2026 Staff Handbook

This document includes updated Roles & Responsibilities documents

Staff Induction HANDBOOK

Principal’s Welcome

SECTION 1. Acknowledgement of Country Our Story College Philosophy College Values Strategic Overview

02 03 04 05 06

SECTION 2. Staff Behaviour Protocols

08 09 10 11

Professional Conduct, Behaviour & Ethics Dress Code & Professional Presentation Staff Environment & Expectations SECTION 3. Staff Attendance & Absence Protocols Staff Processes Occupational Health & Safety School Operations Quick Reference Guide - Who to go to SECTION 4. High Expectations of Teaching at The Lakes The Lakes Classroom Standards Learning at The Lakes Curriculum Assessment & Reporting Framework Differentiation, IEPs & SSG Expectations SECTION 5. Student Engagement & Behaviour Framework Wellbeing & Inclusion Support Network

18 19

24 28 34

38 41 42 44 45 48

51 54

SECTION 6. Performance & Development Process

SECTION 7. Appendix 1: Dispositions for Teaching & Learning Appendix 2: Roles & Responsibilities Appendix 3: Event Planning Information Appendix 4: Compass User Tips & Posting Guide Appendix 5: Emergency Procedure Summary Appendix 6: College Policies

60 61 62 63 64 68

PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME

The Lakes South Morang College provides a respectful and inclusive learning environment where the values of Leadership, Respect, Teamwork and Learning enable students to reach their full potential. Our team of dedicated and nurturing staff are committed to empowering students to achieve academic, social and emotional success both inside and outside the classroom. The Lakes South Morang College is a dual campus school of 700-800 students situated in the north of Melbourne and is part of a rapidly growing corridor in the City of Whittlesea. The school is a diverse community with a representative mix of many cultures. On any given day you can see learning groups composed of students from First Nations of Australia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Pacific region, sharing different experiences and strengthening their knowledge. There are 36 languages spoken by our families and 180 students from EAL backgrounds. The Lakes South Morang College is a vibrant learning environment with an innovative approach to curriculum. School facilities are outstanding with each campus having multiple spaces that are purposely designed to allow for a range of learning experiences and choices. The learning spaces are flexible in design, allowing for adaptable internal and external learning. The school’s contemporary learning landscape includes specialist facilities in the performing and creative arts, science, technology, and physical education, together with multiple outdoor learning centers. The College continues to develop its grounds and facilities to ensure learning can, and will, occur anywhere, anytime.

Bill Panas College Principal

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The Lakes South Morang College respectfully acknowledges that beneath our classrooms, learning streets and significant River Red Gums that feature across our College’s landscape lay the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri- Willam people of the Kulin Nation. We thank the Traditional Custodians of this land and pay tribute to their ongoing connection to land, water, knowledge and culture. We are inspired by those who have inhabited, nurtured and cared for this land since the beginning, and we aspire to continue caring for this land for the rest of time. We pay our respect to ancestors, Elders, and, those emerging to lead future generations, as well as any First Nations people connected to our College community

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

OUR STORY

Nestled in the heart of South Morang, The Lakes South Morang College stands proudly, its roots deep within the soil, much like the majestic River Red Gums that grace its grounds. The land on which The Lakes stands has long been a place of teaching and learning, as it has been for the Wurundjeri people, the traditional custodians of this Country. For generations, knowledge, culture, wisdom, and nurturing of the land has been passed down to all who inhabit it. In their spirit, we too embrace our role as custodians, committed to protecting and caring for all that lives and learns on these grounds. We honour the Country of the Wurundjeri-willam people by fostering an environment of respect, custodianship, and growth, ensuring that this land continues to be a place of learning for generations to come. The ancient River Red Gums adorning our grounds have watched over the land for millennia, their towering forms symbolising resilience, growth, and the passage of time. As with every tree, our students begin their journey as tiny seeds, full of potential and promise. Just as a tree grows through different stages—from seedling to sapling, and finally to a mature tree—so too do our students as they progress from Prep through to Year 12. Each year brings new branches of knowledge, each experience adds to the richness of their character, and every challenge strengthens their core, just as the trunk of a tree becomes sturdier with age. Our College is home to many types of eucalyptus trees, reflected in our College emblem, each one unique yet connected by a shared environment.

