The aim of the Gaelscoil is to give every child the best possible education through the medium of Irish. Irish is the everyday language of communication within the Gaelscoil and the chief medium of instruction. The Board of Management and Staff are committed to this aim with a view to achieving bi-lingualism at an early age.

We wish:

Child Protection Policy

Introductory statement

The Board of Management, staff, and representatives of parents of Gaelscoil na Bóinne revised the following policy in December 2009 and ratified on 18^th January 2010.

Gaelscoil na Bóinne is a safe, trusting, responsive and caring environment in which the children feel secure knowing that if they have any concerns they will be listened to with understanding and respect and they will be acted on.  

The Aims of our Child Protection Policy are:

1. To outline the steps taken by An Scoil which ensure that a safe protective environment is created for our children.
2. To raise awareness of child abuse among all school staff and the educational partners in our school.
3. To put in place clear procedures for all school personnel dealing with suspicions     and allegations of child abuse.
4. To identify curricular content and resources that contribute to the prevention of child abuse and to enable children to properly deal with abuse if it occurs.
5. To ensure that all staff members are aware of and familiar with the ‘Children First' and the DES guidelines and procedures in relation to reporting concerns and/or disclosures of child abuse.
6. To provide for ongoing training in this and related areas for all school staff.

Rationale

Gaelscoil na Bóinne aims to provide its pupils with the highest standards of care and protection, in order to promote each child's well-being and safeguard him/her from harm while in the school. The Board of Management of Gaelscoil Na Bóinne has adopted the "Children First" Guidelines of the Department of Health & Children 1999 and the "Child Protection" Procedures of the Department of Education & Science 2001.  This is a broad outline for the school community about how the school responds to allegations/disclosures on Child Abuse as per Child Protection and Procedures of the Department of Education and Science 2001.

Best Practice

The following areas have been considered by the staff and Board of Management of this school as areas of specific concern in relation to child protection. Following discussion and consultation the staff and Board of Management have agreed that the following practices be adopted.

•a)      Physical Contact

Physical contact between school personnel and the child should always be in response to the needs of the child and not the needs of the adult. While physical contact may be used to comfort, reassure or assist a child the following should be factors in determining its appropriateness:

• It is acceptable to the child
• It is open and not secretive
• The age and developmental stage of the child

School personnel should avoid doing anything of a personal nature for children that they can do for themselves.

•b)     Visitors/Guest Speakers

Visitors/guest speakers should never be left alone with pupils. The school (principal/teachers/secretary) has a responsibility to check out the credentials of the visitor/guest speaker and to ensure that the material in use by guests is appropriate.

•c)      Children with specific toileting / intimate care needs

In all situations where a pupil needs assistance with toileting/intimate care a meeting will be convened, after enrolment and before the child starts school, between parents/guardians, class teacher, special needs assistant, principal and if appropriate the pupil. The purpose of the meeting will be to ascertain the specific needs of the child and to determine how the school can best meet those needs. The staff to be involved in this care will be identified and provision will be made for occasions when particular staff involved are absent. A written copy of what has been agreed will be made and kept in the child's file.

Two members of staff will be present when dealing with intimate care/toileting needs. Any deviation from the agreed procedure will be recorded and notified to the DLP and the parents/guardians.

•d)     Toileting accidents

Clean underwear and suitable clothing will be kept in the school so that if a pupil has an ‘accident' of this nature they will in the first instance be offered fresh clothing into which they can change.

If the pupil for whatever reason cannot clean or change themselves and the parents/guardians cannot be contacted, the child will be assisted by members of staff familiar to the child. In all situations two members of staff or if possible a sibling should be present. A record of all such incidents will be kept and principal and parents will be notified.

•e)      One to One Teaching

It is the policy in this school that One-To-One Teaching is often in the best interest of the child. Every effort will be made to ensure that this teaching takes place in an open environment. Parents of children who are to be involved in One-To-One teaching will be informed and their agreement sought. The Learning Support and Resource Teachers have glass panels in their doors.

•f)       Changing for Games / PE / Swimming

Pupils will be expected to dress and undress themselves for games/PE/swimming. Where assistance is needed this will be done in the communal areas. Under no circumstances will members of staff/volunteers be expected to or allowed to dress/undress a child in a cubicle or private area. In such situations where privacy is required the parent/guardian of the child will be asked to assist the child. At all times there must be adequate supervision of pupils.

•g)      Supervision

School supervision policy will be followed by all staff to ensure that there is comprehensive supervision of children at all breaks and before and after school. A further rota will be displayed to cover mid morning break and lunchtime breaks. A yard duty record book is carried by all staff while on yard duty to record incidents.

•h)     Behaviour

Children are to be encouraged at all times to play co-operatively and inappropriate behaviour will be addressed under our Code of Behaviour. If an incident occurs which we consider to be of a sexualised nature we will notify the DLP who will record it and respond to it appropriately.

•i)        Visibility

Teachers will ensure that children are visible in the schoolyard. Children will not be allowed to spend time in classrooms or toilets where they would not be under adult supervision. They are not to leave the school yard or to engage with adults who are outside of the school yard. Teachers record any incidents in the yard duty book. Children who need to use the toilet during break time must seek teacher permission and carry with them the ‘leithreas card' which they will return to the teacher on yard duty.

•j)       Bullying

Bullying behaviour will be addressed under our Anti-Bullying policy. If the behaviour involved is of a sexualised nature or regarded as being particularly abusive then the matter will be referred to the DLP.

