Code of Behaviour and Discipline1. This revised Code of Behaviour and Discipline was drawn up in consultation with The

Board of Management, The Parent Council, The Whole Staff and discussion with the

Senior Pupils.

2. School Vision: Our vision for relationships and behaviour in the school is for healthy

personal relationships to exist in a safe and secure environment, where every individual is

a valued member of our school community taking into account our individual strengths

and weaknesses where each individual`s dignity is of utmost importance.A positive

attitude to discipline is fostered. 3. Mission Statement : Castletown Primary School is a Catholic, co-educational primary

school which strives to provide a well ordered, caring, happy, safe and secure learning

environment where intellectual, spiritual, physical, moral and cultural needs of the pupils

are identified and addressed. We are dedicated to encourage the growth of a love of God

and of each other, mutual respect, self esteem, equality and support for those

experiencing difficulty whether academic, emotional or social.

While Castletown Primary School is a school with a Roman Catholic ethos, it also has due

recognition for all other religions.

Castletown Primary School will strive to promote, both individually and collectively the

professional and personal development of teachers through staff development programmes.

Castletown Primary School will encourage the involvement of parents through home/school

contacts, our school webpage and text service and through their involvement in the Castletown

Primary School Parents` Association.

Castletown Primary School will endeavour to enhance the self- esteem of everyone in the

school community, to imbue in the pupils respect for people and property and to encourage in

them the idea of being responsible.

Castletown Primary School will promote gender equity amongst the teachers and pupils.

Dėanfaimid iarracht Gaeilge a labhairt I rith an lae.

4. In devising this code, consideration has been given to the particular needs and circumstances of this school. The aim is to ensure that the individuality of each child is accommodated while acknowledging the right of each child to education in a relatively disruption free environment.

5. The aims of the Code of Behaviour and Discipline of Castletown Primary School are:

To provide guidance for pupils, teachers and parents on behavioural expectations. To provide for the effective and safe operation of the school. To develop pupils’ self-esteem and to promote positive behaviour. To foster the development of a sense of responsibility and self-discipline in pupils based

on respect, consideration and tolerance of others. To facilitate the education and development of every child. To foster caring attitudes to one another and to the environment. To enable teachers to teach without disruption.

6. ImplementationEvery member of the school community has a role to play in the implementation of the Code of Behaviour and Discipline. Rules will be kept to a minimum, emphasising positive behaviour and will be applied in a fair and consistent manner, with due regard to the age of the pupils and to individual difference. Good behaviour will be encouraged and rewarded. Where difficulties arise, parents will be contacted at an early stage.

7. General Guidelines for Positive Behavioura. Pupils are expected to treat all adults and fellow pupils with respect and courtesy

at all times. Behaviour that interferes with the rights of others to learn and to feel safe is unacceptable

b. Pupils are expected to show respect for all school property and to keep the school environment clean and litter free.

c. Pupils are expected to take pride in their appearance, to have all books and required materials and to be in the right place at the right time.

d. Pupils are expected to obey a teacher’s instructions, to work to the best of their ability and to present assignments neatly.

e. Pupils are expected to attend every day unless there is a genuine reason for absence, in which case the school must be informed in writing, stating the reason for absence.

8. Bullying

Bullying is repeated verbal, psychological or physical aggression by an individual or group against others. The most common forms of bullying are aggressive physical contact, name-calling, intimidation, extortion, isolation and taunting. Bullying will not be tolerated and parents will be expected to cooperate with the school at all times in dealing with instances of bullying in accordance with the school’s Anti-Bullying Policy.

9. Affirming Positive BehaviourPositive reinforcement of good behaviour leads to better self-discipline and we place a greater emphasis on rewards and incentives than on sanctions.

10. Strategies/Incentives

A quiet word or gesture to show approval. A comment on a child’s exercise book. A visit to another class or Principal for commendation. Praise in front of class group. Individual class merit awards, points awards or award stamps. Delegating some special responsibility or privilege. Written or verbal communication with parent.

