2013 College Prospectus - Meridan State College - Education ...

COLLEGE
PROSPECTUS

WELCOME TO MERIDAN STATE COLLEGE
Dear Parents/Carers
Welcome to Meridan State College! We are delighted that you have chosen our College as the
learning opportunity for your child/ren.
Meridan opened in January 2006 for Years Prep to Year 6, our Primary School. Our College is a
Prep to Year 12 precinct and consists of three subschools – Primary (Prep – Yr 6), Junior Secondary
(Years 7-9) and Senior Secondary (Years 10-12). Each subschool has its own campus within the site
but is aligned with the direction and focus of the College entity. A dense rainforest divides the site
and allows the separation of the subschools.
The rationale behind the subschool structure is embedded in a body of research which indicates
that small schools within a larger school have the potential to significantly enhance educational
outcomes for students while facilitating the transition through the different phases of learning.
The subschool structure also enhances the positive aspects of a small school while increasing access
to the extensive facilities and resource efficiencies of a large school.
While Meridan is very much a school of the future, we place great importance on ‘old fashioned’
values, such as good manners, considerate behaviour and pride in our College and ourselves. We
believe that education is a partnership between the home and the College, and we greatly value
parent involvement as fully as time and commitments allow. Please help us in our endeavours to
provide the very best education possible for our students, in a safe, secure and happy environment.
The information contained in this booklet is designed to assist you and your child/ren to settle into
College life as smoothly as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact the College if further
clarification is required.
Once again, a very warm welcome to the Meridan State College community.
Julie Kornmann
College Director

PRIMARY SCHOOL – PREP TO YEAR 6
We trust that your child’s transition to our College is a smooth one and your child’s learning
experience is an exciting and positive one supported by all members of our school community. We
look forward to sharing in your child’s learning journey and celebrating their successes with you.
Our philosophy is based on the belief that children are capable, creative and independent thinkers
and learners. We believe that learning is a shared experience and that we as adults can learn from
children as they already have a wealth of knowledge and experiences. We believe that our role is
to actively listen to children and build on their prior experiences and knowledge. This means that
the teachers in our Primary School are facilitators rather than directors of the children’s learning.
We value the children’s thoughts and ideas ensuring that they are involved in the planning,
implementation and reflection of their learning.
The teachers in the Primary School are professionally active and keep up to date with current
research through professional development, reading and networking.
Do not hesitate to contact either myself or your child’s teacher if you have any questions or
feedback regarding our Primary School.
Mrs Sue Esposito
Principal - Primary School
JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL – YEAR 7 – 9
Our Junior Secondary School is committed to meeting the goals of the Middle Phase of Learning
Action Plan and fostering a culture of:
meaningful relationships within a positive and warm learning environment
mutual respect and personal accountability and
motivated and high achieving learners who are engaged in a rigorous and relevant
curriculum.
We are focused on:
o
o
o
o
o
o
positive culture
maximising student achievement
achieving high standards in all we do
parent/community partnerships and confidence
building capability – leadership density
One College, One Community
Once again, a very warm welcome, I look forward to working in partnership with you and your
child/ren.
Fiona Free
A/Principal – Junior Secondary School
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SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL – YEAR 10 - 12
Welcome to our Senior Secondary School. We are delighted to invite you to join us on this
wonderful journey, as we continue to develop our Senior Phase of Learning.
Meridan State College Senior Secondary School is committed to meeting the goals of the Senior
Phase of Learning Action Plan and fostering a culture of:
meaningful relationships within a positive and warm learning environment
mutual respect and personal accountability and
motivated and high achieving learners who are engaged in a rigorous and relevant
curriculum.
It will be our pleasure to prepare your child/ren for their future.
Karen McCord
Principal – Senior Secondary School

College Facilities
Meridan State College is unique in that it has been designed specifically for the climate and for the
location. A dense rainforest divides the site and provides a picturesque backdrop to the College, a
natural boundary between the Primary, Junior and Senior Secondary sub schools and a unique
ecosystem for environmental and biological studies. A Boardwalk transverses the rainforest. This
connects the Secondary subschools with the Primary School and our shared College facilities.
Learning is a key focus of the College.
A state of the art Technology and Resource Centre dominates the site and incorporates a
technology laboratory, virtual learning centre, an editing/broadcasting facility and a media
production studio. The Resource Centre provides a unique approach to resourcing student learning
with its focus on print digital texts. As well as print resources collections, the Resource Centre
includes individual and group learning areas, a media editing suite and computer laboratories.
The provision of a number of large covered play areas and covered walkways ensure maximum
protection in the warmer months. Our Rainforest Café is the centre meeting place of our campus
and leads to all areas of the College.
Our state of the art Sports Performance Centre provides indoor sports facilities/courts, a fully
equipped gym, theory learning environments and tiered seating for sports and special College
events. We are extremely proud of our Performing Arts Auditorium and Senior Music Rooms which
will ensure that your children have an optimum environment in which to reach their fullest
potential through all phases of their education.
