Welcome to Palm Tempelton VAK Centre

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Is your child struggling to fit into the mainstream schooling system?	Is your child unhappy at his / her current school?
Does your child struggle to fit in and adjust to the schools activities and curriculum?

Let Palm Tempelton be your solution!

 

At Palm Tempelton we strive to provide Education Excellence by means of Differentiated Education and Knowledge.

Palm Tempelton is an Inclusive Learning Center that specialises in:

Remedial

Alternative Schooling

Individual Attention

All learning modalities

Deschooling

 

Message from the Principal We look forward to a fresh start to 2022 – Palm Tempelton is now a registered Independent School … 28/11/2021 read more

At Palm Tempelton we care about your CHILD and not the SYSTEM! We are qualified and able to provide the best One Stop Solution in schooling for Slow learners and Gifted Students.
	Read more about our Philosophy of Learning and Curriculums.   Benefits for both parents and students: Increases learner retention Reduces anxiety levels Improves life skills Develops social interaction skills

 

Read more about the Benefits of choosing Palm Tempelton VAK Centre.

View our Photo Galleries.

Our Vision at Palm Tempelton VAK Centre is to facilitate a unique one-stop solution for intellectual growth and development.

We are offering all our classes online. Please contact us to find out how it works.

 

Learning & Curriculums

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Introduction

Parenting Responsibilities

Curriculum Used

Extra-Mural Programmes

The Way Forward

 

1. Introduction

1.1.    Our Philosophy of Learning 

• All individuals have a right to learn and a right to literacy, so they can better participate in their community.
• We treat each one according to their ability helping them reach their potential.
• We use a learner-centred approach whereby learners decide what they want to learn.
• We believe that every place is a learning place.
• We value a tutorial partnership where learner and tutor respect and learn from each other.
• We value the contributions learners, volunteers and partners make in the learning.

 

At Palm Tempelton we strive to develop the best VAK centre in South Africa, through: 

• Remedial Classes – assist stream
• Study Methods – when required
• Whole Brain Development BY WAY OF A RANGE OF EXERCISES
• All classes taught either Visually, Auditory or Kinetically
• We make use of auricular therapies and support therapies

 

1.2.    What is a VAK (Visual, Auditory and Kinaesthetic) centre?

 

VAK is a popular pedagogical approach centred on the uses of three main sensory receivers: Visual (eyes), Audio (ears), Kinaesthetic (movement) to determine the dominant learning style of an individual. It was originally devised in the 1920s to assist teaching children with dyslexia.

 

Subsequently, this has been more widely applied and its relevance established. VAK centres use all modalities of learning to approach the student’s school work so that a student sees, hears as well as feels (by touch) what they are learning in their being.

 

1.3.    What is Auricular Therapy?

 

The protocol is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine where the aim is to restore the proper flow of energy (Qi) which in turn enables the organ systems of the body to function optimally.

 

Similar to the hands and feet all organ systems are represented in the ears. Needles are inserted into only 5 points which makes is a simple but extremely effective way of returning the body to homeostasis (balance) and health.

 

The following 5 points are treated during a session:

 

• The sympathetic point balances the sympathetic (fight/flight) and para-sympathetic (rest and recover) nervous systems, alleviates pain and has a relaxing effect on internal organs.

 

• The Shen Men point is beneficial to relieve anxiety and illness related to the heart such as high blood pressure. It also relieves insomnia and depression.

 

• The liver stores blood at night that nourishes the eyes, muscles and organs of the lower abdomen. By detoxing the liver these organs can function optimally bringing about clearer vision, less stiffness in muscles and alleviates gynaecological problems.

 

• The kidney point helps to balance emotions, imbalances of the ears, fear, etc. It plays a role in the aging process, eliminates toxins and is associated with aspects such as growth and development.

 

• The lung point balances the organ system of the lungs which is involved not only with respiration but also handles elimination of toxins, assists with the immune system, and protects the body from disease.

 

• LEARNING DIFFICULTIES –
• Learning difficulties such as dyslexia, ADD and ADHD can be addressed by correcting the position of certain cranial bones and clearing underlying emotional- and / or mental issues.

 

*Mrs Debbie van Heerden is a Nada Certified Acupuncture Detoxification Practitioner.

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2.  Parenting Responsibilities:

• Attend Building Block Activities (BBA) dates given / appointment. There are potentially 4 a year. Once off payments are made for group sessions. For individual sessions (cost may be incurred) please call the office.     ASSIST STREAM MAINLY
• Attend parenting Workshops (done by the educational kinesiologist and school vocational psychology teacher) to be assigned.
• Work with us to ensure that your child progresses.
• Lazy 8 assessment included in the annual fee (once off). Please ensure you collect the assessment from the office every term although this is done weekly.     ASSIST STREAM MAINLY
• Participate fully in all activities teaching your child the value of team work.

 

3. Curriculum Used:

Grade 1-3

Brainline (Edu 2 Go)

 

Grade 4-7

Brainline (Express) and MobyMax (2 to 3 Gigabytes (GB) per month needed and laptop / tablet)

Cambridge (4 plus GB a month)

 

Grade 8-9

MobyMax / Cambridge (15 years old) (5 GB per month needed and laptop / tablet)

 

Grade 10-12

MobyMax and GED prep / Cambridge (16 years old and up)

(5 GB plus per month needed and laptop)

SAQA (the South African Qualifications Authority) has evaluated the GED^® and found the National Senior Certificate as its closest comparable qualification.

Post matric – after GED is done during senior year (Wi-Fi and laptop needed)

 

Brainline – We use the Express and Edu 2 Go packages.

 

4.   Extra-mural Programmes:

We also offer various extra-mural programmes, amongst others:

• Drama
• Music
• Cooking / Hospitality
• Language: French, Tswana and Afrikaans
• Robotics and coding
• Micro farming
• Entrepreneurship

 

5.   The Way Forward:

1. A parent questionnaire is completed.
2. A pre-admission form is completed and R 500 paid.
3. Once we have approved the application you will receive an SMS and / or email stating same.
4. You will then be required to make payment based on the email.
5. You would then need to complete and return all documentation and proof of debit order you completed to finalise your child’s space.
6. You need to stand by your child to meet required goals.

 

 

Brainline More information about Brainline … read more	MobyMax More information about MobyMax … read more
GED® More information about GED® … read more	Cambridge What is the Cambridge curriculum? read more

 

 

Workshops / Courses

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Information & Policies

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Hours & Contact Details

Financial Policy

Safety Policy

Parent and Learner Policy

Application Form

 

Every institute does certain things that make it different from others. We have found that the more new pupils know about what is expected from them the more they feel at ease. Our aim is to assist new families to become familiar with the learning centre facilities, activities, policies and practices. Where appropriate, parents are asked to interpret these to their children.

 

We pride ourselves on high standards of education, autonomy, self-responsibility, self-motivation and integration. These values occur both within and out of VAK areas. We set high standards for mature behaviour and authenticity. We also cherish our environment around and intend to build community spirit by caring for those around us.

 

As we are sure these standards contributed to your decision to send your child to Palm Tempelton, we ask for your co-operation in keeping these standards.

 

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1.       Centre Hours and Contact Details

 

Grade RR-1 (ages 4 – 7)	7:30 – 12:30	Pick up time before 13:00
Grade 2-4 (ages 8 – 10)	7:30 – 13:00	Pick up time before 13:30
Grade 5-7 (ages 11– 13)	7:30 – 13:00	Pick up time before 13:30
Grade 8-12 (ages 14 and up)	7:30 – 13:00	Pick up time before 13:30

 

Emails

General: info@palmtempelton.co.za

Accounts Department: finance@palmtempelton.co.za

Teachers: teacher@palmtempelton.co.za

Principal: principal@palmtempelton.co.za

 

Telephone

Reception:          012 807 7444

Emergency         067 699 1843

 

We are available at the office daily till 15:00 pm and on the emergency cell till 17:00 pm.

 

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2.       Financial Policy

 

2.1.    Purpose of the Policy

To provide transparent information as to how Palm Tempelton VAK Centre finance department manages the parent’s school accounts.

 

2.2.    Principles Governing the Policy

Parents open an account with the Centre. As long as the account remains in good standing, the learner may receive the services offered. parents and not learners, remain responsible to pay the account. While it may appear obsolete, learners are never expelled for non-payment of the centre account but rather parents’ accounts are closed, where after learners are suspended. It is the decision of the parents, based on the management of their account that determines whether a learner may continue to receive the services offered. Palm Tempelton VAK Centre Account Department actions will follow in accordance with the policy.

