A

Aboriginal kindergartens

Provide an education program which is inclusive of Aboriginal culture, language and learning styles and assists in the transition from home to school for Aboriginal students up to six months younger than the general student cohort.

Aboriginal School Based Training Program (ASBT)

A program that offers a starting point for Year 10, 11 or 12 students to develop skills for the workplace. Once these are developed, students may apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship in their chosen industry area. These will be school based (SBT or SBA or ASBT/ASBAs) if students are in Year 11 or 12.

Academic manager

TAFEWA staff member appointed by the Managing Director to undertake the College’s responsibilities during the program and to influence or direct actions of student and staff involved in the program.

Acceptable risk

An acceptable tolerance level, based on the level of risk after evaluating existing controls.

Accountability

The demonstration of an employee’s due competence and care in performing functions, responsibilities and obligations as they relate to the intended outcomes of the workplace and thus to the Department’s purpose.

Accountable authority

Under section 52 of the Financial Management Act 2006 the Director General of the Department of Education Western Australia is the Accountable Authority who shall be responsible to the Minister for Education.

Accountable officer

Managing Directors in the case of TAFEWA colleges and other VET institutions, and the Chief Executive (or equivalent) in the case of other Registered Training Organisations with whom the Department has a contract for the delivery of training services.

Acquittal

Is the process the Department of Education undertakes, in conjunction with a grant recipient, of ensuring that grant funding has been fully expended for the purpose for which the grant was initially intended.

Adjustments

A measure or action (or a group of measures or actions) taken by an education provider that has the effect of assisting a student with a disability:

• in relation to an admission or enrolment – to apply for the admission or enrolment;
• in relation to a course or program – to participate in the course or program; and
• in relation to facilities or services – to use the facilities or services; on the same basis as a student without a disability, and includes an aid, a facility, or a service that the student requires because of his or her disability.

Adult student

A person who enrols at a public school who is 18 years of age or older or turns 18 years of age in the year they enrol.

Advertising

Refers to all information/material which schools, regional offices and central office pay for to appear in newspapers and other publications, on radio and television, in cinemas, on billboards and other out-of-home media, and on websites and online. It does not include items such as brochures (unless inserted into newspapers), stories in newspapers, signage and newsletters.

Agent

Any entity providing selection information on behalf of TAFEWA Admissions.

Allocated accommodation

Accommodation allocated by the Department of Education to the employee.

Alternative complaint resolution processes

Formal methods of complaint resolution including mediation and line management adjudication that may be utilised in the resolution of local level complaints.

Alternative programs

For the purposes of this policy, alternative programs are those educational programs not under a school’s or district office’s direction that students may attend. When attending an alternative program, the student remains enrolled at his/her original school. For the purposes of this document, alternative programs do not include TAFE programs or vocational programs such as work experience or structured work place learning, for which Departmental guidelines already exist.

An expression of interest

Is a written statement submitted by a candidate who wishes to apply for a Temporary Deployment (Acting) vacancy. The Expression of Interest addresses the selection criteria for the vacant position.

Appendices

Guidelines or additional information which is too lengthy or at a level too detailed for inclusion in the main document.

Applicant

Any person who is seeking employment with the Department of Education.

Application package

To those who seek it, schools will provide written details about an advertised position. This package of information will guide those who wish to submit an application.

Appointment pool

A pool of applicants is one in which applicants are assessed as suitable and competitive for appointment. Selection to the pool does not necessarily guarantee placement and an offer of appointment. Placement, and a subsequent offer of appointment, will depend upon the number of vacancies available and a consideration of organisational needs, which may include workforce diversity.

Apprentice

Any person pursuant to the Industrial Training Act 1975 bound to an employer in an apprenticeship trade by an agreement or by assignment of an agreement.

Appropriate education program

An organised set of learning activities designed to enable a student to develop knowledge, understanding, skills, and attitudes relevant to the student's individual needs.

Approved enrolment options for compulsory education

• full-time in a school program;
• full-time home-based schooling in an approved program;
• full-time enrolment in a training institution, eg TAFEWA college or a private Registered Training Organisation (RTO);
• full-time in a university;
• an apprenticeship or traineeship;
• a Gazetted course provided by a community-based provider;
• a combination program involving part-time school/training and/or part-time work equivalent to a full time program; and
• full-time employment.

Approved Specialist Programs

Approved Specialist Programs cater for secondary students with special interests and aptitudes. Entrance to the programs is controlled and maintained by individual schools through a variety of methods including testing, workshops, interviews and portfolio presentation. Schools seeking endorsement as an Approved Specialist Program must undergo a centrally co-ordinated endorsement and quality assurance process which includes support from the Director Schools. Schools must ensure sustainability of the program with respect to staffing and facilities. No additional resourcing is provided for Approved Specialist Programs.

Approved training program

The nationally recognised program of work, either established by the Training Accreditation Council or in a Training Package Qualification, and detailed on the apprentice’s/trainee’s Training Program Outline that the apprentice/trainee must successfully complete before a qualification may be issued.

Archival record

A record (also known as a state archive) that is to be preserved permanently (never to be destroyed) because of its enduring value (for example historical or evidential).
 

Assessed rental

The rental charged for accommodation determined by the Government Regional Officers’ Housing Division of the Department of Housing.

Assessment Notice

The notice given to a person when their WWCC has been successful. It allows a person to carry out child-related work in Western Australia for three years across all categories of child-related work from date of issue, unless cancelled. The Assessment Notice comes in the form of a WWC Card, which has a photograph, signature and WWC Card number.

Asset

An asset is defined as any property with a value of $5 000 or more and with a total useful life of two years or more. For accounting purposes, all the items that are recorded in the asset register are considered as capitalised items. School assets are classified into the following categories:

• Land and Buildings;
• Furniture and Fittings; Office Equipment;
• Plant and Equipment;
• Photocopiers;
• Communication Equipment;
• Computer Equipment;
• Motor Vehicles;
• Artworks;
• Software;
• Library Collection; and
• Buses.

See Appendix A for detailed asset categories and depreciation rates.

Attendance Panel

A small group of people appointed under the School Educaiton Act 1999 to provide advice and assistance to students and the parents of students who are not fulfilling the legal requirements of school attendance.  An attendance panel may recommend (via a Regional Executive Director) that the Director General make an application to the Children's Court for a Responsible Parenting Order.  An attendance panel is not required prior to commencement of prosecution of a parent under the Act.

Audit

In accordance with the Financial Management Act 2006, the Department of Education (the Department) is required to establish and maintain systems that enable the Chief Executive Office to discharge the responsibility for the efficient and effective financial administration of operations under his or her control. Audit forms part of the process by which assurance can be gained that systems and controls in these areas are effective.

Audits of schools are part of the Department's internal audit function and remain the responsibility, for control purposes, of the Manager Audit and Review. For more details on audit contact the Manager Audit and Review Branch.

Auditor

An officer appointed by the State or the Department of Education Western Australia empowered to audit an establishment's accounts.

Australian Qualifications Framework

A nationally consistent set of qualifications for all post-compulsory education and training in Australia.

Authorised Absence

An absence where the reason provided by the parent or Department of Education is considered to be legitimate and deemed acceptable by the principal or their nominee.

Authorised ordering officer

An officer of the establishment staff authorised by the principal to order goods and services for and on behalf of the school.

Avoidable sick leave

Is sick leave that is not caused by external factors such as viral epidemics, illness and non-work related accidents. It includes absences arising from work-related stress, failure of occupational health and safety systems, poor working relationships and poor staff management. Back to top

B

Background

The rationale and context of the policy.

Bank

An authorised deposit-taking institution (ADI) as defined in section 5 of the Commonwealth Banking Act 1959.

Bank reconciliation

Is a basic but essential control process to ensure that accurate accounting occurs for all school transactions. It is done by matching the transaction records (on a bank statement) kept by the bank against the records kept by the school.

Best fare of the day

The lowest fare at the time of booking and for which a seat is available, that meets the business requirements of the traveller.

Billet

Students being accommodated overnight in the homes of volunteer host families during an excursion.

Block release

A scheduled period of continual attendance at the Registered Training Organisation which is usually of two weeks duration.

Breach of discipline

A breach of discipline occurs when an employee:

• disobeys or disregards a lawful order;
• contravenes any section of the Public Sector Management Act 1994 or
• School Education Act 1999 applicable to the employee;
• contravenes any Public Sector Standard;
• is negligent or careless in the performance of his or her functions;
• commits an act of victimisation pursuant to section 15 of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2003; or
• commits an act of misconduct.
   