Primary School (Prep to Year 6)
The Primary School consists of spacious classrooms many with operable doors on two sides allowing
easy accessibility to the centrally located, shared practical learning areas. Electronic whiteboards
are featured throughout our classrooms. A team planning room is also incorporated in the design
with fixed glass panels allowing full visibility. A fully functioning Learning Development Centre
(LDC) and Junior Performing Arts block are also featured into our Primary School.
Junior Secondary School (Years 7-9)
The unique Junior Secondary School design provides a range of different state-of-the-art purpose
built facilities for students, which allow them to explore and develop the skills to function
effectively in different learning environments, in preparation for the Senior Phase. Students are
introduced to working in the:
Performing Arts and Music Centre
Hospitality Kitchen
Creative Design Technology Workshops
Science Laboratories
Visual Art Studios and
Computer and Robotics Laboratories.
Senior Secondary School (Years 10 – 12)
Our Senior Secondary School has been designed to ensure that our Senior students have the best
possible access to the most up to date facilities to enhance their learning outcomes. These include
fully equipped specialist and general learning areas, including Science Laboratories, Technology
Design Workshops, Arts and business precinct, the Secondary Performing Arts and Senior Theatre
Precinct. With access to our gym in the Sports Performance Centre for human movement the
Meridan world of amazing facilities is their oyster!
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GENERAL INFORMATION
College Director
Principal Primary School Prep – Year 6
Principal Jnr Secondary School Years 7 - 9
Principal Snr Secondary School Years 10 – 12
Deputy Principals Primary School
Deputy Principals Jnr/Sec Secondary School
Business Services Manager (Finance/Facilities)
Business Services Manager
(Human Resources/Community Relations)
Administration Officers – Enrolments and
College Enquiries
Administration Officers – Finance
Administration Officer – Client Services
Administration Officer – Correspondence
Administration Officers – Jnr/Snr Secondary
Address:
Julie Kornmann
Sue Esposito
Leasa Smith/Fiona Free
Karen McCord
Jenny Williams
Amanda White
Lisa Cutter
Glenn McIntosh
Michelle Lyons
Shannan Gniel
Colleen Bryce
Michelle Davies and Linda Fraser
Lou Canov and Claudia Wallis
Sandy Carr
Lisa Price
Lee Gray
Meridan State College
214 Parklands Blvd
Meridan Plains
Caloundra QLD 4551
PO Box 3908
Caloundra DC
QLD 4551
Phone: 5490 2666
5490 2689 (Primary School,
Client Services / First Aid)
5490 2663 (Jnr Sec Office)
5490 2729 (Sen Sec Office)
Fax: 5490 2600
Web address:
Email:
http://www.meridansc.eq.edu.au
enquiry@meridansc.eq.edu.au
Office Hours: Executive Centre 8:00am – 3:30pm
Client Services 8:00am – 3:15pm
Finance Window 8:00am – 11:30am
Jnr/Snr Office 8:15am – 3:00pm
Our Finance Office and Uniform Shop hours for
January will be advertised on our website during
the Christmas vacation. Each year, Primary School
Class information will be available outside Client
Services from the Thursday prior to school
recommencing.

COLLEGE INFORMATION
COLLEGE BELLS
PRIMARY SCHOOL BELL TIMES
JNR/SNR SECONDARY BELL TIMES
8:45 am – 9:00am
‘Snack Attack’
prepare for school day
8:40am – 8:50am
Mentor Group
9:00am – 11:10am
Session 1
(2hrs 10mins)
8:50am – 10:00am
Session 1
(70mins)
11:10am – 11:55am
First Break
(45mins)
10:00am – 11:10am
Session 2
(70mins)
12:00pm – 1:35pm
Session 2
(1hr 35mins)
11:10am – 11:55am
First Break
1:35pm – 1:55pm Second Break 12:00pm – 1:10pm
Session 3
(70mins)
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Session 3
(1hr)
1:10pm – 1:30pm
Second Break
3:00pm Home 1:35pm – 2:45pm
Session 4
(70mins)
ABSENCES
Under the Education Act, a parent of a child of compulsory school age is obliged to ensure that
their child attends school on every school day for the educational program in which he/she is
enrolled. If a child is absent from school it is essential that the College be notified as to the reason
for absence. This can be done through a phone call on our student absence lines (listed below),
email or a note to the teacher on the child’s return to school. Multiple unexplained absences will
be investigated by the school’s administration team. Formal correspondence will be sent home if
absences reach three days in a row without explanation.
Parents are required to apply for an exemption to compulsory schooling if the child is going to be
absent for a period of more than ten consecutive school days. Applications are available from the
Executive Centre and are to be made with the approval of the Principal.
Students must attend school regularly in order to ensure satisfactory learning outcomes. Teachers
are required by law to record reasons for student absences on the class roll.