 

2.3.    Scope of the Policy

Palm Tempelton VAK Centre is fee paying and is not subsidised in any way by government.

The policy is applicable to all parents of learners that plan to enrol, are currently enrolled or have re-enrolled at Palm Tempelton VAK Centre staff that either directly or indirectly speaks to, or work with parents’ accounts.

 

This policy should be read and understood in conjunction with:

a.               The Palm Tempelton VAK Centre Enrolment Agreement concluded between parents and Palm Tempelton VAK Centre when agreeing to place their child(ren) with Palm Tempelton VAK Centre.

b.               The latest published Palm Tempelton VAK Centre schedule of fees documents for Palm Tempelton VAK Centre.

 

Some provisions contained in this Policy may be duplicated in other documents that form part of the Enrolment Agreement. If any inconsistency exists between provisions contained in this Policy and such other document, the provisions contained in this Policy will prevail.

 

By signing the Enrolment Agreement the parent agrees to the terms and conditions contained in this policy document. If there is any provision in this document that is not fully understood, please ask Palm Tempelton VAK Centre to explain it prior to accepting the Enrolment Agreement.

 

2.4.    Definitions

In addition to the definitions contained in the Enrolment Agreement, unless the context indicates a contrary intention, the following words and expressions bear the meanings assigned to them and cognate expressions bear corresponding means:

 

“Account” this is the financial reflection of the Enrolment Agreement; an account is created for each family or learner and is uniquely identified by a family Account Number.

 

“Account Department” is the administrative staff that deal directly with parent accounts.

 

“The Agreement” means those terms and conditions and other documents that regulate the relationship between Palm Tempelton VAK Centre, the learner, the parent and the third party as set out and defined in the Enrolment Agreement, including this Policy.

 

“3 Month Notice Period or Notice Period” or “Notice Period” refers to the value of 3 months’ Tuition Fees that must be given in advance to removing a learner from Palm Tempelton VAK Centre. This can be given either as a served notice or as a payment. See below for details.

 

“The Policy” means this Account Management Policy and any annexure and / or schedules attached thereto as it forms part of the Agreement.

 

2.5.    Fees & Levies

The following Fees and Levies are described below:

a.               Application Fee

b.               Annual Security Retainer Fee

c.               Development Levy

d.               Tuition Fee

 

2.5.1. Application Fee

 

The Application Fee is immediately payable if parents wish to apply for enrolment at Palm Tempelton VAK Centre.

 

The Application Fee must be paid in full via EFT to the appropriate bank account and the proof of payment to be sent via email.

 

Learners and parents will only be invited for an interview once the Application Fee has been paid. This is only if the interview has not already taken place. The Application Fee is non-refundable.

 

2.5.2. Annual Security Retainer Fee

 

All learners whether for new enrolment or for re-enrolment, will be charged an Annual Security Retainer or top up fee. The Security Retainer is equal to one month’s Tuition Fee for each learner enrolled at the centre at the fee structure of the Phase or Programme they are enrolled in for that academic year.

 

The Security Retainer must be paid in full via EFT to the appropriate centre bank account and the proof of payment sent to the appropriate centre email address before the enrolment of the learner will be finalised. Should the Security Retainer not be paid but the enrolment agreement has been signed and the class becomes full, Palm Tempelton Learning Centre reserves the right to place learners that have not paid the Security Retainer on a waiting list.

 

As soon as the Security Retainer has been paid, the learner’s place in the class will be reserved and the learner is considered fully enrolled.

 

Learner’s will only be allowed to start tuition once the Annual Security Retainer (See below) and the current month’s invoice is paid in full and we have proof of payment for both.

 

The Security Retainer acts as:

a.               Security for missed payments

b.               Security of a learner’s place at Palm Tempelton

 

If a learner moves between phases or programmes during the course of an academic year, the Security Retainer will be adjusted accordingly. This will either reflect as a credit or a debit on the Account Statement.

 

When, at the end of the academic year, a learner progresses from one phase or programme to the next, the Security Retainer is retained for the next academic year and parents are invoiced to “top up” the retainer to reflect the new value.

 

The Security Retainer is not interest bearing nor refundable.

 

Should a learner leave Palm Tempelton before the completion of their schooling or at the end of their schooling career, the Security Retainer may:

 

a.               Act as one month’s payment towards the 3 Month Notice Period or,

b.               Be donated to the school

 

The Security Retainer does not in any way impact on the requirement for parents to provide the 3 Month Notice Period before withdrawing their child.

 

2.5.3. Development Levy – (Maintenance fee / Parent Training and Assessments)

 

The Development Levy is an annual fee that needs to be paid in ADVANCE.

 

Development Levies may be paid in full via EFT to the appropriate Centre bank account and the proof of payment sent to the appropriate centre account email address.

 

Should a parent fail to pay the Development Levy as a single annual payment the levy will automatically revert to a monthly fee and incur the interest penalty as indicated.

 

• Parent training is done termly as part of the program that is followed .This is usually done on a Saturday 9:00 – 13:00 with parents only. The fee is due in ADVANCE annually.
• Assessments are done weekly but only termly are you offered a written assessment. Please ensure that you collect it. This fee is due in ADVANCE.

 

Learners that enrol part way through a year will be charged the full Annual Development Levy.

 

2.5.4. Tuition Fee

 

The Tuition Fee covers all normal educational services at the Centre. Payment is in ADVANCE for services rendered.

 

The standard Tuition Fee is a single annual amount which parents may choose to pay that annual Tuition Fee in either one of the following frequencies:

 

a.               Annual: One (1) payment to be made by no later than the first day of the new year. Payment can be made via EFT or Debit Order. Missed payments means that payment type will automatically revert to monthly. learners starting during the course of the year may pay a single fee equal to the remaining months of the year, including the month in which they started.

b.               Termly: Four (4) interest free payments to be made by the first centre day of each term. Payment via Debit Order, Stop Order or EFT. Missed payments means that payment type will automatically revert to monthly. learners starting during the course of a term need to pay a pro-rata amount for the current term based on the monthly costs, including the month in which they started.

c.               Monthly: Twelve (12) interest free payments to be made by the 1st of each month. Payment by Debit Order or Stop Order only. learners starting during the course of the month will pay the full monthly amount for the month in which they are enrolled.

 

2.5.5. Palm Tempelton Learning Centre Levies

 

Related to but not limited to Curricular:

• BRAINLINE – to be paid directly
• MOBYMAX paid into Centre bank account
• GED paid into Centre bank account
• Think Digital – Cambridge – to be paid directly

 

The Phase Levy covers additional services and products, as indicated below, that are required to help the centre function optimally.

 

The Phase Levy is an annual fee that needs to be paid in ADVANCE.

 

Phase Levies may be paid in full via EFT to the appropriate campus account and the proof of payment sent to the appropriate campus bank account’s email address.

 

Should a parent fail to pay the Phase Levy as a single annual payment the levy will automatically revert to a monthly fee and incur the interest penalty as indicated.

 

2.6.    Aftercare Fee

Parents that have selected Full or Gap After Care services when signing the After Care Agreement will be charged accordingly.

 

Should a learner still be at the Centre 30 minutes after Normal Centre Hours for that learner, they will be “logged in” to Aftercare and you will be charged.

 

Please note that all learners not collected by 5:30 pm will be charged an additional Ad Hoc rate to help compensate staff who had to work overtime.

 

All other parents will be charged Ad Hoc rates in arrears should the learner remain in Aftercare.

 

2.7.    Additional Fees

All Sundry, ad hoc items or services will be charged as Additional Fees on the invoice and clearly identified. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Uniform items (if applicable)
• Outings
• Camp, Drama
• Annual Event and Graduation Event

 

2.8.    Penalty Fees

Financial irregularities cost all involved in both time and frustration. As such we request that parents take responsibility for complying with our payment terms and requirements: Failure to comply will apply a penalty fee as per the latest published fees document for any and all of the following:

• Payment into the incorrect centre bank account
• Payment made with the incorrect Family Account Number
• Any bank charges that accrue to Palm Tempelton for payments made – e.g. international payments will accrue the penalty fee and the associated bank charge or cash deposits.
• Requests for replacement or duplicate documents already handed to parents. This includes, but is not limited to Tax invoices, Reports/Student.

 

2.9.    Account Number

On placement parents will receive their unique Account Number. This Account Number must be used as a reference for all payments made to Palm Tempelton.

