RIDGE PARK

COLLEGE

LEARNER
CODE OF CONDUCT
 RIDGE PARK COLLEGE
MISSION STATEMENT

Ridge Park College in partnership with

parents and the community challenges our
learners to think creatively, develop
entrepreneurial skills; taking responsibility
for their education and moral development,
to continually strive for excellence and to
contribute positively to their diverse and
changing world.

VISION STATEMENT

To be an internationally recognised leading

girls’ school that empowers future leaders
to make a significant contribution to society.

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 CORE VALUES

 Ridge Park College provides quality

education based on established
values and the needs of our changing
society.
 The individual potential of our learners
is realised.
 We develop leaders and achievers of
tomorrow.
 Creative, critical thinking, strong
moral and ethical character, self-
discipline and confidence is
inculcated in our learners.
 The focus is on developing life-skills
such as emotional intelligence and
entrepreneurial skills.
 All staff have high expectations of
both learners and themselves.
 We promote tolerance, understanding
and respect for the rights of all.
 We have motivated, dedicated,
qualified and professional staff.

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 RIDGE PARK COLLEGE

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR LEARNERS

The Aim of the Code of Conduct.

The aim of the Code of Conduct is to establish and maintain a conducive

learning environment so that quality education can be provided to all learners.
In the interest of a holistic education, learners should strive to participate
actively in the co and extra - curricular programmes offered by the school.

Preamble

The South African Schools Act 84 of 1996 stipulates:

A. The governing body of a school must adopt a Code of Conduct for the
learners after consultation with the learners, parents and educators of
the school.
B. A Code of Conduct must be aimed at establishing a disciplined and
purposeful school environment, dedicated to the improvement and
maintenance of the quality of the learning process.
C. Nothing contained in the Act exempts a learner from the obligation to
comply with the Code of Conduct of the school attended by the learner.

1. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE VARIOUS ROLE PLAYERS

1.1 GOVERNING BODY:

 Is responsible for drawing up the Code of Conduct.

 Makes recommendations on the outcomes of learner disciplinary
tribunals
 Gives support to the school management team if there are widespread
problems with discipline, or a breakdown of discipline in the school.
 May review/amend the Code of Conduct on an annual basis.

1.2 SCHOOL MANAGEMENT TEAM

 Administer the Code of Conduct.

 Provide training and mechanisms for the proper implementation of the
Code of Conduct

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1.3 EDUCATORS

 Administer the Code of Conduct.

 Inculcate in the learners the observance of the Code of Conduct.
Have the same responsibilities and rights as parents/guardians to control
and discipline a learner according to the Code of Conduct, during the
time the learner is in attendance at the school or involved in any
classroom activity, school function, school excursion or any other school
related activity.
 Train RCL members/prefects/mentors in getting learners to subscribe
to the principles enshrined in the Code of Conduct.
 Encourage learners to abide by the Code of Conduct.

1.4 RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS/GUARDIANS

 Failure of the parent/guardian to undertake his/her responsibilities as

listed in terms of the Children’s Act of 2005 considered as neglect of your
parental responsibilities of care and as such the school is obliged to
report this matter to the authorities.
 Disagreement with the Code of Conduct does not exempt the parents/
guardians or learners from having to comply with it.
 All parents/guardians are required to sign a Code of Conduct regarding
their rights and responsibilities.
 Parents to please note that the Front Office personnel will not
accept items such as projects, clothes, money and lunch to be
handed to your daughter. Please understand that this not part of
their portfolio and they cannot be held liable for any mishaps in this
regard.
 The ultimate responsibility for a learner’s behaviour rests with his
or her parents/guardians. Parents/guardians must support the
Code of Conduct for learners to ensure that their child/ward
observes it.
 They need to inform the school authorities about any problem(s)
concerning their child/ward and accept responsibility for any misconduct
pertaining to their child / ward.
 Parents/guardians must be involved in the correction of their
child’s/ward’s inappropriate behaviour.
 Parents/guardians are also expected to take an active interest in their
child’s/ward’s school life including academic performance, homework,
attitude and behaviour and must attend any meeting that the Governing
Body/Principal may convene.
 It is the responsibility of the parent to inform the school of any changes
in contact numbers. It is imperative that the school has the correct
contact details in case of an emergency. The school will not be liable if a
learner takes ill and a parent cannot be contacted.
 It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that their daughters are picked
up timeously at the end of the school day and after functions. The school
will not be held responsible for learners’ safety after school hours.

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1.5 LEARNERS

 Must identify with and adhere to the Code of Conduct.

 Must commit themselves to the principles inherent in their Code of
Conduct.
 Must adopt and practice the vision and mission statement of Ridge
Park College.

Disagreement with the Code of Conduct does not exempt the

learner from complying with it.

The following Code of Conduct for learners was constituted by educators,

parents and learners of the school. Each learner of Ridge Park College is
an ambassadress for her school and is expected by her appearance,
behaviour and attitude to represent the positive image of the school.

1. Uniform Requirements

Parents are obliged to provide the correct items of clothing for their
daughters.
Parents should encourage their daughters to wear their uniform
correctly and with pride. All items of clothing should be discreetly
marked with the learner’s name.

Learners are expected to wear the official School uniform and appear neat
and tidy at all times including at school assemblies and official school
functions.

 No alterations can be made to the design and fit of the uniform which are
not in accordance with the regulations
 No additions to the uniform that are not in accordance with the
regulations will be allowed (e.g. beanies, blankets and non-school
related badges)
 Fingernails must be kept trimmed short and clean at all times. No nail
polish allowed.
 During the events that allow the wearing of casual wear, learners should
wear neat presentable clothes. Beachwear, tight-fitting clothes, clothes
that are see through and/or too revealing are not allowed. Hair, shoes
and accessories should be neat at all times.
 Only learners who have applied and submitted relevant supporting
documents and received the necessary permission from the School
Governing Body, may deviate from the official School uniform for
religious and cultural reasons.

