2.1. Sport Policy

Purpose

To ensure that sport at Christchurch Boys’ High School aligns with the school’s standards, values and priorities and provide opportunities for the development of high-quality relationships and experiences that enhance the character of our fine young men.

Value of Sport

Sport is an important part of life at Christchurch Boys’ High School. The school strongly encourages all students to participate in sport, regardless of ability or experience. Sport provides opportunities for boys to build friendships, develop resilience and discipline, contribute to a team, experience healthy competition, and grow in character. The school believes that participation in sport contributes positively to boys’ wellbeing, sense of belonging, and engagement with school life.

Policy Statement

1. This policy applies to all sporting activities undertaken by CBHS

2. The school will be equitable and inclusive in its offering of sporting opportunities. Because of the value of sport to the development of students at CBHS, retention in sport is a key focus.

3. The purpose of sport activities at CBHS is to:

   a) Enhance academic achievement

   b) Promote and enhance the school’s standards, values, and strategic priorities

   c) Develop CBHS’ Blue Black values of Commitment, Bravery, Honour and Service

   d) Build relationships, belonging and community.

4. The school values striving to win but rejects a win at all costs approach

5. Seasonal windows for each sport will be defined by the Head of Sport and must be adhered to.

   Participation and Team Formation

6. All students are encouraged to participate in sport at CBHS. Where a student commits to a sport within the defined seasonal window, the school will make reasonable efforts to provide a team or placement. However, participation is subject to the practical constraints of team sport and school organisation. The school is not required to:

   a) field teams where there are insufficient numbers or resources to do so safely and sustainably

   b) create or alter teams once a season is underway

   c) place students into teams after the closing date for registrations, except in exceptional circumstances at the school’s discretion

7. All team formation, grading, and placement decisions sit with the school.

8. All participants (students and adults) are expected to adhere to the school’s standards and values. The Headmaster, or his/her delegate, may prevent participation by any student or adult from involvement in sport activities if they have not or do not reflect the standards and values of the school. This may include poor attendance, punctuality, academic effort and voiding assessments

9. Sport at CBHS operates on a “no pay, no play” basis. Students must have paid, or have a documented payment arrangement in place, approved by the Headmaster or his/her delegate, before participating in any sporting activity.

10. The behaviours and actions listed below are not permitted under this policy

    a) The recruitment of students to the school based on their ability in sports activities.

    b) Behaviour that reflects a “win at all costs” attitude.

    c) Offensive or discriminatory behaviour.

    d) Any activity that operates as a separate entity to the school

    e) The removal of students from class without the express, permission of the Headmaster or his/her delegate

    Equity and Resourcing

11. School resources are allocated by the school, not by teams or parent groups.

12. No team is permitted to create a materially enhanced experience through private funding, sponsorship, or fundraising that is not approved by the Headmaster or his/her delegate and controlled by the school.

    Financial matters including Fundraising and Sponsorship

13. All funds are held by the school and allocated at the school’s discretion.

14. All fundraising and sponsorship must be approved in advance.

15. Funds raised are for the benefit of the school activity and are not refundable to individuals.

16. Sponsorship must align with the school’s standards, values and priorities and is recognised at the school’s discretion.

17. The school will not provide or continue sporting activities that are not sustainable or that compromise the school’s standards and values.

    Jurisdiction

18. All sport participants and spectators involved in CBHS sport, regardless of venue, are under the jurisdiction of the school and must comply with school policies relating to conduct, uniform, and representation.

19. Students participating in sporting activities must adhere to the school’s Code of Conduct.

Approving Authority: Board of Trustees

Date Approved: May 2026

Next review date: May 2029