PREAMBLE

Our vision is to foster academic excellence and develop social and extra-curricular growth, which challenges learners and educators to realise their full potential in a secure and caring environment, with the support of the community.

We strive for excellence in all that we do that is of direct benefit to our learners. We realise also that we have to stay relevant and adapt realistically to changing times and circumstances, though without ever condoning what is clearly either wrong or harmful.

OUR MISSION IS TO DO THIS BY …

• facing the challenges that change

• updating and improving the learning environment on an ongoing basis

• setting and maintaining high standards in all spheres of school life

• equipping learners with the necessary entrepreneurial and life skills to fulfil their role as responsible and productive members of a healthy society

• inculcating an acceptable value system, which includes honesty, respect, tolerance, self-discipline, commitment and good manners.

• promoting a culture of reading and research

• embracing technology and seeking to use its possibilities and opportunities to enrich and enhance learning and the learning

• maintaining a happy, safe and dynamic teaching environment

• promoting the right of teachers to teach and learners to learn

• realising that we are a community yet acknowledging and appreciating difference and

• creating opportunities within a holistic, affordable education for the development of the learner’s full potential academically, culturally, spiritually and in sport

• providing avenues for learners to express and shape their opinions responsibly with regard to the governance of the school.

• maintaining a vibrant, dynamic and contented staff team

• developing co-ownership and accountability among all stakeholders and encouraging maximum parental support and involvement

• promoting the care of school buildings and other facilities

• fostering a sense of pride in the school

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE

(Circular 18/2012 dated 23 May 2012) as promulgated in Provincial Gazette Extraordinary 6939. We are committed to ensuring progressive discipline that is:

• FAIR
• REASONABLE
• APPROPRIATE
• IMMEDIATE
• ACCEPTABLE AND HUMANE
• CONSISTENT
• FOLLOWED UP/CHECKED
• CLEARLY EXPLAINED TO THE LEARNER

Discipline will be corrective, and its aim will be to effect a positive change in attitude and behaviour. Discipline will be carried out in a mature and altruistic manner and will always take the rights of the child into consideration. Discipline will always be applied justly in line with the Bill of Rights of Children, the Constitution of South Africa and The South African Schools’ Act 84 of 1996.

Whenever necessary, parents/guardians will be kept informed. The school relies on the sound judgement of parents/guardians in supporting it when it has to impose corrective measures. It should be borne in mind that the child’s account of the circumstances can be one-sided, and we recommend that parents/guardians contact the relevant teacher or Grade Head to gain clarity on any aspect of discipline.

HOW TO PROMOTE GOOD DISCIPLINE AMONG NHHS LEARNERS:

Teachers respond well to…

• Good, non-disruptive behaviour, good interactions, well-presented work, a learner who does his/her best, is honest, tries hard, has a positive attitude, perseveres and always attempts to do extra
• All this brings out the best in educators and help to build strong, healthy

Teachers can show their appreciation by…

• praising
• a positive letter home for particularly good work performance in relation to your
• sending learners, with their book to the Grade Head/Deputy Principal/Principal for

If learners concentrate on what is good and positive, they will enjoy NHHS and find it a rewarding experience. In this way, learners are likely to make a success of school and achieve their goals. This, in turn, will make high school a memorable and happy time in their life.

PURPOSE OF DISCIPLINE

• To instil socially acceptable values and attitudes
• To develop self-discipline
• To develop responsibility
• Balance the rights and responsibilities debate
• To ensure a co-operative ethos
• To correct undesirable behaviour/practice
• To instil a sense of social order

Punishment must be fair, corrective and educative (restorative justice).

In order to protect the good name of the school and ensure the smooth running of NHHS, it is essential to ensure that the rights and responsibilities of pupils, as outlined below, are reflected in the way we conduct ourselves on a daily basis.

NON – NEGOTIABLES

Certain behaviours, language, and actions are strictly prohibited at NHHS. Learners are expected to uphold the following non-negotiable standards at all times and will be held accountable for any violations, regardless of when or where they occur. Norman Henshilwood Learners are expected:

1. To attend school regularly and be on time, truancy is not allowed (refer to the truancy policy below).

2. To arrive at school ready to complete all work set by the

3. Not to disrupt the learning process

4. To wear the correct uniform with pride and be neat in

5. Not to eat in class without permission

6. Not to have in their possession, use or sell cigarettes, vapes, air pops, edibles (food items laced with drugs), alcohol or other harmful drugs or illegal

7. To greet all adults (teachers, workers, parents, visitors) and maintain a respectful attitude at all

8. Not to litter or This includes not ‘tagging’ graffiti onto desks, walls or other physical building structures.

9. Not to engage in violence of any kind, including physical bullying, fighting, verbal or sexual

10. Not to bring to school, use or have in your possession any form of weapon or instrument which can be regarded as dangerous (including fireworks).

11. To uphold the Norman Henshilwood brand and ethos in all actions, and not to act in a way that reflects poorly on the school or brings the NHHS brand into disrepute. (Note this includes when in or out of school uniform).

12. To not use a cell phone in the classroom without the permission of the Teacher and to leave their cell phone with the Teacher when permitted to leave the classroom during a lesson/homeroom/assembly.

13. To not bring to school, or have in their possession, any electronic multi-media device for the purpose of playing or listening to music (e.g. Jukeboxes, Boomboxes, portable speakers, )

14. To not have fluid (tippex) in their

15. To not chew gum during the school day

16. To take responsibility for their own possessions by not leaving belongings, money or valuables unattended (even in a school bag) – the school cannot be held liable for loss, theft or damage of personal

17. To conduct themselves with neither deceit nor theft will be tolerated.

18. To not wear or use earphones in between classes/lessons.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Norman Henshilwood High School seeks to provide a safe, secure learning environment for all and does not tolerate bullying. All members of the school community are expected to base their behaviour on respect for others, regardless of differences in age, status, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

DEFINITION OF BULLYING:

1. Bullying is a deliberate attempt to hurt, ridicule, torment, threaten, frighten or intimidate. Bullying is the misuse of power by an individual or a group. In the context of this policy, bullying is defined as unwanted negative behaviour, verbal, psychological or physical, conducted by an individual or group against another person (or persons) and which is repeated over time.