 

Payments made with incorrect or absent Account Number will result in delays in processing the payment and in a Penalty Fee being charged. If the error is not picked up by parents before month end it could result in the account being closed and the learner being suspended.

 

2.10.   Payment Options

• Application Fees, Security Retainers Fees, if paid as an Annual or Termly amount may be made via EFT to the relevant bank account. Proof of payment must be sent to the specific email address.
• Phase/Programme Levies (curricula) – EFT ONCE-OFF
• Monthly payments of Tuition fees, Development Levies and Phase or Programme Levies may only be made by debit order (preferred).
• If a parent wishes to pay for monthly Tuition fees by any other means they will need to setup a meeting with the Centre principal. Reasons why a fixed monthly commitment to the payment cannot be made needs to be given. It is entirely up to the discretion of the principal to accept, or not, reasons supplied. Should the reasons be deemed unsatisfactory enrolment may be withdrawn.
• No CASH amounts of greater than R100 will be accepted at the Centre. This is done to protect both learners and the staff.
• NO CHEQUES are accepted.

 

2.11.   Invoices & Statements

• Regardless of the payment frequency selected, invoices will be emailed to the Account Payer as a courtesy, by no later than the 26^th of each month for the following month.
• Payment is due regardless of whether the invoices were sent by our Accounts Department or received by the Account Payer.
• To be clear, non-receipt of an invoice is no excuse not to pay the contractually agreed fees.

 

The invoices will reflect:

• All outstanding monies due in advance – including, but not limited to tuition fees, aftercare fees, outing and camp costs etc.
• All fees charged in arrears – including, but not limited to Ad Hoc After Care fees, uniform fees, penalty fees etc.
• Invoices will reflect any concessions or discounts.
• Invoices need to be settled by the first day of each month.

 

STATEMENTS

• Statements will be sent out to parents by the 8^th of each month.
• A statement is NOT another invoice but rather a record of debits and credits on your school account. The onus is on the parent to ensure that the statement reflects all payments made accurately.
• Any issues should be raised with the Accounts Department immediately.
• Statements will also reflect any credits or other account adjustments.

 

2.12.   Notice Period

Palm Tempelton makes a commitment to parents to provide educational services for the full duration of the year. We therefore often incur costs related to that learner for the full year regardless of whether the learner remains enrolled at Palm Tempelton for the full period or not.

 

Should you wish to withdraw your child from Palm Tempelton the following process must be followed.

 

Either:

• Served Notice Period: The principal must be emailed stating clearly that you wish to withdraw your child from Palm Tempelton. The full 3 (three) calendar months’ notice will then commence.

For example: If written notice is given in July the account payer will still be liable for the August, September and October invoices. The month in which the notice is given does NOT count as one of the three months.

 

OR

 

• Notice via Payment: The principal must be emailed stating that you wish to with draw your child with immediate effect. Payment equal to 3 months Tuition Fees must be paid in full via EFT to the centre.

 

Should a parent remove a learner during the 3 months’ notice period or without giving notice, the account holder will remain liable for the pro-rata outstanding amount for the three months and the full amount of all annual fees.

 

• All parties who have signed the Enrolment Agreement will remain liable for the payment of all outstanding accounts, unless other written agreements are lodged with the administration office.
• All payments received will be applied firstly to interest/penalties, fees in lieu of notice, Sundry charges and the outstanding tuition fees.
• Please note that as a rule no refund (pro-rata or otherwise) is given on annual Levies including the Development and Programme Levies.

 

2.13.   Late Payments and Breach of Contract

It is Palm Tempelton’s policy to ensure that parents’ levels of indebtedness do not exceed one month’s tuition fees. The monies associated with the indebtedness can be for any combination of fee (Tuition or Additional Fees) and / or Levies.

 

• This is done to protect both Palm Tempelton and the parents.
• Accounts not settled in full within 30 days of invoice will be SUSPENDED.
• As such the learner will not be allowed on the Campus from the 1^st day of the following month and will be suspended.
• Further to this, accounts will be handed over to our appointed Debt Collection Agencies. The account will at that stage also automatically attract our 3-month notice period as no advanced notice was given for closing the account.

 

1. Should the account payer become aware that for whether reasons full payment will not be made they should contact the Account Department immediately to avoid the account being closed and the learner suspended.
2. Settlement of any negotiated Payment Agreement for outstanding fees must be by signed by an authorized staff member only.
3. Any deviation of the Payment Plan will result in the account being closed and handed over and the learner suspended.
4. Should a suspended account be settled, either directly with Palm Tempelton or via our debt collectors, the account may then be re-opened or the suspension lifted.
5. Any monies paid towards the settlement of the 3-month notice period will be credited to the account.
6. 6.       The account will then incur the Application Fee and a new Security Retainer along with the current month’s invoice.
7. Monies paid toward the 3-month Notice Period will not carry over to a new academic year as a credit to the account.
8. Interest will be charged on all overdue accounts at a rate of Prime+4%. Whereby the prime rate will be the rate as advertised by Palm Tempelton bankers. Interest will be charged immediately following the due.

 

2.14.   Communication

• All communication with parents will be recorded on our files.
• All communications concerning arrangement for the payment of outstanding accounts will be confirmed in writing by Palm Tempelton and will be sent either by email or registered post to the address held on the data base.
• Email is a guaranteed delivery service.
• Palm Tempelton applies a best effort to ensure that all emails are sent to our Internet Service Provider but cannot guarantee that you receive such an email. The onus remains on the parent to check their email service and spam settings.
• If you have not received expected communication (invoice, statement etc.) please contact Palm Tempelton immediately to arrange for another attempt or for printed copies.

 

2.15.   Fee Increases

Although the directors will endeavour not to increase Centre Tuition Fees during a Centre year, it reserves the right to do so if circumstances require it.

 

An increase in fees can reasonably be expected each year to provide for inflation and other costs beyond our control and can be assumed to be in the order of 10%.

 

To minimise the price shock associated with this change in pricing policy, the programme fee adjustment will be phased in over the 2018/2019 and possibly the 2020 academic years before normal annual fee increase (approx. 10%) will resume.

 

2.16.   Refunds and Credits

• Any refunds or credits of Fees or Levies will be made as credits to the learner’s account and will NOT be paid over to an external account.
• Any credit balances on the account of a learner who leaves Palm Tempelton will be refunded to the parent responsible for the account within two months after the learner has left Palm Tempelton.

 

2.17.   Outings & Camps

• It is Palm Tempelton policy that only learners whose account is current and in good standing may attend centre outings and / or camps.
• We endeavour to assist so a payment arrangement can be made prior to the camp it has to be paid in full before leaving.

For all account enquires please contact the Account Department or, preferably, via email the address below:

finance@palmtempelton.co.za

 

3.       Safety Policy

 

3.1.    Statement of intent

We believe that the safety of learners in our care is central to our educational philosophy. We endeavour to make our centre a safe place for learners, parents, staff and guests.

 

We aim to make learners, parents and staff aware of safety issues and to minimise any potential hazards or risks to enable the learners to thrive in a safe environment.

 

3.2.    Methods

Our induction for staff includes a clear explanation of safety issues so that all adults are able to adhere to our policy and understand their shared responsibility for safety at the centre.

 

Safety issues in this policy are explained to the parents of new learners in order for them to understand how these policies are implemented into the daily life of the Centre.

 

Level 1 First Aid Safety training is required for all teaching staff. Staff members are sent for refresher courses as and when needed to ensure that they stay up to date with their knowledge.

 

When necessary, additional safety training is included in the annual staff training plans and safety is discussed regularly at staff meetings.

 

Learners are consistently made aware of safety issues through discussions, planned activities, formal lessons and tasks and routines.

 

Contact Numbers in case of emergency

 

Security – emergency response	Brinant Security – 0861 174 343 THEY OFFER 24/7 MEDICAL ASSISTANCE AS WELL AS ARMED RESPONSE
Cellphone	112
Ambulance Services	10177
Emergency Medical Response	Your own medical aid
Netcare	082 911
ER24	084 124
Police Service	071 675 6400 071 675 6399 SAPS Garsfontein 10111
Fire Department	Press F on the Alarm Key Pad 10177 012 310 6300/6400 012 310 6200/2255
Poison Control Centre	UNITAS 0800 111 229
Social Service	Missing children: 072 647 7464
	Child abuse: 012 353 5867/810/806
	Childline: 0800 123 321

 

3.3.    Risk Assessment and field work policy

 

3.3.1. Inclusions

 

Our assessment process includes:

 

3.3.1.1.     Checking for hazards and / or risks both indoors and outdoors, prior to and during our activities and procedures. Our assessment covers safety for both adults and learners.

