EPS Handbook 2014 -final - · PDF fileEPS Handbook 2014 2 January ... Our learners do not write the GDE Matric ... Provisional application forms must be completed and submitted to

EPS Handbook 2014 January 0



PARENTS, if your aim is to raise godly offspring through Biblical values and to have Character building and Academic Excellence then,

WELCOME!

Becoming part of this school means that you already have an understanding of Godly Parenthood and Christian living. We believe that your involvement with this school will bring you into a deeper relationship with Our Lord Jesus Christ and give you a purpose for the future. May your time with us both as parents and learners be blessed. Yours in Christian Education Administrator and Staff


INTRODUCTION God’s MEDIUM OF EDUCATION is firstly HIS WORD, the PRIMARY PLACE OF EDUCATION is THE HOME, and the KEY TEACHERS ARE THE PARENTS. They are the ones that God holds responsible to TEACH their children how to love Him and live lives that honour Him and their fellow man. Parents lead by INSTRUCTION as well as EXAMPLE by MODELLING this life to their children IN THE HOME. The school is there to assist the parents with academic as well as spiritual training and materials for the children, which must again be REINFORCED in the home after school. The objective in operating a private Christian school is to obey the Scriptural imperatives of Deuteronomy 6:5-7

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and wit h all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give y ou today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Ta lk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, w hen you lie down and when you get up . ”

and of Proverbs 22:6 to “ train up a child in THE way he SHOULD go.”

Teaching is training. Training for life must include training for eternity. Attendance at this school is a privilege and not a right . The goal of this school is not to reform, but to train Christian youth of every ability in the highest principles of Christian leadership, self-discipline, individual responsibility, personal integrity, and good citizenship. This school stands without apology for the Biblical Gospel and the highest standards of morality and Christian behaviour. The educational programme of Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) is probably the most advanced available. It is totally Christian, not orientated to a denomination but to the Bible. Loving dedicated teachers plus a combination of prescribed curriculum, goal setting, controls and motivation, measurements and rewards are the basis of the programme’s international success. Throughout the curriculum, from pre-school to Grade 12, the philosophy of God’s Word is interwoven with highest quality academics to train a child so that mentally and emotionally he will view the world through God’s eyes and learn to succeed in life through Godly character. VISION To impact the world MISSION To educate Christian leaders through Biblical standards SCHOOL GOVERNMENT The Emmanuel Private School (EPS) is an independent Christian school. The Nursery School is also incorporated into the Emmanuel Private School.

We are registered as a non-profit organisation in our aim to provide affordable quality education. The school Governing Board oversees the school in totality and is the final authority for the governance of the school. The month to month control and oversight of the school finances and is the responsibility of the Executive Committee (EXCO). The day-to-day financial management of the school is the responsibility of the Administrator and the Financial Administrator (refer to the school constitution)


Financially, the school operates solely through money received from the prescribed fees, subsidy, donations and fund raising. The teaching staff are employed by the school and are subject to regulations laid down by the school. The school management team is comprised of the Administrator, Principal, School Pastor and HOD’s.

The school is registered with the Gauteng Department of Education.

Locally, the Vanderbijlpark Municipal Health officers inspect and control the health aspect of the school. STATEMENT OF FAITH While we realise that we cannot confine God to mere articles of faith, we also recognise the importance of doctrine in these days of no absolutes. We often hear the statement that “It doesn’t matter what I believe, as long as I am sincere”. This statement is contrary to what the Bible teaches. The Bible teaches that doctrine must be sound. EPS subscribes to a Statement of Faith as stipulated in the school constitution. The Statement of Faith aligns with the doctrine of the church of affiliation. 1. We believe in God eternal, Triune (existing in three Persons - Father, Son and Holy Spirit),

Almighty Creator, Sustainer and Ruler of all creation;

2. We believe in God the Father, the author of creation and salvation;

3. We believe in Jesus Christ, the only Son of God the Father, true God and true man, who for the sake of humanity and its salvation, descended from heaven and became flesh; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and was born of the virgin Mary; who lived on earth and was crucified, died and was buried, and who rose from the dead and ascended to heaven where He is seated at the right hand of the Father as our High Priest and Advocate;

4. We believe in the Holy Spirit, true God proceeding from the Father and the Son; who convicts

the world of sin, righteousness and judgment and leads us into all truth;

5. We believe that the Holy Bible is the Word of God, written by men as the Holy Spirit inspired them. We believe that it authoritatively proclaims the will of God and teaches us all that is necessary for salvation and growth to spiritual maturity. We accept them as the supreme and final authority for faith and life;

6. We believe that all human beings are created in the image of God; due to their sinful rebellion

this image is marred. All human beings thereby incur the penalty of sin which is death physically and spiritually. We further believe that all have sinned before God and that it is the will of God that all people should receive salvation through faith;

7. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ died for our sins as a substitution sacrifice according to the

Scriptures and that all who believe in Him are justified on the grounds of His shed blood;

8. We believe that all who repent of their sin and receive the Lord Jesus Christ by faith are born again of the Holy Spirit and thereby become children of God;

9. We believe in the Baptism in the Holy Spirit resulting in the empowering and equipping of

believers for service, with the accompanying supernatural Gifts of the Spirit and in fellowship with the Holy Spirit;


10. We believe that a Christian should be a disciple of Jesus Christ, living a consecrated and holy life.

11. We believe in marriage as an institution of God between one man and one woman with no

room for a third person. We distance ourselves from any doctrine or belief that undermines this fundamental principle.

12. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ appointed two ordinances, Baptism in water and the

Lord’s Supper, to be observed as acts of obedience and as perpetual witnesses to the cardinal facts of the Christian faith - that Baptism is the immersion of the believer in water as a confession of identification with Christ in burial and resurrection and that the Lord's Supper is the partaking of the emblems symbolic of the Saviour's broken body and shed blood, in remembrance of His sacrificial death, until He comes;

13. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church which is constituted by the Holy Spirit

and consists of Born-again believers. The Church is responsible for the proclamation and demonstration of the Gospel and God's will to all people. As a charismatic community they fellowship with and edify one another;

14. With regards to submission to authority, we believe in the principle of being in authority because

you are under authority. As such, it is understood that membership shall be subject to submission to authority in matters pertaining to governance, doctrine and personal behaviour;

15. We believe that at the time appointed by God, Christ will come to take away His Church;

16. We believe in a day of judgment when Christ will judge the living and the dead. We believe in

the resurrection of the body and eternal life for the righteous and eternal punishment for the wicked. We believe in the new heaven and the new earth where God will reign in glory;

ACCREDITATION This school is registered with the Gauteng Department of Education. The curriculum of this school however goes beyond the requirements of the Basic Core Curriculum (RNCS – Revised National Curriculum Statement) laid down by the government. Graduation requirements for matriculation are based on international standards laid down by ACE. Thousands of graduates are annually admitted to colleges and universities world-wide. A.C.E South Africa will determine Matriculation and other school leaving examinations in accordance with South African Universities and Technikon requirements. Our learners do not write the GDE Matric finals, but do the SAT and NBT university benchmark tests. The School of Tomorrow programme caters for both national and international requirements and offers learners a choice of four levels for graduation:

1. Grade 12 College (University) Entrance Certificate with exemption equivalence (NQF Level 4)

2. Grade 12 College Entrance Certificate without exemption equivalence 3. Grade 11 General Certificate 4. International Certificate of Christian Education

ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE 1. Provisional application forms must be completed and submitted to school together with the

waiting list fee. 2. The application will then be placed on the waiting list. 3. Parents will be contacted to bring the learner for a diagnostic test as space becomes available

according to the school’s macro plan.


4. Parents will be informed of the learner’s admission status in writing and must collect and sign for this communication. Admission status may be “Provisionally Admitted” or “Not Admitted”

5. Parents of learners receiving “Provisional Admittance” status will be scheduled for a parent interview with school management.

6. Parents will be informed of the learner’s acceptance into EPS in writing. 7. Both parents will be required to attend Parent Orientation as part of the enrolment process and

should ensure that they are scheduled to attend. 8. An enrolment package will be handed to parents at the Parent Orientation and all

documentation should be returned to the school before the specified cut off date. 9. An enrolment fee is payable before the cut off date to secure the learner’s space. ADMISSIONS POLICY This school admits learners of any race, nationality and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programmes and activities generally accorded or made available to the learners at the school. It does not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programmes, athletics, and other school-administered programmes. Learners and parents must however be in agreement with the Biblical standpoint of the school and must follow the enrolment procedures. The school reserves the right to deny admission to any learner without disclosing reasons thereto. Selection and Enrolment

The following are discussed during the interview with prospective parents.

1. Religious Background

Understand that we view this school ministry as “evangelistic” and do not necessarily only enrol “Christian” learners. All prospective learners should be evaluated as to their potential to contribute positively to the life and character of the School.

2. Spiritual Attitude

It is not enough that the learner comes from a “religious” background. Care must be taken to determine the openness of the learner to spiritual issues.

3. Scholastic Attitude

Although we accept that some learners may be negative regarding school because of bad experiences, the underlying attitude must be determined.

4. Scholastic Aptitude

Each learner will undergo diagnostic testing to ascertain at what level of the curriculum he/she should be placed. Learners from other A.C.E. schools will receive preferential placement on the waiting list.

5. Vacancy in School

Enrolment of new learners is based on the following:

1. Overall Educator : Learner Ratio 2. Availability of Subject Teachers 3. Office availability in Learning Centre


4. Annual growth predictions 5. The school’s macro-plan

Enrolment Procedures 1. Emmanuel Nursery School learners annually apply during re-enrolment to enter the Grade R

class. 2. Admittance into the Grade R-9 classes is subject to an internal diagnostic test as well as an

emotional and social evaluation, overall educator learner ratio, future strategic planning of the school, financial history and parent involvement and commitment.

3. Preferential admittance into Emmanuel Private School and Nursery school will be subject to the child’s best interests as determined by the school, as well as the standard enrolment procedures and qualifying criteria.

4. Enrolment into Grade 1 is not automatic after at tending the Grade R class, but subject to diagnostic testing.

5. ACE transfer learners would receive preferential placement on the waiting list, subject to a financial history check on school fees, space availability and a parent & learner interviews.

6. No F.E.T. transfer learners other than ACE transfers will be admitted. 7. A Provisional Application form must be completed for all prospective learners. 8. An enrolment form will only be issued to parents once a learner has been accepted into the

school. 9. The fees for diagnostic testing are due prior to testing and non-refundable. 10. Enrolment fees are due after acceptance into the school. 11. Learners on the waiting list must apply annually during the year end enrolment cycle and a

waiting list fee will be charged as determined by the EXCO. 12. The results communication process during annual enrolment (yearend enrolments) is as

follows: • Parents will be notified in writing of application results. • These results will be collected and signed for at reception.

13. The results communication process outside annual enrolment (mid year transfers) is as follows: • Learners will be placed on a waiting list and parents will be contacted by the school for a

diagnostic test date according to the conditions of point 2 of this document. SCHOOL BEGINNERS AGE A child that is to be enrolled in Grade R, must turn six during that year. If a child wishes to enrol in the Grade 1 Learning Centre, the learner must turn seven in the year in which he will enter Grade 1 and must pass the READING READINESS Test. School beginners will be given the READING READINESS TEST and should they qualify, they will progress to LEARNING TO READ with the ABC’S of ACE. At a point between 12 and 18 weeks, the learner will be given a POST TEST to identify and rectify any weaknesses and time will be spent on reinforcing mastered concepts. At the completion of ABC’S of ACE Curriculum, the learner will start the first PACE (Packet of Accelerated Christian Education) and will be required to complete an average of 12 PACEs per subject per school year, plus spelling PACEs. Learners will be given an individualised workload according to that individual’s ability and maturity. Transferred learners will be required to complete a diagnostic test to determine at what level PACE the learner is to begin. The diagnosis will indicate any learning weaknesses referred to as learning gaps and these learning gaps will be catered for with individualised PACEs, and at this point the learner will resume the above workload. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Parent commitment to the activities at EPS plays a vital role in the development of our learners. Parents commit to supporting the educators in academic and spiritual issues. Should parents