This diversity mirrors our school community, where each student, staff member, and family brings their own individuality to our collective experience. Like the eucalyptus trees, we stand tall together, celebrating our differences while nurturing a shared commitment to growth, learning, and connection. Our emblem also features gentle waves, which represent the natural ebb and flow of learning and development. These waves symbolise the Plenty River and surrounding waterways that sustain the River Red Gums and also represent the different levels of schooling that our students navigate— starting from the early ripples of Prep, moving through the steady currents of Primary school, and eventually riding the stronger waves of Secondary education. In every wave, there are moments of calm and moments of challenge. Our students learn to navigate these with resilience and adaptability, just as the eucalyptuses bend with the wind but remain rooted in the earth. As they progress, they are supported by the entire school community— teachers, peers, and families—ensuring that no wave is too daunting to overcome. The Lakes is not just a place of learning; it is a thriving ecosystem where every individual is nurtured and where the growth of each student is as natural and inevitable as the growth of the great River Red Gums that have stood for generations. Together, we are all part of this vibrant, interconnected community, each contributing to the legacy of strength, diversity, and growth.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

COLLEGE PHILOSOPHY

The Lakes’s motto, Aspire to Inspire, along with the values of Learning, Leadership, Teamwork and Respect, underpin all that the College aims to achieve. Our College recognises the importance of partnership with parents/carers, and through this we acknowledge a shared commitment to, and a responsibility for, supporting student learning, engagement and wellbeing. The College is committed to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all members of our College community, and our teaching and learning programs promote the principles of tolerance, understanding, democracy and inclusion. VISION The Lakes’s vision is to work as a team to support student inclusion, enhance respectful relationships and engage all students; to achieve learning success, build personal confidence and aspire to inspire others as leaders and global citizens.

MISSION At The Lakes, engaging teaching and learning strategies are employed to encourage agency and build capacity while the school purpose reflects high expectations and the right to dream big.

COLLEGE HOUSES

YAYAL meaning Rain

BIIK meaning Ground

BIAL meaning Red Gum

NGAWAN meaning Sun

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

COLLEGE VALUES

LEARNING / YAGILAITH Be a learner by:

• challenging ourselves, aiming high and celebrating achievements. • seeing obstacles as opportunities and learning from mistakes. • using communication, critical thinking, creativity and collaboration to maximise learning outcomes.

TEAMWORK / MURMUK GADHABA Be a team player by: • working together to achieve common goals, committing to team spirit and school pride. • contributing to things that are bigger than ourselves. • being generous with our time and resources to support others.

LEADERSHIP / NANGGIT Be a leader by:

• striving for our personal best in learning, effort, attitude and behaviour. • believing in ourselves so we can be bold and brave with our learning. • seeking opportunities to learn, grow, take risks and try new things.

RESPECT / GAHGOOK Be respectful by:

• respecting ourselves, others and learning environments around us. • celebrating diversity and upholding equity throughout our College community.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

STRATEGIC OVERVIEW

Our College vision and improvement journey are anchored in three interwoven frameworks — FISO 2.0 , the Victorian Teaching and Learning Model (VTLM 2.0) , and our own College Strategic Plan . Together, they define how we design learning, build staff capability, and measure growth across our P–12 community. At The Lakes, we focus on the core elements of FISO 2.0 — Excellence in Teaching and Learning , Positive Climate for Learning , Professional Leadership , and Community Engagement . These guide our decision- making and resource allocation, ensuring every initiative strengthens student outcomes and wellbeing.

The VTLM 2.0 provides the how : it outlines what effective teaching and learning looks like every day in our classrooms. We use it to shape practice through the Practice Principles , Pedagogical Model , and High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS) — ensuring consistency and quality across all learning areas. Our College Strategic Plan aligns these frameworks to our local context and community. It sets measurable goals for student learning growth, wellbeing, and inclusion, and ensures every team, teacher, and leader contributes to our shared purpose:

“Empowering every learner to thrive, connect, and contribute within and beyond our College community.”

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

AT THE LAKES THIS LOOKS LIKE:

A community that welcomes every learner, every culture, and every story. We start each day with respect for our College, pride in our purpose, and belief in the collective strength of our people.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

SECTION 2. OUR PROFESSIONAL CULTURE

STAFF BEHAVIOUR PROTOCOLS In line with our commitment to high expectations and fostering a respectful and collaborative environment, staff have selected the following four core behaviour protocols for implementation: 1. Supportive and Collegial Behaviour: Consistently demonstrate kindness, support,

collaboration, and a solution-focussed mindset, contributing to a positive and professional work environment.

2. Active Leadership and Positive Participation:

Engage in respectful, positive, and collaborative discussions, leading by example to promote open communication and collective growth. 3. Prioritising Student Needs: Always prioritise the learning and well- being of our students, ensuring that their needs are at the forefront of our educational practices. 4. Embodiment of Core Values: Consistently demonstrate and uphold the core values of the College—Learning, Leadership, Teamwork, and Respect—setting a standard for others to follow. STAFF ADDRESS PROTOCOLS To support a culture of professionalism, all staff will be addressed by their surname, fostering an environment of mutual respect and maintaining a clear distinction between staff and students. This protocol encourages positive working relationships and reinforces the importance of professionalism in our school community.

RATIONALE AND PURPOSE

In alignment with our commitment to fostering a professional, high-performing, and positive learning culture, we maintainhigh expectations of staff. These expectations are designed to elevate our collective professional standing within our College, ensuring that we embody the values of Learning, Leadership, Teamwork, and Respect in all that we do. We lead together in creating a culture where staff and students thrive. The following guidelines reflect our dedication to professional standards and align with the broader values we uphold.

