We expect all students at Merrin School to be respectful to each other and the school environment. 

We are concerned about the behaviour in the playground over the last few weeks.  We would like you all to talk to your children about how they should treat each other and the property around them.  If a child is unhappy with the way they are being treated by their peers, we encourage them to use their words and tell the person concerned.  We practise using this strategy in the classroom ('Stop it, I do not like it when you ....).  It is important that the child names the behaviour they do not like.   If a child is physically hurt by another child, they are to tell the duty teacher straight away.   It is important that  they  tell their classroom teacher as well.  

All our teachers are trained to use the Restorative Justice strategies. The teacher will mediate between the two students and get the victim to explain how they feel.  They also talk to both parties about what they could do next time if this behaviour happens again.

The second programme we have within the school is 'The Power of One'.  On the first day of school this year, the whole school went to the 'Elgregoe' Power of One Show.  This programme teaches the children about how they have the power to stop bullying.  They have the power to stand up for themselves and their friends.  This is an ongoing programme that we will review with the students throughout the year.

This year all our teachers on duty are wearing yellow hi-vis vests.  The vests ensure that the duty teachers are very visible for the students in the playground.  Our teacher aides wear pink hi-vis vests. Both the teachers and the teacher aides are always ready to listen to students who are having problems in the playground.  

The safety of our students is very important to us.  If your child is having problems in the playground please do not hesitate to get in contact with the classroom teachers or send me an email.  

As we all know only happy and safe students learn.

ngairesigmund@merrin.school.nz