3.3.1.2.     Addressing any areas which need attention and making concise decisions regarding how best to apply these measures.

3.3.1.3.     Being aware of any food allergies of the learners in our care, as detailed by the parents and / or guardian.

3.3.1.4.     Ensuring arrangements are in place for the care of the learners when away from the registered premises. A risk assessment is done prior to any field studies, outings or camps.

 

• Sufficient and appropriate staff is always present to meet the type of activity being undertaken and to comply with staffing ratios.
• The minimum required number of staff is two, regardless of pupil numbers.
• We obtain written consent from parents for all activities which take place off the Camps premises.
• Contingency plans are put in place in the event of an accident or inclement weather.
• We ensure that, when learners are away from the premises, a first aid box is taken on the trip.
• We ensure that at least two mobile phones accompany a field study or any other during outing away from the Centre premises.
• We ensure that the learners are advised of the appropriate dress and sun protection required for any outing.
• No learner is allowed to use toilet facilities at a venue unless accompanied by a member of staff.

 

3.3.2. Learner Security

 

We endeavour to see that all learners are supervised by adults at all times, within reasonable parameters relating to our hours (security guard). Whenever there are learners at the Centre, at least two adults must be present. Staff members arrive from 7:15 am daily. Staff must check the identity of any visitors they do not recognise before allowing them into the premises or past reception and into the Centre. Visitors to the Centre must be recorded, issued with Visitors badges that must be visibly worn at all times whilst at the Centre.

 

Our goal is to deter unauthorised access to our premises. A member of staff is on duty during all drop off and collection times. All pedestrian and vehicle gates are manually controlled.

 

All visitors are required to buzz the office to gain access to the Centre.

 

A search of bags is done daily. All sign a search and seize declaration at the beginning of the academic year. Our systems deter learners from leaving our premises unnoticed. Other than drop off and collection times, all external gates are kept closed and locked.

 

3.3.3. Arrivals and Departures

 

• Signing in and out are in place for the safe arrival and departure of learners, and the arrival and departure times of adults – staff and visitors – are known.
• Parents are required to notify the Centre via email or telephone in the event of absenteeism, no later than 8:00 am.
• No learner will be allowed into the care of any person whom we DO NOT know.
• If in doubt, the person’s identity is verified by phoning the learner’s parent/guardian or the emergency contact numbers.
• If anyone other than the learner’s parent or a person listed on the enrolment form is to fetch a learner from our Centre, we need to be notified in advance either in writing or by a phone call.
• Information will then be passed on to the relevant staff member/s and recorded.
• We would require the identity number of the person assigned to pick up as well as the car’s registration number. A photo would also be appreciated.
• Please provide us with this information prior to pick up.
• Learners must stay with their Educators or staff until the person collecting them arrives.
• Any learner remaining after the relevant collection time will be handed over personally to the Aftercare staff. FEE’S APPLY.
• Cell phones / tablets and other such devices should be signed in and out in the Campus offices that are taken.

 

3.3.4. Learners Safety

 

In the case of an accident the principal or closest staff member is immediately notified of any injury requiring medical treatment or hospitalisation for learner, parent, staff or visitor.

 

• The member of staff who witnesses the incident is responsible for reporting the incident. This is recorded in Staff room.
• This done as soon as the accident is dealt with, while the details are still clearly remembered.
• Do not talk to others until this is recorded.
• Only to relay major details of event leading to injury.
• The relevant parent/s must be shown the incident report and will be asked to sign it as soon as the learner is collected. Or in the event of hospitalisation a staff member or HOD will remain with the person until the responsible person can take over.

 

Incidents, including illness, minor injuries, break-ins, burglary, theft of personal or Centre property, fire, flood, gas leak or electrical failure, an attack on a member of staff or parent on the premises, any racist incident involving a staff member or family on the premises, a terrorist attack or threat thereof – must be recorded in the incident book.

 

• The following should be recorded – date and time of the incident, nature of the event, person affected, and any action taken – or if it is was reported to the Police, a case number. Any follow up, or insurance claim made, should also be recorded. parents are to counters-sign any incident as proof that they were informed.
• In the unlikely event of terrorist attack, the advice of the emergency service with regard to evacuation, medical assistance and contacting learners’ family will be followed. The Fire Safety procedure will also be followed. The incident will be recorded when the threat has been averted.

 

3.3.5. Electrical /Gas Equipment

 

• All electrical / gas equipment conform to safety requirements and are checked regularly.
• Electrical switchgear and distribution boxes are not accessible to the learners.
• Fires, heaters, electrical sockets, wires and leads are properly guarded and the learners are taught and reminded not to touch them.
• There are sufficient electrical sockets to prevent overloading. We endeavour to check these regularly. In the event that something is not reported by staff and a learner has party to or sees this please report immediately.
• Lighting and ventilation is adequate in all areas including storage areas.

 

3.3.6. Storage

 

• Learners’ personal belongings are to be stored away safely out of the classroom but within their reach.
• Small bags are encouraged.
• Resources and materials for learners use are stored safely.
• Other equipment and resources are stored safely.
• Chemicals are stored in a locked cupboard and the keys are kept out of reach of the learners.
• Cleaning materials are stored in a locked area.

 

3.3.7. Outdoor Areas

 

• The outdoor play area is monitored by staff at all times.
• The outdoor area is checked and cleared of rubbish daily.
• Herbicides and pesticides are not used. The plants are routinely inspected to avoid and / or remove accidental growth of unwanted plants.
• Outdoor activities are supervised at all times by staff and CCTV

 

3.3.8. Play Activities

 

• Equipment and resources are checked routinely to ensure that they are safe for the ages and stages of the learners.
• The layout of play equipment allows adults and learners to move safely and freely.
• Equipment is regularly checked (as set up) for cleanliness and safety; broken items are repaired or discarded.
• Materials used on equipment – including paint and glue – are non-toxic.
• Sand is kept clean and renewed regularly.
• Physical play is supervised at all times.
• Windows above the ground floor are barred to prevent learners climbing through them.
• Safety procedures are introduced through class activities, lessons and routines.

 

3.3.9. Fire Safety

 

Firefighting appliances conform to required standards, are fitted in appropriate high risk areas of the building and are checked in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

 

Records are kept of services to fire safety equipment.

 

Our emergency evacuation procedures are:

• Clearly displayed in the premises
• Explained to new members of staff
• Practised regularly

 

Drill Procedure

 

• If safe and easy, attempt to put out the fire using the nearest appropriate firefighting equipment, which is hanging at all key points.
• The building concerned is to be immediately evacuated using the nearest safe exit.
• Doors are to be closed behind learners and staff as they proceed out.
• Teachers will take their respective registers.
• Staff will ensure all learners have been evacuated and are assembled at the designated assembly points.
• Principal, or senior management in charge, will check all areas including toilets, reception and play areas.
• The teachers will check their registers to ensure all learners are accounted for.
• The main office will call the fire department and / or emergency services. The handset will not be replaced until the fire department service confirms the address of the Centre. The alarm key pad can also be used to trigger the alarm.
• All staff and other adults in the building must be accounted for at the assembly point.
• Please note: Fire drills will be held at both regular and random intervals. A record is made of the date, time and duration of the drill, the number of staff and learners who were present, and the names of any visitors who may have been present at the time.

 

3.3.10.    Safety of Adults

 

Adults are provided with guidance about the safe storage, movement, lifting and erection of large pieces of equipment. When adults need to reach up to store equipment or to change light bulbs they are provided with appropriate safe equipment to do so.

 

All warning signs are clearly visible and in English.

 

Adults should not remain in the building on their own or leave the premises on their own after dark.

 

Records are kept of staff sickness and of their involvement in accidents. The records are reviewed twice per term to identify issues that may need to be addressed.

 

Palm Tempelton provides staff with necessary Personal Protection Equipment relevant to the specific task or activity. Staff must protect themselves and learners during care tasks involving contact with bodily fluids.

 

We meet our legal requirement for the safety of our employees at all times. We keep records of any accident involving a member of staff which requires treatment, whether in-house or by a general practitioner or hospital.

 

3.4.    Child Protection and Safeguarding Learners

 

Palm Tempelton works with learners and parents to maintain the welfare and safety of the learners. learners have the right to be treated with respect and to be safe from abuse in any form. Palm Tempelton has a commitment to safeguarding learners and promoting their welfare. Should anyone believe that this is not being upheld, it is their duty to report the matter to the Centre principal at the earliest opportunity.