•k)     Accidents

While every precaution will be taken under our Health and Safety Statement to ensure the safety of children, we realise that accidents will happen. Accidents will be notified in our Incident book and will be addressed under our accident policy as part of Health and Safety. Parents will be contacted immediately if deemed a serious injury.

•l)        Children travelling in Staff Cars

Teachers/Secretary may have to carry children in their cars on occasion. Teachers are never to carry only one child at a time and the school must be the pick-up drop off point for all.

•m)   Record Keeping

Teachers will keep each child's file updated with results of assessment carried out, dates and details of meetings with parents and notes from parents. Roll books will be updated daily. Sensitive information regarding children will be shared on a need to know basis. Every teacher has a notebook for this purpose. Children's names are not used. All educational files of pupils who no longer attend this school are kept in the filing cabinet for 5 years.

•n)     Induction of Teachers and Ancillary Staff

The DLP will be responsible for informing all new teachers and ancillary staff of the Children First Guidelines (1999). The DLP will give a copy of Chapters 3 & 4 and Appendix 1 and this Child Protection Policy to all new staff. All new teachers are expected to teach the objectives in the SPHE programme. All staff share the responsibility of mentoring the new teachers, Helen Uí Choigligh (Post holder) is responsible for supporting new teachers as they implement the SPH objectives and takes responsibility for ensuring that new teachers know how to fill in the roll book correctly and informing the teacher of record keeping procedures within the school.

•o)      Induction of Pupils

All parents and children will be made aware of the attendance rules and their implications as laid down in the Education Welfare Act (2000). All parents will be informed of the programmes in place in the school that deal with personal development e.g. RSE, Walk Tall and SPHE. All new parents are given a copy of the school's enrolment policy, which outlines the procedures parents and children should use when contacting the school if there are absences or concerns of an educational/personal/family matter. Parents are encouraged to make an appointment with the class teacher/principal if they wish to discuss their child's progress. All parents are given a copy of the school's Code of Behaviour and Anti-Bullying Policies.

•p)     Communication

Every effort will be made to enhance pupil-teacher communication. If pupils have concerns they will be listened to sympathetically. The SPHE/Oral English/RE/Social Skills programmes allow for open pupil-teacher communication, which is hoped will aid the pupil-teacher relationship. If teachers have to communicate with pupils/instruct a pupil on a one-to-one basis, they are requested to leave the classroom door open except for the Learning Support and Resource Teachers who have glass panels in their doors.

•q)     Attendance

Our school attendance will be monitored as per our attendance policy. With regards to child protection we will pay particular attention to trends in non-attendance. We will also monitor non-attendance in correlation with signs of neglect/physical/emotional abuse.

While every effort will be made to adhere to best practice as agreed and outlined above, in the event of an emergency where this is not possible or practicable a full record of the incident should be made and reported to principal and parents.

Prevention

The Stay Safe programme is the primary resource used in this school to provide education for the children on abuse prevention.  The programme is taught as part of the school's SPHE curriculum under the strand unit Safety and Protection (Personal Safety).

On enrolment of their child, parents will be informed that the Stay Safe programme is in use in the school and a copy of the Stay Safe ‘A Parent's Guide' is provided.

The formal lessons of the programme will be taught in their entirety every second year in accordance with the SPHE two-year cycle plan.

Staff will make every effort to ensure that the messages of the programme are reinforced whenever possible. 

The Stay Safe Programme is taught As Gaeilge by all class teachers. However, the accompanying worksheets are sent home in English and As Gaeilge thus ensuring that the parents fully understand the content being delivered and so that they can discuss the relevant issues at home.

Where children are identified as having special needs the teacher will adapt the programme accordingly. Where it is warranted ‘Personal Safety Skills for Children with Learning Difficulties' will be taught. During the course of the year the learning support teacher will facilitate Circle Time as the need arises.

Prior to the commencement of the 2 week Programme the parents are furnished with the content of the Stay Safe Programme. Should the parents have any queries/concerns regarding the programme content, they are welcome to come in and discuss these with the Principal or are asked to refer to their Parents Handbook. The Parents Association are asked to ensure that all parents are offered the opportunity to avail of the Stay Safe Training course for parents.

Children

Children, because of their dependency and immaturity, are vulnerable to abuse in its various forms. Parents or guardians have primary responsibility for the care and protection of their children. In the interests of the welfare and protection of children, it is also incumbent on school authorities and teachers to deal with allegations or suspicions of child abuse as per Child First Guidelines of the Department of Health and Children 1999 and the Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures of the Department of Education and Science 2001.

"Child First Guidelines"

The Guidelines are laid out as follows and are detailed in Appendix 1:

• 1.0 Appointment of a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) see appendix 1
• 2.0 Roles, Responsibilities and Guidelines
• 2.1 Role of the Board of Management
• 2.2 Role of the Staff Members (Teachers, SNAs, Caretaker, Secretary)
• 2.3 Role of the designated Liaison Person
• 3.0 Procedures for Board of Management in case of allegations or suspicions of child abuse by a school employee.
• 4.0 Case Conferences
• 5.0 Organisational Implications

A hard copy of Appendix 1 is available by request from An Scoil and is also available on our school website www.gaelscoilnaboinne.com

Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

The DLP is the person who has specific responsibility for child protection in the school and who represents the school in all dealings with Health Boards, An Garda Síochána and other parties in connection with allegations of abuse.  The Principal of Gaelscoil na Bóinne will act as the DLP. All matters pertaining to the processing or investigation of child abuse should be processed through the DLP.  Roles and responsibilities see Appendix 1-2.3.