disagree on a staff member’s decision, the school’s expectation is that parents will address the matter in private and in a Christian manner. Parents undertake to be an example to the learners of EPS in conduct during school activities or when on the school property. Staff and parents form a united front in order to promote mutual respect and discipline. EPS acknowledges that our parents’ time is valuable and commits to not schedule unnecessary meetings. However, we request that parents commit to attending all parent functions, parent orientation (upon enrolment) and parent conferences -as these promote a good understanding between parents or guardians and the faculty/administration of this school. Every parent is required to participate in these informative and helpful programmes. Parents undertake to attend the annual Church School Sunday as a family as well as the annual general feedback meeting and termly parent conferences. As a non-profit organisation, fundraising forms an integral part of our school’s budget. Therefore it is imperative that parents support these efforts to the fullest. Parents should also strive to promote open communication between the school and themselves. As this is such a vital ingredient to our recipe fo r success, parents should take note that a record of parent involvement is ke pt to monitor our learners’ support structures. Re-enrolment of your child into EPS is subject to parental involvement and support. Individual parent conferences with the supervisor are scheduled on a termly basis. Parents are expected to attend Parent Orientation which aims at equipping them to better understand the learning programme. They will spend a Saturday morning in the Learning Centre where they will experience Learning Centre routine and procedures. This valuable course enables the parent to fully comprehend and support the academic programme. The school seeks the support of the parents in the training of their child. This is a shared, co-operative responsibility based on Biblical principles and communication. Parents are invited to visit the Learning Centre to observe the children at work by appointment. If specific problems arise, appointments may be arranged at a mutually convenient time. This includes home visits by the Principal or Pastoral staff. If deemed necessary, parents are required to receive Biblical counselling concerning child rearing, family life and other parental responsibilities, that might affect the schooling of their child. Learners and parents are encouraged to belong to and regularly attend a Bible-believing church. Part of your parental involvement is adhering to the Financial Policy. Do not see the financial obligations and contributions as just school fees, but as an INVESTMENT into your child’s education, character building and future. Our fees are considerably lower than other Christian and Private schools. Please BUDGET for your child/children’s education as a PRIORITY- Education is too precious to be left to chance. BASIC SYSTEM OF EDUCATION IS . . . .

BIBLE BASED

INDIVIDUALISED

COMPUTER ENHANCED

The following five laws sum up best the philosophy of learning applied in this school:

1. The learner must be on a level of curriculum where he can perform. 2. The learner must set reasonable goals which he can achieve in a prescribed period of time.


3. The learner must be controlled and nurtured to the point where he assimilates, uses or experiences the material.

4. The learner’s learning must be measurable. 5. The learner’s learning must be rewarded.

METHODOLOGY The programme is designed to facilitate learning through self-instructional material requiring a minimum of supervision, while enabling learners with varying abilities to advance academically at their own pace. Learning material is presented in PACEs (Packet of Accelerated Christian Education), books, worksheets, projects and assignments enabling learners to master the material in small segments. Each PACE is designed to require about three weeks to complete. The knowledge in one unit of work is naturally built upon what the child has learned in previous units. In this way children progress steadily through the curriculum, building a firm base of understanding. Advancement to new material is not permitted until testing demonstrates that learners have thoroughly comprehended all material contained in a unit of work. A minimum standard of work has to be met within reasonable time limits and no child can be allowed to advance to the next standard of work without satisfying this minimum level. In order to proceed and advance a child must obtain a minimum pass of 80 - 90% depending on the level and subject. No talent is held back and no slow learner is compelled to keep up with a rate of work with which he/she is unable to cope. SETTING OF GOALS Children are trained to see daily assignments as steps necessary to maintain continuous progress which is part of a life-training process. However, how much an individual child can accomplish in a year is not as important as how much he can accomplish EACH DAY. Goals are set in every learning area each day in order to maintain balance. However, it may be beneficial for some learners to work in only two subjects at a time in order to attain goals. The development of fundamental learning skills are just as important as the academic learning content. HOMEWORK The responsibility for scholastic achievement is placed on the learner in our programme. If a foundation phase learner works diligently at school, he should rarely have homework. Intermediate, Senior and FET learners may have regular homework. The goals set by the learner and/or supervisor are no more than the child is capable of completing during the school day. Should the learner not meet his quota for that day, he will be required to complete the work at home. Should your child have homework, a slip will be sent home stating what pages are to be completed in the PACE. The slip is to be signed by the parent and returned the following school day. It is the responsibility of the learner to take all necessary Paces and or work books home to complete the homework. Learners desiring to do extra work at home (above goals) may be given permission to do so. They may work as far as they can in the PACE, UP TO A SCORE STRIP, provided they do not go past supervisor initials and also, all previous pages must be scored and corrected up to a score strip. SOMETIMES the supervisor may give permission to work over score strips. PACES PACEs are private property and are not to be shared among learners. The price charged for a PACE is a user fee and therefore the PACE does not become the property of the learner.