UNIFORM

 Compulsory for all learners as well as all new learners.

 Ridge Park raincoats are compulsory for Grade 8 and Grade 9 learners
and can be worn when required

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  Loose Turquoise dress with Ridge Park College monogram on pocket.
Length of dress: four fingers above the knee. Tailored turquoise pants
may be worn by Muslim learners only and should be consistently worn
i.e. worn every day. A plain black scarf with no printing embossed
patterns or beads, sequins, tassels or coloured trim is allowed.
 A black and turquoise striped blazer with monogram. Black shoes and
white socks.
 Masks in black/school logo or medical masks must be worn to school.
No designer, floral or brightly coloured masks are allowed to be worn to
school. Learners will not be allowed to enter the school premises if
they are not wearing a mask. The School will not be providing
masks to learners.
 No scarves, gloves, ear muffs or blankets allowed in winter and on cold
days.
 Black button down school jersey with turquoise stripes on cuffs.
 Jerseys can only be worn with blazer in terms 2&3. Jerseys worn
without blazers will be confiscated.
 Jerseys are not to be worn with summer uniform.
 Grade 12 learners are allowed to wear the RPC pullovers with their
blazers throughout the year.
 Blazers must be worn at all school assemblies, school functions and
when the learner is out in public. Blazer is not to be carried on the arm
or shoulder or tied around the waist on the school campus and must be
worn before exiting the school gate.
 Black opaque stockings are to be worn only on cold days in terms 2 & 3.
No fancy or sheer stockings are allowed. School socks must be carried
to replace damaged stockings.
 School tracksuits can be worn in Terms 2 and 3 for sport and excursions,
where permitted and learners must change back into full school uniform
before leaving the school premises.
 Tracksuit jackets cannot be worn on its own or under the blazer.

Hospitality/ Consumer studies Uniform

 Full chefs uniform – learners are to carry the chef’s uniform to school
and change before their lesson and change back to their regular
school uniform after the lesson.

Drama uniform

 Learners are to carry their black leotards & black tights with a skirt
or black tracksuit pants and school T Shirt for practicals.
 Learners need to change from their school uniform for their lesson
and then back to their regular school uniform after the lesson.

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Extra Lessons Uniform

 Strictly white school T-shirt and jeans/blazer or full school

uniform. No ripped jeans, jackets or jerseys allowed.

Sports Kit As per prospectus. (Page no. 12)

Specific Requirements

Glasses: Neat, standard – black or brown frames. No other frames

will be allowed. Learners will have to change frames if they
are not according to the school regulations.

Dress: The design of the dress cannot be altered in any way.

(Should not be altered to a slim fit – body hugging style.
Length not more than 4cm above knee - measure from
below the knee (includes front and back measurement)

Pants: To be purchased from Gem School wear who are the

official stockists. A letter from a religious leader on a
letterhead with a stamp of the religious organization is
required before the pants can be worn.

Blazer: Compulsory during Term 2 and 3 including at assembly.

Not compulsory during Term 1 and 4 unless there is an
official event to be attended.

Head Scarf: Plain black, worn daily by Muslim learners only. No high
ponytails, tinted hair, ornamental grips, artificial fillers or big
buns are allowed under the scarf. Plain black scarf pins are
allowed.

Scarf: Plain black woollen scarf – Terms 2 and 3 only.

Socks: White anklets, folded neatly.

Jewellery: Small (bet.2-3mm) simple round single studs (gold or

silver) or small simple plain sleepers. No diamond, pearls
or coloured stones. Only one earring per ear may be worn
on the lower ear lobe. No other jewellery permitted -
such as tongue rings, eyebrow rings and belly rings
No body tattoos are allowed.

Nose Rings: Letter from a religious leader on a letterhead with a stamp

of the religious organization is required before the nose
ring may be worn.

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Undergarments: Short black tights under dresses are permitted. No G
strings, bikini tops or satin/denim boxer shorts, jerseys, t-
shirts and visible long sleeve tops under dress allowed.

Watches: Functional, small-faced watches with gold, silver or black

bands may be worn. No fancy watches are allowed.

Shoes: Black Bar Shoes are to be used.

No T-bars, no lace-ups and tear- drops allowed.

Hair: Hair Should be worn simply and neatly.

 All natural hair below shoulder length must be plaited/ in a single

pony tail
 Braids should not be longer than the shoulder blade.
 Only thin braids allowed. Braids should not be left untied.
 No Braids to be put into a bun.
 Extensions should be in a ponytail and of original hair colour.
 No hair pieces, curls, wigs or artificial dreadlocks (weaves) are
allowed.
 All hair must be tucked away from the face. Hair should not
obstruct vision (eyebrows must be visible).
 Afro hair must be neatly combed. Uncombed hair is not allowed.
 No ponytails to the side.
 No fancy up styles or partly tied hair is allowed.
 Small neat buns allowed; immediately below the crown.
 “Fade Cut” or shaven hair is not permitted.
 All hair accessories to be simple and in black, no rubber bands or
coloured bands allowed. Banana Grip/fancy hair grips and thick hair
bands are not allowed. No “doughnut” grips allowed.
 Gel is not permitted.
 No tints, colours or streaks permitted.
Hair bands are available from the uniform shop.

 THE SCHOOL HAS THE RIGHT TO DECIDE IF ANY NEW HAIR

STYLE IS APPROPRIATE AND IN KEEPING WITH OUR UNIFORM
REQUIREMENTS.
 LEARNERS WILL HAVE 24 HOURS TO CORRECT/UNDO ANY
INAPPROPRIATE HAIRSTYLES.
 PARENTS ARE WELCOME TO CONTACT THE SCHOOL BEFORE
ALLOWING THEIR DAUGHTER TO CHANGE HER HAIR STYLE, IN
ORDER TO CHECK IF THE NEW HAIR STYLE IS APPROPRIATE OR
NOT.