Primary School Absence Line: 5490 2660
Jnr Secondary School Absence Line: 5490 2688
Snr Secondary School Absence Line: 5490 2799
or e-mail enquiry@meridansc.eq.edu.au
Please note: Medical certificates are required for students in Years 10, 11 or 12 where assessment
is affected (and should be passed on to relevant HODs/Year Level Student Mentors).
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ACCIDENTS
In case of serious illness or accident, parents’/carers’ wishes, as indicated on the family record
card, (completed from the enrolment form), will be carried out. Students who have an accident at
school will be given basic first aid. Because we have no qualification beyond the basic first aid
certificate we will err on the side of caution in the treatment of accidents. Whenever the slightest
doubt exists, we will contact the parent/carer and/or refer the cases to the appropriate medical
personnel. In some cases it may be necessary to call an ambulance. The Queensland Government
has implemented an ambulance scheme whereby all persons living in Queensland have ambulance
cover. It is vital that emergency contact details are kept up to date. Please notify the Executive
Office of any changes in writing by completing a ‘Change of Personal Details’ form found on our
website.
Parents/Carers please note that the Department of Education & Training does not have Personal
Accident Insurance cover for students. It is a personal decision for parents as to the type and level
of private insurance they arrange to cover students for any accidental injury that may occur.
APPOINTMENTS
Educating a child requires a partnership between home and school. We value your input into your
child’s education, so please do not hesitate to contact us.
During the course of your children’s school years, you may have cause to query a decision or raise
an issue relating to your child’s education. Education Queensland is committed to ensuring all
concerns are dealt with in a fair and equitable manner. A copy of Education Queensland’s official
procedure for resolving issues is available from the Executive Centre or College website.
In an organisation the size and complexity of Meridan State College it is often not possible to see
the College Director, Principal, Deputy Principal, Head of Department, Community Leader,
Guidance Officer, School Nurse, Youth Support Co-ordinator or School Chaplain unannounced. All
parents who wish to speak to staff are advised to please phone/email and make an
appointment. This will avoid disappointment.
Parent Teacher interviews are held twice a year. Parents are also encouraged to visit or contact
teaching staff to discuss their child’s progress or any problems that may arise. For interviews with
specific teachers, it is advisable to arrange an interview a few days in advance so that information
can be gathered relating to your student. The first point of contact for issues that arise are:
Primary School:
Jnr Sec School:
Snr Sec School:
class teacher then to Deputy Principal
class teacher or the Community Leader
class teacher, then the Head of Department (HOD) if subject
related, the Vocational Education Co-ordinator (VET) / Senior
School HOD for traineeship/work experience information or
Year Level Student Mentor for other concerns.
(Please note Junior and Senior Secondary School processes are
currently under review and parents will be advised if any
changes occur to these processes)
ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
The College will not take responsibility for children who arrive before these times:
Primary School: 8:15am unless it is part of their class curriculum
Jnr Sec School: 8:15am unless it is part of their class curriculum
Snr Sec School: 8:00am unless it is part of their class curriculum

Primary School arrival procedures:
Students to sit on the walkway behind the Prep rooms if their arrival is between 8:00am and
8:20am
At 8:20am a Primary School staff member will collect the students and walk to the
Multipurpose undercover area. Students are supervised here from 8:20am – 8:40am
Students arriving between 8:20am and 8:40am are to go to the Multipurpose undercover
area to be supervised
Only students being supervised by their parent are permitted to wait outside classrooms in
the Primary School prior to 8:40am
Primary School departure procedures:
it is expected that all PS children will depart the College grounds by 3:15 pm. Please note
that children and/or younger siblings are not permitted to play on the Adventure
Playgrounds before and after school as these areas are not supervised
Parents are requested to park in the designated parent car park, or, if picking up or
dropping off children, to use the drop off zone and remain in their car. Students will not be
permitted to exit the College by the bus zone entrance unless they are walking, riding a
bike or catching the bus
If parents are delayed please phone the College on 5490 2666 so that we are aware of your
delay
All students remaining after the last bus departs will be brought back into the Executive
Centre foyer for safe pick up – please note the Executive Centre office hours are 8:00am to
3:30pm
Junior and Senior Secondary School departure procedures:
It is expected that all JS/SS students will depart the College grounds by 3:00pm
The Junior and Senior School timetable ends 15 minutes prior to the Primary School
timetable to allow Years 7 – 12 students to exit before the Primary School finishes.
Parents of students arriving late or collected early are required to sign their children in or out. A
late arrival slip will be issued for the student to present to their class teacher.
Primary School:
Junior/Senior School:
please present at Client Services
please present or provide a written note to the Junior/Senior
School Office
If a person other than the parents/carers is to collect a child early from school, or as identified as
an emergency contact person on their College record, authority to do so will be required by letter
or phone. Proof of identity will also be required before the child is released.
ASSEMBLIES
Assemblies are an opportunity for the College to celebrate the success of our students and to
provide information to students about events, activities and programs within the College.