Guidelines for Recognition of Child Abuse

All signs and symptoms must be examined in the total context of the child's situation and family circumstances. There are commonly three stages in the identification of child abuse.

These are: -

• Considering the possibility
• Looking out for signs of abuse
• Recording of information

Handling Disclosures from Children

A child may approach a member of staff with a disclosure about an incident of abuse. When information is offered in confidence the member of staff will need to act with sensitivity in responding to the disclosure.  The member of staff will need to reassure the child, and retain his/her trust, while explaining the need for action and the possible consequences, which will necessarily involve other adults being informed.  It is important to tell the child that everything possible will be done to protect and support him/her but not to make promises that cannot be kept e.g. promising not to tell anyone else. The welfare of the child is regarded as the first and paramount consideration. In so far as is practicable, due consideration will be given, having regard to age and understanding, to the wishes of the child.

The following advice is offered to school personnel to whom a child makes a disclosure of abuse, as per Appendix 1 - 2.2b.

This information should then be passed onto the DLP and a record will be retained in the school.

If the reporting person or member of the school staff and the DLP is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion/allegation, the procedures for reporting as laid out in 'Children First' - (Section 4.4 pg 38) will be adhered to.  See Appendix 1 - 2.2. 

The Chairperson of the Board of Management will be informed before the DLP makes contact with the relevant authorities unless the situation demands that more immediate action to be taken for the safety of the child in which case the Chairman may be informed after the report has been submitted. 

Any Professional who suspects child abuse should inform parents/carers if a report is to be submitted to the Health Board or An Garda Síochána unless doing so is likely to endanger the child.

In cases of emergency, where a child appears to be at immediate and serious risk, and a duty social worker is unavailable, an Garda Siochána should be contacted.  Under no circumstances should a child be left in a dangerous situation pending Health Board intervention.

Allegations against School Employees:

The most important consideration for the Chairperson, Board of Management or the DLP is the safety and protection of the child.  However, employees also have a right to protection against claims which are false or malicious. 

As employers, the Board of Management should always seek legal advice as the circumstances can vary from one case to another.

There are two procedures to be followed:

1. The reporting Procedure
2. The Procedure for dealing with the Employee.

The DLP has responsibility for reporting the matter to the Health Board.  The Chairperson, Board of Management has responsibility, acting in consultation with his/her Board, for addressing the employment issues. If the allegation is against the DLP, the Chairperson of the Board of Management will assume the responsibility for reporting the matter to the Health Board.

Reporting:  See Appendix 1 - 2.1.

When an allegation of abuse is made against a school employee, the DLP should immediately act in accordance with the procedures outlined in "Child Protection."

Action taken in reporting an allegation of child abuse against an employee should be based on an opinion formed reasonably and in good faith.  When an allegation is received it should be assessed promptly and carefully.  It will be necessary to decide whether a formal report should be made to the health board; this decision should be based on reasonable grounds for concern as outlined in Chapter 2 of ‘Child Protection Guidelines'.A written statement of the allegation should be sought from the person/agency making the report.  The DLP should always inform the Chairperson of the Board of Management and seek advice from the health Board.

School employees, other than the DLP who receive allegations against another school employee, should immediately report the matter to the DLP.  School employees who form suspicions regarding conduct of another school employee should consult with the DLP.  The procedures outlined in ‘Child Protection' Procedures of the Department of Education & Science 2001 will then be followed.

The chairperson of the Board and DLP should make the employee aware privately

• a) That an allegation has been made against him/her
• b) The nature of the allegation
• c) Whether or not the Health Board or Gardaí has been/will be/must be/should be informed.

The employee should be given a copy of the written allegation and any other relevant documentation.  The employee should be requested to respond to the allegation in writing to the Board of Management within a specified period and told that this may be passed to the Gardaí, Health Board, and legal advisers.

The priority in all cases is that no child be exposed to unnecessary risk.  Therefore, as a matter of urgency, the Chairperson should take any necessary protective measures.

If the nature of the allegations warrants immediate action in the Chairperson's opinion, the Board of Management should be convened to consider the matter.  The Board will consider feedback if any has been received from the Health Board, Gardaí or relevant source. This may result in the Board of Management directing that the employee absent him/herself from the school forthwith while the matter is being investigated (Administrative Leave).

Links to other policy/planning areas:

Prevention:                              SPHE curriculum, Strand Unit on Safety and Protection:                                                     School Code of Discipline.

Procedures:                             Code of Behaviour, Health and Safety Statement

Practice:                                  Swimming Policy, School tours/Outings, IT -                                                                                                           Acceptable Use Policy.

Review and Monitoring:

This policy will be monitored and reviewed by the Board of Management as and when the need arises.  Staff will be requested on a regular basis to review the school policy in this area and every effort will be made to ensure that the attention of all new staff is drawn to the school child protection policy. 

The Board of Management will ensure that adequate training and support is provided for all staff.

Policy adopted by the BOM on 18th January 2010

Signed:  ____________________________________________________

Board of Management

The Chairperson should inform the Board of Management of all the details and remind the members of their serious responsibility to maintain strict confidentiality on all matters relating to the issue and the principles of due process and natural justice.

Ratified by Board of Management on 18th January 2010

Signed _____________________________________________________

             Chairperson, Board of Management

Cód Smachta

Nollaig 2009

SCHOOL ETHOS

Gaelscoil na Bóinne is a co-educational Catholic school under the patronage of Foras na Gaeilge.