After a PACE is complete, the learner waits until the next morning before receiving the test; he will wait an additional night before receiving results. The learner will only receive a new Pace according to his/her academic projection. Work in PACEs is done in pencil. Calculators are not permitted in the Learning Centre except at the supervisor’s station, and for learners on certain high level Math Paces, with permission of the Supervisor only. CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP TRAINING We are not hiding our learners away from the world, but are aiming at equipping them for life providing support and guidance to life decisions. Devotions: Learners are assigned to groups and meet in devotional periods. Principles of life are outlined, illustrated and discussed in these sessions. Chapel: Regular chapel sessions are held during which the learner identifies his education with the ministry of the church. Local pastors, staff members and fellow learners share from the Word of God. Learners must bring their Bibles to all devotions, chapels, and special meetings. MOTTO AND PLEDGE We unashamedly teach the Biblical doctrines of self-discipline, respect for those in authority, obedience to the law and love for God and country. Learners prayerfully recite the pledges and the motto at assembly. INCENTIVE PROGRAMME Several forms of incentives exist. These vary from Congratulations! slips, membership of the 100-club, 500-club, or the 1000-club, privileges, merits, honour-roll and Top 5 outings, termly and annual awards. Congratulations! slips are handed out weekly, either at assembly or in the learning centre and indicate which paces have been successfully completed. Parents, look out for these and praise your children’s efforts! Scoring 100% for a Pace Test will earn a place in the 100 club and so on for the 500 club, 1000 or even 2000 club. Privileges status called A, C or E privilege, may be earned by meeting certain requirements and affords different rewards. Learners who believe they have fulfilled the responsibility for a level of privilege status and desire privilege status should assume responsibility for requesting an Application for Privileges form on the Friday preceding their desired period of privileges. They should complete the form and submit it that day. During assembly or in the learning centre on Monday, the learner will be presented with the privilege status emblem for the learner to display during the week. High school learners apply for age appropriate privileges Remember: Privileges are incentives to promote learning achievement. Learners accumulate points for earned privileges status during the year – 1 point for “A” level privileges, 2 points for “C” level privileges, and 3 points for “E” privileges status. An award is presented at the final awards evening to the learner who has accumulated the highest total number of privilege points. Learners earn merits for certain academic and character achievements. These merits can be accumulated and as they have a cash value can be surrendered for items at the tuck-shop or a milkshake. Should enough merits be collected, a morning off school can be arranged. A learner may earn more and more privileges as he assumes more and more responsibilities.


Honour roll certificates are received for obtaining a term average of between 88 – 93.9 % and 94 – 100%, and for achieving academic balance with a prescribed minimum number of Paces, and memorisation of all Bible passages for the term and a minimum amount of detention. Top Five will be awarded to learners in the Foundation Phase. Top 5 Learner Criteria

Field trips Although such off-campus trips are of real enjoyment for the learners, they are designed primarily to enrich learning. Supervisors may ask learners to take notes and complete tests upon returning to school. A natural outgrowth of such trips, which are conducted under the supervision of adults on every occasion, is that learners are disciplined in the art of self-control and gracious deportment in various social conditions. No learner will be permitted to attend any outing w ithout submission of a fully completed indemnity form. AWARDS PROGRAMMES Termly Awards Assemblies are held every term. It is a time of celebration for the parents, pupils and staff where we praise and thank God for our children’s talents and abilities. The staff give each child an award for character. At the end of the year the school community joins together in order to celebrate prestigious achievements and award learners with Top Awards in areas of spiritual growth, academics, sport and culture. Awards such as the following are included at the discretion of the staff: Sport and Cultural; Perfect attendance; Literature; Most Improved Academic; Readmaster; Highest privilege points; Most improved Christian Growth; Outstanding Christian Character; Junior Emmanuel Award (No.2 overall primary school learner); Junior School of Tomorrow Award (No.1 overall primary school learner); Emmanuel Award (No.2 overall high school learner); School of Tomorrow Award (No.1 overall high school learner). Learners from Gr1-12 are ALL required to attend the Annual Awards Evening. Parents are requested to support the school in teaching learners the Christian principle of being grateful for what God is doing in other’s lives as well as giving credit to God for developing their own talents. Athletics and Sport: Awards are given on the basis of physical ability and Christian character.

Academics: Amount of Paces Pace % Average

Speech: 1 per term Attitude: Positive in and out of class Neatness: Handwriting in Paces

Uniform Office

Christian Service: In and out of school Bible Memory: Complete

Done with good attitude Bible Quiz: Must pass with 90% Rewards: Certificates

Outings


Cultural: Learners are rewarded for excellence in cultural activities such as drama, dance, music, visual art and convention items. Subject to the Christian ethos of the school. Literature Certificate: Learners who want an additional challenge are encouraged to strive for the A.C.E. Literature Certificate. During the school year, learners must read and report on at least 20 character-building books at or above their English curriculum level. Books must be approved by the supervisor prior to reading. No more than ten books may be associated with English PACE’s. The Literature Paces do not count towards this award. PROGRESS REPORTS The grading system of our school is designed to give parents a true indication of the learner’s progress or lack thereof. Progress Reports are given to learners to present to their parents to show their progress up to the end of each term. The report is to be signed and returned to the school promptly. CONVENTIONS A most exciting and rewarding event for learners is the annual All Africa Student Convention. Learners are required to attend Convention once in order to gain sufficient credits towards graduation. Learners prepare for competition in any of 128 events including athletics, music, arts/crafts and platform events. Winners at this Convention are eligible for the International Student Convention held each spring (Autumn in S.A.) in the U.S.A. A.C.E. Student Convention Guidelines are available to assist learners in preparing for competition. Preparation takes place under supervisor control. Convention learners (Grades 8-12) must not be older than 18 years of age by December 31 and have turned 14 by the same date, in order to attend in a particular year. INDEMNITY Parents and learners indemnify and exempt Emmanuel Private School from any claims for compensation which might occur during the period of enrolment. STARTING TIME Learners are to arrive at school no earlier than 07h00 and no later than 07h45. The school gate is locked at 7:45. All learners that arrive at school later than 7:45 must report to reception with their parent. A learner is considered irresponsible and undisciplined if he is not in the Learning Centre by 7h50 at the latest and a record of this will be kept. Parents are reminded that learners need to organise themselves for the day’s work as well as get ready for homework check. Continued tardiness will necessitate a conference with parent and school management, possibly leading to revocation of learner privileges or suspension. CLOSING TIMES Grade 0 - 12h30. Grade 1 - 13h00 (until end of first term), thereafter at 13h30. Grade 2 - 3 - 14h00, except Wednesday and Friday - 13h30. Grade 4 - 12 - 14h00, except Wednesday - 13h30. HOME SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS Home / School communication is vital. To maintain open communication, an envelope system will be used. An envelope is made for every learner and letters, newsletters, etc. are sent home in the envelope. Each learner is given the following responsibilities:

1. Take the communication envelope home.

2. Ask both parents to read the contents.

3. Ask that one or both parents sign the envelope.

4. Ask parents if they need to send any communication to school.


5. Return the envelope to school by the following day.

(A demerit per day will be given for late replies).