2. The following types of bullying behaviour are included in this non-exhaustive definition:

1. Repeated harassment by an individual or group
2. Deliberate exclusion, malicious gossip and other forms of relational
3. cyber-bullying; and
4. identity-based bullying, for example, homophobic bullying, racist bullying, bullying based on a person’s country of origin, and bullying of those with disabilities or special educational needs

3. In addition, in the context of this policy, placing a once-off offensive or hurtful public message, image or statement on a social network site or other public forum where that message, image or statement can be viewed and/or repeated by other people will be regarded as bullying

4. Isolated or once-off incidents of intentional negative behaviour including a once-off offensive or hurtful text message or other private messaging, which do not fall within the above definition of bullying, will still be dealt with, as appropriate, in accordance with the school’s code of conduct. Note that depending on the context, a single incident may also constitute criminal

IMPORTANT TO NOTE:

1. The contents of this policy are addressed in the Grade 8 Life Orientation Learners joining the school in any other grade are expected to acquaint themselves with the contents of this policy and to ask their Life Orientation teacher, Grade Head or the School Counsellor should they need clarity on any issue contained in it.

2. All forms of bullying should be A learner may report a case of bullying to the Principal, Deputy Principal, Grade Head, Educator, School Councillor, Peer Educator or School Counsellor. A learner may also report bullying on the school’s WhatsApp reporting platform. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

3. Life Orientation Teachers and the School Counsellor will be available to assist both the victim/s and perpetrator/s.

4. Records of bullying will be kept on the learner’s personal record

5. Consequences for bullying are listed in the “Discipline System” section of this Code of

6. An Anti-Bullying Campaign will be held

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL BULLYING BEHAVIOUR (Bullying actions may include, but are not limited to):

PHYSICAL BULLYING:

• Minor assault, which includes prodding, poking,
• Offensive physical
• Deliberate damage to the property of the school or another learner.
• Major assault such as hitting, kicking, pulling hair, scratching, punching, using a weapon of any nature; acting either as a one-on-one or as a group against an individual or another

VERBAL AND WRITTEN BULLYING:

• Name-calling, taunting aimed at ridiculing, humiliating or belittling someone, including remarks which can be construed as mocking or offensive to race, disability, sexual orientation, age, status, appearance, religion or gender.
• Teasing which can be construed as humiliating and/or
• Spreading or malicious rumours and false information and rumours which are designed to mock, humiliate, ridicule and/or
• Sending bullying text messages, notes and/or letters.
• Threatening behaviour and intimidation of

PSYCHOLOGICAL (SILENT) BULLYING:

• Isolating/ostracizing a learner in any way, rejection by a group of a learners, threatening looks, refusal to work with any learner/s in a group
• Intentionally placing a learner in an uncomfortable
• Being a bystander who, in any way, encourages or supports the actions of the bully, without
• Intimidating or threatening another learner in any way to use or borrow their possessions or

CYBER BULLYING:

• Circulating material which humiliates or embarrasses another via electronic format, posters, photographs, graffiti or other means (e.g. blogging, Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Site).
• Posting insulting and/or derogatory comments on another’s wall, photos, On Facebook, Twitter or any other social media website.
• Stealing passwords from another learner or from a staff member and then impersonating that individual or group in communication with
• Sending degrading, threatening, pornographic, pictures via the Internet, e-mail or cellular
• Signing another individual up for email, IM Marketing Lists, pornographic sites, without that person’s permission.
• Creating hate groups and/or bogus profile pages on behalf of another person, without that person’s
• Internet
• Creating websites specifically aimed at socially isolating, maligning, embarrassing, intimidating or threatening someone else.

PROTOCOL TO DEAL WITH BULLYING:

1. Once the incident of bullying has been reported, the Grade Head or school counsellor and/or Deputy Principal will meet with the victim to establish what has been taking This meeting may include the parents of the victim.

2. A meeting will be held with the victim and their parents to clarify the events and also to ensure that the victim understands and is comfortable with the action that the school will take in dealing with the matter and to ensure that the victim will not be placed at further

3. The Grade Head/School Counsellor/or Deputy Principal will meet with the perpetrator to hear his/her side of the story, to address the matter at hand and to ensure that the bullying behaviour stops This meeting may include the parents of the alleged perpetrator.

4. The parents of the perpetrator will be informed of the allegation and be offered the opportunity to be present at a meeting with the

5. In the event of the allegations of the victim and the explanation of the perpetrator being at odds, the investigating a Management Team Member, supported by the school counsellor, will mediate a meeting of the two parties concerned.

6. The parents of the victim and the perpetrator will always be apprised of the school’s actions and approach, without contravening the confidentiality of personal information regarding either child or

7. Sanction will be meted out according to NHHS Code of

8. Should the allegations warrant a Disciplinary Hearing with the School Governing Body, the matter will be escalated to that

9. NHHS reserves the right on whether to call a conference with the victim and perpetrator

10. The same principles and procedures apply when bullying is reported through an anonymous

11. To maintain a peaceful environment and prevent any further altercation, a no-contact agreement may be signed between both parties.

HIV/AIDS POLICY

South Africa’s youth is faced with a growing epidemic, one that will affect them all in the coming years. Due to the increase in infection rates, learners and educators with HIV/AIDS will increasingly form part of the school population. More and more children who acquire HIV pre-Nataly will, with better medical care, reach school-going age and attend primary and possibly, high school. Also, indications that young people are sexually active, means that increasing numbers of learners attending schools might be infected (although recent evidence indicates a stabilisation in infections). Although the possibility is remote, recipients of infected blood products may also be present at our school.

PRINCIPLE: All people (learners, staff and general assistants) should be treated as potentially HIV+ and their blood and body fluids as such.

RIGHTS OF LEARNERS:

• No discrimination will be
• Decisions must be made in the best interests of the child and the
• No learner may be tested to be admitted to the
• No learner may be denied admission to the school on the grounds that s/he is HIV +.
• No educator may refuse to teach a child who is HIV +.
• No educator may be denied the right to teach or to be promoted on account of his/her HIV/AIDS HIV/AIDS status may not be used as a reason to dismiss an educator, nor for refusing to conclude, or renew, an educator’s employment contract (whether they are employed by the WCED or SGB).
• A learner who has HIV/AIDS:
  • Has the right to
  • Has the right to attend school as long as s/he is able to and there is no risk to
  • Has the right to be taught at home when s/he is unable to attend school It is the teacher’s duty to give work to be studied at home.

