Clear expectations for everyone.

Purpose

To outline the criteria for admitting students to our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

We limit each session to 16 paying students, aged 5-16, totalling 32 students per term. Admission is restricted to ensure diversity and safety.

Guidelines

• Admission is restricted to 8 children aged 5-10 and 8 children aged 11-16 per session.
• Children must be capable of independent outdoor exploration and risk assessment.
• Children with physical or intellectual disabilities or a diagnosis that means they require additional support, will only be able to attend if adequate teacher aid or parent support is provided by the family.

Implementation

Admission decisions will be made based on the outlined criteria and capacity restrictions. There will be a three-week trial period for both parties to ascertain if the child and Ōhinemahuta Nature School are compatible.

Review

This policy will be periodically reviewed to ensure compliance with safety standards and programme objectives. Adjustments will be made as necessary to meet the needs of our Nature School community.

Purpose

Our Child Protection Policy outlines our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children participating in Ōhinemahuta Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

Our Nature School programme prioritises the protection of children from harm or abuse of any kind. We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment where children can learn, explore, and develop without risk.

Key Principles

• Safeguarding: We are dedicated to preventing and protecting children from all forms of abuse, neglect, and harm.
• Vigilance: We maintain vigilance to identify and respond promptly to any safeguarding concerns.
• Awareness: We provide resources to staff, volunteers, and parents to raise awareness of child protection issues.
• Reporting: Any concerns or suspicions of abuse or neglect will be reported to the appropriate authorities (eg. Oranga Tamariki and/or NZ Police) promptly.

Implementation

• All staff, volunteers, and parent volunteers are required to undergo background checks.
• Clear reporting procedures are in place, for addressing safeguarding concerns.
• Regular reviews of this policy ensure alignment with best practices and legal requirements.

Review

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure compliance with current regulations, and to address any emerging child protection issues or concerns. Adjustments will be made as needed to maintain the safety and well-being of all children in our care.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that children attending Ōhinemahuta Nature School programme are appropriately dressed for various weather conditions, including wet weather, to ensure their comfort and safety during outdoor activities.

Policy Statement

Our Nature School programme prioritises the well-being of children by providing guidelines for appropriate clothing based on weather conditions, including wet weather. We aim to promote outdoor exploration and learning while ensuring that children are adequately prepared for varying temperatures and weather conditions, including rain.

Clothing Guidelines

• Temperature Above 25°C: Children should wear shorts/skirt and a singlet top. Sunhat and shoes/sandals are required. Swimwear is permitted.
• Temperature Between 20°C and 25°C: Children should wear shorts/skirt and a t-shirt/singlet top. Sunhat and shoes/sandals are required. Swimwear is permitted.
• Temperature Between 10°C and 20°C: Children should wear long trousers or shorts and a short or long-sleeved top. A jersey/sweater, socks, and shoes are required.
• Temperature Between 5°C and 10°C: Children should wear long trousers, a long-sleeved top, and a jersey/sweater. An insulated jacket, beanie, woollen gloves, socks, and boots are required.
• Temperature Between 0°C and 5°C: Children should wear thermal pants and a thermal top beneath their long trousers, long-sleeved top, and jersey/sweater. An insulated jacket, beanie, waterproof gloves, scarf, raincoat, and insulated boots are required.

Wet Weather Conditions

In addition to the clothing guidelines above, children should also be dressed in waterproof clothing to protect against rain and wet conditions. Waterproof jackets, pants, and boots are recommended to keep children dry and comfortable during wet weather.

Modesty and Clothing Choice

While we appreciate that young children often enjoy the freedom of nudity, while Ōhinemahuta Nature School is in session we ask that all enrolled tamariki (5 years +) wear at least underwear at all times.

Implementation

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that children are dressed appropriately according to the weather conditions outlined in this policy, including wet weather conditions. Nature School staff will monitor and assist children to ensure they are adequately prepared for activities, especially during wet weather.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with changing weather patterns and to address any feedback from parents, staff, or participants. Adjustments will be made as needed to ensure the continued effectiveness of this clothing policy, particularly in addressing wet weather conditions.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide a clear process for addressing and resolving complaints related to our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

We are committed to addressing complaints in a fair, transparent, and timely manner to ensure the well-being of our participants and maintain the integrity of our programme. All complaints will be taken seriously and handled with sensitivity and professionalism.