Breach of discipline

Section 80 of the Public Sector Management Act 1994 and section 239(3) of the School Education Act 1999 provide that a breach of discipline will occur when a member of staff:

• disobeys or disregards a lawful order;
• contravenes any section of the Public Sector Management Act 1994 or School Education Act 1999 applicable to the employee;
• contravenes any Public Sector Standard in Human Resource Management (PS Standards) or the Code of Ethics;
• is negligent or careless in the performance of his or her functions;
• commits an act of victimisation under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2003; or
• commits an act of misconduct.

 

Breach of school discipline

Any act or omission that impairs the good order and proper management of the school.

Bullying

When an individual or group misuses power to target another individual or group to intentionally threaten or harm them on more than one occasion. This may involve verbal, physical, relational and psychological forms of bullying. Teasing or fighting between peers is not necessarily bullying.

Business Continuity Management

A process to ensure the timely resumption and delivery of essential business activities in the event of a major disruption by maintaining the key business resources required to support delivery of those services.

Business impact analysis

The process of assessing the potential consequences to an organisation of an outage to its key business activities over varying periods of time, and prioritising the timeframes in which these activities must be resumed following a disruptive event.

Business Information system

An organised collection of hardware, software, supplies, policies, procedures and people, which stores, processes and provides access to an organisation’s business information. Alternatively, it is an automated system that creates or manages data about an organisation’s activities. Includes applications where its primary purpose is to facilitate transactions between an organisational unit and its customers - for example, an e-commerce system, client relationship management system, purpose-built or customised database, finance or human resources systems.
 

Bystander

Bullying also involves children who may not be directly involved in the bullying nor are they directly bullied, who are referred to as “bystanders”. A bystander is someone who sees the bullying or knows that it is happening to someone else. Back to top

C

Campaign advertising

Refers to all advertising by schools, regional offices and central office that is intended to inform, educate and motivate the public. It usually requires creative input and planning.

Caring

Caring for students may assume different meanings depending on the context. However, examples include (but are by no means limited to) not putting students at risk by doing something or failing to do something that could cause the student to suffer injury or harm, taking precautions, intervening to prevent obvious hazards from causing injury or harm, following safety procedures and providing adequate instructions to students.

Caring or personally caring

Caring for students may assume different meanings depending on the context. However, examples include (but are by no means limited to): not putting students at risk by doing something or failing to do something that could cause the student to suffer injury or harm, taking precautions, intervening to prevent obvious hazards from causing injury or harm, following safety procedures and providing adequate instructions to students.

Case manager

A person nominated by the Director Schools to take responsibility for the implementation of the Director General’s recommendations following an exclusion process.

Cause

A source of potential harm or situation with a potential to cause loss. This is also referred to as a hazard.

Centrally managed complaint

A complaint lodged in writing with the Director General and managed at the central level.

CEO Instruction

An instruction released by the Director General which is usually of finite duration. An instruction may be replaced by policy or procedures or may cease when no longer needed. CEO Instructions are mandatory and contravention is a breach of discipline.

Chairperson

A community member appointed by the Director Schools to chair a School Discipline Advisory Panel and facilitate panel decision making.

Charges

Any costs for which payment is compulsory.

Chart of accounts

A chart of accounts is a list of account titles designed to enable accounting transactions to be properly classified and recorded in order to provide effective control and financial information. A well-designed chart of accounts will assist in budget preparation and the generation of financial reports according to the financial requirements of the schools.

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer means the Director General of the Department of Education Western Australia.

Child

A person under the age of 18 years.

Child abuse

Occurs when a child has been subjected to physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse and/or neglect which has resulted or is likely to result in harm to the child’s wellbeing. It may involve ongoing, repeated or persistent abuse, or arise from a single incident.

Child of compulsory school age

Means a child who under Section 9(1) of the School Education Act 1999 is required to be enrolled in an educational program during the compulsory school age period.

Child protection concern

A concern about the welfare of a child based on the observation of indicators or information that may lead to a belief formed on reasonable grounds that a child has been the subject of abuse.

Children Whereabouts Are Unknown (CWU) List

A list, usually referred to as the CWU List, contains the names of children who are missing from schools and educational programs in Western Australia. This list is distributed to administrators in private schools and some agencies by agreement.

Class 1 or Class 2 offences

A schedule of offences that are treated in a particular way by the WWC Screening Unit when they are making an assessment and have reporting requirements. Class 1 and Class 2 offences are defined in section 7(1) and 7(2) of the Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Act 2004.

Code of Conduct

Describes the school community’s expectations of student behaviour and management procedures to implement the code. The school council assists with the formulation of the code of conduct, including specific behavioural consequences and serious breaches of discipline that adversely affect or threaten safety. The school dress code does not form part of the code of conduct.

Command and control

The overall direction of emergency management activities, including the coordination of human and physical resources.

Commissioned evaluations

Commissioned evaluations address particular strategic issues or questions and are differentiated from Directorate evaluations in that they:

• concern issues that span a number of programs, services or Directorates;
• investigate an issue or area of need, not yet under the responsibility of a Directorate;
• and/or may need a greater perceived level of independence or objectivity from those responsible for the area under evaluation.

They may be conducted to:

• investigate the extent to which programs or services that span Directorates fully address a particular need or strategic issue;
• improve the provision or coordination of different programs and services across or within Directorates;
• assess whether a major departmental program or strategic initiative has achieved the outcomes that were expected;
• investigate problem areas identified through the analysis of performance information; or satisfy a statutory or regulatory requirement.

Communicate

The word ‘communicate’ in the copyright context refers to making work available in electronic form (e.g. available online, including caching, or by electronic transmission such as e-mail).

Community based course

Those prescribed by the Minister and published in the Government Gazette.

Community based services

Community based services mean services intended to:

• advance education and training; and/or address physical or social disadvantage;
• and/or promote the health and wellbeing of individuals and families;
• and/or provide a service or benefit to the community.

Community kindergarten

Community kindergartens are part of the Department of Education's kindergarten program and are linked to a public school.

Community service program

The program that promotes student community service.

Community service program coordinator

A school staff member nominated by the principal who has responsibility for the development, management and coordination of the Community Service Program.

Comparable conditions of service

Comparable conditions of service means the employee will retain a similar or equivalent classification level based on salary or wage (excluding allowances) with no change in employment tenure or continuity of service.

Competency based qualifications

A nationally consistent set of qualifications for all post-compulsory education and training in Australia.

Competitive assessment of merit

A process in which more than one person has their respective merit assessed for a vacancy.

Competitive assessment of merit

From a field of more than one applicant, the most suitable is selected through a competitive process.

Complainant

An individual who makes a complaint.

Complainant

The person who has made a complaint.

Complaint

An expression of dissatisfaction. It may be general in nature or relate to actions or behaviour of another employee, a part of the organisation, a policy or a decision.

Comprehensive approach/all hazardous approach

The development of emergency arrangements related to prevention, preparedness, response and recovery (PPRR). The PPRR are not necessarily sequential phases.

Compulsory education period

From the beginning of the year in which the child reaches the age of 6 years and 6 months; and until the end of the year in which the child reaches the age of 17 according to s6 of the School Education Act 1999.

Conditional tenancy

Conditional tenancy shall mean a tenancy, which is:

• of a written defined duration;
• in either a reserved unit of accommodation or a four-bedroom house; and
• able to be re-allocated by the Department according to its allocation procedures.

Conduct

Sections 8 and 9 of the Public Sector Management Act 1994 state the general principles of human resource management and official conduct applying to all public sector bodies and employees. In addition to compliance with the Public Sector Management Act 1994 and School Education Act 1999, the principles require employees:

• to act with integrity in the performance of official duties and…to be scrupulous in the use of official information, equipment and facilities; and
• to exercise proper courtesy, consideration and sensitivity in their dealings with members of the public and employees.

These principles underpin other documents relevant to corporate governance in the public sector, including the WA Public Sector Code of Ethics, the Department's Code of Conduct and the Public Sector Standards in Human Resource Management.

Confidential declaration

A declaration signed by an adult, who is not an employee of the Department of Education but wishes to participate in an excursion, which indicates whether or not s/he has any convictions or whether or not any circumstances or reasons exist which might preclude him/her from working with or near children.

Confidentiality

The protection of personal, private and sensitive information. Professional codes of conduct and the Department of Education and Training's Staff Conduct policy reinforce the importance of protecting an individual's privacy.

Conflict

Involves a disagreement where one or both party’s needs are not being met. It does not involve an abuse of power, even if the parties do not have perceived equal power.

Conscientious objection

A person has a conscientious objection to a child participating in a particular class if the person’s objection is based on a personal, philosophical, religious or educational belief involving a conviction that participation in the class would be prejudicial to the child.

Consequence

The outcome of an event or situation; being a loss, injury, disadvantage or gain. The consequence criteria scale is graduated in five levels from ‘insignificant’ through to ‘catastrophic’ measured against the following categories of context:

• student achievement targets;
• safety of people;
• financial loss;
• reputation and image to the Department and schools;
• operational efficiency and governance; and
• service interruption.

