things waiting out there for all of us! I also asked a friend the other night, how do you say goodbye to the people you love? He told me that we’re not saying goodbye and if we are, it’s just fornow. He told me that we have to make an effort, if the people matter that much, you’ll make the effort. It’s hard to keep in touch and stay friends but if it means that to you , you’ll do it. Another thing is, I’m not saying goodbye, this is just a promise from me to all those I love that I will try my best on my part to stay in contact and keep our friendship!

To the teachers, some of you have known us for a full five years and some less. You’ve seen us grow older and we’ve seen you. It’s been an experience none of us will forget, whether we remember it for the good or the bad. Despite what some of us might think, you have contributed a great deal to who we all are and I am thankful for that help that was always there whenever I needed it. My matric class has not been an easy bunch and often received negative attitudes. Nevertheless, we’re a vibey group with lots of spirit just trying to make school an unforgettable memory and I know deep down the teachers will miss our buzz, as well as the rest of the school.

To the school, you might be thinking that you have so much longer till you reach our stage but I was there and it seems I just blinked and I am here where I am now. Make the most of school, grade eights start from now. School is a place of security with people looking after you all day and your friends right by your side! Grade 11’s, if you’re loud with lots of spirit, my advice to you is to try out to be a cheerleader. It was the best thing I had done in my whole high school career. You get to work with amazing people, have LOADZ of fun and build friendships that will last a lifetime! To all the grade 11’s, good luck for matric, it’s a short year so enjoy every moment because it flies by!

To my matric class, there’s no question about the fact that YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST! We all have memories that will stick with us forever. Some of you just can’t wait to get out of here and some of you are like me, pretty sad. Either way, we all grew close and got through it together. I will always remember you guys for your funkiness and vibe. Good luck for your futures and I wish you well on your new path and journey.

SOME PEOPLE COME INTO OUR LIVES AND QUICKLY GO, SOME STAY FOR A WHILE AND LEAVE FOOTPRINTS ON OUR HEARTS: MY HEART HAS BEEN TRAMPLED ON!
I LOVE YOU ALL AND I WILL MISS YOU STAX!

 

2.2 School Song

Mountains blue stand in their might,
Their power inspires us,
To strive, to seek and to endure
In loyalty and trust

Chorus
Now at school and in the future
We’ll fail no friend, we’ll fear no foe.
Fairmont is the name we honour,
In love and faith we’ll grow

We’ll pursue with all our hearts
Knowledge, justice, truth.
Our dreams remain, we forsake not,
Have hope, are resolute.


2.3 School Badge
The badge contains three vine leaves, symbolic of parents, pupils and teachers; body, mind and spirit; and the three Houses, the site: mountains in heraldic form, hence Fairmont (Fair mountains) and the sphinx from the Durbanville coat-of-arms.

2.4 School Motto
The School motto is “Stand Fast”