Make-up: Use of any make-up is prohibited.

No lip gloss or tinted lip gloss. Only natural lip balm may be
used.
No false eyelashes allowed. No drawing of eyebrows.
Make-up carried to school will be confiscated and disposed
of.

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 Henna is only allowed for religious functions e.g. Diwali or
Eid.

Nails: Short, clean nails

Clear nail varnish is permitted. French manicure is NOT
permitted.

Bags: Only Ridge Park Logo back packs.

Regulation tog bags for P.E. only.
Examination bags allowed only during examination
period.
Swimming bag to be used for swimming ONLY.
No Tippex/correction fluid or graffiti is permitted on bags.

Contact Lenses: Tested and non-tested coloured lenses are not permitted
ONLY transparent or clear lenses are permitted (no
exceptions will be considered)

I.D. Badges: COMPULSORY - Must be worn with uniform at all times

including in exam venue. The ID badge must be worn on
the blazer/dress collar.
I.D. Badges should not be defaced in any way
Learners will have to pay to replace lost or defaced ID
badge.
When civvies are permitted the ID badge is still to be worn.
Other Badges: Only school related badges can be worn together with the
ID Badge

LEARNERS NEED TO REPAIR or REPLACE ANY DAMAGED UNIFORM (E.G.

TORN BLAZERS/DRESSES, BROKEN SHOES)

RPC Diary: COMPULSORY – For all learners, diaries should be signed

by the parent or guardian on a regular basis.
Random Searches: In the interest of safety & security of the school, random
searches will be conducted without notice.
N.B. The sale / possession of illegal substances will be handled by the S.A.
police force on account of it being a criminal offence.
Sale of items by learners outside of official “Market Days” is prohibited.
Other: Selling of any item such as chips, bubble-gum and lollipops is prohibited.
Items confiscated will be disposed of. The learners caught with these
items will face disciplinary action.
CONFISCATED ITEMS
 Ridge Park College will not be held liable for any confiscated items
being lost, damaged or stolen.
 All confiscated items, except cellular phones and electronic devices
will be disposed of. Confiscated gold jewellery must be collected by
parent as soon as possible.
2. Behaviour Within School
The following rules apply within the School.
A learner:

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2.1 Will respect the right of the educator to teach and other learners
to learn.
2.2 Will report timeously for all lessons.
2.3 Will be courteous, polite and considerate and will greet and assist
teachers and visitors alike;
2.4 Will respect the views and cultures of other learners/educators in
the school.
2.5. Will accept responsibility in contributing to her own education by
doing all tasks set in and out of school.
2.6 Will meet deadlines and honour commitments.
2.7 Will respect the property of other learner, educators and the
school.
2.8 Will refrain from any activity that constitutes theft/fraud
2.9 Will engage in working quietly and diligently or reading silently,
irrespective of whether a teacher is present or not.
2.10 Will refrain from any racist comments.

2.11 Will comply with instructions given by her School leaders. The
authority of the leaders in the school as vested by the Principal
will be recognised and obeyed.

2.12 May not absent herself from any lesson or activity without
permission

2.13 May not be present in a classroom/venue unless an

educator/prefect is present.

2.14 Will refrain from returning to the registration room to collect books,
files etc. during lesson time.
Learners should ensure that they have the correct books, files,
etc. for lessons.

2.15 Will refrain from eating and drinking in the classroom. The
chewing of gum is not permitted on the premises.

2.16 Will refrain from raucous behaviour, vulgarity, bullying, teasing,

screaming and hysteria. Learners are not allowed to loiter on the
school premises after dismissal. All learners participating in after
school activities including sport, rehearsals, etc., must be
accompanied by an educator.

2.17 Will refrain from inappropriate physical contact with fellow

learners. Will refrain from communicating vulgar/pornographic
material or visiting any inappropriate sites

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2.18 Will refrain from bringing large sums of money or valuables to
school. Should it be necessary to do so, sums of money and
valuables should be lodged with the secretaries in the front office.

2.19 Will refrain from carrying medicines or tablets with them (other
than the asthma pump). Should a learner require prolonged
medication, the Principal must be informed. Dosages with
instructions should be lodged with the school nurse.
Learners must produce a doctor’s note/prescription when carrying
medication if learners don’t have a doctor’s note/prescription, the
medication will be confiscated.
No medication will be given to learners at school. (e.g. Headache
tablets).
Energy Tonics/Drinks/Boosters are not allowed.

2.20 Will refrain from practicing Satanism.

2.21 Will assist cleaners, educators and fellow learners in the

maintenance of a litter free environment.

2.22 May not be in possession of any electronic devices/equipment

and accessories, including cellular phones, smart watches tape
recorders, CD players, mp3 players, iPods or other valuable
items. Any such items will be confiscated and a register
completed stating the date on which the item was
confiscated. These items will only be handed out six months after
the date the item was confiscated. The school cannot be held
responsible for the loss of any such item.

2.23 In the interest of her health and safety, a pregnant learner is

advised to inform the school as soon as she confirms her
pregnancy. She may only return 6 weeks after the birth of the
child with a letter of clearance from the doctor.

1. It will be her responsibility, as well as that of her parents, to

keep up to date with her school work, as well as to make
arrangements to submit her assignments/assessments, and
to write tests and exams. Learner must be accompanied by
a family member when writing tests or exams.

2. Once the learner has entered her second trimester, she has
to be accompanied by a family member whenever she comes
to school.

3. The learner must refrain from discussing her motherhood or

showing photographs of her baby to other learners.

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 4. Should a pregnant learner occupy a position of leadership, it
will be forfeited.

3. Late Coming and Leave-Taking

In the interest of the culture of teaching and learning, learners must

attend school punctually and regularly. Parents are advised not to
request permission for leave during school hours. Parents are
responsible to check with the school for late detention if your
daughter reports late (after 7:40am)

Should a learner report to school late (after 7:40 am) she must sign the
register at the gate and thereafter proceed to the Front Office where her
diary will be signed and a late-coming slip will be issued to her in the
event of her not being in possession of her diary.