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT, BEHAVIOUR & ETHICS

INTEGRITY & ACCOUNTABILITY Our professional conduct is shaped by:

CONFLICT OF INTEREST Declare any personal, financial, or external interests that could influence professional judgment. Avoid participating in decisions where impartiality could be questioned. INFORMATION SHARING & PRIVACY Share student information only with those who have a legitimate educational or wellbeing need to know. Comply with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and Child Information Sharing Scheme (CISS) and Family Violence Information Sharing Scheme (FVISS) . Store records securely and respect confidentiality. REPORTING CHANNELS & ESCALATION Report breaches of conduct, child safety concerns, or unethical behaviour through appropriate channels (e.g., Child Safety Officer, Principal, or DET Conduct and Ethics Branch). Support a culture of accountability and improvement.

• Public Sector Code of Conduct (Victoria) – sets expectations for integrity, impartiality, accountability, and respect in public service. https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/code- conduct/overview • Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) Codes of Conduct and Ethics – outline the professional, ethical, and legal responsibilities of all registered teachers. https://www.vit.vic.edu.au/ maintain/conduct/codes

Together, these frameworks define how we behave, communicate, and make decisions every day.

PROFESSIONAL BOUNDARIES & RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS Maintain clear boundaries with students at all times — physical, emotional, and digital. Avoid personal relationships or communications that may be perceived as inappropriate. SOCIAL MEDIA, CONFIDENTIALITY, AND COMMUNICATION STANDARDS Use social media responsibly and professionally. Never post, share, or comment on content that could harm the reputation of the College or its people. Keep student information private — no sharing of photos, names, or identifying details without consent and leadership approval.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

DRESS CODE & PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATION

FRONT OFFICE STAFF ATTIRE A set corporate uniform will be required for Front Office staff. As the first point of contact for our visitors, it is essential that the front office team presents a professional and cohesive image, reflecting the high standards we set for ourselves and the College community. PE UNIFORMS FOR STAFF Official staff PE uniform will consist of a polo shirt and jacket branded with the College logo. This initiative is in line with our ongoing commitment to consistency.

Sun Smart: Teachers are encouraged to wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses during yard duty, setting a positive example for students.

Footwear: •

Closed-toe shoes are mandatory. No sandals or thongs due to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements. • Comfortable shoes that are practical for standing and moving around the classroom. • Clean and Well-Maintained Clothing: • Ensure clothing is in good repair—free from tears, holes, or stains. • Dress to reflect a professional outlook. • School-Appropriate Graphics: • Avoid clothing with offensive, controversial, or inappropriate graphics or slogans. Layering for Comfort: Dress in layers to accommodate varying classroom temperatures. Comfort and Mobility: Choose clothing that allows ease of movement, as teachers need to be active in the classroom and outdoors. Cultural Sensitivity: Show respect for diverse cultural backgrounds in attire and interactions.

MINIMUM STAFF DRESS CODE – PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS PROTOCOLS

At our College, we uphold the expectation that all staff adhere to a professional and corporate dress code. This protocol applies when staff are on duty and representing the College at events or activities. These standards reflect our commitment to maintaining a high-performance culture and fostering a respectful environment for all. Business Casual Attire: • Collared shirts or blouses—avoid crop tops or distressed T-shirts. • Dress slacks, skirts, or professional dress shorts (avoid sports or running shorts). • Dress jeans are acceptable but avoid blue denim, which is often seen as casual. • Jumpers, dresses, blouses and denim jackets are acceptable, but avoid hoodies or windcheaters.

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

STAFF ENVIRONMENT & COMMUNICATION EXPECTATIONS

STAFF OFFICES, KITCHENETTES & HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS Staff Offices: Assigned by leadership, staff offices must be kept secure and free of students at all times. Spaces should be set up to promote fairness and comfort for all colleagues, maintaining an educational focus in office displays. Office spaces are shared and therefore please consider your colleagues and their needs. Office doors should be locked when unattended. Lock away ALL personal items at all times. Kitchenettes : Staff must maintain cleanliness in shared spaces, including the return of cups to the dishwasher and periodic cleaning audits. Health and Safety: Only appliances tagged by Safetest are to be used on site. Adhere to all OHS guidelines regarding equipment setup, office chair fit, and the safe storage of materials. CLASSROOM ALLOCATIONS In keeping with our commitment to high expectations and a positive learning environment, classrooms will be allocated according to the timetable. This promotes ownership of learning spaces, contributing to a clean, tidy, and well- presented environment conducive to student success. Noise levels and distractions for students should be minimised, maintaining an optimal learning environment.