Procedure

• Complaint Submission: Complaints should be submitted in writing via email or letter to Ōhinemahuta Nature School coordinator or designated staff member.
• Acknowledgment: Upon receipt of a complaint, we will acknowledge receipt within 1–2 weeks.
• Investigation: The complaint will be investigated promptly and thoroughly to gather relevant information and perspectives.
• Resolution: We will work to resolve the complaint in a fair, and satisfactory manner, taking appropriate actions if necessary.
• Communication: We will provide updates, to the complainant throughout the process and communicate the outcome once resolved.
• Feedback: We welcome feedback on our complaints process, to continually improve our programme.

Confidentiality

All complaints will be handled with strict confidentiality, and information will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the investigation and resolution of the complaint.

Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure effectiveness and alignment with best practices.

Feedback from complainants will be considered in the review process.

Purpose

Our policy ensures the confidentiality and privacy of participants in our Nature School programme, including their images and personal information.

Policy Statement

We respect the privacy of participants and their families and are committed to safeguarding their confidentiality.

Key Procedures

Use of Images

• During enrolment, parents and children are asked for permission to use their child's image for online promotion of the Nature School.
• Parents and children have the option to opt out of this practice.

Social Media

• Staff and participants are encouraged to use social media responsibly and respectfully.
• Confidential information or images of participants will not be shared on public platforms without consent.

Privacy

• Personal information collected during enrolment is kept confidential and used only for programme-related purposes.

Implementation

• Staff and volunteers are trained on confidentiality and privacy protocols.
• Parents are informed of confidentiality and privacy practices during enrolment.

Review

• This policy is reviewed annually to ensure compliance with privacy laws and to address any feedback or updates based on experience or changing regulations.

At Ōhinemahuta Nature School, we encourage children to fully immerse themselves in the natural environment and foster connections, with the outdoors. To support this philosophy, we strongly advise against bringing electronic devices onto the premises. However, we acknowledge that in certain circumstances, individuals may feel more comfortable having a device accessible for emergencies. Therefore, we tolerate the discreet storage of electronic devices kept in backpacks. These devices must remain out of sight and inaccessible for general use during nature school activities, unless in the case of a true emergency.

It's important to note that the area surrounding Ōhinemahuta Nature School does not have mobile reception, reducing the necessity for electronic devices. Additionally, teachers may utilise electronic devices solely for recording photos or videos of children and activities during nature school sessions. This practice ensures that any electronic device usage aligns with our educational objectives and respects the privacy and safety of all participants.

Parent Information Pack · July 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to articulate our commitment to environmental stewardship and kaitiakitanga within our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

Our Nature School programme recognises the importance of environmental responsibility and strives to promote sustainable practices that contribute to the well-being of our planet. We believe in fostering a deep connection to nature and teaching children the value of preserving and protecting our natural environment.

Environmental Commitment

• We integrate environmental education into our curriculum, teaching children about ecological systems, biodiversity, and the importance of conservation.
• Our programme promotes the use of natural and sustainable materials, minimising reliance on modern materials like plastics and synthetic fabrics.
• We strive to reduce waste through practices such as composting organic materials and recycling whenever possible.
• We prioritise energy efficiency and conservation in our operations, aiming to minimise our carbon footprint.
• We engage in conservation initiatives, such as habitat restoration and tree planting, to contribute positively to local ecosystems.

Implementation

To implement this policy, we will

• Educate staff, volunteers, children, and families on the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
• Monitor and evaluate our environmental impact regularly, seeking opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with local organisations and communities to support environmental initiatives and promote sustainability.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to assess its effectiveness and relevance to our Nature School programme. Adjustments will be made, as needed to ensure continued alignment with our environmental values and goals.

By adhering to this Environmental Policy, we aim to instil a sense of environmental responsibility in children and contribute to a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Purpose

Our Extreme Weather Policy ensures the safety of participants in our Nature School programme during emergencies such as floods or fire risks.

Policy Statement

In the event of extreme weather conditions, including flood or fire risks, our priority is the safety and well-being of all participants.

Key Procedures

Flood Risk

• If there is a high flood risk due to river height/flow and predicted rainfall, the Nature School location may change.
• Families will be promptly notified of any location changes.
• Group transport (such as the shuttle and teachers vehicles) may be arranged, to transport everyone to the new location if needed.
• In exceptional cases, such as region-wide flooding or road closures, Ōhinemahuta Nature School may need to close. While such events are estimated to occur only once every two years, the safety of our students and staff is paramount. In these rare circumstances, parents will receive a refund for cancelled sessions.