Primary School:
Mon Yrs 4-6 – 2.20pm – Sports Performance Centre
Tues Prep-Yr 3 – 2.20pm – Sports Performance Centre
Jnr Sec School:
Two assembly formats
Community Assemblies: Monday 8:40am
Bradman and Freeman Communities – venue to be announced
O’Neill and Rafter Communities – venue to be announced
Junior Secondary Assembly: Friday 8:40am - Sports Performance Centre
Senior Secondary School:
Senior School Assembly:
Year Level Assemblies:
Two assembly formats
Mondays 8:40am - Sports Performance Centre
During Successful Futures/ Pathways to success sessions
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Combined
Community Assemblies:
Held at various times of the year for Junior/Senior school students.
ASSESSMENT POLICY
Junior and Senior Secondary Schools
Meridan State College is a College of high standards for our:
Assessment and book work policies
Homework policies
Stakeholder responsibilities
Student leadership structures
Please refer to our website and student handbooks for our complete policies.
CAFÉ
The College Rainforest Cafe provides a service five days of the week at both breaks and is a subcommittee
of the P&C.
The menu consists of Nutrition Australia Approved Foods in accordance with the Federal
Government initiative ‘Smart Choices’ program. Volunteers are always welcome.
Primary School:
menu and price list is available from Client Services and on our website and ‘specials and
‘Meal Deal’ days are advised in the College newsletter
Prep students are not able to purchase directly from the counter until Semester 2
To order, parents need to provide brown paper bags.
o Your child’s name, class and order are to be written clearly on the bag and correct
money enclosed.
o Orders are placed in the cafe box in the classroom at the beginning of each day and
will be delivered back to the classroom before each break.
o Please note that requests from parents for modifications to items on the menu will
not be possible due to the volume of orders.
Junior and Senior Secondary School:
Students in the Junior and Senior School are able to access the café at First and Second Breaks. All
food can be purchased directly over the counter. Students are not required to pre-order food.
Eftpos facilities are available.
COMMUNITY STRUCTURE
The names Bradman, Freeman, Rafter and O’Neill were selected not just because these names
represented sporting heroes, but because of the significant contribution these people made to
society.
Our Communities are much more than just sport houses. The ‘Community’ structure is an
organisational concept, based on the philosophy that the way our College is organised into
Communities will help us to achieve improved student learning outcomes through the promotion of
positive student-teacher-parent relationships.

The extent of the Community structure involves:
From Prep to Year 6, and in Senior School classrooms contain students from all four
Communities.
In Years 7, 8 and 9 class members and the class teacher belong to the same Community.
All teachers have been allocated to a Community.
What Do Communities Offer
Pastoral care
Collegial student management
More personalisation of relationships
Direct parent – teacher contact
Cross curricular planning
Greater staff, parent and student interaction.
What Do Communities Achieve
Improved student learning through the promotion of positive student-teacher relationships
The Community structure encourages and supports communication and collaboration amongst
teachers, improving teaching and learning
Improved student learning engagement through early identification and a positive support
structure
A more settled and orderly environment
A deeper sense of belonging for all involved in the College community, and a pride in our
College
On enrolment at the College all students are allocated to one of the four sporting communities:
Bradman (‘Bulls’, Green), Freeman (‘Flame’, Yellow), O’Neill (‘Eels’, Purple) or Rafter
(‘Redbacks’, Red). Community membership is for inter-house competitions in cross country,
athletics, swimming carnivals and whole of College Community events. These allocations remain
the same throughout your child’s time at the College, and where possible all family members are
allocated to the same Community.
CURRICULUM
Meridan State College uses a range of effective pedagogical practices, reflective of adolescent
learner philosophy. The practices are categorised around three key principles of teaching;
Teaching for engagement
Teaching for understanding
Teaching for independence
Please refer to our College website for our Curriculum content for all sub-schools.
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EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Procedures for emergency evacuations and lockdowns are displayed in classrooms and practised on
a regular basis. Staff, students and volunteers need to be familiar with the procedures to ensure
their own safety in the event of an emergency. All relevant procedures have been developed in
accordance with Education Queensland guidelines.
ENROLMENTS
An Enrolment Management Plan has been implemented to ensure:
the growth of the College is managed so that facilities and resources are not over extended,
and
unnecessary movement away from established schools is minimised.
The catchment area for Meridan State College is substantively the suburb
of Little Mountain and part of Caloundra West. Documentation of proof of
residency in the catchment area will be required on enrolment and could
consist of a current rates notice, an electricity bill or water bill, a contract
of sale for a house or a current lease agreement (lease must be current as
of date of enrolment).
Please note that the Year 7 and Secondary enrolment boundaries are
different. Year 7 is part of the Primary catchment.
Primary School:
Prep Enrolment: To enrol in Prep a child must turn five by 30 June of that
year and proof of age will be required at interview. In 2013, children born
between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008 are eligible to attend Prep.
Year 1 Enrolment: To enrol in Year One from 2013 onwards, a child must
turn six by 30 June of that year.
