In NSW public schools students are expected, to the best of their ability, to:

• show respect to other students, their teachers and school staff and community members
• follow school and class rules and follow the directions of their teachers
• strive for the highest standards in learning
• act in a courteous and respectful way that makes all members of the school community feel valued, included and supported
• resolve conflict respectfully, calmly and fairly
• meet the school’s agreed uniform policy or dress code
• attend school every day (unless legally excused)
• respect all property
• be safe and not be violent or bring weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol, vapes, e-cigarettes or tobacco into our schools
• not bully, harass, intimidate, or discriminate against anyone in our schools.

Schools take action in response to behaviour that is detrimental to self or others or to the achievement of high-quality teaching and learning

All students have a right to:

• safety at school
• access and fully participate in their learning
• be treated with respect by other students, teachers and school staff
• express their views, set goals and self-advocate.

The principal and school staff, using their professional judgment, are best placed to maintain discipline and provide safe, supportive and responsive learning environments and apply an appropriate action when students are not meeting these expectations. The department is responsible for the provision of a policy framework and resources such as legal issues bulletins, access to specialist advice, and professional learning to guide principals and their staff in exercising their professional judgment. In this context, the NSW Government and the Department of Education will back the authority and judgment of principals and school staff at the local level.

Behaviour code for students: Student actions

Promoting the inclusion, learning, wellbeing, and safety of all students in NSW public schools is a high priority for the NSW Department of Education.

We implement teaching and learning approaches across a range of settings to support the development of skills needed by students to meet our high standards for respectful, safe and engaged behaviour.

To meet the expectations set out above, students in NSW public schools, to the best of their ability, should adhere to the following principles.

Respect

• Treat one another with dignity.
• Communicate and behave courteously.
• Act and work cooperatively with other students, teachers, and school staff.
• Develop positive and respectful relationships.
• Value the interests, ability and culture of others.
• Respect the learning needs of other students.
• Dress appropriately by wearing the agreed school uniform or dress code.
• Take care with school property and the property of staff and other students.

Safety

• Model and follow school and class rules and expectations around behaviour and conduct.
• Negotiate and resolve conflict.
• Be aware of and take responsibility for how their behaviour and actions impact others.
• Care for self and others.
• Be safe and help others to make safe choices that do not hurt themselves or others.

Engagement

• Arrive at school and class on time.
• Be prepared for every lesson.
• Actively participate in learning.
• Aspire and strive to achieve the highest standards of learning.

Supporting tools, resources and related information

Policy contact