11. Discouraging MisbehaviourThe purpose of sanctions and other strategies is to promote positive and discourage misbehaviour. Sanctions will be applied according to the gravity of the misbehaviour, with due regard to age and emotional development. Time – Out is used during yard supervision by all teachers supervising. If the S.N.A. notices any behaviour which is unacceptable she asks the pupil to stand in the hula hoop and the teacher who is supervising will determine whether the pupil needs time-out or a verbal reprimand. Sanctions may include:

Reasoning with pupil. Verbal reprimand including advice on how to improve. (Black / Yellow and Red card) Temporary separation from peers within class and/or temporary removal to another class.

(Time Out) Prescribing extra work. Loss of privileges. Communication with parents. Referral to Principal. Principal communicating with parents. Exclusion (Suspension or Expulsion) from school (in accordance with Rule 130 of the

Rules for National Schools as amended by circular and Education Welfare Act 2000).

Pupils will not be deprived of engagement in a Curricular Area, except on the grounds of health/safety

12. Suspension/ExpulsionBefore serious sanctions such as detention, suspension or expulsion are used, the normal channels of communication between school and parents will be utilised. Communication with parents may be verbal or by letter depending on the circumstances. As part of discussions with parents it may be suggested that a psychological assessment would help determine if there is an underlying cause for the constant misdemeanours.

For gross misbehaviour or repeated instances of serious misbehaviour suspension may be considered. Parents concerned will be invited to come to the school to discuss their child’s case. Aggressive, threatening or violent behaviour towards a teacher or pupil will be regarded as serious or gross misbehaviour.

Where there are repeated instances of serious misbehaviour, the Chairperson of the Board of Management will be informed and the parents will be requested in writing to attend at the school to meet the Chairperson and the principal. If the parents do not give an undertaking that the pupil will behave in an acceptable manner in the future the pupil may be suspended for a period.

Prior to suspension, where possible, the Principal may review the case in consultation with teachers and other members of the school community involved, with due regard to records of previous misbehaviours, their pattern and context, sanctions and other interventions used and their outcomes and any relevant medical information. Suspension will be in accordance with the Rules for National Schools and the Education Welfare Act 2000.

In the case of gross misbehaviour, where it is necessary to ensure that order and discipline are maintained and to secure the safety of the pupils, the Board may authorise the Chairperson or Principal to sanction an immediate suspension for a period not exceeding three school days, pending a discussion of the matter with the parents.

Expulsion may be considered in an extreme case, in accordance with the Rule for National Schools and the Education Welfare Act 2000. Before suspending or expelling a pupil, the Board shall notify the Local Welfare Education Officer in writing in accordance with Section 24 of the Education Welfare Act.

13. Removal of Suspension (Reinstatement)Following or during a period of suspension, the parent/s may apply to have the pupil reinstated to the school. The parent/s must give a satisfactory undertaking that a suspended pupil will behave in accordance with the school code and the Principal must be satisfied that the pupil’s reinstatement will not constitute a risk to the pupil’s own safety or that of the other pupils or staff. The Principal will facilitate the preparation of a behaviour plan for the pupil if required and will re-admit the pupil formally to the class.

14. School Rules School rules are kept to a minimum and are devised with regard for the health, safety and welfare of all members of the school community. If a school is to function efficiently, it is necessary that rules and regulations are clearly stated and enforced consistently and fairly.

15. Before/After School Parents are reminded that the staff of the school does not accept responsibility for pupils before 9.10 a.m. or after the official closing time of 2 p.m. (infants) 3 p.m. (other classes) except where pupils are engaged in an extra-curricular activity organised by the school and approved by the Board of Management. Pupils involved in such activities are expected to behave in accordance with school behaviour policy during these times.

16. Board of Management’s ResponsibilitiesProvide a comfortable, safe environment. Support the Principal and staff in implementing the code.Ratify the code.

17. Principal’s Responsibilities Promote a positive climate in the school. Ensure that the Code of Behaviour is implemented in a fair and consistent manner. Arrange for review of the Code, as required.