A risk may be connected to one or more of the above categories.
 

Consumable items

Items consumed in daily school operations, for example stationery, pharmaceuticals, cleaning and gardening materials, and utensils.

Contact

Includes any form of:

• physical contact;
• oral communication, whether face-to-face, by telephone or otherwise; and
• electronic communication.

It does not include contact in the normal course of duties between an employer and an employee or between employees of the same employer.
 

Continuing students

Students who are currently studying a qualification at TAFEWA and intend to continue their learning pathway in a full time TAFEWA qualification that requires them to address entrance requirements only at the same college.

Contracted Registered Training Organisation

The Registered Training Organisation contracted by the Department of Education and Training to deliver the approved apprenticeship or traineeship training program under a funding agreement.

Contributions

A voluntary payment requested from parents towards the cost of materials, services and facilities used by K-10 students in the educational program.

Control rating

A qualitative, common sense measure of the adequacy of controls in addressing a risk.

Copyright

Copyright is a form of intangible personal property given to the owner of copyright materials to control how and when these materials are used. Different exclusive rights apply to these materials depending on whether they are ‘works’ or ‘subject matter other than works’.

Copyright Agency Ltd (CAL)

Administers the right to make copies of published literary and certain other works on behalf of authors and publishers.

Copyright survey manager

A member of the school staff selected to oversee the copyright sampling process within a school for the duration of the survey.

Corporate Executive

Leads governance within the Department of Education and Training (the Department) and is comprised of the Department’s most senior staff. It provides leadership, sets the strategic directions and priorities, and plans for and monitors current and future business requirements to ensure the alignment of, and resources for, the achievement of the Department’s priorities.

Corruption

Occurs when a staff member without lawful authority or a reasonable excuse, misuses her/his position for direct or indirect personal gain or to cause a detriment, whether pecuniary or otherwise, to any person.

Course

A structured and integrated program of education or training, usually consisting of a number of subjects or shorter programs and leading to the award of a qualification.

Criminal record check

The Screening Unit undertakes checks of a person’s criminal record through CrimTrac. Australia-wide criminal record clearances conducted through other agencies will be referred to the Screening Unit for validation. This includes criminal record clearances issued through other educational authorities outside Western Australia. A current criminal record clearance (one obtained within the last three months) is necessary to commence employment. For casual employees, the criminal record clearance will remain valid for three years from the date of issue for the purposes of further employment, provided that the period between appointments is not greater than six months.

Criminal screening

Criminal screening is the process of gathering relevant information about a person’s criminal record in order to assist in making an informed decision about that person’s suitability for employment, or continued employment with the Department of Education or Training, or a TAFEWA College.

CrimTrac

The term CrimTrac is an acronym for the federal government agency that facilitates the provision of criminal record information to accredited agencies. The Department of Education and Training uses CrimTrac to access criminal records through the National Names Index within all states.

Critical incident

An incident in which there is a high likelihood of traumatic effects. A critical incident evokes unusual or unexpectedly strong emotional reactions which have the potential to interfere with the ability of the individual, group or system to function either at the time or later. For example, an on-site accident causing death or serious injury, student or staff suicide, major vandalism, sexual assault at school, students lost or injured on an excursion or intruders on a school site who cause harm to people or damage property.

Curriculum Support Services Network

Curriculum Support Services Network (CSSN) are funded by the Department of Education and Training (the Department) to establish communication links between the Department and vocational education and training curriculum stakeholders. The CSSNs coordinate the development, collection, storage and distribution of curriculum support materials and assist stakeholders with the development and accreditation of courses.

Cyber bullying

This involves the use of information and communication technologies such as e-mail, text messages, instant messaging and websites to engage in the bullying of other individuals or groups. This technology provides an alternative means for verbal, relational and psychological forms of bullying. Back to top

D

Day release

A scheduled attendance pattern where the apprentice/trainee attends the training venue one day per week/fortnight.

Declaration of good character

Declaration of good character refers to the obligation placed upon applicants to inform the Director General or Managing Directors of full details of any investigation of their behaviour, or disciplinary action taken against them, by a previous employer, where they have not been fully exonerated by that employer, in respect of conduct relevant to assessing if they are of good character.

Department of Education contract

This is a contract developed for the supply of goods and Services to the Department where the Director General is the Contract Authority. This type of contract may also be called an agency specific contract.

Department Screening Database

The Department of Education and Training maintains a secure screening database on which is recorded the names of former and current employees who have been allocated MCEETYA National Check of Employment Status Categories. MCEETYA category information is exchanged with other education authorities when requested. Access to the screening database is restricted to named Screening Unit personnel only. These officers are police checked annually.

Department staff

The Department of Education staff are defined as persons employed by the Director General of the Department of Education.

Designated smoking areas

Areas where smoking is permitted.

DET Account Manager privileged user

A person who has been given authority to grant and revoke access to local resources and who also has authority to reset passwords for local users with the DET Account Manager (DAM) tool. This privilege is automatically assigned to the person who is recorded in HRMIS as being the manager of the school or branch.

DET Employee

DET employee is an employee of the Director General of the Department of Education and Training, and includes a public service officer, a member of the teaching staff, a member of the wages staff, or another officer.

Digital record

Any record of information within the meaning of Section 3 of the State Records Act 2000 that exists in binary form, and that requires combinations of computer hardware and software to be read and understood. These records may include, but not limited to:

• emails;
• web sites;
• database applications;
• word processed documents;
• spreadsheets; and
• digitised reproductions of documents.
   

Dignitary

An important person who should be treated with special courtesy and respect including, for example, the Governor, Members of Parliament, non-elected local candidates, sports identities, current or former defence force personnel or recipients of honours such as the Order of Australia.

Direction

An instruction issued by a principal pursuant to Section 119 of the School Education Act 1999 and Regulation 69 of the School Education Regulations 2000.

Directorate evaluations

Directorate evaluations are conducted by Directorates. Advice may be sought from the Evaluation Branch without any ongoing quality assurance.

Director General

The Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Education.

Disability

Under Section 4 of the School Education Act 1999 “disability” means a condition which:

• is attributable to an intellectual, psychiatric, cognitive, neurological, sensory or physical impairment or a combination of those impairments;
• is permanent or likely to be permanent; c) may or may not be of a chronic or episodic nature; and
• results in: i) a substantially reduced capacity of a person for communication, social interaction, learning mobility; and ii) the need for continuing support services.

Disabled driver vehicle

A government or private vehicle that is driven by a person who is legitimately in possession of an ACROD permit and who works at 151 Royal Street, East Perth.

Discipline Standard

The Commissioner for Public Sector Standards has issued a standard on discipline. The Discipline Standard sets out the minimum requirements of equity and probity that must be complied with in relation to the discipline process. In brief, the Discipline Standard requires that employees are dealt with equitably, in accordance with principles of natural justice, appropriate confidentiality is observed, and that any sanctions imposed are appropriate. The breach provisions applying to other Standards do not apply to the Discipline Standard, as employees have recourse to the WA Industrial Relations Commission .

Discriminatory behaviour

Some bullying behaviour may constitute discrimination if related to one of the grounds of unlawful discrimination under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984. These include race (colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin or descent), racial harassment, sexual orientation (homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, heterosexuality or assumed sexual orientation), gender history, sex, sexual harassment, marital status, pregnancy, impairment (or disability), political or religious conviction, age, family responsibility, family status or spent conviction.

Disposal

The removal of records from the organisation and their subsequent destruction or transfer to the State Records Office for permanent retention as state archives.

Dispute

The expression of a pursued unsatisfied complaint against action taken by an employee of the Department of Education and Training (the Department) acting on behalf of the Department; it may be general in nature or relate to particular staff or part of the organisation; and it may be lodged by any person other than staff employed by the Department and acting in their official capacity.

Dispute resolution process

The dispute resolution system for workers' compensation claims is focused on the early resolution of issues. Where disputes relating to claims or injury management cannot be resolved internally between parties a matter may be referred to the WorkCover Dispute Resolution Directorate. Disputes will be managed by an arbitrator who will attempt conciliation to bring about a resolution between the disputing parties prior to arbitration. A commissioner will hear appeals against decisions of arbitrators on matters of law.

Distance travelled

The total number of kilometres travelled by the apprentice/trainee from their home address to the training venue of the closest contracted Registered Training Organisation delivering the off-the-job training.

District Coordinator

A Department of Education employee, based at a District Education Office, who coordinates workplace learning for a number of schools.

Diversity

Acknowledging differences between people in the community and the adaptations of work practices to create an inclusive environment in which those differences are valued and embraced.

Documented plan

A support document for schools and teachers as they plan, monitor, assess and evaluate teaching and learning programs that are personalised for students.
 

Dollar values

All dollar values stipulated in this policy are GST exclusive.