EXCURSIONS/CAMPS/SPORT
College excursions and camps are offered as part of our educational program. They are designed
to support curriculum programs and, subsequently, your child will be participating in relevant
classroom activities before and after the event.
Every effort is made to keep excursion and camp expenses to a minimum. Payment schemes will
be available from the Finance Department located at Client Services to assist families to meet the
costs involved so that as many students as possible may participate.

A NOTE ON PERMISSION:
‘Minor’ Excursions and Activities
Each school year the College seeks general consent for students to attend in-class excursions or
small trips that happen as part of normal curriculum activities throughout the year. This one
general permission slip will cover curriculum activities such as, but not limited to:
• Primary school swimming classes
• Swimming Carnivals
• Year 6 and 7 surf skills program
• Year 6-7 interschool sport
• Year 8-9 interschool sport
• Single lesson excursions, for subjects such as PE and Marine Studies in the Junior and Senior
Secondary School
Fees for these activities will have already been collected as part of the College’s start of year
process, so there will be no additional money to be collected for these activities.
Students will be informed prior to these activities of particulars and any specific requirements and
this information will be passed onto parents. Any concerns about the nature of the activity or
student attendance on the excursion/ activity can be discussed at that time with the class teacher
or teacher in charge. Alternatively, if you do not want your student to attend the specific activity
please also discuss this with a teacher so that alternative supervision for your student can be
arranged.
This process is designed to reduce administrative paperwork, free up teacher time and reduce the
burden on parents to fill in forms throughout the year. Please ensure the permission form is
returned promptly, along with any changes to contact and medical details to ensure your student
has access to these educational excursions and activities right throughout the year.
‘Major’ Excursions
Except for designated sporting carnivals, excursions or activities that extend beyond normal class
time, or extend into another subject lesson time in the Junior and Senior Secondary School will be
considered ‘major’ excursions. Such activities would include half and whole day excursions or
multiple day activities, such as year level camps. For any ‘major’ excursion permission forms
outlining purpose, cost, itinerary, standard of dress and other relevant information will be given to
students for parents’ perusal and permission. Additional medical forms may also be sent home.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Meridan State College offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities for students. These include:
Leadership Program and Training
Dance Troupe
Vocal Group
Chess Club
Optiminds Team
Rock Band
Instrumental Music
Musical
Computer Club
Interschool Sport
Recreational Sport
Competitions
Public Speaking
Voices on the coast
Musicfest
We encourage all students to be part of the College Community beyond the classroom and take
part in one or more of these activities.
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FISH PHILOSOPHY
Meridan State College is a FISH Philosophy School. The FISH! Philosophy is a set of simple, practical
tools to help create a positive culture. It’s a way to build stronger relationships that equip people
to face challenges more effectively. The FISH Philosophy fulfills the most basic needs of human
beings who, in turn, fulfill the needs of the organisation—more connected teams, better
communication, extraordinary service and higher retention. The FISH philosophy is founded on the
principles of Be There, Choose your Attitude, Make Their Day and Play; and helps us to:
create a more engaged and alive workplace
encourage imagination and creativity and infuse a fun-filled spirit
inspire others to own their choice of attitudes
build trust and improve communications and relationships in the workplace
FISH! For Schools helps educators create richer, more effective learning cultures. FISH For Schools
helps educators build:
development of the “whole student” as an engaged learner
rewarding relationships
positive classroom management
personal responsibility and internal motivation for staff and
students
a safe and playful learning community
respect for diversity
conflict-resolution skills
Students in the Junior Secondary School are guided by the Fish Philosophy principles and the
articulated behaviours for which they stand which are linked to the 5Cs in the Primary School.
Students engage in focused learning episodes around the four principles, which also provide a
framework for recognising students’ positive behaviour, redirecting inappropriate behaviours and a
common language for discussing behaviours, values and expectations.
HEALTH AND MEDICATION
If your child is sick, it is best to keep him/her at home. Please consider your child’s well-being and
the well-being of other children as the College has limited facilities and personnel to care for sick
children. If your child becomes sick at school, the parent or emergency contact as detailed on the
enrolment form, may be contacted.
If the parent or guardian contacted decides to collect the student, they will need to sign the
student out before collecting the student’s bag from the classroom. First Aid rooms are located in
the Client Services building.
The College is governed by Education Queensland regulations. Under these regulations children
may be excluded from school if they contract a number of illnesses. A list of infectious diseases
and exclusion periods is available for your information from Client Services or on the Education
Queensland website.
Medication
It is occasionally necessary for a child to have prescribed medication whilst at school.
The following procedures must be followed:
1. Notify the College in writing of a health condition requiring medication at school
2. Request the College in writing to administer prescribed medication or to assist in the
management of a health condition
3. Notify the College in writing of any requests and/or guidelines from medical practitioners
including potential side effects or adverse reactions

4. Provide the medication in the original labelled container to the nominated staff member
5. Ensure the medication is not out of date and has an original pharmacy label with the
students name, dosage and time to be taken.