18. Teachers’ ResponsibilitiesSupport and implement the school’s code of behaviour.

Create a safe working environment for each pupil. Recognise and affirm good work. Prepare school work and correct work done by pupils. Recognise and provide for individual talents and differences among pupils. Be courteous, consistent and fair. Keep opportunities for disruptive behaviour to a minimum. Deal appropriately with misbehaviour. Keep a record of instances of serious misbehaviour or repeated instances of

misbehaviour. Provide support for colleagues. Communicate with parents when necessary and provide reports on matters of mutual

concern.

19. Pupils’ Responsibilities Attend school regularly and punctually. Listen to their teachers and act on instructions/advice. Show respect for all members of the school community. Respect all school property and the property of other pupils. Avoid behaving in any way which would endanger others. Avoid all nasty remarks, swearing and name-calling. Include other pupils in games and activities. Bring correct materials/books to school. Follow school and class rules.

20. Parents/Guardians ResponsibilitiesEncourage children to have a sense of respect for themselves and for property. Ensure that children attend regularly and punctually. Be interested in, support and encourage their children’s school work. Be familiar with the code of behaviour and support its implementation. Co-operate with teachers in instances where their child’s behaviour is causing difficulties

for others. Communicate with the school in relation to any problems which may affect child’s

progress/behaviour.

General School Rules for Castletown Primary School 2015 - 2016

The Minister for Education requires the Boards of Management of Schools to formulate a set of

guidelines for the smooth running of schools and for the safety and well-being of the children.

Official School Hours: 9.20am to 3.00pm

The following is a list of school rules for Castletown Primary School: Children will not leave the school premises during school hours without

prior permission from a teacher. A note from a parent must accompany a request for absence from class. Children may not leave the school premises at any time with anyone other

than those named by parents/guardians in writing/oral confirmation to school. It is important for parents of the infants to take note of this rule as no exceptions will be made.

Parents / guardians must supply a note to class teacher if a child needs to remain indoors at break time.

Parents/guardians of each child must supply the School Principal with a home contact number plus at least one other contact number.

Parents are asked to ensure that their child(ren) bring a lunch to school everyday. This lunch should contain at least sandwiches and a drink. No energy drinks allowed.

Carrying other children, birthday “bumps”, bad language, bullying and climbing are strictly forbidden.

Chewing gum and bottles of Tippex are strictly forbidden. Parents are asked to see to it that homework is done to the child’s best

ability and signed. Parents will be liable for any deliberate damage caused by their children. Disruptive and dishonest behaviour will not be tolerated. Parents will be informed of continuous or serious misdemeanours. Children will be expected to have footwear suitable for outdoor activity (no

high heels or shoes with little or no support) Protective helmets must be worn by children while playing

hurling/camogie. No child may play hurling/camogie without written permission from his /

her parents/guardians. Children must wear their school uniform which includes school tracksuit

except on P.E. day or unless they have written permission from their parents for exemption for some particular reason.

Children are expected to appear in school in clean, modest clothes. Parents are asked to ensure that their children’s hair is checked regularly

and if necessary treated for head lice. Respect must be shown to everyone who comes our way. We wholeheartedly support a litter free environment.

No mobile phones. Any message that needs to be relayed to a student must be done through the

class teacher Facial / body piercings are strictly forbidden. Only stud type earrings are

permitted. Children`s` hair during school term must not be cut shorter than a `two` and

shaven in designs are not allowed If any child or parent has a problem or query, please do not hesitate to call

to see the teacher in question.

Please Note: As it is the beginning of a new school year I would appreciate it, if you

would send into me (a) an updated list of people authorised by you who may collect your

child/children from this school. Unless written permission by you has been given to the

school no child will be allowed leave the premises; (b) updated contact numbers; (c) the

name and phone number of each pupil’s family doctor.