 

To this end Palm Tempelton endeavours to:

• Create an environment which encourages learners to develop a positive self-image;
• Encourage learners to develop a sense of independence and autonomy in a way that is appropriate for their age and stage of development;
• Provide a safe and secure environment for all learners;
• Always listen to learners.

 

Teachers have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of learners. Teachers will often be the first people to sense that there is a problem and may be the first people in whom learners confide about abuse, which could be physical, sexual, emotional or neglect.

 

We will act quickly and responsible in any instance that may come to our attention. All our staff will act in the best interest of the learner.

 

Palm Tempelton has a duty to report any suspicion around abuse and has an obligation to investigate such matters without delay.

 

Staff will initially raise concerns with the Centre principal. The principal will then discuss the matter with a parent or Deputy principal, whichever is appropriate in the circumstances. Staff responsibilities do not include investigating suspected abuse. However, the teaching staff will keep accurate records of their observations, which will be signed and dated, and of anything said to them by the learner or any other person in connection with the suspected abuse. The principal will follow the recommendation: If it is in the best interest of the learner involved. If not the duty expected is report to CCMR or any other social services may be called to log the incident.

 

Palm Tempelton endeavours to:

 

• Ensure that learners are never placed at risk while in the charge of Palm Tempelton staff.
• Ensure that confidently is maintained at all times.
• Ensure that parents and families are treated with respect in a non-judgemental manner.
• Ensure that all staff are aware of and alert to the recognisable signs of, and the different ways in which learners can be harmed, including by other learners, for example bullying (see Anti-Bullying Policy).
• Ensure that all staff understand and are familiar with safeguarding procedures.
• Ensure that parents are fully aware of safeguarding procedures when they enrol at Palm Tempelton and are kept informed of all updates timeously.

 

3.5.    Recording Suspicion of Abuse and Disclosures

 

Staff will make an objective record of an observation or disclosure which will include:

• Learner’s name
• Learner’s address
• Age of the learner
• Date of birth
• Date and time of the observation or the disclosure
• Exact words spoken by the learner/injuries or marks seen
• Name of the person to whom the concern was reported, with the date and time and the names of any other person present at the time.
• A summary of any discussion held with a parent / carer.
• These records are signed and dated and kept in a confidential file. Staff involved may be asked to supply details of any information or concerns they have with regard to a learner.
• Palm Tempelton expects all members of staff to co-operate in any way necessary to ensure the safety of the learners.

 

3.5.1. Support to Families

 

Palm Tempelton strives to maintain a trusting and supportive relationship among families and staff.

 

Palm Tempelton will continue to welcome the learner and the family whilst investigations are being made in relation to abuse in the home situation.

 

Confidential records kept on a learner can be shared with the learner’s parents or those who have parental responsibility for the learner.

 

We will do all in our power to support and work with the learner’s family, whilst at all times acting in the understanding that the best interests of the learner is paramount.

 

3.5.2. Employees of Palm Tempelton

 

• If an allegation is made against a member of staff, the incident will be dealt with by the Centre principal.
• A full investigation will be carried out to determine how the specific allegation will best be handled, taking all relevant circumstances into account.
• If, in light of the allegation, there could possibly be interference with the normal functioning of the Centre, the member of staff will be allocated to another area, after due consultation with all parties.
• Palm Tempelton reserves the right to suspend any member of staff on full pay or no pay, during such investigation.
• All investigations / interviews will be documented and kept securely.
• Unfounded allegations will result in all the staff member’s rights being re-instated.
• All allegations found to have merit will be passed on to Senior Management and may result in the termination of employment of that member of staff.
• Counselling will be available for any Palm Tempelton staff member who is affected by an allegation, their colleagues at the Centre and the parents.

 

3.6.    Child Care Safety – Weapons reason

 

In order to keep our learners safe, no one may bring or use weapons of any kind on the premises for any reason. This includes but is not limited to firearms, ammunition and any other object that could, in the sole discretion at the principal, reasonably be perceived as a weapon.

 

• Persons attempting to bring weapons onto the premises will be asked to leave immediately
• Failure to comply will result in the matter being escalated to the security armed response and for the Police.
• Palm Tempelton does not own or store any weapons, firearms or ammunition on the property.

 

3.7.    Visitors and Supervision of Visitors

 

All visitors’ details are recorded in the Centre office. A member of staff must accompany visitors to the Centre at all times.

 

3.8.    Supervision

 

Teaching and teaching support staff:

• Learners must be supervised all the times.
• Water safety is paramount as learners can drown in only a few centimetres of water.
• Special care should be taken when learners are using apparatus such as a climbing frame and when walking down outside steps.
• Two members of staff will at all times, supervise outdoor play and climbing equipment.
• When the learners are outdoors, staff must be aware of bushes, shrubs and plants.
• All learners must be removed from an environment that has bees or wasps and the HOD alerted immediately.

 

3.9.    Late Collection and Non-Collection

 

All parents are informed of and agree to comply with an approximate arrival time for the learner at the Centre and the procedures to follow if expected to be late.

 

In the instance of a learner not being collected from the Centre timeously and after a reasonable amount of time (10 minutes) has passed and the learner is not enrolled in After Care, the following procedure will be initiated by teaching or aftercare staff.

 

• Inform the front office administration that learner has not been collected, and sign the learner in aftercare.
• The front office administrator will check for any information regarding changes to the normal routines, parents work patterns or general information.
• If there is no information recorded, the parents / carers will be contacted on the numbers provided, for either their home or work.
• Should the parent / carer not be available / contactable, the emergency contacts will then be contacted as per the learner’s records.
• The centre principal or staff member on duty and one other member of staff will stay behind with the learner (if it falls outside Aftercare hours).
• The centre principal will telephone all contact numbers available every ten (10) minutes until contacts is made.
• These calls will be noted and recorded.
• The two members of staff will remain in the building until suitable arrangements have been made for the collection of the learner.
• The learner’s welfare and needs will be the primary priority at all times.

 

3.10.   Mobile Phones

 

In the interest of safety, members of staff and student teachers are not permitted to use their mobile phones or have them on their person while working with the learners.

 

EXCEPTION: Staff who are away from the Centre with learners (on fields studies etc.) must have a fully charged mobile phone with them at all such times.

 

3.11.   Records

 

The following records are kept by the Centre administration. Physical copies of relevant documents are kept with Palm Tempelton Group Office:

• Names and address of all staff on the premises, including temporary staff.
• All records relating to the staff’s employment with Palm Tempelton, including application forms, references and results of any checks conducted; including a Police clearance certificate.
• Learners’ names, address and telephone numbers of their parents and / or other adults authorised to collect the learners from the Centre.
• The names, address and telephone numbers of emergency contacts in case of learners’ illness or accident.
• The allergies, dietary requirement, vaccination records and illness of individual learner.
• The times of attendance of learners, staff and visitors.
• Accidents and medicine administration records.
• Consents for field studies, administration of medication, emergency treatment and incidents.
• Administration of medication WILL NOT BE DONE AS A RULE.
• Any dangerous or potentially dangerous incidents, whether such incident resulted in an injury or not, including a gas leak or falling branch. This will be recorded in the incident book.

4.       Parent and Learner Policy

 

4.1.    Purpose of this Document

 

This document contains various pieces of practical information and describes the principles and values that Palm Tempelton subscribes too. These values and principles guide the interaction of our staff with learners and parents. In turn we expect parents and learners to use this as the guide for their interaction with Palm Tempelton and its staff.

 

Further to this, it also describes our actions for specific circumstances. This document should be read in conjunction with the Enrolment Agreement and other published Palm Tempelton Policies.

 

1. Behaviour Goals
2. Regular school and class attendance
3. Punctuality, tolerance, acceptance and good will
4. Courtesy respect for individuals and property
5. Co-operation and participation
6. Reasonable decision-making
7. Constructive critical thinking
8. Diligence in study
9. The pursuit of excellence
10. Trustworthiness and honesty
11. Respect for the whole environment

 

4.2.    Unacceptable behaviour

 

• At all times Palm Tempelton learners are expected to act and dress in a way that brings credit to themselves, the centre and the wider community.
• Learners are expected to exercise sound judgement about appropriate behaviour at all times.
• At no time may a learner indulge in behaviour that is regarded as unacceptable at Centre, such as the following acts:
  • Assault
  • Drugging
  • Consumption of Alcohol
  • Sexual Activity
  • Smoking
  • Bullying
  • Insolence
  • Vandalism
  • Theft
  • Repeated misbehaviour
  • Carrying of weapons
  • Initiation
  • Use of offensive language
  • Gender, religious or other discrimination
  • Dishonesty
  • Malicious damage to property
  • Transgression of the specific rules that apply in library and other specialist facilities and in the computer centre as referred to in the IT Computer Users Agreement.