UNAUTHORISED DISCLOSURE OF HIV/AIDS-RELATED INFORMATION COULD GIVE RISE TO LEGAL LIABILITY

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF LEARNERS, EDUCATORS AND PARENTS:

Ideally, all educators should be able to educate on issues relevant to HIV/AIDS.

Learners need to know:

1. Never to touch open sores, wounds, blood or
2. Always cover all sores, lesions, wounds and cuts with a plaster or other non-porous waterproof
3. How the HIV/AIDS virus is transmitted and acquired, especially the role of sex, drugs and fighting (scratching and biting).
4. First Aid principles when dealing with
5. How to behave towards people infected with HIV/AIDS.
6. Accurate information about HIV/AIDS.
7. That they can and should make use of healthcare and support services in their

Parents need to know:

1. What the school’s HIV/AIDS policy
2. When any inoculation is scheduled at the
3. What educational programmes are taught relevant to HIV/AIDS.

SAFETY ISSUES:

• Precautionary Actions: Treat all persons as potentially infected.
• HIV/AIDS cannot be transmitted through saliva, sweat, tears, urine, handshaking, communal bath water, toilets, food or drinking water … BUT if any of these are contaminated with blood, it must be treated as potentially
• Dangerous situations involve open wounds, lesions, sores, grazes, nose bleeds, cuts and any other breaks in the skin.

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS:

Always wear protective latex gloves when dealing with blood or suspicious substances. Emergency treatment must continue (with utmost caution) if gloves are not available.

• Blood on skin: use water and disinfectant
• Blood on face: wash face with running water for three
• Blood on wounds: use water and disinfectant
• Blood on area: wash with fresh, strong bleach – use latex
• Blood on clothes: put in a plastic bag and incinerated or sent to a disposal
• Blood on instruments: wash and place in a strong bleach solution for one hour before drying and re-using.

SPORT PRECAUTIONS:

• No learner may participate in sport with an open sore, wound, lesion or break in the
• If an injury occurs during play, the player must leave the field of play and be treated as
• Bloodied clothing must be changed and disposed of as
• Medical kits are to be available at all sports events
• Children who have HIV/AIDS must seek medical counselling before participating in
• Coaches have the responsibility to educate players about the connection between HIV/AIDS and

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES:

• The school will pursue and maintain an exhaustive HIV/AIDS education
• The school will align itself with National HIV/AIDS
• As far as possible, Non-Governmental Organisational assistance will be called upon to provide HIV/AIDS training to staff members and workshops for learners (in so far as the G.O. aligns itself with government policy).
• HIV/AIDS education will, in Grades 8 and 9, be catered for as part of a programme organiser within the context of a curricular learning area (e.g. Human and Social Sciences, Life Orientation, ).
• The “Sexual Awareness Programme” will be provided to Grade 8 and 9 pupils (an G.O. initiative in consultation with the school).
• In Grades 10, 11 and 12 HIV/AIDS awareness and education will form part of the Life Orientation

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY AND PROCEDURE

POSITION STATEMENT ON ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS:

It is the aim of the school’s policy on drugs and alcohol that all members of the school community (students, parents, staff and the Governing Body) convey by their actions and teachings that they do not condone the inappropriate use of alcohol or other drugs.

School policy opposes both the inappropriate use of legal drugs and the possession or use of prohibited substances. This policy is applicable:

• on school premises;
• at or during functions, excursions or any other activity organised by the school;
• when members of the school community are representing the school;
• whenever members of the school community can be identified as such;
• when the effects of use or abuse are noticeable at school or school functions or when representing the school or identifiable as a member of the school community or affect in any way the performance or school life of a member of the

The school does not permit learners to indulge in:

• the use of prohibited substances;
• the inappropriate use of either prescribed or non-prescribed
• the inappropriate use of solvents, inhalants, and/or other chemicals
• the consumption of alcoholic
• the smoking of tobacco and other drugs;
• The possession and use of e-cigarettes (e.g. vapes and/or air pops), nicotine or tobacco products, paraphernalia or edibles (food items laced with drugs)
• the possession of drug, cigarette, alcohol or e-cigarette related paraphernalia such as cigarette papers, pipes,
• any form of behaviour resulting in their being under the influence of alcohol and/or other

The consequences of breaching these requirements may include but are not limited to any or all of the following:

• drawing up of a contract between all
• appropriate disciplinary and/or rehabilitative action relative to the breach;
• suspension or expulsion of

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY OVERVIEW:

NHHS adopts an approach to drug/alcohol related issues that is restorative and supportive rather than purely punitive. While the school accepts the view that chemical dependency is a primary, chronic and progressive illness, it holds that substance abuse is an unacceptable practice and that the concept of a healthy, drug-free life should at all times be propagated and encouraged.

Realism nevertheless requires that it should be our policy not to condemn but to support those who need help in these areas and should in the first instance attempt to do it in such a way that it will not necessarily endanger their school careers. Within this context we accept:

• that we are part of a greater
• that we are in partnership with parents/guardians to ensure the best for their children.
• that a wide variety of addictive or habit-forming substances, both legal and illegal, are available within our community;

• that substance abuse is detrimental to humans on various
• that our children are exposed to such substances through various
• that we have to equip our young people to be less vulnerable to substance abuse and better able to deal with life and its challenges;
• that our children, parents and teachers are not always equipped with sufficient information to combat the ills of substance abuse.

In cases where the learner and parents do not wish to make use of help offered to them, the school will have no choice but to take whatever action it feels necessary, not excluding expulsion or the pressing of criminal charges.

Acceptance of the content of this document is a prerequisite for acceptance into the school.

PREVENTION:

The school undertakes to:

• present prevention and information sessions to learners and parents/guardians as deemed necessary;
• make information and training available to teachers;
• involve outside organisations and individuals as part of a team
• support the founding of positive peer groups
• evaluate this policy and adapt it, when necessary, in accordance with changing circumstances and conditions;
• support a healthy, drug-free life through word and deed;
• develop and implement a Learner Support

Parents/guardians will be expected to participate in and to contribute financially towards these initiatives.