COMMUNICATION EXPECTATIONS The Lakes South Morang College uses a wide range of communication methods to engage students, parents/carers, staff, and the wider community. These methods support school governance, learning, wellbeing, and community connection. Governance & Leadership: School Council and Sub-Committees provide formal consultation and decision-making through elected community representatives. Digital Platforms: • College Website shares key information including policies, curriculum, enrolment details, and publications. • Compass is the primary platform for student to teacher communication, and provides assessment, reporting, attendance, calendars, and official communications to parents/carers. • Student Portal mirrors Compass for students, offering access to timetables, reports, and school information. • Email is used for regular communication between staff, parents/carers, and the Department of Education. Emails to parents/ carers through Compass is the preferred method of distributing information and attachments. • Microsoft Teams is used for video conferencing with parents/carers.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

Direct Communication: • Telephone is used for urgent, sensitive, or personal matters. • Email and Compass push notifications communicate urgent updates, linking back to Compass for details. • Publications: • Newsletter (4 a term) shares principal updates, awards, events, and community news. • Inspire (annual) showcases student learning and achievements. • Campus Handbooks provide campus information and document links. • Secondary Curriculum Handbook provide curriculum information for subject selection and future pathways. Face-to-Face & Virtual Engagement: • Learner Review Interviews occur twice yearly to discuss student progress. • Student Support Group (SSG) Meetings support students with additional needs. • School Assemblies celebrate achievements and share information with the community. Social Media & Promotion: • Facebook and Instagram are used to celebrate achievements and promote events, following privacy and confidentiality policies. • Youtube is used to publish videos produced by the College and also to promote student voice and agency through VoxPops that can be shared to students via Compass. • Marketing materials such as billboards, flyers, and posters support school promotion created in collaboration with Communication & Marketing Manager in line with the College Branding Guidelines.

Overall, the College maintains a structured, inclusive, and multi-channel communication approach to ensure timely, accessible, and effective engagement with its community. DAILY COMMUNICATION ROUTINES (COMPASS, EMAILS, NEWSLETTERS) Effective communication builds trust and strengthens the partnership between home and school. Every conversation — whether face-to-face, via Compass, email, or phone — should aim to: • Support between school and home. • Keep families informed, involved, and reassured. • Promote consistency between school and home. Newsletter & Inspire The Lakes Newsletter is published via Compass and Social Media accounts and uploaded to the school website three times per Term on Friday afternoon. Current and past issues can be found here. Staff must place their newsletter information of upcoming events in their area in the appropriate edition in the ‘Newsletter’ folder on the Teams by the provided deadline. The Lakes Inspire is an annual publication which celebrates student voice and learning. Current and past issues of Inspire can be found here. Staff who are allocated to articles in Inspire must ensure they keep to the submission requirements and timeline, this may include: • Year level representatives/team leaders will need to ensure activities (learning and events) are celebrated on social media each term • Leading teachers and domain/subject leaders may be required to submit their article during the year as part of the College Newsletter or content will be specified and required by the end of Term 3 • Inspire is published in Term 4.

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

Communication Table

Social Media (Facebook & Instagram)

Type of Information

Compass (Parents/ Carers & Students)

Newsletter

College Website

Urgent information (e.g. closures, incidents, important reminders)

✔ Push notifications and alerts

✔️ If required for follow-up or clarification

❌

✔️

Reminders or updates

Attendance information

✔️ Attendance data and notifications

❌

✔️ Reminders or updates

✔️

✔️ Policy only

Attendance Letters

Assessment & reports

✔️ Assessment results, progress reports, academic reports

❌

✔️ Reminders or updates

Timetables & calendars

✔️ School calendar, events, timetables

✔️ Newsletter & Upcoming Events page

✔️ Upcoming events summary

❌

✔️ Key highlights

General school communications

✔️

Targeted or individual

❌

✔️ Official school messages

communication

✔️ Principal / College Report

✔️ Direct communication as required through Com- pass Connect

Parent–teacher communication

✔️ Contact form built into website – will go to general school email

✔️ Direct communication as required

❌

✔️ Conference booking

✔️ Staff documentation of communication

Student communication

✔️ Via Student Portal/ newsfeed

✔️ Via student email accounts

❌

✔️ End of year Awards

Celebrating student achievements

✔️ Where relevant to students or families

✔️ Photos, achievements (photo approval req)