Time Out Record Sheet - ClassroomDate Name Reason Time

Red Card Record Sheet Staffroom

Date Name Reason

Class Rules For Sixth Class – Ms. Kennedy Phelan

1. Lies are strictly forbidden

2. Instructions given by class teacher must be obeyed.

3. No running in the classroom ever.

4. Pupils and teacher should work to the best of their ability.

5. Pupils must stay seated in their places when teacher is called from the room.

6. Pupils and teacher should not touch anyone.

7. Pupils and teacher should keep any unhelpful comments to themselves.

8. Pupils` birthdays are acknowledged and a treat is given to each pupil even if it

falls during vacations.

9. All lunch to be eaten before going out in the yard.

10. If a ball goes outside school boundaries during break time ball must be retrieved

by supervising teacher or S.N.A.

11. Class teacher must never be alone with a child.

12. Only one child in the toilet area / cloakroom area at a time.

13. If an incident arises which needs class teacher intervention i.e. pupils not speaking

to each other, class teacher will speak to all children involved in an empty room

(staffroom / office) in order to limit the damage that may arise. Circle time within

whole class may follow.

14. When children are choosing teams they are mindful of including all children and

of having teams of mixed ability and gender. The same pupil / pupils should not

always be chosen last. The class teacher must supervise all team choosing.

15. I have a bonus system operating in my class.

16. The name jar is used when choosing pupils for jobs e.g. reading at Mass

17. Homework journal must be timed and signed each night.

18. If a pupil does not do his / her homework on any of the four nights mentioned in

the homework policy (without a letter of explanation from parents / guardian)

then I will assign homework to that child / children for the weekend.

19. Words of praise / encouragement are written in the child`s homework journal The

journal must be signed by parent / guardian to acknowledge same.

20. If there is a need to meet with a parent / guardian this will also be corresponded

through the journal. The journal must be signed by parent / guardian to

acknowledge same.

Class Rules for Third, Fourth and Fifth Class – Ms. Phelan and Ms. Doyle

1. No bullying / fighting.

2. Always include others.

3. Have respect for your classmates and your teacher.

4. Raise your hand if you have something to say.

5. No running in the classroom.

6. Homework must be done Monday to Thursday if not you will have

homework at the weekend.

7. Be kind, gentle and friendly to everyone.

8. Time out will be used if any child disobeys a rule.

9. I use homework passes as a means to encourage a positive attitude in my

classroom.

10. I use a team system to reward my pupils.

11. Do not write on or damage any furniture in the classroom.

12. No talking / shouting if teacher is out of the classroom for any reason.

13. Teacher must treat every child the same and be fair. (Name jar)

14. Teacher must show respect to every child.

15. Keep classroom neat and tidy.

16. No copying other children`s work.

17. A consistently disruptive child will be brought to another classroom for

cooling off time. (card system)

18. Homework journal must be timed and signed each night.

19. The teacher will never be alone with one child.

20. The Principal also from time to time treats the class in order to promote

good behaviour.

Class Rules for Second Class – Ms. Lyons Phelan and Ms. Lorrigan

1. To ensure teacher is being fair to all pupils in the class – the name jar is used to select

child/children – a rota is made out for children doing jobs in the classroom i.e. news

chart/bins/ringing bell/windows etc.

2. Rewards/treats for good behaviour and good work.

Time out is used when rules are broken.

The following rules are on display in the classroom in the first term:

Remember to – Take turns

- Share with others

- Put your hand up

- Use your indoor voice

- Walk, don`t run

- Be polite (Please / Thank you)

- Put things away

- Don`t tell lies

- Be nice to others – Treat others as you would like them to treat you

- Respect all property belonging to the school and others.

3. Principal is informed regularly about both positive/negative behaviour/work of child/children.

The Principal also from time to time treats my class in order to promote good behaviour.

4. Homework is written into homework journal by each child daily. Parent / guardian is expected

to sign journal each day to confirm homework has been completed. If homework has not been

done a note informing parent / guardian is written by teacher and this work must be made up at

home.