SUBSTANCE USE:

The use of any mood-altering or habit-forming substance, without a doctor’s certificate, is strictly forbidden:

• on school premises,
• at all functions, excursions or any other activity organised by the school;
• when members of the school community are representing the school;
• whenever members of the school community can be identified as such;
• Whenever the partaking in such substances is illegal by South African
• when the effects of use or abuse are noticeable at school or school functions or when representing the school or when the learner is identifiable as a member of the school

Note: The school reserves the right to take action according to policy and procedure if a learner’s substance abuse outside school influences their academic achievements, behaviour, attendance, etc.

DEALING IN DRUGS:

Dealing in drugs is a criminal offence and is strictly forbidden.

Note: If any learner is suspected of using or possessing, or is caught with or dealing in, illegal drugs, the school will investigate further and reserves the right to refer the matter to the authorities (The South African Narcotics Abuse Bureau, the South African Police, etc.), after which the normal legal process will take its course concurrently with the schools disciplinary processes.

SUSPICION/REPORTED SUBSTANCE ABUSE:

Each case will be assessed on merit and considered individually within the framework of the policy and procedures. Every case will be dealt with confidentiality, but parents/guardians will be informed and involved.

Isolated individual symptoms and unsubstantiated rumours will not be considered as reliable indicators of substance abuse, but a pattern of indicators (a decrease in school achievements, lack of willingness to participate in school activities, changes in attitude and behaviour, etc.) will be investigated and handled in accordance with the school’s code of conduct. Rumours with supporting evidence will also be investigated.

Note: This is not a process of victimisation but an honest attempt to identify at an early stage a learner in crisis.

Selected staff, who will be specifically trained in this area, will undertake the investigations and call in other experts and professionals, whenever necessary.

Parents/guardians will need to accept responsibility for any expenses incurred during a drug/alcohol-related incident (assessment, screening, treatment, therapy, outside programmes, medical attention, etc,) unless alternative arrangements have been made with the school.

Where evidence of substance use is found, a contract will be drawn up between all affected parties. This contract may include measures such as:

• the treatment options as determined by all relevant parties;
• that screening (urine or any other method determined by the school) may be carried out on an ad hoc (The control of such screening is the responsibility of the school; the cost is the responsibility of the parent/guardian);
• that the learner is expected to improve behaviour, achievements, etc;
• that the parent/guardian authorises the treatment and permits any institution, therapist or caregiver, if relevant, to furnish the school with progress reports;
• that the content of the contract can be adapted after negotiation with the affected parties;
• that if the parent/guardian and/or learner take it upon themselves to stop treatment, the school will consider the contract suspended, and the learner may be required to leave the school;
• that the school reserves the right to recommend that, if it is in the interest of the learner and/or the school, such learner is referred elsewhere to complete his/her education.

SEARCHES AND SEIZURES:

In terms of section 45A(2)(a) of the South African Schools Act the principal or his or her delegate may:

• Search any learner, or the property of any learner, for any dangerous object, alcoholic liquor or illegal drug, if the principal or delegate reasonably suspects the presence of a dangerous object, alcoholic liquor or illegal drug on the school premises or during a school activity; and
• Seize any dangerous object, alcoholic liquor or illegal drug or item found during the
• The school will confiscate and dispose of any items that learners are prohibited by law from possessing (e.g. cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or related products)

In line with the above, where a staff member in authority reasonably suspects that a learner has a prohibited substance/item in his or her possession, an appointed nominee (which may include a staff member, the police or a specialised security organization) may search that learner’s possessions. Should such a search be necessary, it will occur in the presence of the learner concerned and a second adult witness.

Where such a search entails a body search of the learner(s) in question, such a search may be conducted only;

• By the principal, if he or she is of the same gender as the learner; or
• By the principal’s delegate, who must be of the same gender as the learner;
• In a private area; and
• In the presence only of an adult witness, of the same gender as the

Should a learner refuse to be searched, the parent/guardian will be provided reasonable opportunity to instruct the learner, either telephonically or in person, to cooperate with the search. If the learner and/or parent continue to refuse to cooperate, the school reserves the right to request a SAPS member conduct the search in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act.

DRUG TESTING:

Where a staff member reasonably suspects that a learner is under the influence of a prohibited substance the learner will be referred to the office for drug testing. Circular 23/2009 will be followed. This circular can be perused on the following website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za/circulars

Note:    This should not be seen as a process of victimisation but an honest attempt to identify a young person who may be moving into addiction, which is a primary, chronic and progressive illness.

DEFINITIONS:

Drugs: A drug is commonly defined as any substance that changes the normal way in which the body or mind functions.

Readily available drugs include:

• tranquilisers, prescribed and over-the-counter medicines;
• tobacco
• and alcohol;
• solvents, petrol, adhesives, chemical agents, etc;
• illegal drugs such as cannabis, LSD, heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, ecstasy, mandrax, “tik”
• NOTE: Any learner be caught in possession and/or using e-cigarettes or nicotine products on the school premises will be dealt with in the same manner as bringing a prohibited substance (e.g. cigarette, alcohol or drug) to school.

Dealing:         Selling, exchanging, swapping, supplying, distributing, trading, etc

SCHOOL RULES

Our School Rules and Regulations form a very important part of this Code of Conduct and are an extension of it. PLEASE NOTE: We do not view our school rules as absolutes but clearly distinguish between what is negotiable and what is non-negotiable. They are reviewed annually and only those, which are necessary for the maintenance of the high standards we demand are retained. Learners are expected to familiarise themselves with the school rules and will be held accountable for contraventions.

1.                  OUT OF BOUNDS

Learners may not be found in the following areas unless specifically directed or supervised by a member of staff:

• William Slater Hall, classrooms, all Laboratories, Staff Lounges (either on Main or West Campus).
• The Creative Arts Centre (formerly Monterey)
• Tennis courts, basketball courts, swimming pool
• Driveway and car
• Cricket pitch and Cricket
• Corridors, hall, laboratories and classrooms during
• The School Council room is out of bounds for non-school council members and all learners during class

2.                    MOVEMENT ABOUT THE SCHOOL

• On arrival and departure, learners must use the tarred pathways to prevent the destruction of grassed areas
• Learners must move quickly and in an orderly manner before school, when changing classes, before and after breaks.
• Single file and keep left in the corridors and on the
• Consultation with staff in the office area is via the glass-sliding window unless learners have been asked to see a Grade Head, the Deputy or the
• Loitering in the toilets and corridors is not allowed at any time
• Loitering outside the media centre, computer room, dance studio, drama room and toilets is not allowed at any time.