ATTENDANCE – ABSENTEEISM A written reason signed by a parent or guardian must be presented to the supervisor when a learner returns to school after an absence. If the absence is foreseeable, a note should be sent in advance. Doctor, dental and other appointments are to be scheduled after school hours wherever possible. Absence for reasons other than for sickness and emergency will be excused only if arrangements are made in advance with the supervisor and the learner is sufficiently advanced in his work. Excessive absences will inhibit the learner’s progress. If, in the opinion of the administration, the absences are unnecessary, the learner will be considered truant. A learner is considered tardy if he is not in the Learning Centre at start of school (7:45). Detention will be given. Continued tardiness will necessitate a conference with parent and principal, possibly leading to revocation of learner privileges or suspension. It is important for learners to start their day in an organised and peaceful manner. Walking into assembly or the learning centre late is also an embarrassing situation for a learner- please do not put your child in this awkward position. LOST AND FOUND The Lost and Found Department of the school is operated from the school Reception office. A handling charge (usually merits from the learner) will be levied for each article recovered through lost and found. At the end of a reasonable time, all items which have not been picked up will become the property of the school and may be disposed of through the school thrift shop or given to the welfare. EMERGENCY DRILLS Practice drills will be held during the school year. Learners are expected to refrain from talking, pushing or running. Each supervisor will be with their group. STAFF INVOLVEMENT While the primary responsibility of educating the learners and instilling character rests with the parents, the staff also have a vital part to play. It is the responsibility of the school management and each individual staff member to ensure that they are Christian examples to the learners and parents. They will be encouraged to have a consistent Christian life, and ensure their “private life” practices are beyond reproach, to be positive in their daily outlook and in their attitudes toward ACE procedures and curriculum, and endeavour to have a meaningful prayer life. Staff members are all human, like the parents, and also need prayer support, and assistance to enable them to fulfil the God-given task of educating your children and preparing them for life. DISCIPLINE AND POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT Awarded according to staff’s discretion

General Merits List

Goal / Homework Check Homework Done 10


Perfect Goal Check One Day 5 Perfect Goal Check One Week 25 Perfect Goal Check One Month 300 All Goals Completed (Green Dot) 5 Extra Pages Done over 15 5 per page Getting Goals done on Short Day (Bonus)

20

Neat Goal Card 10 100% Spot Check 25 Tests / Clubs Level 1-7 Pace Test 25 Level 8-12 Pace Test 50 100% Check Up 10 100% Self Test 10 First One on 100 Club 100 First One on 500 Club 500 First One on 1000 Club 1000 Attaining 100 Club 50 Attaining 500 Club 100 Attaining 1000 Club 150 Christian Service Unprompted Caring Deed 25 Helpfulness 50 Cleaning 10 Tidying Score Stations 10 Taking Messages to Office 10 Emptying Dustbin 10 Behaviour Good Behaviour 50 Demonstration of Weekly Character Trait

25

Participation during Weekly Devotions 10 Learning Centre Activities Bible Memorization 150, 125, 100, 50, 25 Neat Offices 10 Speeches (not given part of work) 100 Projects 25-50 Others Church / School Sunday 100 Art Festival etc. 100 Birthdays 50


Discipline is that which is done FOR a learner, not what is done TO him/her. Discipline is maintained which is firm, consistent, fair and tempered with love. Our staff maintains standards of behaviour in the Learning Centre through kindness, love and genuine regard for the learner. However, when disciplinary action becomes necessary, it is firmly carried out, tempered by good judgment and understanding. There are two disciplinary ACTIONS used: DEMERITS AND DETENTION

1. Demerit marks are given for minor violations e.g. Carelessness, lack of responsibility, disturbances and breaking of Learning Centre procedures and rules.

2. Detention

The paramount rule is “do right; do not disturb”. Demerit marks are given for disturbances or broken rules. Three or more marks in one day result in detention time as follows:

Demerits Time served in detention 3 marks 20 minutes detention 4 marks 30 minutes detention 5 marks 45 minutes detention 6 marks 1 hour detention

When a learner receives a detention, a “Corrective Action Notice” is sent home with the learner and is to be signed by parents. The next day the slip is returned and detention is served on Friday from 2pm according to the school’s Detention Policy. (Detention must be served on a Friday afternoon. Parents must make other arrangements regarding afternoon activities.) Demerits are an indication that a learner may need direction in the development of principles of character in his life. Conferences with the supervisor, school counsellor, principal, and parents are sometimes necessary to ensure this growth.

DEMERITS OFFENSES CONSEQUENCES Turning or looking around in office 1 demerit Lack of participation in assembly and/or opening exercise 1 demerit Talking and any disturbances 1 demerit Running in learning centre 1 demerit Chewing bubble gum on school property / in school uniform 1 demerit Chair left out 1 demerit Out of seat without permission 1 demerit Off limits: the stage and hall, other learner’s offices; the administration office unless on an errand for a member of the staff

1 demerit

Messy office 1 demerit Writing OR passing notes, reading a received note 1 demerit Leaning back or swinging on chair 1 demerit PACE’s left at home 1 demerit Teasing and name calling 1 demerit Eating in toilets/learning centre/admin offices 1 demerit Homework slip not returned/signed 1 demerit Goal Card not in place 1 demerit


Failure to return Communication envelope/ late replies 1 demerit per day Minor scoring violations (includes pages not circled) - Three scoring violations 1 demerit Goals not set 1 demerit per goal Flag waving 1 demerit Incomplete office supplies 1 demerit Absentee letter not supplied 1 demerit per day Items of clothing found unmarked 1 demerit per item Leaving testing table without permission Detention Unauthorized goal changes 1 demerits Corrective Action Notice not returned or signed 2 demerits Incomplete P.T. uniform 1 demerit Asking another staff member permission after refusal has already been given 2 demerits Incomplete Homework 2demerits per Pace Talking at testing table Detention Talking at score stations 2 demerits Damaging or defacing school property 2 demerits,

suspension 6 inch rule violated 2 demerits, paddling

or suspension Throwing dangerous objects: 1st time 2nd time 3rd time

3 demerits Detention and conference with parents Suspension

Major Scoring Violations(Cheating on Pace Work) 1st time 2nd time

Detention and repeat Pace Inform parents Repeat PACE Conference with parents

Cheating on Pace Test Repeat PACE and menial labour

Any repeated offenses after warning has been given (for all offenses) Parents and HOD conference after 3rd time - suspension

MORAL OFFENSES Lying Detention, paddling

or suspension Fighting Detention, paddling

or suspension Filthy language Detention, paddling

or suspension Filthy behaviour Detention, paddling

or suspension Disrespect, insolence, griping etc. Detention, paddling

or suspension Defiance Detention, paddling

or suspension Stealing Detention, paddling

or suspension Banned items Detention, paddling

or suspension

The offenses and their consequences can only be changed by the principal. This list can be added to by the principal and school management team with immediate effect.