❌

✔️ Event and Term sport reflections

✔️ Event promotion

Community news & events

✔️

✔️ Newsletter & Upcoming Events page

Community inserts and

✔️ Event promotion

notices

✔️ School Council mes- sages

✔️ Links to policy documents

Policy, curriculum & program information

✔️ Links, resources and notifications

❌

✔️ Summarised updates

✔️

When required

✔️ Curriculum handbooks

✔️ Primary channel for students and staff

Whole-school reminders

✔️ Primary channel for parents/ carers

❌

✔️

✔️ Reminders or updates

Reminders or updates

✔️ To support information emailed to parents/carers

✔️ Promotion of programs/ events

✔️ Major school achievements

Marketing & promotion

✔️ Promotion of programs/ events

✔️ Newsletter & Upcoming Events page

✔️ Major school achievements

✔️ Promotion of programs/ events

Sensitive or personal matters

❌

✔️ Direct email or phone

See Appendix 4: Compass User Tips & Posting Guide

Link to Communication Policy

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

PHOTOGRAPHING, FILMING AND RECORDING The Photographing, Filming and Recording Students Consent Form is provided by The Lakes South Morang College at enrolment. This form applies to standard uses of images for the time your child attends the school. Standard uses are defined in the following sections. For non-standard uses, where consent is required, parents/carers will be sent a consent form for that specific situation. Schools will also notify parents/carers when implementing software that may include photos of students, giving parents/carers an opportunity to discuss any concerns or preferences. If at any time parents/carers wish to withdraw their consent, they can by contacting the College. A form will be provided to complete. Link to Photo permission policy and permission form. if the images have already been published and are in the public domain, it may not be possible to remove them • the school can still collect, use and disclose images in circumstances where consent is not required (see below for more information). Student permission status can be located on their Compass student profiles and is also visible as a flag on the class/event rolls. If a student has a camera flag on their profile then they DO NOT have permission to publish and must be excluded from photos that are used in any sort of communication. Staff who do not wish to have their photo published can inform the Marketing & Communications Manager but will also get an opportunity at the beginning of each school year to indicate if they do not give consent. Staff photo permission is an Opt- Out situation. However: •

PARENT/CARER COMMUNICATIONS – FREQUENCY, TONE, DOCUMENTATION

Daily / Weekly: • Positive, informal interactions with students, parents/carers and colleagues. • Quick Compass updates or emails acknowledging progress or clarifying expectations. Fortnightly: Targeted check-ins with parents for students requiring academic or wellbeing support. Collaboration with Learning Support, ES staff, or Year Level Leaders around student progress. At least one proactive communication with every family (e.g., positive Compass post, celebration of learning, or class newsletter). • Student Support Group meetings for students requiring them. Annually (Formal): Progress reports and semester reports via Compass. Learner Review Meetings Each Term: • Be proactive, not reactive: Contact parents/carers early — don’t wait until a concern escalates. Be specific: Use clear examples of behaviour, work, or progress. Be balanced: Pair concerns with strengths and next steps. Be respectful and professional: Assume positive intent and maintain calm tone. Be concise: Keep written communication focused and solution-oriented. Be timely: Respond to emails and Compass messages within 48 business hours where possible.

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

B. Learning Update (Mid-Term) Subject: Learning Update – [Class Name] Dear Parents and Carers,

MANAGING CONVERSATIONS Begin positively: “Thanks for taking the time — I wanted to talk about how we can best support [student name].” Focus on collaboration: “What are you seeing at home that might help us understand what’s happening?” End clearly: Summarise actions and confirm next steps (“I’ll check in again next week to update you on progress”). Keep brief Compass notes for any significant conversation — date, topic, and summary of agreed actions. PARENT/CARER COMMUNICATION TEMPLATES A. Welcome Email (Start of Term) Subject: Welcome to [Class Name/Year Level] Dear Parents and Carers, Welcome to the new school year at The Lakes South Morang College . My name is [Name], and I’ll be your child’s [Year Level/Subject] teacher this year. In our class, we’ll be focusing on [brief overview of focus – e.g., building positive relationships, developing independent learning habits, and engaging in meaningful inquiry]. If you have any questions or information that might help me better understand your child’s needs, please don’t hesitate to contact me via Compass or through the school office. I look forward to a fantastic year of learning and growth together. Warm regards, [Your Full Name] [Position / Class Name] The Lakes South Morang College

We’ve had a productive few weeks in [Class Name]. Students have been learning about [topic] and working on developing [specific skill]. Over the coming weeks, we’ll focus on [next step or upcoming unit], and students will be encouraged to [specific learning behaviour, e.g., set goals, reflect on progress, collaborate]. Thank you for your continued support at home. Regular conversations about what your child is learning make a huge difference.

Kind regards, [Your Name]

C. Behaviour/Wellbeing Communication (Positive Reinforcement) Subject: Great work from [Student Name]! Dear [Parent/Carer Name], I wanted to share some positive news about [Student Name]. They’ve shown great effort and improvement in [area] and have been a wonderful role model in class this week. We’re so proud of their progress and wanted you to know their hard work is making a real difference. Warm regards, [Your Name] D. Behaviour/Wellbeing Communication (Concern) Subject: Checking in about [Student Name] Dear [Parent/Carer Name], I’m reaching out regarding [Student Name]. We’ve noticed [brief description of behaviour/concern] and would love to work together to support them moving forward. Let’s touch base at a convenient time to discuss strategies that work both at school and at home.

Kind regards, [Your Name]

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

PARENT/CARER CONCERNS • All parents/carers who have concerns or queries are requested to make an appointment to discuss these with the Learner Coach in the first instance • An appointment should be made for a mutually convenient time, and parents/carers are discouraged from interrupting teaching time • If you would like a senior member to attend an appointment, please ask

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

WHEN AND HOW TO REFER FOR SUPPORT

Refer issues promptly when: • A concern involves child safety , wellbeing , or family conflict . • A parent/carer becomes aggressive, threatening, or refuses to follow reasonable expectations . • You’ve had multiple conversations with limited improvement or escalating stress. • A situation involves attendance, learning plans, or complex needs beyond classroom scope. • Referral pathways: • Child Safety or Wellbeing concerns: Notify the Child Safety Officer or Wellbeing Leader . • Academic or engagement issues: Discuss with Year Level Leader / Assistant Principal . • Serious behaviour incidents: Report via Compass > Incident Report and notify leadership immediately.