3.                   LINING UP FOR ASSEMBLY AND FOR CLASS

• Before Assembly, the respective grades assemble in their allotted
• Nobody may talk during
• No bookcases may be brought into the
• No learner is allowed to attend assembly without the NHHS blazer being worn
• Learners are to line up outside the relevant class before each
• Only enter a classroom upon the teacher’s

4.                   BOOKCASES AND BOOKS

• Learners must use navy blue or black karrimor-type bags (plain) only (No branded bag, g. Adidas, Nike etc). Any additional bags (e.g. for dance clothes) should also be plain black or navy in colour without large/noticeable branding.
• NHHS tog bags are to be used for sports kit
• Bookcases and tog bags may not be decorated nor have graffiti written on The learner’s name must be written clearly on the inside.
• All textbooks must be covered with durable cover
• No books may be decorated in what is considered by the staff or the School Council to be

5.                   CELLPHONE USE

• The school building is a phone-free space from the first bell at 07:50 until the end-of-day bell at 15:00 (or 12:35 on Fridays).
• An exception will be made to 5.1 during official break times. This exception begins when the learners exit their class at the start of break and ends when the bell at the end of break rings.
• During phone-free times, learners may keep their phones on their person, but devices must remain on silent and out of sight.
• Teachers may grant temporary permission for phone or tablet use strictly for educational purposes during a specific lesson or activity.
• Phones may not be used during phone-free times to check the time, timetables, notifications, or for any other purpose.
• If a phone is seen by any staff member during phone-free times—whether in a classroom, corridor, or any indoor area—it will be immediately confiscated without warning. Confiscated devices may be collected by the learner at the end of the school day.
• Learners whose phones are repeatedly confiscated will be referred to the Grade Head for further intervention and consequences.

6.                   UNIFORM MATTERS

• En route to school and en route home the school uniform must be worn
• The complete school uniform must also be worn if instructed to do so when attending a
• Learners may not wear part of the uniform with civilian clothes
• School sports’ clothes are considered to be uniform and may be worn when travelling to play in a school match as per the instructions of the teacher-in-charge.
• Learners must take pride in their uniform and ensure that it is neat, clean and in good No graffiti or writing of any kind, or with any substance, may appear on the school or sports’ uniform.
• In the event of incorrect or lost items of uniform, a letter of explanation from a parent/guardian is to be given to the Home Room The Home Room Teacher will read the letter, and issue him with a uniform exemption form and indicate the date by which the situation should be corrected. The period of exemption is reflected on the letter and each case will be evaluated on merit.
• T-Shirts, vests, cycling shorts or any other clothing item may not be visible underneath the school
• The Navy blue NHHS branded windbreaker or NHHS branded anorak (plain rain jacket) may be worn during winter and only on rainy days when in summer
• Girls’ dresses must be worn either below the knee or just above the No mini dresses will be allowed. Dresses must not be tied or adjusted to drastically alter the length or fit of the dress.
• Only Matric learners may wear the “Matric” tie in All other learners are to wear the official NHHS Summer shirt without a tie.
• The Matric Badge, Matric Jersey/Jacket and Matric Tie are allowed to be worn by matric learners only and only for the duration of their matric (All these items of school wear are optional). Matric jackets may not be worn to formal assemblies.
• The braided cherry red Honours blazer or silver braided navy-blue Honours blazer or gold braided navy-blue Honours blazer may only be worn by learners on whom Honours have been officially

• Special branded wear (e.g. sports/tour jackets, MADD branded hoodies ) may not be worn when in uniform unless special permission was granted for the item.
• The Required NHHS Uniform is as follows:

6.                  GENERAL APPEARANCE OF LEARNERS:

• Hair and Jewellery Regulations
  • Boys
    • Hair must not to extend beyond the back collar or over the ears or over Hair must always be neat and tidy. Long hair must be tied up. Braids are allowed but must be tied up if long.
    • No sideburns beyond the middle of the
    • Clean-shaven at all If after first warning and intervention with parents, the learner is still not clean-shaven, we will require him to shave at school at the start of a day.
    • Jewellery confined to a single wristwatch, a Medic-Alert disc and official school
    • Facial and body piercings may not carry any form of earring, stopper, brush bristle or any kind of
    • Stretching of the earlobe is not allowed.
    • Styling of eyebrows (e.g. shaving to create a styled cut/slit) is prohibited

• Girls
  • Hair to be tied up firmly if at shoulder length with navy blue or black elastics, navy blue or black scrunchies, navy blue or black hair pins only (no hair clips), as soon as it reaches the Braids are allowed but must be tied up if at shoulder length.
  • Girls are allowed to wear navy blue or black, plastic Alice band. No other hair bands are allowed to be worn around the head.
  • Wearing of jewellery is confined to a single wristwatch, a Medic-Alert disc, official school badges and one pair of small plain silver or gold earrings (studs or sleepers only) in the bottom
  • Facial and body piercings may not carry any form of earring, stopper, brush bristle or any kind of
  • Stretching of the earlobe is not allowed.
  • No make- up, false eyelashes or nail extensions
  • No hair jewellery

• General (Boys and Girls)
  • Steps and undercuts are not
  • Fading with moderation is
  • Hair/braids may be coloured to enhance the natural colour of the learner’s However, hair may not be coloured, colour rinsed, tinted, highlighted or dyed in any way that is vastly different to the learner’s natural hair colour. Obvious highlights are not allowed; peroxide or any other bleaching agent is not permitted.
  • Use of any artificial substances (e.g. gel, mousse, conditioner, or any such items) is permitted within reason and is to be done with
  • Facial and body piercings may not carry any form of earring, stopper, brush bristle or any kind of
  • No make-up of any kind is

• Nails must be short and well cared Girls may only wear transparent, colourless nail- polish.
• Tattoos must be covered at all times and must not be visible when school uniform is worn.

