Background & Purpose
Many schools have struggled with disturbances and a lack of focus in the classroom. To address this, the government proposed a package of measures to strengthen the authority of teachers and principals.
The Decision
The parliament approved new rules that make schools mobile-free, clarify school regulations, and make it easier to use disciplinary actions against students who disrupt safety.
Does this affect you?
- Students: Must hand in their phones daily and follow stricter school rules with clear consequences for misbehavior.
- Teachers and Principals: Gain clearer legal support and more tools to maintain order and handle disruptive behavior in the classroom.
- Parents: Will receive a 'expectations document' clarifying what the school requires from both the student and the family.
In Practice
- Mobile phones must be handed in at the start of the school day and returned at the end.
- Schools will replace current conduct rules with standardized 'school rules' that include clear consequences for breaking them.
- Principals get more power to use disciplinary measures like temporary relocation or suspension.
- Schools can deny entry to students who pose a safety threat to others.
- Schools can now hire external providers to run 'emergency schools' for students who need temporary placement outside their regular school.