AT THE LAKES THIS LOOKS LIKE:

A calm, professional tone in every space — classrooms, corridors, and conversations. We hold ourselves and each other to high standards, communicate with care, and act with integrity, even when no one is watching.

We model what we want our students to become.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

SECTION 3. OPERATIONAL GUIDE

STAFF ATTENDANCE & ABSENCE PROTOCOLS

ILLNESS, LEAVE, NOTIFICATION PROCESSES • Notify the Daily Organiser on 0400-154- 253 (text) of absences as soon as possible, ideally the day before. • Short notice absences must be communicated where possible the day prior but no later than 7:00am on the day of the absence. • It is the responsibility of all staff to check their emails for the Daily Bulletin by 8:50 am each morning so that we are ready and can get prepared before school begins for the day. • Ensure that all class work is posted on Compass for students’ access. • Collaborate with the Daily Organiser and Wellbeing team to ensure critical information about student needs is available for relief teachers, including: Behaviour support plans, and any other documents (e.g.: seating plans) that will give insight into your students. • Accommodations for individual students. • • Suggestions on how to communicate effectively with some of our challenging students. • Peer issues that may need addressing • Key people to contact for assistance. If you need to leave school unexpectedly, please follow these steps: • Speak with your on-campus Principal for approval. • Advise the Daily Organiser • Sign out using the TimeCard function on

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

Compass. This is mandatory so that you are protected by Work Cover. • In all cases, your absence must be lodged on eduPay within 3 days of the absence occurring. PERSONAL LEAVE Personal leave is to be entered on eduPay within 10 working days of your return to work. If you do not enter your leave within this time frame, your leave will be generated as ‘Sick Unpaid with/without certificate’. EduPay does not issue reminders.

Where the absence occurs on working days both preceding and following the public holiday, unpaid personal leave will be granted for the entire period of absence, including the public holiday Required documentation • In the case of an application for personal leave (illness or injury) a required document is a medical certificate. • If it is not reasonably practicable to provide a medical certificate, a statutory declaration may be acceptable. • The judgement as to whether as to whether a Statutory Declaration is acceptable is a matter for decision by the Principal having regard to the circumstances of the individual case. STAFF PROCESSES DUTY OF CARE & SUPERVISION “Duty of care” is a legal obligation that requires schools to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk of reasonably foreseeable harm, which can include personal injury (physical or psychological) or damage to property. The reasonable steps that our College may decide to take in response to a potential risk or hazard will depend on the circumstances of the risk. Our College has developed policies and procedures to manage common risks in the school environment, including: • Yard duty and Supervision • Bullying Prevention • Camps and Excursions • First Aid • Tree Maintenance • Grounds Maintenance • Personal Property

Please ensure you upload and attach your medical certificates to your entry on eduPay.

Example details of Personal Leave: •

Sick Leave with medical certificate Sick Leave without medical certificate Carer’s Leave with medical certificate

• •

• Carer’s Leave without medical certificate

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS A medical certificate must be provided for any absences which occur immediately before and/or after a public holiday. Where the medical certificate is not provided the following will apply. Where the absence is on a working day or consecutive working days preceding or following a public holiday (but not both), unpaid personal leave will be granted for working days absent and the person is entitled to be paid for the public holiday.

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

•

Child Safe Standards

• Students needing to leave early must be signed out at the office • All late arrivals and early leavers are marked in Compass by the office staff only

• External Providers (including RTOS delivering VET/ VCAL) • Emergency Management • Volunteers • Visitors • Working with Children and Suitability Checks • Mandatory Reporting • Occupational Health and Safety School staff, parents, carers and students are encouraged to speak to the Principal to raise any concerns about risks or hazards at our school, or our duty of care obligations. http://www.thelakes.edu.au/ uploads/8/3/9/0/83901006/duty_of_care_policy_2022. pdf ROLL MARKING The College employs an electronic roll marking system - Compass. Teachers are to ensure their rolls are marked via electronic roll system at the beginning of class sessions 1 (by 9.10 am) and 5 (by 2.30 pm) (Primary), or within the first 10 minutes of each session (Secondary). It is imperative that the teachers keep accurate rolls to monitor student attendance and code student absence notes. Please make yourself aware of the attendance school procedures, policy and The Lakes attendance trigger points flowchart. (refer to page 56). • A text message is generated from Compass and sent to the primary parent/carer for any student that is marked as ‘500 – Unexplained Absence’ in the system at 10:00 am every morning • Students arriving late to school must be signed in at the office and collect a late pass to be handed to their teacher