6. Notify the College in writing when a change of dosage is required. This instruction must be
accompanied by a letter from a medical practitioner
7. Advise the College in writing and collect the medication when it is no longer required at
school.
Non-prescribed medication, such as analgesics (panadol) cannot be administered to students
by our staff.
Health Management Plans
Students with complex medical requirements (such as anaphylactic reactions), or more than one
condition may require individual management plans. These plans should be reviewed annually,
signed by a parent/caregiver and medical practitioner and revised when medication and/or health
status change. The following information may be included in the plan:
Telephone numbers for parent/caregiver, medical practitioner and ambulance
Requirements - medication, dosage, when and how medication is administered
Triggers, reactions, warning signs and symptoms of a possible emergency
Instructions from a medical practitioner regarding emergency first aid treatment
Limitations or guidelines for specific activities such as swimming, sport, outdoor education,
camps and physical education.
Asthma
Children who suffer from asthma may keep puffers in the classroom provided a written request is
completed by a Medical practitioner on the College Health Management Plan Form, stating the
student is to be responsible for administering his/her own medication, when he/she finds it
necessary.
School Dentist
The School Dentist can be accessed and conducts examinations and dental work on all children.
This service is free, please contact the Dental Health Van on 0412 369 3643 to access this service.
Dental staff will contact parents through the College as required.
Head Lice
The problem of head lice is continually with us, particularly in the summer months. Regular
checking (weekly) of children’s hair may help to prevent an outbreak. If you should detect
evidence of head lice two steps are necessary.
1. Immediate treatment of the entire family including
removing any eggs
2. Notification of the outbreak to the College
Suspected cases during school hours will be referred to a member
of the administration team who will contact parents.
School Nurse
The College has a School Based Health Nurse to provide support services to students and families
for secondary students. This role provides support and information in relation to physical, social,
emotional, relational and sexual health issues.
16

HOMEWORK
Homework provides students with opportunities to consolidate their classroom learning, pattern
behaviour for lifelong learning beyond the classroom and involve family members in their learning.
The setting of homework takes into account the need for students to have a balanced lifestyle. This
includes sufficient time for family, recreation, cultural pursuits and employment where
appropriate.
Please refer to our College website for current homework policies for all three sub-schools.
ICT / RESOURCE CENTRE
eLearning and the use of Information Communication Technologies are essential in the provision of
innovative and relevant education. Students will have access to a range of devices including
laptops, itouches, IPads and other digital devices to enable their learning through intranet, virtual
learning and network services. Students are required to comply with the usage policy.
Students are encouraged to borrow books from the ICT/Resource Centre but are responsible for
returning them in good condition. The ICT/Resource Centre is open at lunchtime and before and
after school. As with home readers parents will be asked to reimburse the College for the cost of
the book if it is lost or damaged beyond repair. Please ensure that damaged books are returned to
the ICT/Resource Centre staff as quickly as possible so that they can be dealt with appropriately.
Primary School:
Each child should be provided with a school library bag which can be purchased from the uniform
shop. Children may borrow books for two weeks:
Prep-Year 1, one junior fiction book and one junior non fiction book
Years 2-6, one fiction and one non-fiction book may be borrowed
Years 5 and 6 may borrow more than 2 items (when the need arises) with the permission of
Resource Centre Staff
Help Desk: A student operated help desk is situated in
in the ICT/Resource Centre to assist students with
technology concerns including email, laptop and
printing concerns
NSSCF: Our College is a NSSCF (National Secondary
Schools Computer Fund) partner, and as such we
operate a Year 10-12 take home Laptop Program. Year
9 students may also take the opportunity to take part
in this program, if devices are available.

LOST PROPERTY
We will endeavour to ensure all ‘named’ lost property will be returned to a child’s class. Please
don’t send students to school with valuable items, if these are found they will be held at Client
Services/Sub-School Office until the end of the school day for collection.
All unmarked lost property will be held in the Lost Property box at Client Services until collected.
Unclaimed uniform items at the end of the College year will be donated to the Pre-Loved Uniform
shop for re-sale.
MOBILE PHONES / ELECTRONIC DEVICES
The use of mobile phones and/or electronic devices such as voice recorders, MP3 players
and iPods are prohibited unless specified by the College for learning purposes. Students
found in possession of a mobile phone will have it confiscated. Parents will then be
required to collect the phone from Client Services or sub-school office.
If a parent requires their child in Primary School to have a mobile phone for travel to
and from school, the parent needs to notify the College in writing. The student is then
required to hand the phone into Client Services or sub–school office on arrival at the College for
safe keeping and can collect it each afternoon once dismissed from class.
The College cannot accept responsibility for the loss or damage of any mobile phone or other
electronic devices that are not stored at Client Services/Sub School Office.