Learners will be required to serve late-coming detention (14h45-15h15)

on the day that they arrive late to school. Should a learner not attend late
– coming detention she would have to serve Discipline Detention on
Friday from 13h30 to 15h30.

Learners need to get to class on time between lessons and after breaks.
A Lock-down procedure is used at Ridge Park College. If a learner is late
three times, then she will serve discipline detention on a Friday.
Detention will take prevalence over extra and co – curricular activities.

Absenteeism:

3.1 Should a learner fall sick parents must telephone the school
before 8.30 a.m.

3.2. On her return, a letter of explanation signed by the

parent/guardian should accompany a learner who has been
absent.

3.3 A valid medical certificate must be presented for absences of 3 or

more consecutive days.

3.4 If a learner has been absent for examinations/assessments a valid

medical certificate must be presented on the day of her arrival at
school in order for the learner to be permitted to write the
supplementary examination/assessment. The absence of a
medical certificate for an assessment will result in the learner
obtaining a “0”.

3.5 Learners must not complete or sign absentee letters; it is the

responsibility of the parent/guardian.

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 3.6 It will be the learner’s responsibility, as well as that of her parents
to keep up to date with her school work, as well as to make
arrangements to submit her assignments/assessments, and to
write tests and exams.

Leave Taking:

3.7 No leave will be granted to a learner unless prior written consent

is obtained from the parent.

3.8 A learner must produce a signed letter from her parent should
early departure be required. The letter should be submitted to the
Principal during morning registration, before 8:00am. The letter
must include parent’s ID number and contact number as well as a
copy of the ID of the person collecting the learner.

3.9 Exeats will only be issued in an emergency. (Medical

appointments or any other appointments should be made after
school hours.)

3.10 Sick Room - is for emergencies only and use is left to the
discretion of the educator. Learners who are unwell and not
picked up by parents timeously will be asked to return to their
subject classroom.
3.11 Should a learner take leave before the end of the first lesson, she
will be marked absent for the day.

3.12 It will be the responsibility of the learner as well as that of her

parents to keep up to date with her school work, as well as to
make arrangements to submit her assignments, and to write tests
and exams.

3.13 No leave can be taken during school functions.

4. Behaviour - Corridors/Stairs/School Buildings/Cloakrooms & Change

Rooms

A. Learners:

4.1 Will keep to the left of the corridor or staircase and afford courtesy
to all.

4.2 To keep to their designated staircases.

4.3 Will keep the noise level down. There will be no boisterous
behaviour or shouting.

4.4 Will walk in a single file keeping left and in an orderly manner and
greet staff and visitors.

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 4.5 Will refrain from eating and drinking, and littering

4.6 Will not sit on stairs or in the corridors during breaks.

4.7 Should use the cloakroom before school, after school and during
breaks. Visits to the cloakroom during lesson1, lesson3 and
lesson 5 will be restricted and monitored.

4.8 Should not use the cloakrooms during lessons unless in an

emergency.

4.9 Will not use the cloakroom as a venue for social gatherings.

4. 10 Is responsible for leaving the cloakrooms in a hygienic condition.

4.11 Will not deface school buildings and furniture with graffiti

4.12 Will refrain from occupying a classroom without the presence of a

teacher.

Out of Bounds Areas

Learners will avoid the following Out of Bound areas at all times:

5.1 School building during non- teaching time including the morning
and during breaks. After school unless accompanied by educators
solely for academics, extra/co – curricular.
5.2 The Avenue
5.3 The Foyer and the stairway leading to it.
5.4 The stairwell leading from the foyer to the staffroom/printing room.
5.5 The car park and grassed banks.
5.6 Learners are not allowed to walk up or down the carpark before
and after school.
5.7 The boundary fences surrounding the School.
5.8 The staffroom wing, the staffroom and marking room.
5.9 The duplicating room.
5.10 The areas adjacent to the general assistant’s quarters. (behind
the kitchen)
5.11 The corridor near MPR’s and Team Teaching Room are out of
bounds during non-teaching time.
5.12 The main foyer entrance facing the car-park.

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 5.13 Learners in possession of a driver’s license may not park their
vehicles on the school campus.
5.14 Sports Centre and Conference Centre outs of bounds.

6. The Tuck-shop
Learners are expected to:
6.1 Line up silently in an orderly fashion in your designated tuck shop
queue without pushing or jumping the queue. (No pushing or
bullying is allowed).
6.2 Make their own purchases.
6.3 Treat the Tuck-shop staff and prefects with respect.
6.4 No purchases to be made during lesson time or after the bell has
sounded for the end of breaks.
6.5 Vacate the area immediately once the purchases are made.
6.6 Be in possession of their school ID Badges before they are
served. I.D Badge must be displayed.

7. Specialist Rooms/Hall/Team Teaching Room/Media Centre

Learners are:
7.1 Not permitted to tamper with any equipment or furniture in these
venues.

7.2 To enter and exit venues in an orderly manner.

7.3 To be silent, attentive and well-behaved at all times.
7.4 Not permitted in these venues without educator or prefect
supervision.
7.5 Expected to treat guest speakers to the school with dignity and
respect.

8. Behaviour at Assembly
Learners are expected to behave in a dignified manner at assembly and
to be attired in full school uniform. Blazers must be worn to assembly in
Terms 2 and 3 on Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s.

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 8.1 They must proceed silently in single file to assembly and quietly
take up their seats.
8.2 Learners are not permitted to talk during assembly and should
always conduct themselves in a dignified manner.
8.3 Singing should be done in the correct key and in unison.
8.4 When standing for prayer, learners will stand erect with hands at
their sides.
8.5 After assembly learners will wait to be dismissed.