MEETING SCHEDULES & EXPECTATIONS

Meeting schedules are published at the end of each Term for the following Term on Compass. This allows staff to plan ahead, balance professional and personal commitments, and contribute meaningfully to our shared goals. Attendance at scheduled meetings is an expectation of all staff and reflects our professional accountability to one another. HOURS OF ATTENDANCE Staff are expected to be onsite during the hours outlined below, in accordance with the Victorian Government Schools Agreement (VGSA) and local arrangements:

Day

Hours

Total Time

Monday

8:50 am – 4:20 pm 7 hours 30 minutes

Tuesday 8:50 am – 4:50 pm 8 hours 00 minutes Wednesday 8:50 am – 4:50 pm 8 hours 00 minutes Thursday 8:50 am – 4:20 pm 7 hours 30 minutes Friday 8:50 am – 3:50 pm 7 hours 00 minutes Total: 38 hours per week These times include scheduled duties, meetings, planning, collaboration, and professional learning. Staff are encouraged to use time onsite productively — preparing lessons, moderating assessments, meeting with colleagues, and engaging in student support or school activities.

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

ONSITE ATTENDANCE EXPECTATIONS A consistent onsite presence ensures strong collaboration, continuity of learning, and a safe, well-supervised environment for all students. At The Lakes, professionalism includes arriving on time, being present and productive throughout the day, and respecting each other’s right to work, focus, and contribute without disruption. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES • Various social activities are enjoyed throughout the year • The staff association helps to subsidise the cost of these events, as well as arranging member gifts on special occasions • Please pay your staff association fees of $40/year at the general office • Check your email for information regarding staff events KEYS • All teachers have a key which will open all internal locks and external gates • The Principal, Assistant Principals, Facilities Manager, and Business Manager have master keys to all locks and padlocks within the school • If you need access to the school outside of school hours be aware that the security alarms will be set and entry to any building will cause an alarm to be relayed to the DET security • See principal for access information NAME BADGE • Name badges are provided at the beginning of the school year • The staff name badge must be worn when interacting with members of the public, e.g. at reception, information nights, etc.

SCHOOL COUNCIL •

School Council meets twice a term (8 times per year), usually on the third Tuesday of each month • Staff is represented on the School Council, and these staff members can be approached if you wish to raise items at School Council • Sub-committee representation and meeting times will be determined by the members of the School Council • A precis of the School Council minutes is published in the newsletter ADMINISTRATION & PLANNING TIME • Administration and planning time is set our for staff in accordance with the current agreement. • Full-time staff are allocated 30 hours of teaching and preparation with 8 hours tagged for other responsibilities. • Primary staff have 42 sessions of face-to-face teaching per fortnight, while Secondary staff have 38 hours per fortnight. • This allocated face-to-face time includes extras (class covers). PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS Arrive punctually and be ready to begin the day’s work by 8:50 am. Remain onsite during your scheduled hours unless approved otherwise. Use work time productively , maintaining focus on planning, teaching, collaboration, and reflection. Respect others’ focus and workspace — keep shared

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College spaces professional and minimise interruptions. Engage positively in meetings, supervision, and student interactions throughout the day. Support coverage and flexibility where required to meet operational or student needs.

SIGN-IN AND SIGN-OUT To ensure accurate records for duty of care ,

teachers and individual receipts returned to the teachers to issue to the student • On Secondary, this process varies in that no money is to be handed to, or collected by, teaching staff. Students will place their sealed envelope in the drop box at the front office. Individual receipts will be issued to all students • All monies must be handed to the office staff and not left unattended in or on any desk PAY • Pay advice slips can be accessed on eduPay at https://edupay.eduweb.vic.gov.au/ • If you have any queries regarding your pay, please see the Business Manager • Any change to your pay or personnel details can be made online or be completing the appropriate paperwork: • Change of address • Change of name • HECS/HELP contributions • Direct Banking details – your pay can be deposited into up to 3 bank accounts

emergency management , and Workplace Health & Safety , staff must sign = out when leaving the site during their regular school hours (e.g. excursions, appointments, offsite PD) via Compass TimeCard, and sign back in upon return. ASSEMBLIES • Assemblies on the Primary Campus will be conducted every fortnight on a Monday morning in the Gym at 9:15am for approximately 30 minutes • Each class has a designated place to sit and parents are invited to attend • Assemblies on the Secondary Campus occur once a term with year level assemblies occurring weekly • These are conducted by the Student Leaders and are supported by the Campus Principal or Leadership team OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE (OSHC) • Camp Australia provides before and after school care programs on the Primary Campus • Hours of operation are 6:30 am – 8:45 am and 3:15 pm – 6:30 pm on school days COLLECTING MONIES • Most costs will be paid via Compass and therefore money will not change hands, however: • On Primary, any monies handed in by students must be in a sealed envelope and given directly to the teacher. The students name, home group, dollar amount, and reason are to be written on the cash sheet and forwarded to the office staff by 10:00 am. Permission forms will be returned to the