• There is to be no deviation from the afore-mentioned regulations during extra-curricular
• Any items of clothing or jewellery found to be in contravention of the uniform policy will be confiscated on sight for up to 5 school days
• While the school will endeavour to safely keep confiscated items until collected by the learner, NHHS bears no responsibility for the loss
• Learners are not allowed to cut any part of their school uniform unless done by a professional dressmaker or tailor in order to alter the size of the
• Girls may not use safety pins to alter the look of the school skirts and
• Unless a concession is specifically made by the principal, learners are to wear full school uniform whenever they are present at school, (during and after normal school hours) or travelling to and from
• Uniform Exemption Requests

Where a learner has reasonable grounds to request an exemption to a particular aspect of the uniform (e.g. for religious or cultural reasons or due to time required to replace a broken item of clothing); the following process will apply:

• Parents are to submit a written request to the relevant grade head stating the reason for the requested. Where necessary additional documentation may be requested (e.g. medical note or recommendation from religious authority)
• If approval is granted, the learner will be provided with a uniform exemption card, which the learner is required to keep on their person at all times and produce when requested by any staff
• Where a requested exemption is denied, the parent may lodge an appeal on the decision to the This appeal will be considered by the principal who will take a final decision on the requested exemption.
• Uniform exemptions are issued for a set duration, as specified on the exemption Where a learner requires an extension of the exemption, or renewal, the parent is to send such a request to the relevant grade head timeously.
• Learners are required to comply with the uniform requirements until an exemption is
• PE and Sports Uniform
  • Athletics
• White NHHS Golfer (or coloured NHHS House Shirt)
• NHHS PE Shorts
• Training Takkies
• NO: platform shoes, sandals, slip-on shoes, fashion sneakers, cycling shorts or tights
  • Swimming
• NHHS Branded one piece costume & Swimming Cap
• NO: Two piece costumes / bikini style
  • PE Kit is compulsory for all PE lessons, regardless of
  • All students are expected to participate fully unless an email with a medical note is provided by a parent/guardian or

7.                   CONDUCT AND BEHAVIOUR OF LEARNERS

• Learners may not have in their possession, use or sell cigarettes (or allied products), e-cigarettes (vapes), edibles and other harmful drugs, including, amongst others, prescription drugs, dagga and hard drugs, alcoholic beverages or objectionable (pornographic) reading matter or
• Any form of initiation ceremony, pranks and practical jokes that may harm individuals or damage property is banned at NHHS (this includes during excursions, sporting activities )
• Theft at school and shoplifting will not be
• Vandalism:
  • The defacing of school property is considered an extremely serious
  • Any books, including library books, damaged through negligence or loss, will have to be replaced by the
  • No property belonging to other learners or staff, may be tampered with or taken without the owner’s
  • Littering is an offence, and all papers and rubbish must be placed in the bins
• No physical contact of a courting nature is allowed in school uniform, on or off the school premises or at School functions.
• Learners must attend school during the prescribed hours. A learner may not leave the school grounds without the permission of their Grade In case of absence, parents must furnish written explanations to the homeroom educator. A medical certificate is required if a test or exam has been missed by the learner.
• No learner may injure or endanger the physical welfare of another learner, educator or general
• A learner may not drive or park a motorised vehicle on the school grounds without the permission of the principal, and then only with proof of a valid driver’s
• No fighting anywhere on school property or even outside the school is
• Satanism, witchcraft and related practices are banned at the school and therefore will not be
• Dangerous games are not allowed. Contact sports are only permissible under an Educator’s
• The riding of bicycles and skateboards in the school grounds is not Bicycles must be kept in the quadrangle outside the Administration Block during School hours and it is recommended that learners lock them securely.
• Confiscated goods cannot be bought
• In the event of our receiving a bomb scare, which is a serious criminal offence and will be treated as such, the school’s official policy is to make up the time lost after

8.                        CLASSROOM CODE OF CONDUCT

• Learners are to collect what they need from their locker and/or use the ablution facilities before school in the morning, during breaks and after school
• Learners will line up outside the educator’s classroom and wait for the educator’s instruction to
• earners will wait to be greeted by the teacher and will then return the
• Learners have the right to be listened to but the responsibility to listen to
• Learners have the right to be respected but responsibility to show respect to the teacher and other learners at all times.
• Learners have the right to learn but the responsibility to create a place where others can learn as
• Learners must not interrupt a teacher or fellow learner while they are
• Learners must not disrupt the
• Learners must not walk around the classroom or talk out of turn during the
• Learners must only ask questions at appropriate times and in an appropriate and polite
• Learners must talk politely at all times and not argue or shout
• Learners may disagree with a teacher or learner, but I must always do so politely and never argue
• If a learner’s question or problem cannot be dealt with in class, that learner must see the relevant teacher during break or after

9.                        SPORTS’ CODE OF CONDUCT

• It is compulsory for each learner to purchase the NHHS White Golf Shirt and a NHHS Golf Shirt in the colour of his/her Both are exclusively available from our School Uniform Supplier.
• It is compulsory for each learner who chooses to participate in a sporting code (winter and/or summer code) to purchase the full kit of the particular sporting The full kit will be available for purchase at the school.
• Only the official NHHS peak cap is allowed to be worn at any sporting
• Honour visiting teams, officials and spectators as Henshilwood guests and treat them as
• Henshilwood sportsmen and sportswomen may question but must not criticise the decision of any official/referee/umpire.
• We value and encourage enthusiastic and positive spectator support at NHHS Sport We never criticise or direct negative comments to opposing players.
• Through teamwork, fair play and emotional control Henshilwood learners reflect strong moral character and pride at Norman Henshilwood High
• After extra-mural practices and/or matches, all learners who are not collected inside the school’s grounds, must change back into school No learner may leave the school to commute or walk home unless dressed in full school uniform.