BIBLICAL CORRECTION PROCEDURES With regard to recent changes in the South African Schools Act of 1996 that corporal punishment be prohibited in schools, it will necessitate us requesting that when corporal punishment is necessary, the parents (preferably the FATHER) will need to administer the paddling himself at home

1. A Biblical correction form outlining the offence will be sent home to be signed by both parents and child.

2. The signed form must be returned to the school.

Biblical correction with the rod (paddle) is necessary for moral violations, e.g. swearing, lying, stealing, fighting, bullying, disrespect to staff, cheekiness and violation of Biblical principles, or repeated detentions without a change in behaviour.

Learners will constantly be reminded that God in the Bible clearly instructs us to be disciplined, submissive and obedient to authority at all times and in all areas of life.

Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents IN EVERYTHING, for this pleases the Lord. Romans 13:1,2 (v1) Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (v2) Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:15 Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him. Proverbs 23:13,14 (v13) Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. (v14) Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death. Proverbs 13:24 He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.

The school will not accept a learner unless parents themselves follow the Biblical ruling. After 3 such biblical corrections, a parent-teacher conference will be required because it could mean that an ATTITUDE PROBLEM could have arisen in the child, resulting in rebellion against the school policies, principles or staff, or it could indicate a problem at home that the parents may not have noticed, which is surfacing at school. If the administration feels that the situation has not changed within two weeks, parents could be requested to withdraw the child from the school.


HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS in particular – because of their testimony before younger children – are trained to adhere to the school’s philosophy and Christ-centred programme. Such adherence includes abstinence from smoking, using of alcoholic beverages, use of narcotics, listening to occultist music, swearing, and other questionable practices (as described above). Corrective action for the first offence will be 3 – 10 hours detention/ menial labour, the writing of an essay and probation for 4 weeks. Any further moral offence during probation will result in 1 week suspension from school. The third time, parents are asked to withdraw their child from school. CLOTHING REGULATIONS AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE GROOMING AND RESPECT Our school sets a very high standard of excellence as far as the training in grooming and manners of learners and staff are concerned and parental involvement and co-operation is of vital importance. The children will be taught constantly to check their grooming and appearance and wholeheartedly to support the dress standards set by the school. The learners will be expected to be neat, clean and well mannered at all times, so as not to dishonour and discredit the God that they serve or the school and uniform that they display. When a child knows and feels that he is neat and smart, it will be reflected in a high standard of performance academically. If a child is constantly dirty and untidy, it will be evidenced in a slothful attitude towards his school work, and be detrimental to his self image, confidence, and performance. We are also preparing and training learners on conduct in a formal environment, as would be expected of them in the future workplace. CLEANLINESS AND NEATNESS WITH A SMILE MARKS A GOOD ACE LEARNER SCHOOL UNIFORM AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION ATTIRE: Each learner’s appearance should be such that Christ would be pleased and honoured. It is vital that each learner wholeheartedly supports the dress standards and wears the prescribed school uniform. ADVANTAGES OF A UNIFORM: • Prevents immodest and slovenly dress. • Encourages high discipline and performance. • Helps improve learner’s self-image. • Provides identity and builds school “esprit de corps”. • Reduces annual clothing costs. • Eliminates daily decision of what to wear. • Eliminates competition in dress. • Standardises and thus neutralises whilst enhancing. All items of clothing must be properly and CLEARLY marked with the name of the learner. Demerits are given for unmarked items. All clothing should be kept clean, in good repair and well pressed. Our school badge:

• Flame-signifying the dependence we have on the guidance and inspiration of the Spirit of God.

• Family- the central focus and basic building block of society. • Cross- without the empty cross we would have no hope, no life, no purpose.

Our Uniform Stockists: Ekspaar: (016 931 2867) Shakespeare Street; Vanderbijlpark GPS co-ordinates: S26 42.206 E27 49.053

� For tracksuits, girls dresses, windbreakers, jerseys, ties (for juniors)


Whitecross: (016 421 2735) 10 Beaconsfield Avenue, Vereeniging. GPS co-ordinates: S26 42.206 E27 49.053

� For shorts Woolworths, Jet, Ackermans etc .

� For girls’ skirts, boys trousers, shirts, etc. Our thrift shop We have some stock of good second-hand clothing at reasonable prices Uniform Requirements BOYS: GIRLS: Summer Summer White short-sleeved shirt White short-sleeved shirt Grey shorts (juniors) Navy blue school dress (juniors) Long trousers (seniors) Navy blue school skirt (Gr. 8 + up) Long grey socks Short white socks Black school shoes Black school shoes Tie (ACE) for Grade 8 + up Navy blue school blazer with school badge (Gr. 5 + up)

Navy blue school blazer with school badge (Gr 5 + up)

Burgundy pullover (Primary school) - optional Navy blue E. High pullover (High school only) Navy blue E. High pullover (High school only) Winter Winter Long sleeved white shirt Long sleeved white shirt Long grey trousers Navy blue school dress (juniors) Navy blue school skirt (Gr. 8 + up) Long grey socks Navy blue tights Black school shoes Black school shoes Tie (ACE) (Gr. 8 + up) Tie (ACE) (Gr. 8 + up) Tie (plain burgundy Gr. 1-7) Tie (plain burgundy Gr. 1-7) Burgundy school jersey Burgundy school jersey Burgundy windbreaker or Tracksuit jacket or Full school tracksuit

Burgundy school windbreaker or Tracksuit jacket or Full school tracksuit

Navy blue school blazer with School badge (Gr. 5 + up)

Navy blue school blazer with school badge (Gr. 5 + up)

or long grey school trousers with their blazers

� Rule reminder Gloves, scarves and beanies must be white, navy blue, burgundy, grey or black and have no extra branding or the like. Blazers are to be dry cleaned regularly.

