The NSW Department of Education has introduced a School Community Charter (PDF 1.4 MB) for all members of NSW public school communities. It has been developed in consultation with a wide range of stakeholders.

What our schools provide

NSW Public Schools work to create positive environments for students, staff and the entire school community that support student learning. We strive to ensure that every student is known, valued and cared for.

The best education happens when students, parents and schools work together. The School Community Charter aligns with the department's Strategic Plan 2018 - 2022.

We all play a part

Parents and carers play an important role in the school community. The School Community Charter informs parents and carers on how to engage with NSW public schools. Read the School Community Charter (PDF 1.4 MB) to ensure you understand how important it is to create a positive learning environment for our students.

Parents and carers can expect:

• to be welcomed into our schools to work in partnership to promote student learning
• communication from teaching staff will be timely, polite, informative and solutions focussed
• professional relationships with school staff will be based on transparency, honesty and mutual respect
• to be treated fairly. Tolerance and understanding are promoted as we respect diversity.

Communicating with our schools

Our staff will find a time to talk to you when they can give you their full attention. Please remember that while our staff are in class or dealing with other matters, they may not be available to answer your questions immediately.

Our schools and communities will make sure that written communication is appropriate, fair and easy to read. We encourage you to use email and social media appropriately to connect with your school and stay up-to-date with events in the school community.

Our guide for parents, carers and students provides useful information about the complaints process.

Respectful communication is a right

In all workplaces, people have the right to feel respected. Unacceptable and offensive behaviour has no place in our school communities.

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of students, staff and the community in our schools, steps will be taken to address unacceptable behaviour. This may include restricting contact with the school community or, in more serious cases, referral to NSW Police.

Unacceptable behaviour in our schools

Unacceptable behaviour may include but is not limited to:

• Aggressive or intimidating actions, such as violence, threatening gestures or physical proximity.
• Aggressive or intimidating language, including the use of obscenities, making sexist, racist or derogatory comments or using a rude tone.
• Treating members of the school community differently due to aspects such as their religion or disability.
• Inappropriate and time wasting communication.