9. Extra-Curricular Activities

A wide spectrum of sporting activities is offered at the school in the

interest of providing a balanced education. Learners are expected
to derive maximum benefit from the various codes of sport.
Learners should report timeously for all activities in the correct
sporting attire.

9.1 Swimming

9.1.1 This is a compulsory code during Term 1 and Term 4.

9.1.2 No learner is exempt from swimming and no excuses will be

entertained. Learners will receive a “0” mark for every lesson she misses.

9.1.3 Should a learner be allergic to chlorine, she must produce a certificate

annually, issued by a Dermatologist and not a General Practitioner.

9.1.4 The certificate will only be valid for a specific period.

9.1.5 Learners are expected to wear the RPC swimming kit during swimming
lessons. Learners not swimming due to menstruation, must have their
P.E kits to engage in alternative activities during the lesson.

9.1.6 The learner has three swimming costume options to choose from.
Swimming costume will be available from the uniform shop.

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9.2 Physical Education

9.2.1 This is a compulsory exam subject and exemption from a lesson will only
be entertained when a letter from a parent/guardian is received. A
supporting medical certificate may be requested from a specialist doctor.

9.2.2 Learners are expected to wear their full school uniform with their blazers
when going to a fixture or returning home.

10 . Behaviour - Outside of School/Public Places

A learner should be considerate and respectful towards every
person she comes in contact with.

10.1 The full school uniform should be worn correctly and with pride.

10.2 Cardigans and jerseys are not permitted in public without the
blazer on.

10.3 Roads should only be crossed at pedestrian crossings or at traffic

lights.

10.4 Jaywalking is an offence

10.5 A learner should not shout, scream, speak loudly, be abusive or

behave boisterously in public.

10.6 Learners may not loiter in shopping malls, parks, outside other
schools and around public telephone booths. A permission slip
from the School Management is required if a learner is to visit the
mall. A letter from the parent requesting permission is required,
before a permission slip is issued to a learner.

10.7 Learners will respect the rights and property of other persons
outside the school.

10.8 Learners may not smoke (including electric cigarettes), consume

alcohol, take drugs or indulge in any other form of substance
abuse whilst on the school premises and in school uniform

10.9 Learners will refrain from making purchases at vendors situated

near the school.

10.10 Learners will refrain from bullying other learners and involving
themselves in violent confrontations.

10.11 Learners must refrain from defamatory, offensive or derogatory

comments regarding the school, learners, parents, staff or SGB
on social media.

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 Learners are not allowed to use the school’s name or abbreviation
“RPC” to advertise events on
social media, where events are not hosted by the school e.g.
Matric dance after parties.

11. Behaviour on the Bus/Taxi

Learners are expected to:

11.1 Queue for the bus/taxi in an orderly manner.

11.2 Alight the bus/taxi in an orderly manner. Learners are not to push
other learners or members of the public whilst alighting the bus.

11.3 Conduct themselves in a ladylike manner whilst on the bus/taxi.

No loud talking, screaming and excessive laughing is permitted
on the bus/taxi.

11.4 Be courteous and offer their seats to the public in the event of the
bus/taxi being overcrowded.

11.5 Refrain from eating and drinking at the bus/taxi stop and on the
bus/taxi.

11.6 Not communicate intimately with anyone at the bus/taxi stop and
on the bus/taxi.

11.7 Wear their school uniform properly and with pride.

12. Cell Phone, Smart Watch and Electronics Policy

12.1. Cell phones, smart watches or any other electronic

equipment/accessories are not allowed at school. No exceptions
are allowed on this matter.

12.2 All requests for emergency calls by the learners should be directed
to the Front Office.

12.3 The possession of a cell phone, smart watch or any other

electronic equipment/accessories during any form of assessment
process, i.e. examinations, class tests etc. is regarded as an
irregularity by the Department of Education. In such a case not
only will the candidate’s cell phone, smart watch or electronic
equipment/accessories be confiscated, but she will receive a zero
mark for the examination/test being written and the appropriate
disciplinary action will be instituted against her.
In the case of Grade 12 learners, this violation will be reported
to the Department of Education.

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 12.4 If a learner is found guilty of contravening any of the cell phone,

smart watch or any other electronic equipment accessories policy

offences, the following disciplinary measures will be adopted:

First Offence: Confiscation of cell phone with the sim card, smart
watch or any other electronic equipment/accessories for 6 months
from the date of confiscation.

Second Offence: Confiscation of cell phone with the sim card,

smart watch or any other electronic equipment/accessories for
one year from the date of confiscation.
After the allocated period, confiscated item will be handed to a
parent if he/she provides his/her ID document.

12.5 No negotiations by learners or parents with regards to confiscated

cell phones will be entertained.

12.6 The school does not accept responsibility for any cell phone/s,
smart watch/es or any other electronic equipment/accessories
that is/are lost or stolen or damaged on the school premises. Staff
will not involve themselves in any investigation in the event
of a cell phone or smart watch being lost or stolen.

13. Stationery and Media

13.1 Learners need to buy all required stationery as per stationery list.

13.2 No correcting fluid (e.g. Tippex) is allowed

13.3 No permanent markers are allowed

13.4 Text books/Library books – cover all text books and maintain good
condition of the book. Library Books to be returned on time.

13.5 Media centre books must be handled with care.

 If a book is lost or damaged, the cost (including outstanding fines) will be

deducted from the Book Deposit Fee.

DISCIPLINARY INTERVENTIONS

The following list of interventions and corrective measures used by the

School are aimed at correcting minor misconduct before suspension and
expulsion:

 A verbal warning/reprimand to express disapproval.