Domestic travel

Travel within the state and travel between states.

Dress requirements

Refers to ‘dress codes’ for primary school students and ‘school uniforms’ for secondary school students.

Duty of care

A duty imposed by the law to take care to minimise the risk of harm to another. Back to top

E

Education and Training Portfolio (ETP) Risk Management Framework

The ETP Risk Management Framework comprises:

• Risk Register Tools – comprising Risk Reference Tables;
• Risk Management Policy, Procedures and Guidelines; and
• implementation and evaluation strategy.

Education and training sector agencies

• Department of Education;
• Curriculum Council (CC);
• Department of Education Services (DES);
• TAFEWA colleges and campuses;
• Public Education Endowment Trust (PEET); and
• Country High School Hostels Authority (CHSHA) and residential colleges.

Education instruction

Delivery of appropriate educational programs, both in and beyond the classroom, through a variety of contexts.

Education program

An organised set of learning activities designed to enable a student to develop knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes relevant to the student's individual needs.

Electronic record

Records communicated and maintained by means of electronic equipment.

Eligibility

All teachers who hold registration with the Western Australian College of Teaching, and who possess a Department of Education and Training ID number, are eligible to apply for vacancies in local selection schools. This includes all teachers who are permanent, fixed-term or casual. Graduates and teachers from other sectors must obtain a Departmental ID number and hold registration with the Western Australian College of Teaching before applying for vacancies. Applicants must meet any requirements specified for the position advertised.

Eligible employee

“Eligible employee” shall mean an employee who is not a local resident whom the Department of Education and Training has appointed to the locality.

Eligible officers

Permanent Level 7 PSA (or equivalent) or above. Acting Level 8 PSA (or equivalent) or above whose substantive level is less than Level 7 PSA (or equivalent). Special approvals, as approved by the Deputy Director General Finance and Administration.

Emergency

An event, actual or imminent, which:

• occurs on or off site;
• endangers or threatens to endanger life, property or the environment; and
• requires a significant and coordinated response. For example, fire or bomb threats, hazardous materials spillage, prolonged loss of a utility (for example, water or power), cyclone and floods.

Emergency Control Post

The specific, safe location at which the Incident Controller is positioned and from which the response to the emergency or critical incident will be coordinated. The Emergency Control Post is usually the administration area. An alternative post should also be identified in case the original area is not suitable.

Emotional/psychological abuse

The sustained, repetitive and ongoing maltreatment by a parent/carer or person in authority to a child through behaviours including threatening, belittling, teasing, humiliating, bullying, neglecting, ignoring, isolating, misleading and encouragement to engage in inappropriate behaviour.

Employee

A person who is currently employed under the School Education Act 1999 or the Public Sector Management Act 1994.

Employee Interests

Refer to the employee’s career and professional development needs and personal circumstances which need to be considered when negotiating work arrangements, discussing career aspirations and development opportunities, and when making an informed assessment of employee performance.

Employees of the Department

The employees of the Department are:

• public service officers appointed under Part 3 of the Public Sector Management Act 1994;
• members of the teaching staff employed under section 235 of the School Education Act 1999; and
• other staff employed under section 235 of the School Education Act 1999.

Employee Support Bureau

The Employee Support Bureau is the collective name for the Workers’ Compensation, Injury Management and Safety Units. It is now part of the Department of Education and Training Shared Services Centre.

Enclosed government building

A building that has, whether temporarily or permanently, a ceiling or roof, walls, sides or other vertical coverings so that when the buildings existing closable openings are closed, the building is completely or substantially enclosed.

Enquiry/concern

A request for service that can generally be addressed at the time of being raised without the need for more involved consideration.

Entrance

A doorway or opening into where staff, students and visitors access a building. Does not include emergency exits.

Entrance requirements

These may be competencies gained through qualifications such as senior secondary school results, test scores such as those for the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) or other skills applicants must posses to be considered for entry to a course.

Ephemeral record

A record which has only short-term value to the organisation with little or no on-going administrative, fiscal, legal, evidential, or historical value.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

The process by which all existing and potential employees are treated on a fair and equitable basis in the workplace.

Equal Opportunity Contact Officer

The position of Equal Opportunity Contact Officer (EOCO) is a voluntary, school or district office-based position with a primary role in the provision of assistance to complainants to help them determine whether there are grounds for a complaint under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (“the Act”) and to advise them of their options. The EOCOs do not investigate complaints.

Equal Opportunity Contact Officer (EOCO)

Departmental staff who have undertaken training in equal opportunity. They provide information and assistance in resolving an equal opportunity complaint at an informal level.

Equity Principle

The Equity Principle requires employment decisions to be impartial and free from bias, nepotism and patronage.

Ethnic group

A group of people historically related, having a common and distinctive culture.

Evacuation

The movement of people from a threatened area to a place of safety.

Evidence guide

A set of tables listing various types of evidence of communication and maths skills which have been mapped against the new TAFEWA entrance requirements benchmarks. The Evidence Guide helps applicants identify the evidence they can provide to show they have the minimum entrance requirements for their chosen full time course of study.

Exceptional circumstances

Situations outside the normal eligibility criteria that must be approved (in writing) in order for payment to be made. An application for exceptional circumstances must be made, and approved, prior to the relevant travel taking place.

Exclusion Order

An order made by the Director General following a recommendation for an exclusion order being made by the principal. The Director General may issue:

• an order completely excluding the student from attending the school;
• an order excluding the student from regular attendance at the school with the exception of specific purposes that are outlined;
• an order directing the student to attend a specified public school or educational programme;
• an order determining the educational instruction that the student is to be given; or
• a combination of two or more of the above.

Excursion

In the Vocational Education and Training (VET) for School Students (VSS) context, any student-learning activity conducted off the site of the College which the student attends, that is organised by the college and has gained the appropriate approval(s) (including work placements other than paid employment).

Excursion

Any student-learning activity conducted off the site of the school, at which the student is enrolled, that is organised or managed by a member of teaching staff employed under s237 of the School Education Act 1999 and has gained the appropriate approval(s).

Executive officer

A person appointed by the Director Schools to support the operations of the panel.

Executive team

Members of the senior administrative staff. Generally, this would be the Principal and Deputy Principal.

Expression of concern

An expression of concern is a formal registration of offence experienced by someone, for example, a teacher, other staff member, student, a parent or a community member, who has observed racist behaviour.

Expression of interest

A written statement submitted by a candidate who wishes to apply for an acting (temporary deployment) vacancy.

Extended leave without pay

Unpaid leave which does not include unpaid sick leave or parental leave, and after which the employee is expected to resume duties.

External Agency

A business or individual negotiated by the Department of Education, principal or their nominee, to provide a workplace learning service and/or expertise appropriate to a particular school activity. Examples may include an incorporated body (for example, Swan Education Industry Training Association Inc.), a Registered Training Organisation (public or private), a Group Training Organisation or a University that coordinates or delivers an educational program, or part thereof, to students as part of their school program.

External agency

A business/individual paid by the principal, or nominee, to provide a service and/or expertise appropriate to a particular school activity; or a staff member of a TAFE College or a University who delivers an educational program, or part thereof, to students as part of their school program.

External parties

Individuals, organisations, agencies, and government departments that are sponsoring or undertaking research where that research is not commissioned by the Department of Education and Training.

External Provider

A business/individual paid by the school or TAFE college to provide a venue, service and/or expertise appropriate to a particular school or TAFE college activity.

External provider

A business/individual paid by the school to provide a venue, service and/or expertise appropriate to a particular school activity.

Extra cost optional components

Voluntary courses and activities where an election is made by the parent or student to participate. These include:

• optional courses in Years K-10 which have a high cost associated with their provision (for example outdoor education, specialised design and technology courses);
• optional activities in any course for which there is a high cost associated with their provision (for example excursions [including camps], visiting performers or displays). This category includes options within a course of study where higher cost materials may be chosen; and
• other optional school-based activities which address broad learning outcomes and for which there is a high cost (for example school social events, such as graduation dinners or school balls, or excursions such as end-of-term picnics, movies or skating).

Participation in these components is voluntary, but a charge is payable if the student opts to participate.

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F

Family

The employee, partner (irrespective of whether the partner is employed or not) and/or dependents to be accommodated on a permanent basis.

Fees

This term applies to fees for instruction. Fees can be imposed:

• where someone other than a Department staff member provides tuition; and
• for certain adult and overseas students regardless of whether or not the tuition is provided by a Department staff member.

The term also applies to residential boarding fees at agricultural schools and colleges and for accommodation on Schools of Isolated and Distance Education (SIDE) premises. The term should not be used in relation to contributions or charges.