DEVELOPMENT OF CODE

The Code was developed in consultation with the parents, teachers, pupils and the Board of Management and adheres to the National Guidelines issued by the NEWB, http://www.newb.ie/

REVISION OF POLICY

The school's code was revised in accordance with the NEWB Guidelines in Autumn 2009 by a committee constituted by 2 members of the Board of Management and two Parents representatives, and 2 teachers. The committee was also assisted by an external facilitator. Revised Policy completed and ratified by the Board of Management on 18^th January 2010.

THE PURPOSE OF CODE IS TO: 

• Create a climate that encourages and reinforces good behaviour
• Encourage pupils to take responsibility for their behaviour and learning
• Help pupils to mature and to become aware of the need for respect and co-operation in the daily life in the school
• Provide clarity to students, parents and the broader school community on the school rules, appropriate standards of behaviour and the sanctions which will apply in response to negative behaviour

PRINCIPLES OF THE CODE

The principles underpinning this Code are:

• The responsibility of parents to assist their children in all aspects of their behaviour.
• The importance of relationships in promoting positive behaviour.
• That equity and fairness are central to the implementation of the Code.
• A commitment to the education and welfare of children.
• A commitment to the promotion of a safe working environment for staff which protect their dignity at work.

PROMOTING A POSITIVE SCHOOL CLIMATE

The quality of relationships in the school are central to effective teaching and learning. Each member of the school community has a responsibility to contribute to a positive climate based on mutual respect and fairness. Within the classroom, the pupils annually agree on their class rules for good conduct. These rules are complemented by the school rules and code of behaviour. The curriculum also sustains - formally and informally - the positive climate in the school.

Through the SPHE curriculum we teach the skills the children will need to live up to the school

expectations, e.g. co-operating with each other, listening to each other, showing respect, taking turns,

using please and thank you etc. Staff have a common understanding of expectations and a common

approach to sanctioning. Through daily contact class teachers promote an atmosphere of mutual respect.

WAYS OF PROMOTING GOOD BEHAVIOUR

• Involving children in forming class rules annually.
• Teacher modelling good behaviour.

REWARD SYSTEMS

• Moladh ó na múinteoirí (Teachers Affirmations)

• Obair na bPáistí ar taispeáint ar fud na scoile. (Children's work is displayed
• throughout the school.)

• Leabhar Stampaí:(Stamp Books)

                                                                }Tréimhse Órga/Golden Time

                                                                } Milseáin/Sweets

                                                                } Oíche saor ón obair bhaile

                                                                } 10 nóiméad sa bhreis ag am lóin/sosa

                                                                } Tobar an áidh/Lucky Dip

• Cuairt go dtí oifig an Phríomhoide chun moladh agus duais a fháil (Visit to

                Principals office for reward and praise)

• Gaeilgeoir na Seachtaine: (Irish Speaker of the week)

                                                 }Fógra ag tionól na scoile/Announcement at school assembly

                                                } Teastas/Certificate

                                                } Grianghraf ar taispeáint/Photograph

                                                } Ainm sa Nuachtlitir/Name in Newsletter

• An seomra is glaine. (The cleanest room of the day.)

• Dualgaisí mar aitheantas do dhea-iompar, mar shampla: leabharlann an ranga

teachtaireacht go dtí an oifig.... (Acknowledging good behaviour by giving responsibilities e.g. - in charge of class library, delivering a message to the office....)

• Cóisirí (Parties)

• Greamáin (Stickers)

• Teastais (Certificates)

• Stampaí éagsúla (Stampers)

• Grianghraif ar taispeáint de ghníomhaíochtaí scoile agus éachtaí (Photographs on

display of school activities and achievements.

• Nuachtlitir - mórghníomhartha curtha in iúl go seachtainiúil do gach teaghlach

(Newsletter - communication of all school achievements to all families via weekly newsletter.)

• Éachtaí mórchúiseacha fógraithe sna meáin áitiúla (Major achievements are publicised via local media)

• Cuirtear páistí chuig ranganna eile chun aitheantas agus moladh a fháil. (Children are frequently sent from one

class to another to have their achievements affirmed!)

• Tugtar aitheantas do thinreamh iomlán. (Full attendance is acknowledged.)

EXPECTATIONS

In Gaelscoil na Bóinne, we expect parents will:

• Ensure children come to school each day on time.
• Send a written explanation if a child is absent from school for any reason.
• Ensure children wear full school uniform and are clean, neat and tidy.
• Ensure children wear appropriate clothing for P.E.
• Label all property and clothing clearly.
• Help children with their homework and sign their homework journal daily.
• Treat school staff, parents and other children with respect, courtesy and polite language.
• Co-operate with school staff and attend meetings when requested.
• Provide a healthy lunch daily for their children. (See Healthy Lunch Policy)
• Make an appointment, through the secretary, if they wish to meet with a teacher
• Communicate through Irish to the best of their ability.
• Will familiarise themselves with school policies and procedures.

In Gaelscoil na Bóinne, we expect the Board of Management will:

• Work to serve the interests of the school.
• Ensure that the highest standards of education are provided to our pupils.
• Maintain a school culture based on mutual respect, fairness and accountability.
• Promote the ethos of the school as a co-educational, Catholic school and the promotion of the Irish culture.
• Work in partnership with parents to implement policies and the curriculum.

In Gaelscoil na Bóinne , we expect staff will:

• Be punctual.
• Be prepared for class.
• Treat children, parents and other staff members with respect, courtesy and polite language.
• Co-operate with each other and work as part of a team.
• Be fair and consistent.
• Be aware of their duty of care to all children, at all times.
• Communicate through Irish at all times.
• Respect school equipment and school property.
• Keep classrooms and public areas neat and tidy.
• Keep all records updated.

