Every school has its own rules to help the school run smoothly.

Just as you have rules at home, all schools have rules too. Each school has its own unique set of rules, although some rules apply at all schools.

Rules help the school run smoothly, making it a safe and happy learning place for your child.

Shared responsibility makes school rules work

You need to know the rules, so you can explain and help your child follow them. When you enrol your child at school, you agree to the rules and agree that your child will follow them.

You can find out the rules:

• from the school – perhaps from the secretary in the office
• from the school prospectus or booklet you get at enrolment
• on the school notice boards or their website
• in school newsletters as a reminder.

Some examples of school rules:

• Students must get permission to leave the school grounds during school hours.
• Respect other people and property.

Who makes the rules?

Rules belong to the school, but they work best when everyone ‘owns’ them.

• School rules are set by the board of trustees
• Parents, teachers and students all help make the rules, and update them
• The principal and school staff manage the rules on a day-to-day basis
• Your community and family have a close connection with the school’s rules because rules reflect the values of your community
• If you think a rule needs changing, talk to the principal or member of the board of trustees
• Some primary schools set their own class charter based on school rules. Others have a weekly focus on a rule with rewards for children who follow the rule
• Some secondary schools use home class or home room to highlight rules, and the Student Council helps update rules

Are there any unwritten rules?

All schools have unwritten rules or social codes as well as a set of written rules. Examples of ‘unwritten rules’ are:

• The invisible line between the junior and senior play areas.
• The way students address and greet teachers.

Social codes help create the culture or atmosphere of the school. You can get a feel for the social codes by talking often with the teachers and listening to your child’s experiences at school.

Think about the school rules when you choose a school for your child, because they tell you about the school’s philosophy or kaupapa, and the values important to the local community.