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  Written warning.
 Final written warning.
 Removal from classes by Grade Controllers/Discipline Head
 Written punishment.
 Community service to improve the physical environment within and
around the School property.
 Homework detention.
 Supervised schoolwork.
 Referral for counselling.
 Attendance at a relevant life skills programmes.
 Fines to compensate for damages, to cover the cost of repair or
replacement of the lost or damaged item, and/or the accumulated fine.
 Temporary suspension of library card and/or other School-related
privileges.
 Exclusion from School activities and functions/leadership positions, e.g.
matric dance, academic award ceremony, excursions, concerts, etc.
 Withdrawal of recognition, e.g. award, badges, leadership positions.
 Temporary suspension from class or School, pending disciplinary
hearing.
 Disciplinary hearing.
 Tribunal hearing.
N.B Although every effort has been made to ensure that all possible
transgressions have been accommodated for in the Learner Code
of Conduct, any other misdemeanour that could bring Ridge Park
College, or its Management to disrepute will also be considered as
a transgression and as such will be sanctioned accordingly.

SUSPENSION OF A LEARNER BY THE PRINCIPAL OR DEPUTY

PRINCIPAL AS A PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE
Example of a Code of Conduct for a School
The Governing Body authorizes the Principal or Deputy Principals to institute
suspension, as a precautionary measure, with regard to a learner who is
charged with a serious misconduct offence as contemplated in section 8 of the
SA Schools Act.

1. Before a learner is suspended, the learner and his/her parents

must be given an opportunity to indicate why the suspension
should not be considered.

2. The disciplinary proceedings must commence within one (1) week

after the suspension. If the proceedings do not commence within
one (1) week, approval for the continuation of the suspension
must be obtained from the Head of Department.

3. This suspension will be applicable until a finding of “not guilty” is

made or, in the case of a finding of “guilty”, until the appropriate
sanction is announced.

4. It will be the learner’s responsibility, as well as that of her

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 parents to keep up to date with her school work, as well as to
make arrangements to submit her assignments/assessments
timeously and to write tests and exams during the period of
suspension.

DISCIPLINARY AND TRIBUNAL HEARINGS

1. The following official forms will be used for misconduct and disciplinary
hearing:

1.1 Written warning (disciplinary warning form)

1.2 Final written warning

1.3 Notice of disciplinary hearing

1.4 Record of disciplinary hearing

1.5 Review form (lodging of appeal)

2. Written notice of a disciplinary or tribunal hearing will be given at least five

(5) school days before the hearing, which could imply temporary suspension
from classes, excluding formal scheduled tests and examinations which
count towards the year mark.

3. When a notice is issued to a learner, the learner must acknowledge receipt

of notice by signing for it. This is not an admission of guilt. If a learner does
not appear at a hearing, the hearing will be conducted in her absence.

4. A written verdict of the hearing will be issued to the offender. The offender
must acknowledge the content by signing the document.

5. A learner has the right to request a review of the disciplinary action taken
against him/her if sufficient grounds exist. Disregard of punishment of the
Disciplinary Committee will lead to temporary suspension pending a hearing.

6. The Disciplinary Hearing Commission will consist of the following members:

6.1 A Governing Body representative;

6.2 The School Principal or Discipline Officer delegated to oversee this

function;

6.3 The Grade Head; and

6.4 A Counsellor (as per request).

t fora School
7. The hearing will also be attended by the learner and a parent/legal guardian.
No legal representative will be allowed.

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 8. Disciplinary measures that a Disciplinary Hearing Committee may impose
will be adhered to by learner.
Demerit System

Should a learner fail to comply with the Code of Conduct the following
Disciplinary Measures which have been agreed upon by all stakeholders, will
be implemented.
Grade 1 Offence
Dealing with Misconduct (applicable to all learners during School hours and
School activities and whilst in school uniform).
If a learner violates the rules of the Code of Conduct, disciplinary measures
will be imposed as indicated below.

Misdemeanour’s Disciplinary Procedures

Grade 1 Offence – 1 Debit Point

Behaviour
1. Counselling and educators’
- Littering - either dropping litter, or not picking correctional measures
up litter when walking past it.
- Noisy. 2. Verbal warning and note in
- Eating or drinking in class, in the Hall. during file and debit.
a school assembly.
- Misconduct during school assembly. 3. Debits - detention and refer
- Arriving late for school. to Disciplinary officer.
- Entering another grades field without
- Returning to the registration room. to collect 4. 6 Debits - written warning
books/files during lesson time. and detention.
- Failure to honour commitments
- Not permitting the public to enter the bus first. 5. 9 Debits - detention and
- Not offering the public a seat on the bus.
refer to Disciplinary Officer

Written warning.

6. 12 Debits - Detention -

Internal Disciplinary hearing.

7. Call in parent

Community Service
Final written warning.

8. Tribunal (Suspension)

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 Grade 1 Misdemeanour’s continued Disciplinary Procedures

- Carrying/using iPods, PSP, cameras any other

unauthorized equipment.
- Carrying any item not required for school.

Appearance

- Jewellery, infringements, undergarment, hair 1. Jewellery items will be

and nail infringements confiscated from learner
- Nail infringements
- Hair infringements
2. Learners have 24 hours to
- Not wearing the correct uniform at School or in
a public place. sort out nail, hair and
- Willingly wearing the incorrect uniform/including uniform defaults, failure to do
jewellery. so will result in further
- Not wearing the correct sports kit during disciplinary action taken.
Physical Education lessons or for a match.
- Tippex or graffiti on bags/I.D. Badges
- Colour contact lenses 3. Learners with no sports kits
will receive a “0” for PE
Academics assessment.
- Disruptive
- Noisy/talkative in class.
- Class work not done/incomplete
- Homework not done/incomplete
- Disorganized notes/files
- Not having work signed by parents.
- Distracting other learners.
- Forgetting to bring books and
- Homework books not in order or not signed
by parents.