Physical Education Physical Education BOYS: GIRLS: Summer Summer Navy blue school shorts Navy blue school shorts School T-shirt (burgundy) School T-shirt (burgundy) Takkies and white socks Takkies and white socks Winter Winter School tracksuit over the above (without shorts) School tracksuit over the above (without

shorts)


For sports practices in the afternoons: What to do if your uniform is incomplete/

incorrect. Learners may wear a plain T-shirt in one of the following colours with navy blue school shorts: Burgundy, white, navy blue.

Parents must send a signed letter to the school indicating what the problem is. The learner must carry a copy of this letter that is signed by a staff member, with them at all times. The original letter will be retained in the learner’s file.

Consequences for failure to comply GIRLS: 1. When wearing civvies, each young lady is to be

discreet and modest in appearance. Form-fitting clothing, spaghetti, halter or sleeveless tops, see-through blouses, as well as dresses and skirts with slits, are not allowed. Shoulders must be covered. Shoes should be neat and practical.

Learners will be sent home

2. Tennis or track shoes may be worn only for P.E One demerit unless a letter is given from parents

3. Make-up of any kind is not allowed. One demerit and wash face, second time detention, third time sent home

4. Decorative items are not allowed: pins, badges, rings, chains, necklaces, bracelets, arm/wrist bands, charm bracelet watches or hair accessories

Confiscate till the end of term

5. Earrings: only small, plain gold or silver studs, or small thin gold or silver sleepers allowed in ears (one per lower earlobe


6. Hair that is below the collar must be tied up. Small strands of hair may be loose at the side of the face, but must still look neat and will be subjects to approval of the H.O.D.

Hairbands in navy blue, black, burgundy or white.

Demerit and tie up hair

7. No dyed or highlighted hair. Graduates will be granted special permission at the discretion of the principal and according to approved specification.

Refer to the ‘Hair Policy’

8. School dress or skirt hems must touch the floor when kneeling on the floor.

Demerit and letter sent home, must be corrected in three days.

9. Shoes should be cleaned and polished daily. Clean the next day 10. Jersey sleeves are not to be pulled over the

hands or pushed up to the elbows Pull up or down

11. Braids or plaits should adhere to the criteria for long hair

Demerit and tie up

12. No tattoos or body piercing. Conference with school management team and parents. All metal piercings removed immediately.

13. Nails must be short clean and neat. Demerit, letter sent home. If not cut the next day they will be cut at school.

14. No nail polish or cutex. Demerit and remove Boys:


1. Hair is to be cut neatly and conservatively i.e. it is

to be off the collar and ears (short back & sides) and sideburns are to be kept shorter than the middle of the ear. No patterns shaved or combed in hair or eyebrows.

Letter sent home and hair corrected to return to school. If hair is not corrected on return to school, the learner will sent home

2. Gel and similar products may be used, however should the styling be deemed untidy and inappropriate for school; the learner will wash the hair product out immediately.

3. No dyed or highlighted hair is permitted See ‘hair policy’ 4. Braids or plaits should adhere to the short back

and sides criteria and subject to prior approval of the school management.

If the school management deems the hairstyle unsuitable, the learner will be asked to correct it immediately. The school management reserves the right to decide which hairstyles are suitable and appropriate for school. Our aim is to prepare learners to discern the appropriateness of dress code in a formal environment.

5. Boys must be clean shaven every day (no stubble or moustaches)

Letter sent home, second time learner sent home

6. No jewellery (excluding watches) is to be worn at school, any school related activity or ‘civvies’ days. Boys may not wear earrings (or any other piercings), rings, chains, necklaces or arm/wrist bands at school or any school-related activity.


7. Button shirts and ties should be worn when required. Ties should be neatly knotted and should be pulled up to touch the top button of the shirt

Must correct immediately

8. Boys may also wear plain white undershirts 9. Shirts are to be tucked in at all times. Must correct immediately 10. No tattoos or body piercing Conference with school management team

and parents. All metal piercings removed immediately.

11. Jersey sleeves are not to be pulled over the hands or pushed up to the elbows

Pull up or down

12. Trousers should be loose-fitting, conservative and in good repair and worn on the waist

Letter sent home three days to correct

13. Tennis or track shoes may be worn only for P.E. Letter sent home three days to correct 14. Shoes should be cleaned and polished daily Clean the next day GENERAL RULES 1. FOOD

No food may be consumed in the learning centre, unless for special occasion with staff in attendance. Eat only in assigned areas, littering will result in demerits. NO GUM WILL BE ALLOWED ON SCHOOL PREMISES.

2. GRIPING

Griping, criticizing, fighting, hurtful jesting and teasing, disrespect and insolence of any learner or staff member will not be tolerated.


3. PROPERTY Marked on, damaged or defaced property belonging to the school, staff or other learners will be replaced at the offending learner’s expense.

4. LANGUAGE

Use only words which glorify God. Swearing will result in the Biblical correction by the learner’s father or menial labour EPHESIANS 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome (corrupt) talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

5. “SIX-INCH RULE”

ALL learners should keep “hands off” other learners and maintain the “six-inch rule” at all times. Inappropriate public display of affection, holding hands, “petting”, and “pairing off” by learners will be taken in a very serious light, and could result in the expulsion of those learners from the school.

6. BANNED ITEMS

Guns, knives, matches, lighters, cigarettes, alcohol, unwholesome magazines or pictures, computer discs, MP3 players (and the like) and electronic gadgets-are totally prohibited from the school property. No cell phones in the learning centre. All banned items will be confiscated for the remainder of the current term. Electronic gadgets will be dealt with according to the violation of the Cell phone policy. Cell phones must be kept locked up in the Learning Centre (Please see Cell phone policy). Cell phones are also to be locked up at aftercare. (We request parents to support this rule for the safety of our learners.) Cell phones are brought onto the property at own risk, the school does not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage thereof.

