Question of the month

School suspension

Question

Two students from my school were involved in a fight on the way home from school. Can the school suspend the students even though it happened outside school grounds?

Answer

Firstly you should check the school "Code of Conduct" which should outline the behaviour expected of students. It should state in the Code that any inappropriate conduct to and from school by students is a concern for the school and action can be taken.

Even if this is not covered in the Code the school may have the power to discipline students whether or not they are in school uniform. Schools are particularly conscious of students representing the school whilst in uniform. Incidents such as the one you describe reflect badly on the school and schools say, consequences must follow just as if the incident/s occurred during school hours.

These issues can be raised with the Level Coordinator or the Principal.

A student/parent can complain about any disciplinary action taken by the school. If the Principal does not listen to your complaint or you are not happy with his/her response you can complain to the local regional office of the Department of Education and Training. You can get the address from the school office. If you are still not happy you can contact the Victorian Ombudsman's Office on 9613 6222 or 1800 806 314.

Other useful contacts for parents are Parents Victoria on 9380 2158 and for parents of private school children the Victorian Parents Council 9804 0906, Email: vicpc@vicparentscouncil.vic.edu.au

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