In Gaelscoil na Bóinne we expect children will:

• Treat staff and other children with respect, courtesy and polite language.
• Be kind to each other.
• Speak Irish.
• Be honest in their dealings with others.
• Treat school property and other children's property with respect.
• Listen carefully in class and do their best work.
• Complete homework and present it on time.
• Maintain a high standard of behaviour while on the school premises and while engaging in any school-related activity.
• Abide by class rules.

Note:

Behaviour will be subject to the school's code of behaviour anywhere on the School premises, on any out

of school activity where the child/children are representing the school (e.g. sport events, cultural events, school tours etc. Parents are asked to inform the school Principal in confidence of changes

which may be adversely affecting their behaviour.

SCHOOL RULES

.Caithfidh gach duine, i bpobal na scoil, iarracht a dhéanamh na súilíochta a chomhlíonadh.

.Everyone in the school community will live up to the ‘Expectations' as laid out in our Cód Smachta.

• Níl cead fón póca nó cluichí leitreonacha
• No mobile phones or electronic games allowed

• Duine amháin ón rang ag an am ag fágáil an seomra ranga le dul go dtí an leithreas
• Only one child at a time allowed to leave the classroom for the toilet

• Caithfear siúl I gconaí sa foirgneamh ar an bhfána agus go dtí an bus.
• Pupils must walk at all times while in the building and on the ramp at the field entrance and to the bus.

• Ní cheadaitear smideadh
• No make-up allowed

• Ní cheadaitear guma cogarta
• Chewing gum is not allowed

CLOÍ LE RIALACHA SA CHLÓS

• Ná téigh amach an geata/sconsa
• Do not go past the school gate or fence

• Ná téigh suas sa phairc/isteach sa scoil gan cead ón mhúinteoir
• Do not go up to the field or into the school building without permission from a Teacher

• Ná téigh suas ar an gclaí
• Do not climb on the fence

• Nuair a bhuailtear an clog stop, siúl agus fan ciúin agus socair sa line
• When the bell rings stop, walk and wait quietly and calmly in the line

• Siúl go mall is go réidh ag teacht isteach is ag dul amach
• Walk slowly and carefully when coming in or out of the school

• Fan amach ón gluaisteáin
• Stay away from the cars parked in the school grounds

Negative standards of behaviour will not be tolerated and include:

• Behaviour that is disrespectful and hurtful - including bullying, harassment and racism
• Behaviour in the classroom that persistently disrupts the learning of the other students
• Behaviour which threatens the safety of other pupils and teachers
• Behaviour which persistently disregards the school rules
• Malicious damage to school property
• Bringing drugs or other illegal substances, and weapons into the school premises

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOUR AND SANCTIONS

Some examples of Minor misbehaviour:

Disobedience:            Not carrying out instructions from the teacher.

                                    Not getting on with work set by the teacher.

                                    Not following class rules.

Disrupting Class:       Shouting out, throwing objects (e.g. paper, rubbers etc.)                                                                                          Swinging on chairs, eating and drinking in class without permission.

                                    Distracting others, interrupting the teacher, wandering around                                                                              the classroom, fidgeting and inattention, sulking, misbehaviour                                                                  in teacher's absence.

                              Damaging school or other children's property; marking tables with                                                     pencils, pens, marking other children's books.

                              Pushing, leaving children out of play/drama, leaving set play area.

                              Returning to classroom during break times without permission.

                              Not completing homework (without a note of explanation)

(This is not an exhaustive list)

Some examples of Serious Misbehaviour:

• Bullying (See school's anti-bullying policy).
• Inappropriate play.
• Kicking, fighting, spitting, kissing.
• Throwing objects (objects that could cause harm)
• Abusive language.
• Damaging school/other children's property e.g. permanently defacing walls, books, desks,

tables, deliberately breaking windows, destroying other children's work/property.

• Stealing school/staff or other children's property/books etc.
• Leaving school grounds without permission.
• Deliberate disobedience.
• Being cheeky.
• Telling lies.
• Continuous minor misbehaviour automatically becomes a serious misbehaviour

• Continuous disruptive behaviour which over time, undermines the classroom environment for other pupils and/or which undermines the safety of other pupils.

      (This is not an exhaustive list)

Some examples of extreme misbehaviour (these may incur automatic suspension)

Threatening behaviour.

Kicking and hitting teachers.

Serious theft.                              

Serious physical attack

Bringing illegal substances or weapons to school.

(This is not an exhaustive list)

APPROACH TO NEGATIVE BEHAVIOUR

The school will always operate on the premise that there is a reason for negative behaviour and that, in most instances, once this had been identified, measures can be put in place to assist the pupil to cease to engage in negative behaviour using a problem solving approach.

The school believes that a sanction should:

• aim to stop the negative behaviour
• convey the unacceptability of the negative behaviour to the pupil, their parents,
• their classroom peers and the broader school community
• defuse not escalate a situation
• be applied in a fair and consistent manner
• be timely
• be appropriate
• be implemented in accordance with the principles of natural justice

APPROPRIATE SANCTIONS

1. Rabhadh - Verbal / Non verbal warning (cárta dearg)                                                            
2. Scaradh Sealadach - Temporary separation from peers (10 mins) If in yard - sitting in designated area for 3 mins. Teacher will ask ‘Are you ready to go back to your place?'                                         
3. Scaradh níos Faide - Further separation for longer periods - may be given a behaviour sheet (to be started at school, completed and signed at home. A weekly record of behavioural sheets is kept in school.                                                                                                                                        
4. Nóta sa Dialann/Glaoch Abhaile  - Note in the school diary / phone call home                                                                                        
5. Páiste seolta chuig oifig an Príomhoide - Child sent to the Príomhoide and given detention i.e. during break time.         
6.   Foirm Gorm  - Blue Form, given by Teacher, signed by Principal                                                    
7. Crinniú lena Tuistí - Meeting with parents, principal/deputy principal and class teacher by appointment to discuss misbehaviour, draw up behaviour plan.                                                                    
8. Fionraíocht - Suspension - The Principal of Gaelscoil na Bóinne has been delegated the authority by the Board of Management to suspend for a period of 3 days.                                        
9. Díbhirt - Expulsion               

        These sanctions may not always follow in this order depending on the severity of the incident.