Forest Fire Risk

• In the event of a nearby forest fire risk, safety measures will be implemented.
• Ōhinemahuta Nature School may be closed to ensure the safety of participants.

Implementation

• Staff regularly monitor weather forecasts and assess risks.
• Families are informed of extreme weather protocols and procedures.

Review

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure compliance with safety standards and to address any feedback or updates based on experience or changing conditions.

Parent Information Pack · July 2025

Purpose

To ensure the safety of all participants during a fire or earthquake at Ōhinemahuta Nature School.

Fire Policy

Prevention and Preparedness

• Only have fires in the appropriate seasons (Terms 2 & 3)
• Conduct regular fire risk assessments of our outdoor cooking fire - proximity to structures and trees.
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby and accessible, whenever the fire is being used.
• Conduct fire drills twice a year.
• Maintain students’ emergency contact lists and have them readily accessible.

In Case of Fire

• Raise the alarm and evacuate to the assembly point at the driveway entrance to the school.
• Staff may use extinguishers if it is safe to do so.
• Call 111 and provide location details.
• Take a headcount at the assembly point.
• Wait for clearance from emergency services.

Earthquake Policy

Prevention and Preparedness

• Conduct earthquake drills twice a year.
• Maintain emergency contact lists.

In Case of Earthquake

• Drop, Cover, and Hold until shaking stops.
• Evacuate to the assembly point at the driveway entrance to the school if necessary.
• Take a headcount and check for injuries.
• Call 111 if there are injuries or hazards.
• Administer first aid and wait for further instructions.

Implementation

• Provide regular training and conduct drills for staff.
• Communicate safety procedures to parents.

Review

Review annually for updates and improvements.

Purpose

Our First Aid Policy ensures the safety and well-being of participants in our Nature School programme by outlining procedures for responding to medical emergencies, considering the natural environment's limited resources.

Policy Statement

All Ōhinemahuta Nature School staff are required to hold a current first aid certificate, to provide immediate assistance in case of injuries or medical emergencies. Due to the natural environment with minimal resources, only basic field first aid will be possible.

Key Procedures

• Staff Qualifications: All teachers must hold current first aid certificates before participating in Nature School activities.
• Emergency Response: In the event of an injury, or medical emergency, trained staff will provide immediate first aid. Emergency services will be contacted if necessary.
• First Aid Kits: First aid kits are accessible during all Ōhinemahuta Nature School activities and outings. Kits are regularly checked and replenished to ensure they are fully stocked.

Implementation

Staff regularly review and practice first aid procedures.

Parents and participants are informed of our first-aid protocols and procedures.

Review

This policy is reviewed annually to ensure compliance with current safety standards and practices.

Feedback from staff and participants is considered to make necessary updates and improvements to our first aid protocols.

Purpose

This policy ensures the provision of nutritious food and drink options for participants in our Nature School programme, taking into consideration health, sustainability, and community sharing.

Policy Statement

We prioritise nutrient-dense food options and encourage responsible consumption practices among participants. Additionally, we promote the exploration of edible wild plants for educational purposes.

Key Procedures

• Allergies & Sensitivities: Parents are asked to disclose any food allergies or sensitivities during enrolment. Special dietary needs are accommodated, and parents are encouraged to provide alternatives if necessary.
• Food Choices: We discourage sugary beverages and 'junk' food items in favour of nutrient-dense options. However, occasional shared items such as cakes for birthdays or baked goods inspired by children to share with the group are welcomed. Shared lunches in Terms 2 and 3 encourage community sharing and cooking over the fire. Children are expected to bring their packed lunches and snacks to sustain them throughout the session. The only exception to this is in Terms 2 & 3 if they choose to participate in the shared lunch in the potjie.
• Water & Containers: Drinking water is provided, and children must bring their own reusable bottle or cup. Participants are encouraged to minimise waste by avoiding single-use packaging and taking rubbish home. Thermoses are permitted, for keeping items cool or warming up food.
• Eating Schedule: Children have the freedom to eat when they choose, in addition to the shared lunch in Terms two and three. Parents should ensure children have sufficient snacks to sustain them throughout the day.