NEWSLETTERS
The newsletter is issued every second Thursday via email. As a ‘high tech’ and environmentally
aware College it is only appropriate that we use the latest technology to save trees but also save
College resources. Of course, if you still wish to have a hard copy it is simply a matter of printing
it from your computer. Parents who are not connected to the internet will be able to collect a
hard copy of the newsletter from Client Services.
Parents are able to register their email address by visiting the following website:
http://www.schoolzine.com.au/secure/meridan4560/
The newsletters contain news and information which will keep parents informed about College
activities. Copies of newsletters as well as a calendar of events are located on our College website
(www.meridansc.eq.edu.au).
OUTSIDE HOURS SCHOOL CARE (OHSC)
Camp Australia are delighted to be partners with Meridan State College and offer a professional
and caring Before School, After School, Pupil Free and Vacation Care service on campus for
students from Prep to Year 7.
For enrolment details please contact their website at www.campaustralia.com.au
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PARENT-COLLEGE PARTNERSHIP
The importance of parents and teachers working together is strongly supported throughout the
College. It is generally accepted that when parents express confidence in the College and are
involved with it in some way, the children are likely to be happier and perform better in the
classroom. If children see their parents and their teachers sharing common beliefs, attitudes and
goals they feel more secure. The following are some of the ways that parents can become involved
in the College.
1. Parents and Citizens Association
This is an important component of our College community. All
parents are entitled to membership. We recommend strongly that
you become actively involved as it provides the opportunity for
you to actively support the College and help. The P & C
contributes to programs in a number of areas, including:
Curriculum resources
Sport and games equipment
Grounds and facilities development
Learning technology resources
Library resources
Income is generated through a number of fund raising events which parents are encouraged to
support. Our first Easter Fiesta was a fantastic success.
The P&C Association meets on the second Tuesday evening each month. The meetings commence
at 7.00pm and are held in the Rainforest Retreat.
2. Parent education programs
Throughout the year the College runs a number of parent information and education programs. All
parents are welcome to attend these. Keep a close watch on the newsletter for details. These
programs cover a range of topics such as how to prepare your child for school and how to help with
reading, writing and homework.
3. Classroom volunteers (BLUE CARD registered)
Many of the classes require volunteers to assist the teachers in reading, art or other curriculum
areas. Parents are encouraged to assist if possible. Parents must sign in at Client Services when
volunteering. Volunteer Blue Cards are encouraged as you may wish to work in various areas of our
College.
4. The Rainforest Café
The Rainforest Cafe generates ongoing income throughout the year and is a sub committee of the
P&C. The cafe is always looking for volunteers to assist, please approach the Cafe Convenor if you
can assist.
REPORTING
Reports to students and parents at four intervals throughout the year:
End of Term 1: PS oral interview and Jnr/Snr School Interim Report
End of Term 2: Written report with an A – E scale
Term 3: Oral interview
End of Term 4: Written report with an A – E scale

Systemic Testing Reports:
Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 National Test Reports: Term 3
Year 12 students receive an exit statement, in lieu of a formal end of semester 4
report.
Parents are always welcome to make an appointment to meet with the class teacher at any time
throughout the year to discuss their child’s progress.
RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOUR PLAN FOR STUDENTS
A copy of our current College Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students is available on our College
website. It is important that all parents read this information and agree to support the plan prior
to enrolling their child at Meridan State College.
Education Queensland is committed to provisions that
ensure all young Queenslanders have a right to and
receive a quality education. Queensland state schools
promote learning, creativity and innovation as the
platform upon which to build prosperity and quality of
life for all Queenslanders.
Meridan State College is strongly committed to
providing a quality, futures-orientated education that
enables all students to achieve their full potential.
High expectations, equity, inclusiveness and the
building of social capital are key features of schooling
at Meridan State College.
Essential to effective learning is a safe, supportive and disciplined environment that respects the
following rights.
The rights of all students to learn
The right of all teachers to teach
The rights of all to be safe.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Each year scholarships are offered to Year 7 students entering Year 8 the following year who have
demonstrated academic excellence, exemplary leadership, and community activities. Applications
and selection processes occur in Term 3 of each year.
SKATEBOARDS AND SCOOTERS
Students are NOT encouraged to use these modes of transport due to the safety issues they present
for themselves, pedestrians and motorists. Storage of these items is also limited and the safety of
these items cannot be ensured.
STUDENT DRESS CODE POLICY AND PROCEDURES
Meridan State College students take great pride in wearing their College uniforms. Under the
Education (General Provisions) Act 2006, a Principal may develop a dress code to apply when
students are attending, or representing the College. The Meridan State College Student Dress Code
provides for the following:
Standards of what is acceptable in relation to the clothing worn by the students, including
headwear and footwear;
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Standards of what is acceptable in relation to other aspects of the personal presentation of the
students.
The Student Dress Code has been endorsed by the Meridan State College Parents and Citizens
Association. The College seeks full support from parents to ensure that their child abides by every
aspect of the Student Dress Code every day. As part of the enrolment agreement parents agree to
adhere to the Student Dress Code.