Five day threshold defence

A defence under the legislation to a possible charge of not having a WWCC when in child-related work for no more than five days in a calendar year, except in connection with a licensed child care service or if the person has been convicted of a Class 1 offence as an adult. Under this policy, the five day threshold defence does not extend to child -related work in connection with overnight camps and the arrangement for the accommodation and care of children.

FOCiS Nutrient Criteria

FOCiS has developed a nutrient criteria where registered products must not exceed levels of energy, total fat, saturated fat, sodium and sugar provided in the criteria. There are 9 categories of foods and 61 sub-categories, each with its own set of minimum nutrient criteria.

FOCiS, formerly known as the Federation of Canteens in Schools, is the professional body representing canteens nationally and has members from state and territory canteen associations. FOCiS coordinates a national register of products that meet the Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia (2003).

Formal Complaint

A written complaint where the complainant implements proceedings through the Department’s formal complaints process, and/or through an external agency such as the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Fraud

Fraud, within the context of the public sector, is defined as: "Any practice that involves deceit or other dishonest means by which a benefit is obtained from the government." The benefit may be one that is obtained by an employee or other persons external to the Department of Education and Training.

Fringe Benefits Tax

Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) was introduced in 1 July 1986. It is a tax payable by employers on the value of certain benefits provided to employees or employees' associates, such as spouse or children, in respect of the employee's employment.

Employers are required to report the grossed-up taxable value of benefits as well as the annual FBT assessment return. These are to be lodged on the group certificate of any employee who receives relevant benefits with a total value exceeding $1,000. For these reasons, schools are required to maintain the relevant records for submission to the central office.

Some of the benefits in which FBT is payable by the Department of Education and Training are motor vehicles, entertainment, accommodation, free-pass to coast and air-conditioning subsidies.

Full-time student

A student who is studying a course which is considered full-time by the institution where they are studying. (For TAFEWA purposes this has been defined in the Vocational Education and Training Regulations 1996 as being students who study a total of at least 221 hours in a semester). Back to top

G

Gaining employer

Gaining employer is the public or private sector employer offering the secondment opportunity.

General religious education

Is about the major forms of religious thought and expression characteristic of Australian society and other societies and may be provided in public schools as part of the general school curriculum. The focus of General Religious Education (GRE) is on the sociological based study of various religious traditions rather than on the encouragement of personal commitment by students to a particular set of religious beliefs.

Generic competency benchmarks

Generic competency benchmarks are comprised of generic competencies, based on the National Reporting Services (NRS), and/or technical competencies. Generic competencies include communication and, if required, mathematical skills. Technical competencies describe required specific underpinning skills or knowledge (ie. Driver’s licence, colour vision clearance, etc.).

Gifted

The possession and use of outstanding natural abilities, called aptitudes, in at least one ability domain.

Gifted and Talented Program

Gifted and Talented (GATE) programs provide opportunities for gifted and talented secondary students to participate in elite academic, arts or languages programs. Students enter GATE programs through a competitive central selection process involving a selective entry test and workshops, auditions or interviews as appropriate for specific learning areas. Schools are selected to provide a GATE program through a central process and are provided with additional staffing and resourcing to support the program. A strong quality assurance process ensures high standards for GATE programs.

Government organisation employee

• a person who, whether or not an employee, alone or with others governs, controls or manages a government organisation;
• a person who, under the Public Sector Management Act 1994, is a public service officer of a government organisation; or
• a person who is engaged by a government organisation, whether under a contract for services or otherwise, and includes, in the case of a government organisation referred to in item 5 or 6 of Schedule 1, a ministerial officer (as defined in the Public Sector Management Act 1994 ) assisting the organisation.

(Reference: Reference: State Law Publisher Western Australian Legislation Statutes website, State Records Act 2000 – Section 3, Preliminary viewed 21 November 2005)

Government record

A record created, or received by a government organisation or a government organisation employee in the course of the employee's work for the organisation.

Government vehicles

Vehicles fitted with Government plates, or private plates under the Government Vehicle Scheme (GVS), forming part of the general vehicle pool located at 151 Royal Street, East Perth.

Grant

A grant is a sum of money provided to an organisation or individual for a specified purpose and duration. The term ‘grant’ does not include:

• funding for the purchase or delivery of core education and training services (e.g. monies provided to schools under the School Grant process, or to registered training organisations under the Competitive Allocation of Training program);
• intra-department transfers; l funding provided on a ongoing basis;
• contracts which are significant, complex, and/or high in monetary value;
• activities relating primarily to the supply of goods and services necessary for the operations of the Department;
• activities relating to the acquisition or disposal of land or buildings;
• legal partnerships;
• salaries or wages;
• employment contracts;
• the procurement of works;
• leases or licences;
• sponsorships;
• scholarships;
• gifts, donations, bequests;
• endowments; or
• awards or prizes.

Grant administrator

The grant administrator is the directorate within the Department of Education which is responsible for implementation of a grant program.

Grant program

A grant program is a strategic document that clearly summarises the rationale, purpose, and desired outcomes of a proposed grants strategy.

Grant project plan

A grant project plan is an operational plan that provides the basis for a grant administrator to implement a grant program.

GRE

Is about the major forms of religious thought and expression characteristic of Australian society and other societies and may be provided in public schools as part of the general school curriculum. The focus of General Religious Education (GRE) is on the sociological based study of various religious traditions rather than on the encouragement of personal commitment by students to a particular set of religious beliefs.

Guideline

Supporting information that assists in interpreting policy and may suggest ideas to consider when dealing with an issue. They will reflect the Department's current standards of good and safe practice. Compliance is encouraged but not mandatory. Guidelines may not cover all contingencies.

Guidelines are developed when there are clear boundaries for action but the specific actions are better developed at the local level where the context can be taken into account. Guidelines enable a discretionary and flexible approach for determining a course of action. They support the implementation of broader policy and legislation.

Guidelines may appear throughout the document (as illustrated in this document) or be presented as an appendix. When included they:

• are non-mandatory;
• suggest good practice for implementing policies and procedures; and
• are expressed in terms such as 'may', 'could', 'should' and 'it is recommended/advised'.

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H

Harassment

Perceived or actual demonstrated, patterns of behaviour that are offensive, humiliating, intimidating or threatening and that cause a person disadvantage or anxiety over a period of time.

Hazard

Anything that may result in injury to a person, or harm to the health of a person.

Hazard Management Agency

A public authority which, because of legislative responsibility or specialised knowledge, expertise and resources, is responsible for emergency management. Such organisations are either designated by legislation or detailed in State-level emergency management plans, for example, WA Police and the Fire and Emergency Services Authority.

Health care authorisation

An agreed management plan developed by parents, the school principal and relevant staff for a student who has a medical condition or health care needs. It contains relevant medical information and describes the assistance or health care procedures that may be required whilst a student is at school.

Health care plan

Specifies the support required to cater for a student’s health care needs while in the care of the school.

Health care procedure

Health care procedures may include:

• the provision or supervision of first aid;
• the administration of medication;
• personal care such as lifting, mobility, feeding or toileting;
• monitoring the health status of a student; or
• taking action in response to a medical emergency.

Health professional

Provides advice and recommends appropriate strategies for managing a student’s health care needs and may include medical practitioners, pharmacists, nurses and allied health care workers.
 

Higher duty allowance

Higher Duty Allowance (HDA) is the term applied to the increase in salary received by an employee during the period of his/her term of temporary deployment. The value of the higher duties allowance is calculated as the difference between the employee’s current salary rate and the first increment point of the salary applying to the Temporary Deployment (Acting) position.

Home address

The apprentice/trainee’s normal place of residence, which should be recorded on the Training Records System (TRS).

Home education moderator

A person appointed by the Regional Executive Director to evaluate and report on home education programs and progress.

Home educator

A parent or person at law registered under s48 of the School Education Act 1999.

Home employer

Home employer is the employer where an employee’s permanent position is located.

Hospitality expenditure

Expenditure incurred for the reception and entertainment of guests and visitors is considered as hospitality expenditure. The expenditure incurred may include expenditure on formal dinning in restaurant, hotel, home or any other venue appropriate to the occasion. In certain circumstances, hospitality may also include the provision of gifts and recreational activities.

Hospital school services

Provides educational support for eligible students whose physical or mental health currently prevents them from successfully participating in their usual enrolled school program. Hospital School Services (HSS) operates over 30 programs, located across various Department of Health settings. Each has different criteria for admission. Teaching in the home can also be provided for eligible students within the metropolitan area. Schools should contact HSS for further details regarding the referral process.

Housing Fringe Benefit

A benefit that becomes available when the Department provides an employee with accommodation in a non-remote location, as the usual place of residence, either rent-free or at a reduced rent. A non-remote location for fringe benefit tax purposes is defined under paragraph 140 (1) (b) of the Fringe Benefits Tax Assessment Act 1986.

