The Education and Training Directorate has released for public comment a proposed new policy for transferring or excluding students in the public school system.
In a statement, the Directorate said the review of its Suspension, Transfer or Exclusion of Students in ACT Public Schools Policy was underpinned by current research.
“It aims to support the facilitation of safe and supportive learning environments,” the Directorate said.
“It includes a greater focus on a prevention and early intervention approach to behaviour support to reduce the incidence of behaviour that potentially leads to suspension, exclusion and transfer.
“The revised policy aligns with current research which raises the need to look at alternatives to out of school suspension due to the limited effectiveness of suspension in achieving positive educational and behavioural outcomes for some students.”
The Directorate said consultation would remain open until the end of August.
“All input will be considered and will help us to ensure the revised policy documents are clear, current and relevant to meet the needs of schools and the community.”
It said members of its staff would be available to explain the policy documents and record feedback from individuals who would prefer to provide this verbally.
“Individuals wishing to use this alternative should contact Colette Brown on 6207 0457 or [email protected].
“Colette will arrange a time for verbal input to be provided either by phone or in a face-to-face meeting.”
The six-page policy can be accessed at this PS News link; a set of the procedures is available at this PS News link and the guidelines for schools can be accessed at this link.