 

These behaviours apply while at school and when it is possible to associate the learner with the Centre.

 

4.3.    Judgement about Behaviour

 

Final judgement rests with the principal, who may involve management, staff members and student representatives as consultants in reaching fair judgement in serious cases. The principal may delegate responsibility for judgement, where appropriate, in certain matters, to Phase or programme leaders, class educators, other educators and / or learner representatives.

 

4.4.    Consequences

 

No corporal punishment or other unjust punishment is allowed.

 

In less serious cases, the consequence for inappropriate behaviour, as ruled by the Educators must be appropriate to the offence.

 

Consequences could include:

 

• Detention, community service and repair of damage caused. Notification of a detention must be served with 24 hours warning.
• Parents must accept that this may inconvenience them by having to fetch their children at a later time.
• Costs of repairs may be levied on the Centre accounts. In line with the current practice in labour law, first warning can be of a verbal nature, followed by first, second and third written warnings. The warning letters will be placed on the learner’s file, for a period commensurable with the nature of the offence.

 

In serious cases, a final warning may be issued without any previous warning having been given.

 

In more serious cases, the consequences of unacceptable behaviour will be that parents will be called in, and / or the suspension of the learner from the school for a period, and / or the expulsion of the learner from the Centre.

 

The principal, or delegated staff will keep a record of serious offences and letters of warning will be sent to parents, if appropriate.

 

In very serious cases, the principal may summarily expel a learner without any warning having been given. Parents of an expelled learner have the right of appeal to Palm Tempelton directors.

 

4.5.    Celebration Policy

 

• We maintain a neutral position; therefore no holidays, Christian or otherwise will be celebrated.
• We do not have birthday celebration either, but have made provision of having a day selected by the teacher to allow students to bring snacks limited to cupcakes, cold drink and chips only once a year per student to celebrate them as student.
• Year-end class parties may be held. A letter will be issued to this effect.
• Days such as Spring Day, P J Day (appropriate attire), Hat Day etc. may be held and must be supported. This is to develop creativity and must be created by the student.

 

4.6.    Discipline Process: Individual

 

While Palm Tempelton will dispense justice within our Principles and Values we will also do so with compassion, integrity and respect.

 

This section outlines the procedures that will be followed by the centre when taking disciplinary action.

 

4.6.1. Minor Infringements

 

Infringements that are not considered serious, or do not require formal disciplinary action in the opinion of the relevant educator, will be dealt with directly by the educator. These informal disciplinary measures may be implemented by educators without reference to a Phase or Programme Leader or the principal.

 

4.6.2. Serious Infringements

 

When a more serious infringement occurs or is alleged, the educator concerned, and the phase or programme leaders or principal if appropriate, should investigate the complaint in order to determine the appropriate disciplinary procedure to be followed. At this stage, before the validity and details of the complaint have been established, the centre will not necessarily advise the parents or guardian of a learner that a complaints is being investigated. The parents or guardian will be informed if the matter is to proceed further.

 

The Centre shall, in exercising discipline over learners, act according to the principles of natural justice particularly if expulsion is a possible sanction.

 

If the circumstances warrant it, the infringement will be noted on the learner’s record and / or the learner’s parents or guardian advised of the misconduct.

 

Where necessary, a written notification of a disciplinary hearing will be given to the learner and to his / her parents or guardian. The centre reserves the right to suspend the learner pending the hearing in appropriate circumstances.

 

All suspensions will be preceded by an informal meeting involving the representatives of the centre (not the person who is to preside over the disciplinary hearing) and the learner’s parent/s or guardian where reasonably possible, and at which representations, if any, on whether to suspend the learner, will be heard.

 

The notification of a disciplinary hearing must:

 

• State when and where the hearing is to be held.
• State the name of the person chairing the hearing.
• State the nature and substance of the complaint or complaints against the learner.
• Advise the learner and his / her parents or guardian that they are expected to attend the hearing as their non-attendance may prejudice their case and result in the hearing being held in their absence.
• Whenever possible the learner and his / her parents or guardian should be notified of the hearing at least two work days before the scheduled date.
• The principles of natural justice will apply to both parties at the hearing, including that all parties can lead evidence, by calling and cross-examining witnesses.
• Legal representation is not permitted at a disciplinary hearing as of right, although if any wishes to be legally represented they may address a motivated written request to the chairperson prior to the hearing’s commencement. The chairperson’s ruling in this regard will be final.
• The disciplinary hearing should be chaired by a senior representative of the centre. If the centre deems it necessary, it may engage the services of a suitable qualified or experienced third party to conduct the injury.
• A disciplinary hearing is an informal inquiry in which the formal rules of evidence are not strictly applicable.
• The chairperson will have a broad discretion to determine the manner in which evidence is led and in which manner the proceedings are to be conducted.

 

This guidance should be followed in order to ensure a fair hearing:

 

• The chairperson should act impartially, and as far as possible should not have been involved directly in the events which form the basis of the complaint(s) or have taken any part in the investigation.
• The chairperson’s findings should be based only on evidence and argument presented at the hearing.
• The proceedings should be conducted with due regard to the rights to dignity and privacy of all concerned.
• The learner and his / her parents or guardian must be placed in a position to properly understand the complaint(s) before the commencement of the hearing.
• The learner and his / her parents or guardian must be presented with all the relevant facts and information relating to the complaint(s).
• The learners and his / her parents or guardian must be allowed to challenge the evidence presented in support of the complaint(s), to present their own evidence in relation to the events and to explain and / or defend the learner’s action.
• If they choose to do so, they may lead evidence or make arguments in support of the learner’s defence.
• At the conclusion of the evidence on the merits, the chairperson must determine whether the learner is guilty of the misconduct alleged in the notification of the disciplinary hearing. No finding of misconduct should be made in respect of infringement for which prior notice was not given or where there was not a proper opportunity to challenge the allegations. In the case of such a secondary complaint(s) either a second hearing, conducted in the same informal manner and subject to the same principles as the first, should be held to determine the appropriate sanction for that complaint, or the secondary complaint/s must be added as a charge/s in the initial hearing and if necessary the parties afforded an opportunity to prepare in relation to such further charges.
• If the chairperson returns a finding of guilty on any one or more charges, they shall announce this and then call for further submissions (or evidence) from the centre and thereafter the learner and / or his or her parents or guardian in relation to an appropriate sanction.
• The chairperson must then impose a sanction.
• After the completion of the disciplinary hearing, the findings made and any sanction imposed should be communicated in writing to the learner’s parent/s or guardian by the chairperson.
• If the learner is found guilty of any misconduct, the chairperson must briefly state the reasons for the finding and the sanction imposed.
• In the event that the sanction is expulsion, this notification must include a reminder that the learner has the right to appeal to the principal in writing within five school days of the hearing’s outcome being communicated. An appeal will be conducted by a person or person appointed by the Chairperson of the Board.
• The chairperson must ensure that a record summary of the evidence led at the inquiry is kept.
• The centre must keep copies of the record and all documentation used at the inquiry for at least six months after the conclusion of the hearing.
• If the learner has been suspended pending the conclusion of the hearing, he/she will remain suspended until the end of the disciplinary enquiry.
• If the learner has been suspended pending the completion of the hearing process, the submission of an appeal will not affect the suspension which will remain in place until the appeal has been concluded, unless the chairperson of the hearing rules otherwise at the time of imposing sanction.
• The appeal should as far as reasonably possible be conducted within a further seven centre days of receipt of the appeal and accompanying motivation.
• The motivation must detail which portion/s of the finding and / or sanction are appealed and the reason/s therefore. This motivation will serve before the appeal chairperson and the centre shall be permitted if it so chooses to deliver written representations in response thereto within a further two centre days of receipt of the appeal motivation.
• When a decision has been made by the appeal chairperson after giving due consideration to the matters raised in the appeal, the written finding must be provided to the parent/s or guardian of the Leaner within a further five centre days of the finding having been made.
• The decision of the appeal chairperson is final and binding on the parties and is not subject to any further appeal or review.
• In the event of their appeal being overturned, the parents/guardians may be held liable for any legal costs incurred in the appeal process.