HSS

Provides educational support for eligible students whose physical or mental health currently prevents them from successfully participating in their usual enrolled school program. Hospital school services (HSS) operates over 30 programs, located across various Department of Health settings. Each has different criteria for admission. Teaching in the home can also be provided for eligible students within the metropolitan area. Schools should contact HSS for further details regarding the referral process.

Human resources management information system (HRMIS)

The Department of Education and Training and TAFEWA Colleges’ HRMIS will be used to record the details of applicants who are not to be employed or existing employees who are not to be re-employed. Employees who have been dismissed and who are not to be re-employed are flagged on the HRMIS. Details of the reasons for refusal to employ a person are not recorded on the system but placed on a restricted access file.Back to top

I

ICT security administrator

A position held by an authorised staff member within the Information and Communication Technologies Directorate, responsible for security matters.

Inappropriate content

Content that is considered unsuitable or harmful to students. It includes material that is pornographic, that promotes illegal activities, violence or prejudice on the grounds of race, religion, gender or sexual orientation.

Incident controller

The person responsible for the overall management of an emergency or critical incident. This is normally the principal or site manager unless they are incapacitated, unavailable, or have delegated the role. For some incidents, the Incident Controller will be subordinate to a district level or Central Office Incident Controller or another agency which has legislative authority for management of that hazard.

Incident support coordinator

The person from Central Office appointed to liaise with the district education office or school Incident Controller when an emergency or critical incident is deemed to require Central Office support.

Independent minor (prescribed child)

"Under Part II, Section 147, (1) of the School Education Regulations 2000: The principal of a school at which a child is enrolled or wishes to be enrolled may designate the child to be a child for the purposes of the provisions of the Act set out in the Table to this subregulation that are relevant to the school (an "independent minor") if the principal is satisfied that the child has the capacity to make his or her own decisions in relation to:

• an educational program for the child at the school; and
• the administrative requirements of the school.

Independent minors

Students under 18 years of age living independently whom the Principal and Managing Director decide (under Regulation 147 of the School Education Act 1999) may sign their own consent forms.

Indigenous Australians

A person who:

• is of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent;
• identifies as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person; and
• is accepted as such by the community in which he or she lives or has lived.

Indirect discrimination

Is when an apparently neutral rule, policy or practice has an adverse impact on a particular group and is not reasonable in the circumstances.

Individual assessment of merit

The assessment of one person’s merit for a vacancy.

Induction

The formal process of familiarising employees with their roles, responsibilities, and entitlements and orientating them to applicable workplace and organisational policies, resources and support services.

Induction

Induction is defined as the formal process of familiarising employees with their role and responsibilities, their work unit and relevant organisation policies, resources and practices.

Informal Complaint

A verbal or written complaint where the person wishes to discuss the incident but not implement formal proceedings.

Information held by the Department

The Department of Education and Training maintains records of all past and present employees who have been dismissed or have been warned about their conduct. All applicants for employment are checked against these records.

Intellectual property

‘Intellectual Property’ is the umbrella term given to a range of legal and moral rights that come into being with the creation of literary and artistic creations, scientific and industrial works and discoveries. Copyright, patents, industrial designs, trademarks and plant breeding rights are all covered by the term ‘IP’. IP law aims to encourage the distribution of these types of creations within society by granting their owners various exclusive rights for a limited time. The incentives provided by such exclusive rights encourage the distribution of the results of intellectual effort throughout the wider society.

Intensive health care needs

A student with intensive health care needs has a medical condition that requires assistance for life support and/or maintenance of health during school hours. In many circumstances intensive health care needs will require long-term management by trained Department of Education staff.

Interim negative notice

Prohibits a person from undertaking child-related work in Western Australia before a final decision is made by the WWC Screening Unit.

Internal control

Internal control is the combination of systems and methods designed to provide the principal with reasonable assurance that: the assets and resources of the school are protected and losses are minimised;

• the accounting records are reliable and accurate;
• Treasury, audit, accounting and departmental requirements are met;
• proper authorisation and certification for financial transactions are provided; and
• operational efficiency is promoted.

An effective internal control structure assists management in ensuring that, as far as practicable:

• the conduct of business is orderly and efficiently;
• errors or irregularities are prevented, or detected and corrected should they occur;
• assets, including information assets, are safeguarded from unauthorised use or disposition; and
• financial records and other relevant information systems completely and accurately reflect the school's entire operational activities and permit the timely preparation of financial information.

International excursion

An excursion that involves travel overseas and requires the approval of the Minister for Education.

Interstate excursion

An excursion that involves travel to another state(s) and requires the approval of an Executive Director.

Intruder

A person entering school premises without permission and who does not have good cause to be on the premises.

Inventories

Trading stocks are usually in bulk volume, and are held for the purpose of merchandising operations. Examples of such stock are bookshop stocks, canteen stocks, school uniforms, livestock and farm produce.

Investigation

The formal examination of a complaint by an authorised person/s.

Inward secondment

Inward secondment is the secondment of an employee of another public or private sector employer to a position in the Department.

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J

Job services Australian provider

An organisation contracted by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations to provide job support services to job seekers.

Joint Executive Committee

Supports the Corporate Executive. It sets policy and manages the business of the organisation by monitoring program performance, compliance and human resource and financial management, and endorses and reviews evaluations and policy development and implementation.

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Lawful order

A lawful order means a direction or instruction which an authorised officer within the Department is entitled to make at law (pursuant to a statute or the common law).

Learning pathway

Means a pathway to achievement of competencies/qualifications that involves participation in a structured and sequenced learning process that provides relevant learning experiences. NB: For the purposes of the semester one 2007 pilot, the learning pathway will be limited to the current qualification or its sequential offering (Certificates I to VI).

Lecturer

In the context of this document, has the same meaning as "employee" as specified in the Western Australian TAFE Lecturers' Certified Agreement 2005.

Levy

This term refers to a form of tax authorised by legislation and should not be used in any school context. Terms such as 'bus levy' and 'air-conditioning levy' are therefore misleading.

Liaison with other authorities

The Department of Education and Training liaises, where necessary, with other authorities, agencies and individuals to establish the probity of applicants. Formal protocols for the exchange of information are established where possible between the Department and other agencies.

Likelihood

A description of probability and frequency. The likelihood criteria scale contains five levels from ‘rare’ to ‘almost certain’. The likelihood assessment is the likelihood of the risk occurring with the existing controls in place and with the level of consequence identified.

Line manager

The position to whom the employee reports.

Line manager

An employee responsible for a discrete area.

Live away from home

‘Live away from home’ means that the apprentice/trainee must temporarily reside away from his/her home to maintain attendance at the off-the-job training venue, because his/her normal place of residence exceeds a 200km round trip from the training venue and is too far to reasonably travel to/from each day.

Local-intake

The School Education Act 1999 provides for local-intake schools and schools without a local-intake area. A school under enrolment pressure may be declared to be a local-intake school by the delineation of a local-intake area. All compulsory-aged children who live in the local-intake area are guaranteed enrolment. The same guarantee applies at the pre-compulsory level subject to the availability of accommodation.

Local level

Means a school, district or central office directorate/branch.

Locally managed complaint

A verbal or written complaint made in relation to an employee, a school, district or directorate, which is appropriate to be managed by, or on behalf of, a principal, director or line manager.

Lockdown

Isolating students, staff and visitors from a perceived threat of physical harm at the school site by confining people to classrooms or other school buildings. Lockdown is sometimes referred to as Protect in Place or Shelter in Place.

Long-term vacancy

Long-term vacancy is defined as a Temporary Deployment (Acting) arrangement that is likely to extend beyond six months.Back to top

M

Maltreatment

Maltreatment refers to when a child or young person has been subjected to physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse and/or neglect, the severity and/or persistence of which has resulted in or is likely to result in significant harm. (Statutory Child Protection, Department for Community Development, 2004, p 3). A child may be maltreated by a parent/carer, another adult person or another child who may or may not be older.

Management plan

A description of how the proposed Vocational Education and Training (VET) for School Students (VSS) learning activities will be organised and managed to take account of the procedures set out in this document.

Managing a complaint

Coordinating all the processes involved in managing the complaint to its conclusion/resolution.

Managing Director

A Managing Director is the chief executive officer of a college appointed under Part 3 of the Public Sector Management Act 1994.

Mandatory

Compliance by the Department of Education staff is compulsory with non-compliance being a breach of discipline. All Policy Statements and Procedures in the Department's policies are mandatory.

Mandatory reporter

All doctors, nurses, midwives, police and teachers who form a belief during the course of their work, either voluntary or paid are mandatory reporters. For the purposes of the legislation, 'teacher' is defined as any person registered with the Western Australian College of Teaching (WACOT) or with provisional registration, or who has a limited authority to teach (LAT) and is working as a teacher. 

TAFE lecturers with WACOT registration or a limited authority to teach who deliver an educational program on a school site or in a TAFEWA college are mandatory reporters.