PROCEDURES IN RESPECT OF SUSPENSION                           (as per page 77 of the NEWB guidelines)                                                                                             

• Investigation of the facts to confirm serious misbehaviour.                                             -
• Parents will be informed by phone or in writing about the incident.                 -
• In the case of an immediate suspension, the parents will be notified by the  Principal and arrangements made with them for the pupil to be collected  from school immediately. The child will be supervised in the interim away  from his peers.

If Suspension is still decided upon:

Principal notifies parent in writing of the decision to suspend. The letter will confirm

• The period of the suspension and the dates on which the suspension will begin and end.
• The reason for the suspension.
• Any study programme to be followed.
• The arrangements for returning to school, including any commitments to be entered into

           by the student and the parents.

• The provision for appeal to the Board of Management or Secretary General of the DES (Only where the

total number of days for which the student has been suspended in the current school year reaches 20

days.)

A pupil will not be suspended for more than 3 days. In exceptional circumstances, where the Principal

considers that a suspension period longer than three days is necessary, the Principal will refer the matter

to the Board of Management for consideration.  A period of ten days suspension will be the maximum

period imposed by the Board of Management in such exceptional circumstances. 

RECORDS AND REPORTS

Formal written records will be kept of:

• The investigation (including all notes of all interviews held)
• The decision-making process.
• The decision and rationale for the decision.
• The duration of the suspension and any conditions attached to the suspension.

EXPULSION (as per page 82 of the NEWB Guidelines)

Procedures in respect of expulsion:

Step1.A detailed investigation is carried out under the direction of the Principal. The Principal will

A. Inform parents in writing of alleged misbehaviour, how it will be investigated and that it could result in expulsion.

B. Give Parents and students the opportunity to respond before a decision is made.

Step 2. A recommendation to the Board of Management by the Principal (see page 84 NEWB guidelines) In advance of the Board meeting, the Board of Management    will:

• Inform the parents that the Board of Management is considering expulsion.
• Notify parents of the date of the meeting and invite them to the meeting.
• Advise parents that they can make a written submission to the Board of Management.
• Ensure that adequate notice is provided of the meeting.

Step 3. Consideration by the Board of Management of the Principals recommendations and the holding of a hearing. (see page 84 NEWB guidelines)

Step 4. Board of Management deliberations and actions following the hearing. (see page 85 NEWB Guidelines)

Step 5. If the Board of Management is of the opinion that the student should be expelled, the Board of   Management must notify the Educational Welfare Officer (EWO) in writing, of its opinion and the reasons for this opinion by registered post. The student cannot be expelled before the passage of 20 school days from the date on which the EWO receives this written notification. However the Board may consider the sanction of suspension during this period, should the continuing presence of the pupil in the school be likely to seriously disrupt the learning of other students or represent a threat to the safety of other students and staff.

Step 6. Confirmation of the decision to expel. Parents will be notified immediately that the expulsion will now proceed. Following the consultation with the EWO, the Board will meet to decide whether to proceed to expel the pupil.  The decision to expel, and the grounds for expulsion, will be provided in writing to the parents.   This letter will contain information of the right to appeal the Board's decision under Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998 and the Education (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2007.

APPEALS

A parent may appeal a decision to expel to the Secretary General of the Department of Education and Science (Education Act 1998 Section 29)

A Board may consider it appropriate to suspend a student during this time. Suspension should only be considered where there is a likely hood that the continued presence of the student during this time will seriously disrupt the learning of others or represent a threat to the safety of other students or staff.

COMMUNICATION OF CODE TO PARENTS

All parents will receive a written copy of the School Code of Behaviour when their child/children is enrolled in the school. This correspondence will include a form in which parents will state that they have read the Code and agree to its contents and that they will work with the school to ensure that their children understand and engage in positive behaviour. 

REVIEWING THE CODE

The school Code will be reviewed periodically to ensure that it meets the changing needs of the school and in response to changes in legislation and other educational policy .Major amendments will be made in consultation with all members of the school community.

PROCEDURES IN RELATION TO CHILD'S ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL

The National Education Welfare Board requires schools to maintain school attendance records for each school year to register the attendance and non-attendance of pupils.  The Board must be notified of absences from school in the following situations:

• pupils who are absent from school for 20 days or more in the school year
• pupils who are absent from school for more than 6 days arising from suspension
• pupils who are expelled from school
• pupils who, in the opinion of the Principal, are not attending school regularly.

Full attendance is acknowledged at an award ceremony at the end of the school year.

Please visit http://www.newb.ie/ for the complete set of guidelines and further information.