** School Tracksuit and 2 Golf Shirts (1 White and 1 in the colour of learner’s house) are compulsory

10.                     PARTICIPATION IN THE PROGRAMME OF THE SCHOOL

• A learner must participate in the educational programme prescribed by the School Governing Body, unless exemption has been granted by the
• When a learner has signed up for an extra-mural activity, that learner must fulfil his/her obligations towards that
• Grade 8 and 9 learners are expected to participate in one extra-mural activity per
• All senior learners are encouraged to participate in the annual inter-house athletics meeting; however, Grade 8 and Grade 9 learners must participate and represent their house in at least one
• Learners may not use the facilities or equipment of the school, including those used for sport, without the permission of the Principal/Deputy Principal/Teacher in Charge of The school will not be held liable for any injury or loss arising from any incident or accident during unauthorised activities.
• Learners may not be on the school grounds outside school hours without

11.                     ATTENDANCE, LATE COMING AND TRUANCY

• In terms of the South African Schools Act (SASA), it is a legal requirement for learners of school-going age to attend school. Failure to do so may result in legal consequences.
• Parents are required to inform the school with the reason for a learner’s absence by 8:30am the first day of absence through an email to the learner’s homeroom
• A learner will be considered truant when they have a recorded history of habitual absence from school, a specific class, or scheduled activity without valid reason or prior permission. This includes leaving school grounds during the school day and repeated absences without proof of medical
  • First Instances: The educator will record the incident on Staffroom, and the Grade Head will monitor patterns of
  • Persistent Truancy: Should a pattern of unauthorised absence emerge, the Grade Head will initiate an attendance intervention, which includes communication with parents/guardians.
  • Referral to Authorities: If attendance does not improve despite intervention, the school is legally obligated to refer the matter to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) for further
• A learner will be considered late for school should they arrive to their homeroom class after the 08:55 bell, which indicates the start of
  • Parents are expected to email the learner’s homeroom teacher if their child will be late for
  • Learners without a valid reason will be issued with detention the second time they are late within a 5-day An additional hour will be added for each additional late arrival. (Note: Traffic is not considered to be a valid reason)
  • Homeroom teachers and grade heads will monitor patterns of late In cases of persistent late coming, the school will initiate interventions, which includes communication with parents/guardians.
  • If late coming still does not improve the school is legally obligated to refer the matter to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) for further

• The school strongly discourages early departures, as they result in the loss of valuable academic Early dismissal should only occur when unavoidable.
  • Planned Early Dismissal:

1. If a learner needs to leave school early and the arrangement is known in advance (e.g. medical appointment), a parent/guardian must email the relevant Grade Head before the day of
2. The learner must collect an Early Departure Form from Reception on the morning of the early dismissal. This form must be signed by each subject teacher whose lesson will be missed and then submitted to the Grade Head for final approval before 1st
3. The completed and signed Early Departure Form must be presented at Reception when the learner is
   • Unwell Learners:

If a learner feels unwell during the school day, they must report to Reception. An Early Departure Form will be issued and the above process followed before contacting the parent/guardian. Learners are discouraged from contacting parents/guardians directly before the appropriate procedures have been followed.

12.           SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE CONDUCT

• Learners must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the school and promotes respect, responsibility, tolerance, and self-discipline at all times. These expectations extend to all environments — including social media (including public and private accounts), messaging platforms, and online interactions — whether or not the learner is wearing school uniform or directly referencing

• Prohibited Behaviours Include (but are not limited to):
  • Posting or sharing derogatory, defamatory, vulgar, or offensive

• Creating or participating in anonymous pages, chats, or platforms that target individuals or the school.
• Circulating or creating digital content (e.g. memes, edited videos, images) intended to embarrass, harass, or damage reputations of the school, staff, learners or other persons.
• Using digital platforms to engage in hate speech, bullying, or

• Misusing artificial intelligence tools to manipulate content related to the school or its

• Learners found guilty of such misconduct may face disciplinary action in line with the severity of the

DISCIPLINE SYSTEM

The hierarchy of discipline starts with the individual educators, then moves on to the Grade Head, the Deputy Principal and finally the principal, with each step becoming more severe. The system is applied in order to be fair and equitable to those receiving discipline to encourage them to correct their ways. Learners are expected to familiarise themselves with the code of conduct – staff are not obliged to issue warnings before instituting disciplinary steps.

At Norman Henshilwood High School our discipline system is implemented and monitored via a detention system. Set out below are the guidelines used in the application of this system. Levels are a guideline only and an offense may be escalated to a higher level at the discretion of the principal/deputy principal/ SMT with consideration given to the context of the misdemeanour.

NB! The school reserves the right to inform SAPS of any offence in which a possible criminal action or serious misconduct has occurred.

SANCTIONS – INTERNAL AND/OR DISCIPLINARY HEARINGS

Sanctions imposed as the outcome of internal Disciplinary Meetings (Level 3) or SGB Disciplinary hearings (Level 4 or 5) may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Loss of privileges (e.g. Matric Tie/Jacket, Attendance to School Events )
• 3 Hour Saturday Detention(s)
• Community Service at an approved organisation (see Annexure A)
• Research Task on offense
• Requirement to sign a drug
• Implementation of Behaviour Management Contract
• Learner put on Daily Report – (See Annexure B)
• Mandatory Counselling with school counsellors
• Mandatory Counselling / Rehabilitation at an appropriate centre
• Suspension (in case of SGB Disciplinary Hearing)
• Recommendation to HOD for Expulsion (in case of SGB Disciplinary Hearing)

ADDITIONAL SANCTIONS FOR SCHOOL COUNCIL MEMBERS

Given the Council member’s position of leadership within the school, the following additional consequences and sanctions may be imposed depending on the level and severity of the offence:

• Internal disciplinary with SC Executive
• SC Exec may recommend suspension from SC to SMT and/or to
• Community Service (See Annexure A)
• Requirement to perform additional duties for the Grade Head/ TIC of the Student Council
• Mandatory Counselling

BEHAVIOUR DETENTION PROCESS (LEVEL 1 and 2 OFFENCES):

1. Learners will be informed of the detention by the issuing authority
2. Parents will receive an email notification of the detention by Wednesday, the week of the
3. Learners will receive a detention slip by the Thursday before their detention (either Friday or Saturday).

The slip will include the time and date of the detention, the reason for the detention and the name of the issuing teacher(s).

4. The learner is responsible for ensuring that they arrive for their detention on
5. A learner who does not arrive for a scheduled detention without being excused in advance will have an additional hour added, as a consequence, to the next scheduled detention
6. Repeated failure to attend will be escalated to the Head of Discipline for
7. All detentions must be conducted in full school
8. It is the responsibility of the learner to contact their Grade Head by first break on the day of the detention, should there be any queries regarding the
9. Any severe acts of defiance or anti-social behaviour during a detention session will be dealt with by the Head of Discipline.
10. NOTE: During Test Weeks and Examination periods, the Friday detentions for Level 1 and 2 offences will be replaced with a daily detention informally known as Children’s During this time learners and parents will be informed when the detention is issued and learners are expected to sit detention for 1 hour after dismissal either the same day of issuance or if transport must be arranged the date of their next test/exam – in case of level 2 offences learners will sit the 3 hour detention over multiple days.