 

4.7.    Discipline Process: Group

 

4.7.1. All infringements

 

The above disciplinary procedure is principally designed to deal with instance of misconduct by individual learners. Allegations of misconduct by a group or groups of learners, or involving several alleged infringement of a similar nature, constitute collective misconduct.

 

Collective misconduct may be dealt with effectively on a collective basis. A single investigation and disciplinary hearing may then be held, subject to the principles set out above, adapted where necessary for the context.

 

In a collective disciplinary hearing, individual learners will be given the opportunity to state or testify that their circumstances differ from the rest of the group.

 

The centre reserves the right to adapt either individual or collective procedures as it deems appropriate in the circumstances.

 

4.8.    Anti-Bullying Policy

 

Children are made aware of their rights and responsibilities and will be empowered through assertiveness training to expose bullies.

 

All children have basic rights:

• To an education
• To feel safe in the school environment
• To human dignity
• To be respected by other learner and educators
• To be valued as individuals

 

All learners have basic responsibilities:

• To respect the right of others
• To allow uninterrupted learning to take place

 

4.8.1. Types of bullying

 

Bullying involves an initial desire to hurt and this desire is expressed in action; someone is hurt; the action is directed by a more powerful person or group; it is without justification; it is typically repeated; and it is done with evident enjoyment – Ken Rigby (1998).

 

4.8.1.1.  Physical:

 

• Inflicting physical pain of any form
• Taking using or damaging any article belonging to another without permission
• Making / forcing another to do something against his / her will
• Any other physical action which may diminish the dignity of another

 

4.8.1.2.  Verbal:

 

• Diminishing the dignity of another using verbal attack which includes: threats, teasing, mockery, racial slurs and hate speech, foul language and name calling.
• Writing hurtful, damaging things about another.

 

4.8.1.3.  Psychological:

 

• Intimidation, rumour-mongering, ostracising, manipulation and domination. Any other action which psychologically diminishes the dignity of another.

 

4.8.1.4.  Cyber bullying:

 

• If this bullying happens during centre hours the centre will follow the same procedure to protect the children from this kind of bullying.

 

4.8.2. Procedures on dealing with bullying

 

• Procedure may differ according to ages or the phases/programmes within the centre.
• Bullying behaviour needs to be identified and addressed pro-actively.
• If a bullying incident is reported, all parties and witnesses will be interviewed and all incidents or allegations of bullying will be fully investigated and documented.
• Parents will be contacted if the educator feels it is necessary.
• An internal support process for both bullies and victims will be initiated.
• Observation of bully and victim/s for a period of 2 weeks.
• If behaviour occurs again, a follow-up report will be issued, a parental interview will be initiated and behaviour modification will be outlined.
• Professional counselling, regular report-back and an improvement in behaviour will be required if the child is to remain in the centre.
• If the behaviour does not improve, suspension and possible dismissal from the centre may occur.

 

4.9.    Dispute Resolution Policy

 

4.9.1. Purpose of the policy

 

To provide a transparent process for the efficient resolution of issues that may arise from time to time between parents, staff and centre management.

 

4.9.2. Principles Governing the Policy

 

A conflict is an issue that should be addressed regardless if both parties involved agree that the dispute is valid. However, most issues should be dealt with in a professional, mature manner using common sense between the parties that are affected.

 

Early intervention and open communication are key to effective and efficient resolution. Ideally issues should be resolved through Informal Resolution.

 

4.9.3. Procedure to be followed

 

4.9.3.1.  Informal Resolution:

 

THE EDUCATOR: Make an appointment to see the person or persons concerned about the issue, and attempt to resolve the matter informally. Either party may request that a facilitator be present at the meeting. The facilitator may only be another staff member of the centre.

 

4.9.3.2.  Formal Resolution

 

Should the issue not be resolved through an informal meeting, a dispute should be registered in within a week of the Informal Resolution meeting.

 

The details of the dispute should be emailed to the Centre Leader and MUST include the following information:

 

• Name of the person initiating the dispute
• Date of the alleged incident
• Names of all parties against whom the dispute is alleged
• Names of all parties who might be involved or act as witnesses
• Detailed and final description of the dispute
• Details with regard to the Informal Resolution meeting:
  • When did it happen
  • Who was involved
  • What was the outcome
  • What the desired resolution of the dispute is
• The Centre Leader will acknowledge receipt of the request for a Formal Resolution by email.
• In the receipt email he / she will indicate when the Formal Resolution meeting will be held. This should typically be within 7 working days but will depend on the nature of the dispute and the number of parties involved.
• The Centre Leader will attempt to arbitrate a final resolution to the satisfaction of all parties.
• The process and outcome of this meeting will be minuted and recorded in writing or by electronic means.

 

4.9.3.3.  Final Arbitration

 

• If one of the parties still does not believe that the issue has been resolved, all records (written and electronic) must be forwarded to the Centre Directors.
• The Centre Directors may, at their discretion, either;
  • Attempt to facilitate a final resolution to the satisfaction of all parties
  • Establish an ad hoc Dispute Resolution Committee. Such a Committee will consist of important members possibly not directly associated with the centre.
  • The time frame for this final meeting will be within 15 working days.
  • The findings of the Directors, either directly or by the Dispute Resolution Committee is final.
  • The findings will be made available in writing to all parties within 2 working days of the meeting.

 

4.10.   Learner Language Policy

 

All official languages enjoy equal status and respect and home language will not be used to refuse entry to Palm Tempelton. However in the Centre stream:

• The language medium of instruction for Palm Tempelton is English, but we also offer Afrikaans, French and Tswana as additional languages.
• The learner must be able to read and write in English to a level that is comparable to their peers for the level that the learner is at.
• The learner must be able to both understand and express themselves clearly in English.
• Naturally, language subject will primarily be taught in that language with assistance provided in English.

 

We also lend ourselves to assisting those of other languages to follow a remedial stream until the language can be mastered. This is at the discretion of the Center principle and the child’s ability to fit in with their peers.

 

4.11.   Safety Policy

 

We believe that the safety of the children in our care is central to our educational philosophy. We endeavour to make our centre a safe place for learner, parents, staff and guests.

 

We aim to make children, parents and staff aware of safety issues and to minimise any potential hazards or risks to enable the children to thrive in a safe environment.

 

Please see our Safety Policy for more details.

 

4.12.   Curriculum Policy: Palm Tempelton Centre

 

Palm Tempelton makes use of the Brainline, MobyMax and GED®, CAPS aligned curriculum. Palm Tempelton believes that the curriculum listed above supports the philosophy by:

 

• Focusing on thinking skills and problem solving
• Not linking academic achievement directly to age
• A curriculum that takes a complete view of learning and build on itself from one year to the next
• Allows for greater flexibility with respect to learner’s preferences and learning styles
• Empower educators to teach and focus on application and not knowledge transfer
• International standardization
• Qualifications that are recognized both in South Africa and Internationally

 

4.13.   Communication Policy

 

We make every effort to keep parents well informed at all times. Record keeping and communication is key to having a well-run and functional centre. We use a variety of methods to ensure that all information reaches parents in time. Team work is a team effort. We take responsibility for providing and publishing information you may need to assist your child’s centre. We except parents to follow through on the information given via these methods. Likewise, we require parents to keep us updated with events at home that might impact your child emotionally, physical and academically.

 

4.13.1.    Supported Communication

 

Palm Tempelton recognises the following communication channels:

 

• Centre diary
• Email sent from the centre
• Telephone
• WhatsApp group messaging

 

Palm Tempelton recognises the following channels of communication for parents to contact the campus:

 

• Telephone
• Emergency SMS number – 076 463 0666
• Diary
• Email
• Direct WhatsApp message with relevant educator or admin person

 

 

General email: info@palmtempelton.co.za

Finance: finance@palmtempelton.co.za

Teachers: teacher@palmtempelton.co.za

 

4.13.2.    Responsibility of parents in Communication

 

• Read and respond to notices
• Ensure that the centre has your most recent email address and telephone numbers
• Ensure that Palm Tempelton emails are not in your SPAM folder.

 

4.13.3.    Meetings

 

• We have set meetings and dates please ensure you attend all. THIS IS MANDATORY
• Parents are encouraged to communicate with their class educators on a regular basis.
• Verbal communication to pass on information about your child should be done in the morning before normal centre hours.
• Should you require longer than 5 minutes to talk to the educator please make an appointment after centre hours.
• Please email front office if you have any questions and it will be passed on to the teacher and respond will afterwards.
• Parents are also welcome to meet with the principal, however we request that you make an appointment for such a meeting by contacting the receptionist.