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Grade 2 Offences - 2 Debits Disciplinary Procedures

Behaviour
1. Counselling and Educators
- Borrowing without consent and neglecting to correctional measures.
return the article(s) to rightful owners (petty . Counselling and Educators
theft). correctional measures.
- Swearing.
- Disrespect/insolence toward educator/other 2. Verbal warning and note in
learners /school leaders. file + 2 debits
- Ignoring of specific instructions.
- Forgetting to do any punishment set out 3. Accumulation of 3 debits =
- Causing minor physical discomfort to another detention
learner.
- Deliberate disregard for “out of bounds” areas. 4. Accumulation of 6 debits -
- Displaying raucous behaviour/any form of written warning and
Misconduct vulgarity, bullying, teasing, detention.
Screaming & hysteria.
- Being disruptive at the bus/taxi Queue/use of 5. Accumulation of 9 debits -
cell phone. detention and refer to
- Misconduct during detention. Disciplinary Officer.
- Repetition of Grade 1 offences (3X) 6. Accumulation of 12 debits -
detention. Internal
Academics Disciplinary Hearing - call in
Parents - Community
- Frequent repetition of Grade 1 offences. Service.
- Irregularities such as copying another
learners work. 7. Tribunal. (Suspension/
- Defacing of textbooks, notebooks or files. Expulsion)
- Use of offensive pictures/text as book covers.

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 Grade Three Misdemeanour’s Disciplinary Procedures
Grade 3 Offences - 3 Debits

Behaviour

- Deliberately hiding/concealing 1. Counselling and Educator’s

another person’s correctional measures.
possessions/property. Cell Phone with sim card
- Carrying or using cell phones confiscated
(1st offence) for six months.
- Forgery of absentee/leave notes and/
or parent’s signature. 2. Verbal warning and note in file +
- Speaking lies. 3 debits.
- Neglecting to attend detention.
- Causing severe physical discomfort 3. Accumulation of 3 debits =
to another learner. detention.
- Leaving the school campus without
permission. 4. Accumulation of 6 debits - written
- Having physical contact with fellow warning and detention.
learners (unless part of an
educational 5. Accumulation of 9 debits -
programme) detention and refer to Disciplinary
- Crossing the road where there is no Officer.
pedestrian crossing or traffic lights/
jay walking. 6. Accumulation of 12 debits -
- Loitering in Shopping Malls and detention Internal Disciplinary
around public telephone booths after Hearing - call in Parents -
school, unless accompanied by Community Service.
parent
7. Tribunal (Suspension/Expulsion)
- Repetition Grade one or two offence
(5x)

Appearance

- Frequent hair and uniform

infringements.
1. Written warning.
Academics

Constant repetition of Grade 1 and 2 2. Written warning.

offences with no sign of
abatement
- Playing truant from registration, 3. Parents will be informed.
lessons, batting and sporting Learners can be exempt from
activities. sporting activities.
- Learners taking pictures of
themselves in school uniform or on Final written warning
the school property and posting
pictures on social media.

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 Grade Four Misdemeanour’s Disciplinary Procedures
Grade 4 Offences - 4 Debits (In the event of fully rehabilitating a
learner, there will be a review of this
Behaviour procedure.

- Constant repetition of other grades 1. Refer to Principal immediately

of offences. + 4 debits.
- Learners should have had a period
of a benefit of doubt through the 2. Parent called in
intervention of actions undertaken
to rectify Grades 1 to 3 offences. 3. Possible Police intervention
However, continuous violation of the
Schools regulation regarding 4. Internal Disciplinary Hearing
behaviour will lead to expulsion
proceedings. 5. Possible Tribunal, Suspension/
- Guilt proven in a court of law in Expulsion
RSA.
- Carrying of a firearm, dangerous or 6. Exclusion from leadership
lethal weapons. positions,
- The unlawful carrying of a magazine Matric Dance, Excursions, School
for a firearm, bullets or Events outside of school hours.
ammunition.
- The consumption or possession of 7. Blood tests for narcotics and
alcohol. blood reports to be sent to school.
- Arriving on school property
intoxicated through the use of any 8. Report from learner about
substance such as narcotics, drugs. how she will change/do things in a
- The smoking or possession of
Cigarettes/e – cigarettes/vapouring more positive way in the future.
devices
- Theft of any persons, property or 9. Exclusion from all extra and Co -
the school property. Curricular activities.
- Theft involving violence.
- Intimidation of or threat of educator, Possible psychological
non-educator, parent or learner. assessment and professional
- Racism. counselling required.
- Being rude toward the public on the
bus/taxi
- The carrying, copying, distribution of
and reading of pornography.
- Possession or discharge of fire
crackers.
- Administering poison to another
person.
- Inciting any form of strike action.
- Playing truant from school.
- The performing of Satanistic or
Satanistic related rituals.
- The bringing of any drugs/drug –
related substance.
- Fighting, assault or battering.
- Fighting with another learner.
- Bullying.

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 Disciplinary Procedures continued
Grade Four Misdemeanour’s
continued
- Verbal abuse towards another
learner/member of staff causing
emotional distress. 9. Anger management counselling.
- Attempted assault/indecent assault/
punching, scratching/attempted
stabbing.
- Immoral behaviour or profanity.
- Falsely identifying oneself.
- Infringement of examination rules.
- Carrying cell phone (repeated
10. Cell Phone with sim card
offence). confiscated for one year from
- Visiting and adding information/ date of confiscation. (Parent to
photographs to websites that bring collect).
the school into disrepute.
- Cheating or attempting to cheat or
intention to cheat in an examination, - As per Department regulations,
Control Test or Class Test learner will receive a “0” for the test or
- Dishonouring the school uniform in exam. Learner will be called before the
any public place/ Any sexual irregularity Committee.
misconduct in school uniform
- Repetition of Grade one two or
three offences (6X or more).
- Absconding lessons is a Level 4
offence.
- Contravening the POPI Act.

Continuous Violation of the Code of Conduct

If a learner continuously violates the Code of Conduct or is guilty of

serious transgressions, the following may apply:

1. Participating in extra-mural activities, being involved in tours and

going on excursions, attending the matric dance will be denied to
those learners whose behaviour record is unsatisfactory.