ACADEMIC AND UNIFORM DEFAULTS

This system is applied when learners fail to meet the school’s academic or uniform expectations. Defaults fall into the following categories        :      a) Academic Transgressions – including but not limited to:

• Incomplete or poorly completed homework;
• Arriving late for class by less than five (5) minutes (more than 5 minutes results in 1hr Friday Detention);
• Incomplete or overdue academic tasks;
• Failure to bring prescribed equipment;
• Not having the required books, worksheets, or materials for a

1. Uniform Violations
   • Any violation of the school’s uniform policy and expectations

Where a learner is found to have transgressed any of the above, they will be issued with an Academic/Uniform Default. The teacher will log the default and issue the learner a default slip. When a learner receives a default slip, they are required to complete 20 minutes of detention within 5 days of receiving the slip. They are then to return the slip to the issuing teacher, with the signed, stamped confirmation that the owed time was completed. The detention may be completed in any of the following ways:

• at break (in one 20-minute session), or
• in two shorter 10-minute sessions over two breaks, or
• after school on Friday with the standard DT
• During test/examination periods: After school with the standard Children’s Hour DT

The days and locations of the detention venues will be posted on the Substitution boards

NOTE:

It is the learner’s responsibility to ensure the 20 minutes are completed in the relevant time period. Teachers are not required to remind or follow up with learners on the completion of the detention.

Failure to complete and return the signed default slip to the issuing teacher within the 5-day period will be considered a Level 1 offence and a 1 Hour Friday detention will be automatically issued as consequence, regardless of what proportion of the 20 minutes was completed.

Learners receiving multiple defaults will be referred to their Grade Head for further intervention and consequences.

LEARNER DAILY REPORT

A learner whose work and/or behaviour is unsatisfactory may, at the discretion of the relevant Grade Head, be placed on Report. Through parental and/or teacher requests a learner may also be placed on report. See Annexure B for expectations related to the Daily Report.

School Management reserves the right to escalate this intervention to a “Behaviour Management Contract”. This is solely in cases where the Discipline Protocol has been followed and where the learner’s behaviour/attitude and/or work ethic has not improved.

If this intervention is deemed to be ineffective, the Board of Governors’ Disciplinary Portfolio Committee will be informed with a view to a referral for a formal hearing.

HOMEWORK POLICY

1. Homework is to be recorded for every subject, every day in an appropriate diary or on the learner’s personal technology device/ cell

2. It is the learner’s responsibility to ensure they are aware of and have recorded all work assigned and that it is completed timeously.

3. Homework will be checked regularly or randomly, depending on the format of the

4. Homework not completed satisfactorily will be dealt with by individual educators who will record any transgressions – See Academic Defaults.

5. Parents are expected to check their personal email account. Educators will use e-mail and SMS facilities to communicate with parents/guardians concerning homework.

6. Learners may be issued an academic default for incomplete or poorly completed work

GENERAL

1. ALL visitors to the school must announce themselves at the reception. Only under exceptional circumstances will learners be allowed to receive visitors during school hours.

2. No learner may sell goods for personal gain at the School or do any fundraising without the Governing Body

3. No learner may order or receive orders from food delivery services (e.g. Uber Eats)

4. The Administrative staff, the Estate Manager, and assistant workers have the right to report a learner who vandalises, litters or otherwise is seen to contravene the school’s code of conduct and may confiscate items which are used destructively, g. soccer balls, Koki pens etc.

5. No learner or parent may bring discredit to the name of the school in any

6. Emergencies: in cases of family emergencies or traumatic events (e.g. bereavement), parents/guardians are kindly requested not to communicate this information directly to the learner via WhatsApp or messaging apps during the school Instead, parents are asked to first contact the school reception and inform the Grade Head or School Counsellor. This allows the school to ensure the learner is removed from class appropriately and that suitable emotional support is available when the information is shared.

7. Communication with Staff: All teaching staff are available for direct contact by parents and learners via The turnaround time for emails at NHHS is 48 hours. Parents and learners are requested to respect this timeframe and avoid follow-ups within that window unless urgent. Communication must take place via official school channels (i.e. email or, in urgent cases, phone call through the reception switchboard). No staff member is required to respond to communication outside of school hours, during school holidays or that does not follow appropriate channels.

8. Parents and learners are expected to be respectful of the principal and staff’s personal time outside of school hours and to refrain from contacting staff members via personal means (e.g. Direct WhatsApp, private calls, or messaging staff on personal social media).

9. Parents who require an in-person meeting must schedule an appointment in advance with the relevant staff. Staff will not necessarily be able to accommodate parents arriving at school without an appointment.

10. All parents and learners are required to sign an undertaking to abide by this Code of Conduct. It must be noted that, regardless of whether this undertaking is signed, enrolment at Norman Henshilwood High School constitutes acceptance of and agreement to comply with the Code of Conduct and all related school The expectations and rules outlined herein apply fully to all enrolled learners and their parents/guardians as part of the school community.

FINAL NOTE ON LEARNER CONDUCT

Learners are ambassadors of Norman Henshilwood High School and a reflection of its values, both in and out of uniform, on and off the school grounds. Appropriate conduct is not only expected during school hours or at school events, but in all spaces and at all times. As members of the NHHS community, learners are expected to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, guided by the school’s motto: Knowledge and Integrity. Acting with integrity means making the right choices even when unsupervised or outside of formal school settings. Learners cannot opt out of the responsibilities of being part of a school community regardless of location, attire, or circumstance.

On this basis, learners and parents are advised that the school reserves the right to take disciplinary action in response to any unacceptable or inappropriate behaviours —regardless of when or where it occurs, including any actions by a learner, that compromises the safety, dignity, or reputation of Norman Henshilwood High School or any of its members. Such action is intended to be educational and restorative, helping learners understand the impact of their actions, take accountability, and grow into responsible members of the school and wider community.

 Date:  November 2025