5. Children go to the toilet before / after small / big break. If they need to go at other times they

put up their hand and seek permission. Only one child is permitted in the toilet area at a time.

6. The teacher will never be alone with one child.

Class Rules for Senior Infants and First Class – Ms. Cuddy

1. Put up your hand if you wish to speak.

2. Only one person speaks at a time.

3. Homework will be written into homework journal from the whiteboard by

each child.

4. Parents must sign the homework journal each evening.

5. If there is a message for parents re homework / behaviour it will be written

into the journal.

6. If a child doesn`t do his / her homework they will have homework at the

weekend in accordance with homework policy.

7. If a child misbehaves he / she will get time out.

8. Children must obey those in charge of them and have respect for them at all

times.

9. At breaks the children must eat in the classroom.

10. If a child is required to stay in at break time they must have written

permission.

11. There is a rota list for doing jobs in the classroom

12. If a child does not seem to be benefiting from time out they will be taken to

another teacher or the principal for a verbal reprimand.

13. If the children are working well they will receive an occasional treat to

reinforce this good work / behaviour.

14. A group reward system is in place.

15. The Principal also from time to time treats my class in order to promote good

behaviour.

16. If a child does not get his / her homework done it is expected that the parent /

guardian will write a note to explain why.

17. No one is allowed to throw anything in the classroom.

18. Every child must help tidy up the classroom before they go home from school.

19. The teacher will never be alone with one child.

Classroom Rules for Junior Infants – Ms. Curran

1. No running in classroom or climbing on chairs.

2. No swinging on seats.

3. The children cannot leave their seat unless permission has been sought

and granted.

4. Respect all classroom furniture and equipment.

5. Keep the classroom tidy and neat.

6. Respect teachers` and classmates` property.

7. Use soft voices.

8. Be helpful, friendly and fair – this includes pupils and teacher.

9. Take turns and always share.

10. Raise hand to speak.

11. Work quietly in seat at all times.

12. No bullying or fighting.

13. Respect must always be shown towards teachers and schoolmates.

14. Homework must be done for ten minutes each day from Monday to

Thursday. If not, homework will be given on a Friday as in Homework

Policy.

15. Homework must always be signed by a parent / guardian.

16. If any rule is broken time out is given either in the classroom or in the

yard.

17. All lunch to be eaten before going out to play.

18. Nobody is allowed to leave area that teacher has designated for P.E.

19. Lying is forbidden.

20. Good behaviour is rewarded by me as class teacher and also by the

principal.

21. The teacher will never be alone with one child.

Classroom Rules for Learning Support / Resource Hours – Ms. McEvoy and Ms. Lorigan

1. The children are expected to work to the best of their

ability and development of self-esteem is promoted.

2. Encouragement, praise and rewards are used such as

stickers, certificates, small prizes and praise to class

teacher.

3. Each child is expected to give others in the group a chance,

take turns and to listen to other children read etc.

4. Each child is expected to do specific homework given by

learning support teacher / resource teacher e.g. reading

from Fuzz Buzz or PM Readers, Toe by Toe, Word Lists

etc.

5. Each child is expected to arrive quietly, get folder and get

ready to commence work. They are expected to return to

classroom quietly.(Learning Support)

6. Each child must have their folder and homework including

reader plus copy each day.

7. Each child is expected to tidy up games etc.after each

session and put work back into folder.

8. Parents / Guardians of children attending learning support /

resource are expected to meet with learning support teacher

/ resource teacher when requested to support their children

in their learning.

9. In cases of bad behaviour e.g. shouting, not taking turns,

not taking care of equipment and books there will be

reasoning, reprimanding / reporting / liaising with class

teacher.

10. The teacher will never be alone with one child.

Review, Audit and Ratification: Following the review and audit of Our Code of Discipline and Behaviour the above policy was ratified by the Board of Management onDate:……………………….

Signature:

Chairperson B.O.M.A review of this Code of Discipline and Behaviour will take place every two years or more often if deemed necessary.