Staff who have WACOT registration but are not working as teachers, are not mandatory reporters but are required under this policy to report child sexual abuse to the principal.
 

Mandatory reporting of child abuse

Legislation requiring specific people or professions to report concerns of child abuse to child protection agencies. In Western Australia, the legislation covering mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse is the Children and Community Services Amendment (Reporting Sexual Abuse of Children) Act 2008.

Mandatory Reporting only applies when a teacher is working in their role as teacher, either in a paid or voluntary capacity. If a belief of sexual abuse is formed outside of working hours, when not working as a teacher, then there is no legal requirement to report. However, as a concerned citizen, a report could be made voluntarily.

Meals

Food of any kind, including beverages and refreshments, but excluding alcohol.

Measurement of distance to a school

Under the Interpretations Act 1984 page 45, Part VIII – Section 65: Provisions regarding time and distance: In the measurement of any distance for the purposes of a written law, the distance shall be measured in a straight line on a horizontal plane. For consistency, to determine which student lives nearest the school, the distance should be measured in a straight line from the centre of the school site. For off-site kindergartens and community kindergartens, distance should be measured from the centre of the kindergarten site.

Mediation

A process where a neutral third party assists the complainant and respondent to reach a voluntary, negotiated resolution of a complaint.

Mediation gives the parties the opportunity to discuss the issues raised, clear up misunderstanding, determine interests or concerns, find areas of agreement and incorporate these areas of agreement into a resolution. The mediation process is confidential.

Mediation may not be appropriate in all cases, particularly if the incident involves possible criminal conduct of any kind or constitutes a breach of legislation.
 

Medical procedure

A complex health care procedure that can only be performed at school by authorised staff who have received training from a health professional. Medical procedures may include inserting a nasogastric tube, monitoring intravenous and/or feeding infusions, tracheotomy care, use of rectal valium or suctioning and use of a suctioning catheter.

Merit Principle

The merit principle requires a proper assessment, taking into into account:

• the extent to which the person has the skills, knowledge and abilities relevant to the work-related requirements and outcomes sought by the public sector body; and
• if relevant, the way in which the person carried out any previous employment or occupational duties.
   

Metropolitan

'Metropolitan' means the area within the Perth city or suburban limits, as prescribed by the Ministry for Planning.

Minimum hours of instruction

As defined in the School Education Regulations 2000.

Kindergarten (S. 24)- subject to Regulation 27, a child enrolled at a public school in a kindergarten program is to be provided at least 11 hours instruction during each week in which the school is open for instruction.

Pre-primary (S. 25) - subject to Regulation 27, a child enrolled at a public school in a pre-primary program is to be provided:

• at least 25 hours and 50 minutes instruction during each week in which the school is open for instruction; and
• at least 4 hours and 10 minutes instruction during each day in which the school is open for instruction.

Primary program (S. 26) - subject to Regulation 27, a child enrolled at a public school in a primary program is to be provided:

• at least 25 hours and 50 minutes instruction during each week in which the school is open for instruction; and
• at least 4 hours and 10 minutes instruction during each day in which the school is open for instruction.

Lower secondary program (Years 8-10) -subject to Regulation 27, a child enrolled at a public school in a secondary program is to be provided:

• at least 25 hours and 50 minutes instruction during each week in which the school is open for instruction; and
• at least 4 hours and 10 minutes instruction each day in which the school is open for instruction.

Senior secondary program (Years 11 and 12) - the hours of instruction for senior school students in Year 11 and 12 are flexible and the principal should determine the appropriate hours with reference to the specific child's education and the Objects of the School Education Act 1999.

Minor

A person under age 18, the age of legal majority.

Misconduct

Includes, but is not limited to any actions, decisions or behaviours by employees that breach the Department’s Code of Conduct or the Public Sector Commission’s Code of Ethics.
 

Mobility swap

Occurs when two employees agree to swap positions and this is agreed to and endorsed by their respective line managers.

Monetary forms

Monetary forms are printed forms or documents:

• which, by themselves or when completed, can be exchanged or be used to obtain a consideration;
• or which provide a form of receipt.

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N

Negative notice

Prohibits a person from undertaking child-related work in Western Australia.

Neglect

The intentional failure by parents/carers to provide, arrange, or allow the provision of, adequate care, effective medical, therapeutic or remedial treatment. It includes abandonment, failing to provide adequate food or shelter and/or care, or supervision to a severe and/or persistent extent.

Newly appointed employees

Newly appointed employees are defined as those staff new to the Department of Education and Training, location, function, level or position whether at a school site, district or central office.

Nominee

A person appointed by the Director Schools to support a principal considering making a recommendation for exclusion order.

Nominee

Any staff member employed under section 235 of the School Education Act 1999 who is nominated by the principal to act on behalf of the principal.

Non-campaign advertising

Refers to tenders, public notices and recruitment.

Non-delegable duty of care

A duty of care is owed by the educational authority to students regardless of the person who actually performs that duty.

Non-mandatory

The term non-mandatory should be used only in relation to Guidelines. See definition of ‘Guideline’.

Non-Shared Accommodation

Accommodation (typically a one or two-bedroom unit) which is allocated to a single employee and is not required to be shared.

Non-teaching staff

Employees of the Department of Education who are employed at the premises of a government school and who are not members of the teaching staff.

Non-teaching staff

Employees of the Department of Education who are employed at the premises of a public school and who are not members of the teaching staff.

Notices

'Notices' are documents which legislation requires to be publicly displayed in order to make users aware of copyright obligations.

Notifiable Decision

Public Sector Commission: Breach Claims: An Agency Guide, p10

“REQUIREMENTS TO NOTIFY EMPLOYEES OF CERTAIN DECISIONS

Employment Standard

The Regulations establish when notification is to be provided for the Employment Standard.

Notifiable employment decisions include:

• appointments to fill a vacancy of more than six months
• for appointment to fill a vacancy of six months or less if the vacancy was advertised on the basis that the period of the appointment could later be extended to more than six months or made permanent
• for selection to form part of an appointment pool.

Notifiable employment decisions do not include transfers. Acting appointments are also not notifiable unless the vacancy was advertised on the basis that the person appointed could later become permanent….

Grievance Resolution Standard
Notification must be provided to employees affected by decisions arising from a completed grievance process. This includes decisions where an agency decides that no action will be taken.

Other Standards
There is no requirement to notify employees about decisions covered by the other Standards…..”
 

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O

Occupational group

An occupational group is used to provide a course-to-career direction for applicants. A qualification/course can be classified and linked to one or more occupational groups, as seen in the TAFEWA Full time Studies Guide.

Offerings

Full-time qualifications offered at particular TAFEWA locations.

Officer

A person who is:

• employed under the Public Service Act 1978 or at any other written law;
• employed by the Minister; or
• employed under the provisions of any industrial award or agreement.

Officer

An officer employed under section 235 (1) (a) or (c) of the School Education Act 1999.

Officers

• Employees of the Department of Education and Training;
• school teaching and non-teaching staff; and
• other persons, such as committee and board members, persons seconded to the Department, contractors and consultants engaged by the Department.

Online Incident Notification System

The system for enabling schools and regional education offices to formally record and advise the Department of emergencies, critical incidents at other specific incidents. The Online Incident Notification System can be found on the Department's Intranet homepage and http://intranet/home/Default.asp.

Online services

Any services including, but not limited to, email, calendaring, instant messaging, web conferencing, discussion groups, Internet access and web browsing, that may be accessed using the computer networks and services of the Department of Education and Training.

Operational debriefing

A review of the management of an emergency or critical incident in order to affirm and reinforce what worked well, and refine and improve future processes and practice.

Operational risks

Risks associated with development and implementation of annual business plans.

Order to leave the school premises

A verbal order issued by the principal to leave the school premises for a maximum period of 24 hours pursuant to Section 119 of the School Education Act 1999 and Regulation 75 of the School Education Regulations 2000, or Section 120 of the School Education Act 1999.

Other moneys

Other moneys means moneys, negotiable instruments or securities of any kind collected, received or held by a school for or on behalf of a person or entity other than the school.

Other officer

Has the same meaning as in s 235 of the School Education Act 1999.

Other property

Property belonging to a person or an organisation that is held by or under the control of the school.

Our Policies

Refers to the internet website that houses the Department of Education and Training's (the Department's) policy and legislative framework. It contains policies specific to the Department. Some links are provided to relevant external content (for example Acts and Industrial Awards). The Department is not responsible for maintaining content accessed via external links.

Outward secondment

Outward secondment is the secondment of a Department of Education and Training employee to another public or private sector employer.

Overseas student

A person who:

• is not entitled to reside permanently in Australia;
• satisfies the criteria prescribed by the School Education Regulations 2000; and
• is enrolled as a full fee-paying student at a school participating in the international full fee-paying student program.