Implementation

Staff will promote and monitor compliance with the food and drink policy.

Parents will be informed and encouraged to support the guidelines outlined in this policy.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with health, safety, and environmental standards, as well as to address any feedback or updates based on experience or changing regulations.

Purpose

This policy outlines the guiding Forest School Ethos that shapes our programme.

Policy Statement

Our Nature School programme is driven by a set of core principles and values, known as the Forest

School Ethos. These principles underpin all aspects of our programme

• Nature Connection: Nature is fundamental to our programme, promoting children's physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
• Child-Led Learning: Children are natural learners who thrive when given space to explore their own interests and passions.
• Play-Based Learning: Play is the primary mode of learning, with children engaging meaningfully in activities that inspire them.
• Risk-Taking: Children are encouraged to take calculated risks in a safe and supportive environment to foster growth and development.
• Inclusion and Diversity: We create an inclusive community that embraces and values diversity in all forms.
• Environmental Stewardship: Our programme teaches environmental stewardship and models sustainable practices.

Implementation

To implement this policy, we will

• Ensure all staff, volunteers, and parents understand and embody the Forest School Ethos.
• Integrate the Forest School Ethos into curriculum planning and daily activities.
• Regularly review practices and policies to align with the Forest School Ethos.
• Encourage feedback and suggestions for improving our adherence to the Forest School Ethos.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to maintain relevance and alignment with our program.

Key Emphases

• Nature Connection: Fostering a deep and respectful connection to nature through regular interactions.
• Play-Based Learning: Prioritising child-led exploration and discovery as the primary mode of learning.
• Holistic Development: Supporting physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth in an integrated manner.
• Community Building: Cultivating a sense of belonging among all stakeholders.
• Environmental Stewardship: Promoting responsible and sustainable practices for conservation.
• Inclusivity: Creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment that values individual differences and promotes social equity.
• Reflection and Continuous Improvement: Engaging in regular reflection and evaluation to enhance the effectiveness of our nature school programme.

We prioritise the use of natural and sustainable materials, such as wood, wool, and cotton, to align with our values and promote environmental awareness, creativity, and resourcefulness within our community.

For safety reasons, personal knives or sharp tools should not be brought from home. All necessary tools will be provided by Ōhinemahuta Nature School.

Tool Access Procedure

To ensure safe and responsible use, we have a clear system in place

• Children must ask permission from an adult before accessing any sharp tools.
• A sign-in/sign-out whiteboard will be used to record tool use. Children must write their name when taking a tool and rub it out upon return.
• Tools must be returned immediately after use.

Tool Use Guidelines

At the beginning of each term, all tamariki will receive a rundown during the morning hui outlining expectations for safe tool use. These include:

• Asking an adult for permission before use
• Using the sign-in/sign-out board
• Demonstrating safe and respectful handling of tools.

All staff will be briefed on which children require closer supervision based on shared observed behaviour, experience, and demonstrated maturity. This is not a fixed category — we continually assess children through informal observation, based on their readiness and responsiveness to guidance.

Children will be monitored and guided on key safety aspects, including

• Tool handling experience
• Safe technique and posture
• Bodily and spatial awareness
• Consideration of others nearby
• Willingness to share and follow instructions
• Responsibility in returning tools

If a child is not demonstrating safe or respectful use, they may be asked to stop for the day and try again the following week. Supervision levels may be adjusted at any time based on behaviour. If no adult is available to supervise, or if it is an inappropriate time (e.g. during hui, eating, or transitions), tool use will be deferred.

This approach allows children to develop confidence and capability, while prioritising safety and responsibility for themselves and others.

Purpose

To set guidelines for the late collection of children from our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

Parents or guardians must pick up children promptly at the designated end time of the session. A late fee will be applied for each 15-minute interval after the scheduled pick-up time to compensate staff for extended supervision. If a parent is 20 minutes late, they will be contacted via a phone call, email, and/or text message. If there is no response, the emergency contact will be notified after 30 minutes. If the parent and the secondary emergency contact have not responded after 40 minutes, they will be contacted again. If there is still no response after 45 minutes, the backup emergency contact will be called.

Implementation

Parents will be informed of this policy during enrolment and reminded regularly of the importance of punctuality.

Review

This policy will be periodically reviewed to assess its effectiveness and make adjustments as needed to maintain programme efficiency and child well-being.