The Student Dress Code is advocated by our College for the following reasons:-
It promotes an effective teaching and learning environment by eliminating the distraction of
competition in dress and fashion at the College
It promotes a safe environment for learning by enabling ready identification of students and
non-students at the College
It develops mutual respect among students through minimising visible evidence of economic,
class or social differences
Research supports the positive link between dress standards, College discipline and College
spirit
It gives all the students a sense of personal pride in their own appearance
It encourages identification with the College and fosters a sense of belonging; and
It promotes community values, expectations and perceptions of the College.
Please refer to our College website for the complete uniform policy.
STUDENT RECORDS
It is important that family and student information is kept as up to date as possible. Therefore, we
ask that if there is any change of circumstances, such as change of address, phone number, or
custody issues that the College be notified in writing as soon as possible. (Change of personal detail
forms are available from our website).
STUDENT RESOURCE SCHEME (SRS)
Parents/Carers are directly responsible for providing textbooks and other
resources for their children while attending the College. A Student Resource
Scheme enables parents to contract with the College for the temporary use
of textbooks and other equipment and to purchase consumables and
materials for their children in return for a specified fee. It is designed to
reduce the costs of supplying textbooks and other resources to parents
through bulk purchasing.
While it is voluntary to join the Student Resource Scheme participating
parents/carers have entered into an agreement to pay certain fees in
exchange for the use of textbooks and resources. There is therefore an

obligation on participants to make these payments or provide their own books and resources.
Parents are also required to purchase stationery packs for their child.
These lists are issued to parents on enrolment.
Excursions, camps or other activities may also incur a fee. Parents will
be notified of these planned activities via a letter and permission form
from the class teacher.
Payments are accepted at Finance Department located at Client Services.
Monday to Friday mornings from 8.00am – 11.30am
Method of payment
EFTPOS, credit card, cheque made out to ‘Meridan State College’,
Centrelink deduction or cash
Receipts will be issued upon payment
STUDENT SERVICES
Meridan State College provides a range of services to support a student’s learning.
To meet student individual needs these services may include:
Primary School
Guidance Officer (educational, personal and career counselling)
The Support Teacher (Literacy and Numeracy STLaN) – works with Class Teachers
Offers referrals both inside and outside the College – please see the Classroom Teacher in
the first instance
Learning Development Centre staff (LDC) to support Students with Disability
Junior/Senior Secondary School
Guidance Officer (educational, personal and career counselling)
Learning Support and Students with Disabilities staff (curriculum modification, individual
programs, small group support)
Chaplain (mentoring, student support and welfare)
Adopt-a-Cop (student support, mentoring, information sessions)
School-Based Nurse (medical support, health information)
Youth Support Coordinator (student engagement/attendance, community liaison, work
placement)
Chaplaincy Program
The Meridan State College Chaplaincy Program
provides support to all students, their families and
the wider College community. The program
compliments other support services within the school
such as the Guidance Officer, School Health Nurse
and Youth Support Co-ordinator however is not a
counselling service.
The program undertakes activities and provides
support throughout the year in a number of areas:
• Pastoral care for students, staff and parents
• Mentoring support for students in need
• Response to critical incidents
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• Programs such as Social Skilling, Personal Development, Life Skills and programs to assist
students
• Spiritual support and guidance if requested
• Participation in College programs and activities such as school camps, excursions, sporting
programs and cultural events
• Student leadership development programs
SUNSMART
It is Education Queensland policy and our Duty of Care that children wear a
hat at all times when in the sun. Two styles of hats are available as part of
our College uniform, a broad brim hat and a bucket hat, both of which have
brims of the width recommended by the Queensland Cancer Society.
Primary School
Meridan has a ‘No hat = No play’ policy, therefore students without a broad
brim or bucket hat at school will only be permitted to go to the Resource
Centre during play time at first break. At second break the students sit
near the Executive Centre and engage in quiet activities. Students are also
required to wear a sun safe swim shirt when participating in the College
swimming program and/or camps.
Junior and Senior Secondary School
All Junior and Senior School students must have a College hat to participate in physical education
and sporting activities and to access the College oval areas at break times.
TRANSFERS
If your child is to transfer to another school, please advise the College in time for the preparation
of Student Records. Academic records will remain at Meridan until requested by your child’s new
school.
USE OF SCHOOL GROUNDS AFTER HOURS AND SCHOOL VISITORS
Unless involved in pre-organised events and activities, students are discouraged from remaining in
the College grounds after the end of the school day.
During the school holidays students are not permitted to access the College grounds.
All visitors to the College must sign in as a safe and secure environment is a priority, through Client
Services or the Junior/Senior Secondary Office. Unauthorised persons will be asked to leave the
College grounds.
For the safety of students no domesticated animals or pets are allowed on College grounds.
No smoking is permitted on College grounds.

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Once again, welcome to Meridan State College. We look
forward to working in partnership with you to ensure
your child reaches his or her potential in a safe and
happy learning environment.