• •

Superannuation choice of fund

PAYG Withholding tax

STAFF ANNUAL LEAVE LOADING • Employees are entitled to annual leave loading as at 1st December of each year • This allowance is equivalent to 17½% of four weeks of the total salary • The allowance is calculated on the amount of service for the period 1st December to 30th November • Payment is automatically paid to eligible employees in December each year • Part-time employees are paid pro-rata based on their time fraction

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

STAFF ANNUAL PROGRESSION • An employee’s remuneration will be progressed one subdivision effective from 1st May of each year and concluding on 30th April in the following year, up to the maximum remuneration level for his or her position • Progression is not automatic and is based on the annual assessment of the employee’s performance and may include the use of relevant data

Family Leave

• For children born or adopted on or after 1st July 2016, Parental Leave Pay entitlements paid under the CPPLS will be reduced where a claimant is also entitled to employer provided Primary Carer Pay (paid maternity leave) • The government will pay the difference between Primary Carer Pay and Parental Leave Pay where the Primary Carer Pay is less than the individual’s Parental Leave Pay entitlement Effective from 1st Jan 2013, Dad and Partner Pay became available to eligible fathers and partners under a new payment provision of the CPPLS • The information available from the Commonwealth Department of Human Services, which administers the payment, indicates that only employees on unpaid leave are eligible for Dad and Partner Pay • The introduction of Dad and Partner Pay does not introduce a new leave entitlement and existing leave arrangements continue to apply • Dad & Partner Pay • That is, an employee seeking to receive Dad and Partner Pay may choose to commence unpaid leave as part of a parental absence or make application for a period of leave without pay in accordance with existing leave policy • For children born or adopted after 1st July 2023, Dad and Partner Pay has been replaced by Parental Leave Pay under the CPPLS • The government will pay the difference between Primary Carer Pay and Parental Leave Pay where the Primary Carer Pay is less than the individual’s Parental Leave Pay entitlement

STAFF LEAVE ENTITLEMENTS

Long Service •

A staff member is entitled to the equivalent of three calendar months after ten years of full- time eligible service, and one and a half calendar months for each five years of full-time eligible service thereafter • A staff member may however access entitlement on a pro-rata basis after seven years of eligible service • All Long Service Leave applications must be made in writing to the Principal by the end of Term 3 for the following year • Part-time staff members accrue leave on the same basis as full-time staff members, but receive a pro-rata payment during the period of leave Commonwealth Paid Parental Leave Scheme • The Paid Parental Leave Scheme (CPPLS) is an entitlement for working parents of children born or adopted after 1st Jan. 2011 • To receive the full 18 weeks of Parental Leave Pay, your nominated start date needs to be within 34 weeks of the birth or adoption of your child • To be eligible for this payment, the staff member is required to be on Maternity Leave or unpaid

2026 Staff Handbook The Lakes South Morang College

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY

SAFETY CULTURE & STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES OHS at The Lakes is about protecting the wellbeing of every person on site — staff, students, contractors, and visitors. Our goal is simple: to create and maintain a safe, healthy, and supportive environment where teaching and learning can thrive. OHS in schools means: • Identifying and managing risks before they cause harm. • Promoting safe work practices in classrooms, playgrounds, and offices. • Ensuring emergency procedures are known, rehearsed, and effective. • Providing training and equipment that support safe work. • Reporting and responding promptly to hazards, incidents, and near misses. • Complying with the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic) and DET policies. • Everyone at The Lakes shares responsibility for safety — it’s a collective effort to look out for one another and ensure every person goes home safe and well each day. FIRST AID First aid is the responsibility of all staff. When on yard duty, a bum bag containing basic first aid items, first aid passes and emergency cards is provided to deal with minor cases in the schoolyard. Students are not to enter the first aid room without a First Aid Pass from the teacher on yard duty. A basic First Aid Kit will be supplied to classrooms

or Year Level offices at the start of the year. If you require it to be replenished please see the office . A First Aid pass is to be sent with every child when attending First Aid. Please only send students to the First Aid room if the injury is serious and cannot be dealt with within the classroom or yard. Instances that can be dealt with within the classroom would be; minor cuts and grazes, feeling tired etc. For students displaying flu like symptoms please contact the office for advice and support. All bumps to heads will need to be documented, a phone call made to parents/carers. It is up to the rostered first aid staff member to ensure parents/ carers are informed in this situation. All information relating to the visit will be recorded on Compass. Important : Please familiarise yourself with the College’s Anaphylaxis/Asthma policies and all students who have a Medical Alert via checking on your students profiles on Compass.

Anaphylaxis Policy Asthma Policy

MEDICATION •

If students must take medication at school, a signed note from a parent must accompany the medication, specifying the time of administration and the dose to be taken • The medication must be sent to the office for storage • Students suffering from asthma are able to carry their own asthma puffers • A list of children with special medical needs is displayed in the staffroom and sick bay • Epipens may be carried by the student

The Lakes South Morang College 2026 Staff Handbook

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