7. CLOSED CAMPUS Learners may not leave the school property during school hours without permission. No friends or visitors allowed on the property without written permission of parents and the principal. Parents are to report to reception and not approach learners on the playground or classroom.

8. VISITORS Parents and prospective parents are encouraged to visit the school. Call us in advance to make sure we are able to facilitate your visit, and we will be very happy to show you through the school. All parents and visitors are required to check in at the office and receive permission from the administration before entering the Learning Centre, or contacting any learner anywhere around the school including the playground. All visitors to the school are asked to be appropriately dressed.

9. OFF LIMITS

Other learner offices. Learning centre control stations or files. Learning centre when staff are not in attendance. Cars and parking area. Learning centres will not be re-opened after hours for learners.


Computer centre without permission and supervision. 10. TRANSPORTATION

Cars, motorcycles and bicycles should be locked. All learners must stay out of and off vehicles from arrival time to departure. Only licensed drivers are permitted to drive cars and motorcycles to and from school and these are brought to school at learners’ own risk

11. TELEPHONE

The school phone is reserved for official school business and emergencies. Emergency messages from parents will be written down and given to the learner. Learners who wish to place emergency calls to parents will give the name and number to school personnel who in turn will place the call. Parents will be billed for all calls made on behalf of learners.

12. THRIFT SHOP

This is available for the selling of and purchasing of good second-hand school clothing. 13. MEDICAL GUIDELINES

Administrative staff will only administer Panado for headaches in consultation with parent/s. All other prescription medicines must be kept and administered by the Supervisor/ Monitor as per written instruction from parents. A medicine register will be kept in each learning centre and will record the time of administration and dosage of any medicines. In instances where a learner needs medical attention, a staff member will call the parent, emergency contact or family doctor (in that order).

14. BOOKS/MAGAZINES

These must be approved in writing by parents and approved by the supervisor upon learner’s arrival at school.

15. PHYSICAL EDUCATION

It is our policy that no learner is excused from the required physical education course without a doctor’s written excuse, or written note from the parent. Demerits will be given if a child fails to be in complete P.E. uniform each P.E. period. Repeated offences double the penalty. This period should be viewed as valuable for the physical development of our learners.

16. ACHIEVEMENT TESTING

Each year, every learner will be given a recognized achievement test. This is done to test the effectiveness of our school’s academic programme. The cost of purchasing these tests will be passed on to parents via the monthly statements.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR PARENTS The procedure the school requires parents to comply with in the case of grievances is based on the scripture found in Matthew 18: 15 – 19. Because of the human failings of blame shifting and slanted news, it is advisable that all grievances that a child or parent might feel they have with Emmanuel Private School, its staff or another learner, be directed via the correct channels, i.e. your child’s supervisor, then the Phase Head of Department, then the School Principal. Be prepared: 1 Put the complaint in writing , outlining all the facts of the matter (times, names, exact

details, etc.). 2 To follow the correct channels to resolve the issue at hand. 3 To hear the other side of the story.


4 To respect the school ethos and value your relationship with the members of staff. 5 To engage in a reasonable and positive confrontation (where necessary) to achieve a Godly

solution. Please avoid: 1 An emotional outburst-especially in front of learners. 2 Taking sides. 3 Discussing the matter with anyone (including other staff members and parents), other than

the proper authorities. 4 Making vague statements (e.g. “Lots of parents feel. . .”) Steps: 1 Submit your complaint in writing to reception in a sealed envelope. Please do not submit

these via email or fax. Written complaints could alleviate a follow-up visit as it provides management with enough information to prepare for your meeting.

2 An outline of the problem to the secretary may assist in directing your complaint promptly to the correct member of the school management team.

3 The relevant member of the school management team will schedule an appointment with you at their earliest convenience.

4 Certain matters may take a period of time to resolve. 5 If you do not receive a satisfactory result from the meeting – a conference may then be

arranged with the next person in the chain of command.

REMEMBER CHRISTIAN EDUCATION DOES NOT COST . . . IT PAYS!

FINALLY...... This handbook, although as comprehensive as possible, does not detail every aspect of the operation and philosophy of the school. We are always aiming at keeping our rules and regulations relevant and educational with our main goal being to enhance the operation and total education of our learners. There are always improvements being made to our policies and procedures and as such each year we will issue an up-dated handbook. We would invite any comments or suggestions on how we can improve our communication with you, the parents. Please submit suggestions to the school office.

MAY GOD BLESS OUR SCHOOL


School Song

CHORUS 1: Sing Praise to His Name School, Sing Praise to His Name Emmanuel, Sing Praise to His Name, sing Praise to His Name, Sing Praise to His Name Emmanuel, CHORUS 2: Give Glory to God School Give Glory to God Emmanuel Give Glory to God, give Glory to God, Give Glory to God Emmanuel VERSE 1: The truth from God’s Word, Is always heard by us. We use His Word to guide us, Every day of our lives. We know that Christ died for all! Give Glory to God School Give Glory to God Emmanuel Give Glory to God, give Glory to God, Give Glory to God Emmanuel VERSE 2: The students and teachers, Will always pray to God. We’ll build a school in Jesus Name, To Glorify the King! Ha-lle-lujah, Ha-lle-lujah! Sing Praise to His Name School, Sing Praise to His Name Emmanuel, Sing Praise to His Name, sing Praise to His Name, Sing Praise to His Name Emmanuel,


Pledges I pledge allegiance to Christ, my Saviour, who shed His blood for me, I declare Jesus Christ my Lord and Master, and by His grace I’ll serve Him faithfully forever. I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word. It will be a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. As I meditate therein daily, His Word will become alive in my heart, and I will be renewed in the spirit of my mind, that I will not sin against God. I pledge allegiance to South Africa, my country May God’s will be done and His kingdom come in the lives of every citizen. That we may live God-fearingly and peacefully, One with another.


Documents

EPS Handbook 2014 -final - · PDF fileEPS Handbook 2014 2 January ... Our learners do not write the GDE Matric ... Provisional application forms must be completed and submitted to