Investigation Flow Chart 1 – Text Description

The process begins with the principal considering whether a student may need to be stood down or suspended, while ensuring that decisions follow principles of natural justice by acting fairly and reasonably.

Initial Steps

1. The school first provides guidance and counselling to the student, keeps parents informed, and keeps records, while applying behaviour management strategies.
2. If issues persist, the student is referred to the principal for disciplinary action.
3. The principal checks whether:
   • All avenues of additional support have been exhausted
   • Parents have been involved in addressing the issues
   • External agencies have been consulted if needed

Assessing Seriousness

1. The principal determines whether the matter is serious enough to consider stand-down or suspension (with reference to Rule 8 in the Legislative Guide).

Key Decision Points

If the matter is serious:

• The principal considers whether there is:
  • Gross misconduct or continual disobedience, or
  • Behaviour that sets a harmful or dangerous example, or
  • A likelihood of serious harm to the student or others if no action is taken
• If any of these conditions are met, the school may proceed with stand-down or suspension, ensuring records are kept.

If the matter is not serious:

• The school does not stand down or suspend.
• Instead:
  • Parents are informed of issues affecting progress or relationships
  • The student receives appropriate counselling and guidance
  • Records are maintained

After Decision to Stand Down or Suspend

If stand-down or suspension is being considered:

1. Confirm whether parents have been informed; if not, inform them and record this.
2. Ensure the student has received guidance and counselling; if not, provide it.
3. Consider any special factors, such as the student’s health or personal circumstances.

Final Outcome

• If an alternative solution is appropriate, the school uses that alternative (with records kept).
• If no suitable alternative exists:
  • Proceed with either:
    • Stand-down (refer to Flow Chart 2), or
    • Suspension (refer to Flow Chart 3).