Discipline and Rewards

Good discipline is dependent on a number of factors and is influenced by all those whom the student meets each day. All students are encouraged to exercise selfdiscipline within the framework of what is known and accepted as responsible behaviour in a Christian environment - respect for one’s neighbour, unselfishness and a sound community spirit. Our SMART (St Margaret’s Acting Responsibly Together) system of rules, rewards and consequences promotes these qualities.

Rewards

Encouragement is given by recognising and commending the good qualities and talents which students possess. Attendance certificates are awarded to students who achieve full attendance for a term. Similarly, 100% punctuality for a term and full year are recognised by the presentation of certificates.

Merit Certificates for academic achievement and bronze, silver and gold levels of award for good conduct form part of the SMART system. Citizenship Merits are available to students who show responsible behaviour outside of the classroom. Students are able to exchange Citizenship Merits at the Swap Shop for useful items. The shop is organised and supported by the Parents Association and Sixth form. Our Annual Prizegiving ceremony at the Anglican Cathedral provides another opportunity for recognising achievement and commending good qualities.

A formal Record of Achievement system is in a continuous process of development. Students are encouraged to recognise and record their own achievements each half term and set targets to enhance their own development and progress.

Sanctions

If the code of behaviour is broken, then a fair and consistent system of punishment prevails. Where serious breaches of the accepted code of behaviour occur, parents are informed and invited to the school for discussion. Subsequent action may involve a representative of an outside agency. The most serious sanction is permanent exclusion from school.

Students may be detained after school. Twenty-four hours notice of a detention will be given to parents, however, the school reserves the right to detain students for 30 minutes without notice when situations arise which require immediate action. A Supervision Card, to monitor work and behaviour can also be used by the Heads of Year. Parents are expected to check and sign this each evening.