Purpose

To ensure the safety of all participants in the event of a potential threat, such as a rogue hunter or dangerous individual, in the vicinity of Ōhinemahuta Nature School.

Policy Statement

Ōhinemahuta Nature School is dedicated to protecting the safety of children, staff, and visitors. This policy outlines lockdown procedures to handle potential threats effectively.

Procedures

Prevention and Preparedness

• Establish a predetermined signal for lockdown situations, agreed upon by both teachers and students, eg. Walkie-talkie code, flag signal, code phrase, sign language etc.
• Keep emergency contact lists up to date.

In Case of Lockdown

• Alert: Immediately alert all staff of the potential threat using the predetermined signal.
• Secure Locations: Depending on the threat's location, guide children and staff to the safest nearby area (e.g., dense bush, low ground, natural barriers).
• Lock Down: Secure the chosen area as much as possible. Remain silent and low to the ground.
• Communication: Inform authorities (call 111) and provide details of the threat and location.
• Headcount: Ensure all children and staff are accounted for.
• Stay Hidden: Remain in place until authorities give the all-clear.

Implementation

• Training: All staff will receive training on lockdown procedures.
• Drills: Conduct regular drills to ensure preparedness.
• Communication: Inform parents about lockdown procedures and their importance.

Review

Review this policy annually for effectiveness and update based on feedback from staff, parents, and emergency services.

Purpose

To establish guidelines for responding to a lost or missing child during our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

If a child is believed to be lost or missing, staff members will immediately initiate a search, focusing on the child's last known whereabouts and proximity to any potential hazards, such as rivers or streams. If the child is not located within a reasonable timeframe, emergency services will be contacted, followed by notification of the child's parents or guardians.

Implementation

All staff members will be trained on this policy and reminded regularly of the procedures to follow in the event of a lost child.

Review

This policy will be periodically reviewed and updated to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with best practices for child safety in outdoor settings.

Purpose

Our Behaviour Management Policy outlines our approach to fostering positive behaviour and addressing challenges that may arise during our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

Ōhinemahuta Nature School promotes positive behaviour through empathy, skill development, community-building, graceful conflict resolution and positive modelling.

Key Strategies

• Encouraging Empathy and Compassion: Children engage in caring for animals and interact intentionally with younger children to develop empathy and compassion.
• Engaging in Meaningful Projects: Long-term projects promote self-assessed skill development and provide opportunities for skill application and recognition.
• Fostering Community and Belonging: Whole-group activities, communal simulations, and interactions with younger children in leadership roles foster a sense of community and belonging.
• Skill Development and Sharing: Children learn practical skills like knot tying, foraging, fire building, knitting, cooking, farming, animal care, coaching, and game leading, which they then teach to others.
• Graceful Conflict Resolution: Social errors and slip-ups are addressed gracefully, emphasising learning and growth from mistakes.
• Worst Case Scenario: If a child consistently engages in behaviours such as continuous disruption, endangering others, or exhibiting patterns of sexual misconduct despite interventions and support, we prioritise the safety and well-being of all participants in our Nature School programme. While inclusion is important, the safety of all children and staff is paramount. Therefore, if such behaviours persist despite our efforts, we may need to consider alternative options to ensure the continued success and positive environment of our programme. This could involve a temporary suspension or, in extreme cases, the child's withdrawal from the programme to safeguard the overall experience for all participants and maintain the integrity of Ōhinemahuta Nature School’s community.

Implementation

Staff model positive behaviour and provide guidance and support to children in managing their behaviour.

Regular discussions and activities focus on empathy, community-building, and conflict resolution.

Review

This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure its effectiveness in promoting positive behaviour and addressing challenges. Feedback from staff, volunteers, children, and parents is considered to make necessary adjustments and improvements to our behaviour management practices.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants in Ōhinemahuta Nature School by effectively managing risks and maintaining high health and safety standards.

Policy Statement

Ōhinemahuta Nature School is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for children, staff, volunteers, and visitors. We recognise the inherent risks associated with outdoor activities and take proactive measures to minimise these risks while fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness.

Risk Management

• We conduct thorough risk assessments for all activities and environments, identifying potential hazards and implementing appropriate control measures.
• Staff and volunteers are trained to recognise and manage risks effectively, ensuring a safe learning environment.
• We maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios to supervise activities and respond promptly to emergencies.
• Emergency procedures are established and communicated to all stakeholders, including evacuation plans and first aid protocols.