2. A basic criterion for all honours, awards and leadership positions

accorded to pupils by the school is good behaviour.
A learner, therefore, whose behaviour record is unsatisfactory,
will not come into contention for such honours and awards.
Furthermore, a pupil who already has received such an honour
or award and then behaves in a manner which disgraces that
honour or award, will immediately forfeit that award.

3. A learner who violates the Code of Conduct will not be appointed

as Prefect, to represent the class in the Learner Representative
Council, as Class Captain or Vice-Captain, or any leadership

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 roles. If a learner who is in such leadership positions as is
stipulated above does not abide by the rules of the Code of
Conduct, she will forfeit her position with immediate effect.

4. If a learner who is in a leadership position is found guilty of

misconduct or to be neglectful of her duties in any way, an
investigation by the relevant parties will be conducted. Depending
on the severity of the offence/s, and the debits incurred, the
learner may be de-badged.

5. The signing / submission of any documents, forms or testimonials

may be withdrawn.

Procedure Upon Suspension.

If a learner is suspended from School by the Tribunal the

Parent/Guardian will be informed in writing of the suspension.

 The learner will not be allowed to enter the School premises without
the authority of the Principal

 Will not be allowed to communicate with learners on the school

premises in any way including communication across the school
fence or at the school gates. Any learner who communicates with the
suspended learner in this way whilst at school will render herself
liable for disciplinary action.

 During the period of suspension, the learner will be excluded from all
co and extra-curricular activities involving the school and other
organizations to which the school is affiliated.

 It will be her responsibility, as well as that of her parents to keep up

to date with her school work, as well as to make arrangements to
submit her assignments/assessments, and to write tests and exams.

N.B. If a learner is suspended from school, the Disciplinary Committee may

conduct an investigation and consider further action (legal, if necessary)

If upon the findings of the investigation conducted by the Tribunal, the learner
is found guilty as alleged, the case will be referred to the (Chief Executive
Officer (Education) for recommended expulsion.

Departmental Regulation regarding continuous Misconduct

The following Departmental Regulation needs to be noted:

If a pupil conducts herself in such a way that, in the opinion of the

Principal her continued attendance at school would be detrimental to the
welfare or discipline of that school or to the learners and/or educators,
the Principal has a right, verbally or in writing to suspend the learner and
to take the necessary action toward expelling the learner from school:
29
In the event of a learner being expelled by the Chief Executive Officer
(Education) the parent is permitted to lodge an appeal.

General

In order to enhance and maintain discipline at school the following factors

should be noted:

1. No learner is exempt from the principles set out in the Code of Conduct.

2. The School reserves the right to take action if a learner is guilty of any
negative act or behaviour even if that act/behaviour is not stipulated in
the Code of Conduct. Punitive measures adopted in such instances
would be in accordance with the severity of the act/behaviour.

3. The School may, where necessary enlist the assistance of the South
African Police Service (SAPS) and or Metro Police and other bona fide
agencies to aid in resolving misdemeanour’s toward maintaining
discipline at school.

4. If the school deems it necessary, the school reserves the right to

conduct a search of learners or their possessions. In the case of body
searches, this will be conducted by authorized female persons.

5. In the event of a learner damaging/vandalizing the possession/property

of the school, the learners or members of staff, the said learner or the
parent/ guardian of such a learner is liable to pay all expenses with
regard to repairs/replacements.

6. If a learner is guilty of severe misconduct, parents/guardians must call

at school to discuss the misdemeanour in the presence of their
daughter/ward. Telephonic discussions will not be entertained by the
Disciplinary Officers.

7. In the event of a learner being guilty of severe misconduct the parent /

guardian will be summoned to School and must do so within two days
of the date of notification (written or telephonic). If the parent/guardian
does not respond within the stipulated time frame without a valid
reason, the offender will be suspended until her parent/guardian calls
at school. Parents/guardians will be required to produce proof of
identity when calling at school.

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8. RIDGE PARK COLLEGE MERIT SYSEM 2022

Guidelines for merit points Number of merits allocated

Improvement in tests/class 2-3 merits
work/attitude and behaviour
Showing initiative to improve or
enhance youth development 5 merits
Honesty (reporting misdemeanours’ 2-3 merits
by other learners, finding lost
property etc.)
Helpful (Assisting learners 5 merits
academically or otherwise and
assisting in school
activities/functions).
Volunteering in community work or 5 merits
activities that improve the school
environment/ functions/ sporting/
other).

Merit Procedure

1. Proof must be provided for all merits to be awarded.

2. Merits will be awarded in Mid-May/ after June exams / Mid-September
and at the end of term 4.
3. To qualify learners must have a minimum of 30 Merits
4. The top 5 in each grade will receive a voucher for the value of R25
each.
5. Scrolls will be awarded to the top 3 learners in each grade.
6. Once the learner receives 30 merits or more, learner must give merit
form to Miss D. Pillay or Doctor T. Naidoo
7. Lost merit form=No Merits
8. Teachers in charge are PY and NT

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 The process for awarding Merits/Demerits

 Each learner will receive a merit Record Form for which they are
responsible.

 When an educator awards a merit to a learner, it is recorded on the

form.
a record by the educator is also kept at the back of the Demerit book
with regard to the learner’s name, reason for awarding merit, date, etc.

 Once a learner obtains five credits they qualify for a small reinforcement
gift. Five credits is equal to one merit. A learner also qualifies for a gift
when she receives ten credits.

 It is the learner’s responsibility to inform her class teacher when she

has obtained five or ten credits and therefore qualifies for a gift / prize.

 A copy of the Merit Record Form is kept in the learner’s file and she is
allocated a new form when her previous form is full.

____________ _________________
Mr A. Ebrahim Mr. S.S. Zondi
ACTING PRINCIPAL SGB CHAIRPERSON

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