 

4.14.   Food Policy

 

Food more specifically nutrition plays a vital part in the development of the brain. Incorrect nutrition will detrimentally affect your child’s ability to perform academically and function effectively.

 

Lunch box Tips

 

You are your child’s role model: model a healthy lifestyle and it will be easier for the rest of the family to follow. You need to plan ahead so that you buy the correct foods for making snacks and lunchboxes.

 

Resist the easy option to buy cold drinks, crisps and chocolate bars – in the long run this is going to ruin your child’s health.

 

Restrict your child’s demands and manipulation for snacks, high in oil and fizzy cold drinks. Remember that children are different from adults – they have a much smaller stomach capacity, so the need regular snacks and some children have a much bigger energy level because they are more active than adults. Water is an essential part of our DAILY routine here. Please ensure your child has clean water packed every day.

 

Some ideas for healthy snacks

 

• Include a healthy fat, either avocado, nuts or coconut oil snack
• Protein
• Natural, unflavoured yoghurts for those who can tolerate lactose
• Health bars (Sugar free)
• Nuts, raisins, dried fruit
• Sandwiches with cheese/meat and salad
• Dinner left overs (if you had a healthy dinner – we have a microwave they can use to warm food. Please send eating utensils)

 

Centre Tuck Shop

 

Please check with your centre to determine on which days the tuck shop is open, items and pricing.

 

4.15.   Illness Policy

 

When does my child stay home:

 

• Your child is running a fever
• Has a runny tummy
• Has a contagious disease (please advise us in this event by way of a doctor’s note so we can warn or keep an eye on the other students and staff).

 

If your child gets ill while here:

 

• We will call you to collect them ASAP.
• We will not issue medication.
• If necessary your child may be taken to hospital for care via ambulance.

 

4.16.   Exam Policy

 

• All students are expected to attend as per normal hours during exams.
• ONLY SENIOR JUNIOR AND SENIOR (ages 14 and up) may be given time off – having met goals – and at the discretion of the centre leader or principal. This may include leaving once exams are done.
• POST MATRIC students: They attend daily for the first term of PM and then 3 x a week second term and then mornings only last term (they will follow a different holiday to others).

 

4.17.   Uniform Policy

 

Although we may not have an official uniform as yet we would like to suggest you make this a cost effective exercise. Buy a bottom and a top for at least five days and use this as the “uniform”.

We may request a certain colour T-shirt in the event of outings. We will advise when and if we implement any uniform.

 

However the following applies (included but not limited to):

• Dressed inappropriately (short “hot pants”, short skirts, low open blouses or T-shirts, provocative clothing, see thru pants showing underwear etc.) will be as asked to go home to change.
• No black lipstick, eye shadow, Cutex
• No short and crop T-shirts
• No foul language on T-shirts slogan

 

4.18.   Hair & Jewellery Policy

 

• Both boys and girls hair must be neat and not be a distraction to themselves or others.
• Without being prescriptive, jewellery needs to be appropriate, tasteful and respectful.
• It remains the prerogative of the centre to ask a learner to remove any jewellery deemed offensive or inappropriate.
• NO extreme piercings allowed.

 

4.19.   Late Arrivals, Late Collections and Absenteeism Policy

 

We serve as role models to our children every second they spend time with us. Punctuality and commitment to agreement are just another way of guiding our children to become responsible adults. Children need to be at the centre at the starting time 7:30 am. If you arrive after starting time and it becomes a pattern (we consider a pattern twice a week), then educators will engage with you. What works for us is that you share with us when you are late and / or call in advance to let us know that you will not be making it to the centre on time. In your sharing please ensure to check what the impact is and share with us how things will be different in the future and / or request support from us on ideas of how to be on time.

 

Should you know that you are either going to be late to drop off or late to collect your child please contact the centre ASAP. This is a great help for educators and admin staff that are looking after the welfare of your child.

 

Please note that the Ad Hoc Aftercare fee will apply should your child not be collected within 15 min of the end their centre day.

 

If your child is going to be absent from the centre for illness or any other reasons please inform the centre that morning at 08:00 am.

 

When your child returns to the centre, please include a signed note in the diary explaining their absence, sick note or other.

 

4.20.   Policy on cell phones and other personal technology devices

 

• Palm Tempelton is not responsible for the safekeeping of children’s cell phones or personal technology devices (including laptops, cameras, iPads, tablets and any other personal electronic devices.
• Cell phones are not allowed to be used during centre time and should be handed in at 7:30 to the educator who will then hand it into the front office for safekeeping.
• Phone calls to parents must be made through the office. If the student is found on their cell phone it will be confiscated and a warning will be issued.
• If laptops or any personal technology device is brought to the Centre to be used by the children for class work, the centre does not accept any responsibility for the safekeeping thereof.
• NO games may be played on the laptops or personal technology devices. Parents are responsible for ensuring the correct safeguarding and parental controls are in place.
• NO you tube music videos or other videos are allowed.
• Children found to be in possession of a cell phone or personal technology device during tests or exams face disciplinary procedures.
• Children found watching any pornographic or derogatory videos or other will face disciplinary procedures.

 

4.21.   Traffic and Parking

 

Palm Tempelton takes the safety of your children very seriously. This means that children are under adult supervision at all times with educators and security guard on gate duty before centre, during break and after centre.

 

• As part of our safety policy all children need to be dropped off inside the premises.
• Please familiarize yourself with the traffic flow of the centre to avoid a bottled neck or traffic builds up.
• Be on time and don’t rush to and from centre as we are a community conscious organization and we would like our parent to respect our neighbours.
• Considerate and patient will have considerate and patient children.
• Please move through and don’t chat during pick up or drop off times. If your child is taking a while please exit and enter again.
• Please sign out the student daily.
• Please advise your child’s transport of these regulations.

 

Traffic is a SERIOUS matter and we request that all parents co-operate to help manage our traffic. This includes:

• Obeying the traffic laws outside the centre – DO NOT SPEED SPEEDING KILLS OUR CHILDREN.
• Please do NOT block other parents. It never takes a second to get a 7 year old with his bags into or out of the car!
• Please do NOT reverse into incoming traffic.
• Please LOOK OUT for children at all times.
• Please look carefully when exiting the driveway to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Do not park on or damage our neighbours’ paving areas.
• For a meeting please park IN THE DESIGNATED AREAS so as to ensure traffic flows smoothly.

 

4.22.   Emergency Plans and Evacuation Procedures

 

Emergency plans will be adhered to in terms of the instructions posted in each classroom. These plans include fire emergency, hostage situations and explosives scares (bomb and gunshots).

 

All staff members are familiar with the centre fire drill procedure. These fire drills are held regularly to ensure that the children have a good understanding of the procedure.

 

4.23.   GENERAL

 

We here at Palm Tempelton VAK Centre endeavour to cover all aspects of a student’s and parent’s needs. We are however aware we may have left some issues out. We retain the right to amend and or implement any procedure deemed necessary to the well-being of all staff, students’ and parents’ needs.

 

PARENT QUESTIONNAIRE

Has your child been labeled? Do they have a low self-esteem? Do they find it hard to complete multiple tasks? Is your child not motivated to learn? Do they show a lack of interest in their school work shying away from it?

Are they difficult or suddenly shy and withdrawn? Do they have a short attention span? Are they immature compared to their fellow class mates? Do they work at a slower pace than the other children in their grade? Has your child’s teacher raised concerns?

 

If you answered yes to 3 or more of these questions please complete the following questionnaire and set up an appointment with us.

 

 

Centre Hours and Contact Details

 

Grade RR-1 (ages 4 – 7)	7:30 – 13:15	Pick up time before 13:30
Grade 2-4 (ages 8 – 10)	7:30 – 13:15	Pick up time before 13:30
Grade 5-7 (ages 11– 13)	7:30 – 14:15	Pick up time before 14:30
Grade 8-12 (ages 14 and up)	7:30 – 14:15	Pick up time before 14:30
Fridays	7:30 – 12:00

 

Emails

General:                       info@palmtempelton.co.za

Accounts Department:   finance@palmtempelton.co.za

Teachers:                     teacher@palmtempelton.co.za

Principal:                      principal@palmtempelton.co.za

 

Telephone

Reception:          012 807 7444

Emergency         067 699 1843

 

We are available at the office daily till 15:00 pm and on the emergency cell till 17:00 pm.

 

General Enquiry