APPENDIX 1

Guidelines

      THE GUIDELINES ARE LAID OUT AS FOLLOWS:

• 1.0 Appointment of a Designated Liaison Person (DLP)
• 2.0 Roles, Responsibilities and Guidelines
• 2.1 Role of the Board of Management
• 2.2 Role of the Staff Members (Teachers, SNAs, Caretaker, Secretary)
• 2.3 Role of the designated Liaison Person
• 3.0 Procedures for Board of Management in cases of allegations or suspicions of child abuse by a school employee
• 4.0 Case Conferences
• 5.0 Organisational Implications

________________________________________________________________________

•1.0           Appointment of a Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

• a. The Board of Management has appointed Cindí Uí Bhuachalla as the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) in Gaelscoil na Bóinne to have specific responsibility for child protection.
• b. Helene Uí Choigligh has been appointed as Deputy DLP to take the place of the DLP if she is unavailable for whatever reason.
• c. The position of DLP will be addressed at the first meeting of each new Board of Management. The DLP will continue to act as such until such time as he/she is replaced by the BOM for whatever reason.

•2.0           Roles and Responsibilities:

• The Board of Management has primary responsibility for the care and welfare of their pupils.
• The DLP has specific responsibility for child protection in the school.
• All staff have a general duty of care to ensure that arrangements are in place to protect children from harm.

2.1  Role of the Board of Management

• I. To arrange for the planning, development and implementation of an effective child protection programme.
• II. To monitor and evaluate its effectiveness.
• III. To provide appropriate staff development and training.

Specifically they will

• IV. Appoint a DLP and deputy DLP.
• V. Have clear procedures for dealing with allegations or suspicions of child abuse (See below).
• VI. Monitor the progress of children at risk.
• VII. Ensure that curricular provision is in place for the prevention of child abuse.
• VIII. Investigate and respond to allegations of child abuse against one of the school's employees which have been reported to the Health Board or Gardaí.
• IX. To decide on teachers attendance at child protection meetings/case conferences and to advise teachers before attending such meetings/conferences.

2.2. Role of the Staff Member (to include Teachers, SNAs, Caretaker, Secretary Etc)

•a.                  It is the responsibility of all teachers and staff members to familiarize themselves with the Children First National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children( 1999) especially

• Chapter 3 Defining & Recognition of Child Abuse
• Chapter 4 Basis for Reporting & Standard Reporting Procedures
• Appendix 1 Signs and Symptoms Of Child Abuse

•b.                  Guidelines for Teachers and Staff Members in handling...

      b.1.      Disclosures from Children

• A. Where a child discloses alleged abuse to a staff member, the person receiving that information should listen carefully and supportively. Great care must be taken not to abuse the child's trust. This should not be a formal interview. The following advice is offered:
• Listen to the child.
• Do not ask leading questions or make suggestions to the child.
• Offer reassurances but do not make promises.
• Do not stop a child recalling significant events.
• Do not over-react.

• Confidentially should not be assured - explain that further help may have to be sought.

• Record the discussion accurately noting
• o What, where, when?
• o Descriptions and possible sketches of physical injuries.
• o Explanations of injuries using direct quotations if appropriate.
• Retain the record securely.
• B. The staff member should obtain only necessary relevant facts. It is not the responsibility of school personnel to investigate allegations of abuse.
• C. The DLP should then be informed and given relevant records.
• D. If the suspected abuser is the DLP then the suspicion and any records will be passed on to the Chairperson who will proceed as per guidelines.

          b.2. Suspicions of Abuse:

a. Staff members who suspect abuse should refer to Children First National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children 1999) especially

• o Chapter 3: Definition & Recognition of Child Abuse

Chapter 4:       Basis for Reporting and Standard Reporting Procedures

• o Appendix 1 Signs and Symptoms of Child Abuse

                  b. Staff members should observe and record over time the                                 dates/signs/symptoms/behavior causing them concern.

                  c. They should inform the DLP and pass on all records.

•2.3           Role of the Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

• a. The DLP acts as a liaison with outside agencies, Health Boards, Gardaí and other parties with child protection concerns
• b. The DLP will inform all school personnel of the availability of the Children First Guidelines in the school. S/he will photocopy and circulate to all staff Chapters 3 & 4 & Appendix 1 of these guidelines and advise on good practice.
• c. The DLP will be available to staff for consultation regarding suspicions or disclosures of abuse. S/he will keep records of these consultations.
• d. The DLP will seek advice from the Health Board.
• e. The DLP will report suspicions and allegations of child abuse to the Health Board or/ and Garda Síochána based on this advice.
• f. The DLP will maintain proper records in a secure, confidential manner and in a secure location.
• g. The DLP will keep up to date on current developments regarding child protection.

Guidelines for the DLP in handling reported concerns and disclosures

1. Where the DLP/Deputy DLP have concerns about a child, but are not sure whether to report the matter to the Health Board, they should seek appropriate advice. To do this the DLP/Deputy should make informal contact with the assigned (on duty) Social Worker. The DLP/ Deputy in this case, should be explicit that s/he is requesting advice and not making a report. If advised to report the matter, the DLP will act on that advice.
2. A report will then be made to the Health Board by the DLP/Deputy in person, by telephone or in writing. In the event of an emergency or non-availability of Health Board staff, the report should be made to the Gardaí. The DLP should also report the matter to the Chairperson of the Board of Management, who should then follow procedures as outlined in Chapter 4 (Section 4.3) of Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures.
3. A standard reporting form is completed by the DLP/Deputy as comprehensively as possible.
4. Parents/guardians will normally be informed that a report is being made. It may be decided that informing the parent/carer is likely to endanger the child or place the child at further risk. The decision not to inform the parent/carer should be briefly recorded together with the reason for not doing so.
5. When the allegation is against the DLP , the chairperson then assumes responsibility for reporting the matter to the Health Board and filling in the standard form.
6. Where there are allegations or suspicions of Peer abuse the DLP will follow the same procedures.
• Parents of all parties will be notified and the DLP will inform the Chairperson.
• Principal and class teachers will make arrangements to meet separately with all Parents, to resolve the matter.
• The school will make arrangements to minimize the possibility of the abusive behaviour recurring.