Health & Safety

• All equipment and tools are regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are safe to be used.
• Children are educated on safety practices and encouraged to follow guidelines during activities.
• We promote personal hygiene practices and provide access to necessary facilities.
• Medical information and emergency contacts are collected and readily available in case of incidents.
• Staff are responsible for managing situations where children become soiled. Designated staff members will assist soiled children, ensuring they are cleaned and changed promptly and with dignity. Soiled clothing and items will be handled with gloves, placed in sealed bags, and stored in a designated area for parents to collect at the end of the day. Soiled areas will be sanitised immediately to maintain a hygienic environment.

Implementation

To implement this policy, we will

• Provide comprehensive training for staff and volunteers on risk management and health and safety protocols.
• Conduct regular reviews and updates of our risk assessments and health and safety procedures.
• Encourage open communication and reporting safety concerns or incidents, to continuously improve our practices.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to align with regulatory requirements and best practices in risk management and health and safety.

By adhering to this Risk Management & Health & Safety Policy, we aim to create a secure environment where children can learn, explore, and grow with confidence and peace of mind.

Children

We acknowledge the benefits of outdoor exposure and prioritise attendance based on individual capability. We prioritise individual capability for attendance, allowing children to join if they feel physically able, including having energy, concentration, and mobility. However, children should refrain from attending if they have vomited in the past 48 hours, experienced diarrhoea or fever in the past 24 hours, or have head lice or school sores. Mild symptoms such as a runny nose or mild cough are acceptable.

Teachers

Teachers are expected to attend if they are physically capable of fulfilling their duties, which includes having the necessary energy, concentration, and mobility. To cover sickness, holiday, or maternity leave, our primary response involves having teachers cover sessions who work on alternate session days, ensuring continuity and familiarity for the children. In addition, we may on the rare occasion, engage parents of students for casual relief work to maintain staffing levels and the quality of the programme. Teachers are compensated based on hours worked, ensuring equitable pay and flexibility in scheduling. This system supports the sustainability of our programme and ensures a safe and enriching experience for the children.

Purpose

To establish clear guidelines for expected conduct and behaviour for all staff members at Ōhinemahuta Nature School.

Policy Statement

All staff members are expected to adhere to professional standards and conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the values and ethos of Ōhinemahuta Nature School. This includes fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment, promoting positive interactions with children, families, and colleagues, and demonstrating respect for nature, diversity, and sustainability.

Guidelines

• Treat all children, families, and colleagues with respect and dignity.
• Follow established safety protocols and supervise children attentively.
• Use positive and constructive communication with children and colleagues.
• Model environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
• Uphold confidentiality and privacy of children and families.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
• Adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.

Policy Enforcement

In the event of a significant breach of the Staff Code of Conduct, the following steps will be taken:

• Initial Investigation: A thorough investigation, will be conducted to gather relevant information and assess the situation.
• Disciplinary Action: Depending on the severity of the breach, disciplinary action may be taken, ranging from verbal warnings to termination of employment.
• Review and Follow-Up: After the disciplinary action is taken, there will be a review of the incident to identify any necessary follow-up actions or additional support needed for all parties involved.

Implementation

All staff members will be provided with a copy of this policy and are expected to familiarise themselves with its contents. Training sessions and regular reminders will reinforce the importance of adhering to the Staff Code of Conduct.

Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains current and aligned with the values and practices of Ōhinemahuta Nature School. Any updates or revisions will be communicated to staff members accordingly.

Purpose

To maintain safe and effective supervision for all participants in our Nature School programme.

Policy Statement

We maintain a maximum child-to-staff ratio of 20 children (ages 5-16) to four teachers. This ratio excludes up to 5 additional children under six who may be accompanying their teaching parents.

Guidelines

• Child-to-staff ratio of 20:4 for children aged 5-16.
• Up to 5 additional children under six are accommodated.
• Flexibility for teacher illness may allow operation, with a minimum of two teachers in extreme circumstances. However, this may only proceed if no more than one of these two teachers has a child under the age of two years, in their care, to ensure sufficient supervision and safety.

Implementation

Staff will ensure appropriate supervision levels are maintained during activities and outings, and maintain situational awareness.

Review

This policy will be periodically reviewed to ensure compliance with safety standards and operational needs.