3.0    Procedures for BOM in cases of allegations or suspicions of child abuse by a school employee:

•A.           Reporting

In the event of receiving a complaint or suspicion regarding an employee:

i.        The DLP will immediately inform the chairperson.

ii.       The parent/ guardian is asked to put the complaint in writing.

iii.      The DLP will seek advice from the relevant Health Board and will take responsibility for reporting, based on this advice.

iv.      If the DLP, following consultation with the Health Board, decides that this matter is not for reporting, s/he must inform the Chairperson. They must then inform, in writing, the person or agency making the allegation, of the reasons for this decision. If this person or agency still has concerns, they are free to consult with or report to the relevant Health Board or Gardaí on an individual basis. The provisions of the Protection for Persons reporting Child Abuse Act 1998 apply once they report reasonably and in good faith.

v.       If the DLP, following consultation with the Health Board, decides that this matter is for reporting s/he should inform the Chairperson, who should proceed in accordance with the procedures in the Child Protection Guidelines (1999 pg. 16).

vi.      The DLP/ Deputy DLP completes a standard reporting form as comprehensively as is possible.

vii.     When the Chairperson becomes aware of an allegation of abuse s/he will always seek legal advice and base his/her responses on this advice.

viii.    S/he will privately inform the employee of the fact and nature of the allegation and whether or not it has been reported by the DLP to the           Health Board. (Refer to 4.2 - 4.3, pg. 16 of Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures (DES, 2001). The Chairperson has a duty to afford the employee fairness and due process - s/he is entitled to details and a copy of the written allegation, to advice and representation and an opportunity to respond to the Board within a week.

•B.            Responding

• I. When the Chairperson becomes aware of an allegation of abuse s/he will always seek legal advice and base his/her response on this advice.
• II. The Chairperson will consider whether there is any risk to pupil safety. If the Chairperson considers that there is a risk- s/he may require the employee to take immediate administrative leave. If unsure the chairperson will consult with the Health Board/Gardaí.
• III. If administrative leave has been invoked, the chairperson will inform the DES. The Health Board (in some cases the Gardaí may also be notified in accordance with legal advice received.
• IV. Once it is deemed necessary by the DLP and Chairperson to make a report (after receiving advice from the Health Board) the Chairperson will convene and inform a meeting of the BOM as soon as possible.
• V. Where the alleged abuse has taken place within the school, or relates to the abuse of pupils of the school, by school employees outside of school time, the BOM will investigate the matter. They will convene a further meeting, once the relevant information has been gathered. At this meeting the BOM will consider in detail
• The allegations made and their source,
• The advice given by relevant authorities
• And the written responses of the employee.

          VI      At this meeting also

• The person/agency who is alleging abuse by the school employee should be offered an opportunity to present his/her case to the BOM and may be accompanied by another person
• Parents/guardians may act on behalf of the child.
• The employee should also be afforded an opportunity to present their case and may also be accompanied.

            VII      The B.O.M. must deal with the matter sensitively and the employee must be fairly treated.

            VIII.    The B.O.M. will make a decision on action, if any, based on their investigation and will inform the employee of this in writing. They will also inform the DES of the outcome, if the employee has been absent on administrative leave.

            IX.       Where it is not possible for the B.O.M. to conduct an enquiry into allegations (e.g. where abuse has occurred in past employment, or where the employee is undergoing investigation by relevant authorities), the Chairperson will act on advice of authorities. The Chairperson will maintain close contact with the Health Board and receive reports and records from them where appropriate.

4.0    Child Protection Meetings (Case Conferences):

• a. A request is made from the Health Board through the DLP_ who should consult with the Chairperson of the BOM of the school. The Chairperson may seek clarification through the DLP as to why the attendance of the school employee is necessary and ascertain who else will be present.
• b. The school employee may complete a report for the meeting/conference. (See Appendix 3).
• c. The school employee will be advised if children/parents/guardians are going to be present. The school employee may contact the Chairperson of the Child Protection Meeting for advice.
• d. The school employee may keep a child's behaviour under closer observation, if requested to do so. This may include observing the child's behaviour, peer interactions, school progress or informal conversations.
• e. In all cases, individuals who refer or discuss their concerns about the care and protection of children with Health Board staff, should be informed of the likely steps to be taken by the professionals involved. Where appropriate and within the normal limits of confidentiality, reporting staff will be kept informed about the outcomes of any enquiry or investigation following on from their report.
• f. Teachers attending a child protection meeting/case conference should familiarize themselves with the protocol outlined on pgs. 149 - 155 of Children First National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children (1999).

5.0    Organisational Implications

School procedures already in place and new procedures being put in place will be examined with references to the Children First Guidelines and any Child Protection issues that may arise will be addressed.

Timeframe for Implementation

These procedures will be implemented following ratification by the BOM.

Timeframe for Review

At the first staff meeting of every year the DLP will remind all teachers of the guidelines and copies of Chapter 3 & 4 & Appendix 1 of The Children First Guidelines will be given to those who require them.

A review will be conducted based on the criteria above, following any and all incidents when the guidelines are used.

Responsibility for Review

• DLP
• Principal
• All staff

Ratification and Communication

This policy was ratified on 18^th January 2010

Parents were given a copy on 21^st January 2010.