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P

Parent

A person who at law has responsibility:

• for the long-term care, welfare and development of the child; or
• for the day to day care, welfare and development of the child.

Parent

In relation to a child, means a person who at law has responsibility for the long-term care, welfare and development of the child; or the day-to-day care, welfare and development of the child.

Parent

A person:

• who is the father, mother, stepfather or stepmother of the child; or
• who at law has responsibility for:

                  o the long-term care, welfare and development of the child;
                  o the day-to-day care, welfare and development of the child; or

• who is in a de facto relationship with a person referred to above.
   

Parent/responsible person

In this policy the term 'parent' will be used for brevity, and also includes 'responsible person' as defined below.

In the School Education Act 1999, Part 1, Section 4, Definitions, parent in relation to a child, means a person who at law has responsibility:

a) for the long-term care, welfare and development of the child; or

b) for the day to day care, welfare and development of the child

except in Sections 9 (2), 10 (b), 25, 27, 38 (1) and Division 2 Part 2 where it only has the meaning given by paragraph (b).

In Section 25 of the School Education Act 1999 the 'responsible person', in relation to a student means:

a) a parent of the student;

b) in the case of a student who has turned 18 or is a prescribed child, the student; or

c) a person whose details have been provided under Section 16(1) (b) (ii) (II) which states any adult person, not being a parent, who is responsible for the child. 

Partial Exemption

This is an exemption granted by the State Supply Commission to the Department to enable the Department to arrange the supply, and undertake the purchase, of goods and services under specific terms and conditions.

Part-time student

That mode of employment where an employee works less than the ordinary full-time weekly hours and where conditions and entitlements accrue on a pro rata basis. A part-time position has discrete functions and responsibilities.

Performance management

The formal and informal continuous process of evaluating and supporting an employee’s performance in the workplace.

Performance Management Plan

A document developed by the employee and line manager identifying agreed outcomes, priorities and support, within a performance management process.

Performance Management Standard

As defined by the Office of Public Sector Standards:

“Outcome: The performance of all employees is fairly assessed to achieve the work-related requirements of the public sector body while paying proper regard to employee interests.

Standard: The minimum standard of merit, equity and probity is met for performance management if:

•  an employee is informed about how their performance will be managed and the results of their performance assessment;
•  a proper assessment of the employee’s performance takes into account both the work-related requirements of the job and identified employee interests; and
•  processes, decisions and actions are impartial, transparent and capable of review.”
   

Performance measurement

Performance measurement is the use of evidence to determine progress toward desired grant outcomes. In some cases quantified performance measures may not be available and less direct performance measures may have to be used. Performance measurement is best supported by relevant, accurate, timely, accessible, interpretable and coherent performance information.

Permanent teachers who must be placed

Permanent teachers who are surplus to requirements because of decreased enrolments, school closure or other system initiated events.

Phasing in Arrangements

The arrangements outlining when a person must apply for a WWCC as stated in the Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Regulations 2005.

Physical abuse

Abuse perpetrated through behaviours such as beating, shaking, administration of alcohol and illicit drugs, attempted suffocation or excessive discipline or physical punishment. It does not include accidental injury.

Physical bullying

This includes repetitive low level hitting, kicking, pinching, pushing, tripping, "ganging up", unwanted physical or sexual touching, and damage to personal property. High levels of physical assault may be classified as violence.

Physical contact

When a staff member uses physical touch but not to the level of restraint for the purpose of caring for, correcting or directing a student. In most instances this will involve little or no force.

Physical restraint

When one or more staff members use bodily force, intentionally, to limit a student’s freedom of movement against their will.

Policy

Refers to system level policies, which are developed for application across the whole Department of Education and Training (the Department) rather than individual work sites such as schools or colleges. Policies must have the capacity to 'add value' to the operations of the Department. All system level policies are mandatory and must be endorsed by the Joint Executive Committee.

Where appropriate, school-based implementation plans of system level policies are developed by schools in consultation with the School Council to reflect the individual needs of the school. They are embedded within the process of whole-school planning cycles and may warrant revision on a regular basis to ensure relevance. It is expected that all staff will comply with the school implementation plan to support compliance with system level policies.

Policy and legislative framework

The acts, regulations, delegations, policies, procedures and CEO's Instructions that together establish the mandatory rules of operation for all of the Department of Education staff.

Policy author

The person delegated by the policy owner to develop or revise a policy.

Policy owner

The senior officer, director level or above, in the business area responsible for a particular policy.

Policy Reference Group

The Policy Reference Group (PRG) is a supportive peer review group which assists the Policy Owner and Policy Author by scrutinising and interrogating proposed policy. The Group also provides advice to the Joint Executive Committee about the policy proposal and final document to assist their consideration and endorsement.

Policy Statement

Refers to a principle or set of principles that guide direction or state a position. It outlines how an issue is understood and how the proposed direction will contribute to achieving desired outcomes. The policy statement must be concise, clearly worded and present new information not duplicated in other policies. It does not mandate specific action to be taken; rather it sets broad direction and accountabilities.

Pre-compulsory and compulsory education period

The pre compulsory education period is:

1. from the beginning of the year in which the child reaches the age of 4 years and 6 months; and
2. until the end of the year in which the child reaches the age of 5 years and 6 months.

The compulsory education period is defined as:

• From 1 January 2008 until 31 December 2013:

1. from the beginning of the year in which the child reaches the age of 6 years and 6 months; and
2. until:

•  the end of the year in which the child reaches the age of 17; or
•  the child satisfies the minimum requirements for graduation from secondary school established under the Curriculum Council Act 1997, whichever happens first.

• From 1 January 2014:

1. from the beginning of the year in which the child reaches the age of 6 years and 6 months; and
2. until:

• the end of the year in which the child reaches the age of 17 years and 6 months;
• the child satisfies the minimum requirements for graduation from secondary school established under the Curriculum Council Act 1997; or
• the child reaches the age of 18, whichever happens first.

Preparedness

Measures to ensure that, should an emergency or critical incident occur, resources and services are capable of coping with the effects. Measures can include planning, staff training, and acquisition of specific safety equipment, infrastructure and maintaining the safety of the school grounds.

Prevention

Measures to eliminate or reduce incidence or severity of emergencies and critical incidents.

PRG

The Policy Reference Group (PRG) is a supportive peer review group which assists the Policy Owner and Policy Author by scrutinising and interrogating proposed policy. The Group also provides advice to the Joint Executive Committee about the policy proposal and final document to assist their consideration and endorsement. The group comprises of the Manager, Strategic Policy and Planning Branch who chairs the Group and representatives from: Strategic Policy and Planning; Legal Services; Audit and Risk Management; Teaching and Learning (for education policies); Training (for training policies); District Education Office (for education policies); Behaviour, Standards and Wellbeing; Strategic Human Resources; and Policy Owner or Policy Author (to present the policy). Specialist officers will be invited to attend meetings on a case-by-case basis.

Privately arranged activities

An activity for which the appropriate approval has not been obtained and therefore the Department of Education, including the school, does not hold any responsibility for the conduct of the excursion.

Privately funded travel

For the purpose of air travel booking, a privately funded travel means the cost of travel is fully paid for by the traveller and or funded through external (non-government) sources such as parents for school excursions.

Private tutors

Persons not employed by the Department of Education and Training and paid directly by parents/responsible persons.

Procedural fairness

A process that demonstrates procedural fairness is one in which:

• decision makers act fairly and provide reasons for decisions;
• the person affected is given a fair hearing;
• all parties to a matter have an opportunity to put their case where an adverse decision or finding is made; and
• all relevant arguments are considered and irrelevant arguments are excluded.

Procedural fairness

The concept of procedural fairness is derived from the principles of natural justice. A process that demonstrates procedural fairness is one in which:

• decision makers act fairly and provide reasons for decisions;
• the person affected is given a fair hearing;
• all parties to a matter have an opportunity to put their case where an adverse decision or finding is made;
• the decision-maker is impartial and acts without bias when making the decision;
• all relevant arguments are considered and irrelevant arguments are excluded; and
• the decision, the reasons for the decision, and the evidence upon which the decision is made, are explained and are capable of review.
   

Procedural fairness

The concept of procedural fairness is derived from the principles of natural justice. A process that demonstrates procedural fairness is one in which:

• decision makers act fairly and provide reasons for decisions;
• the person affected is given a fair hearing;
• all parties to a matter have an opportunity to present their case where an adverse decision or finding is made;
• the decision-maker is impartial and acts without bias when making the decision;
• all relevant arguments are considered and irrelevant arguments are excluded; and
• the decision, the reasons for the decision and the evidence upon which the decision is made are explained and are capable of review.
   

Procedure

Procedures are mandatory, such that contravention of a procedure is a breach of discipline. They provide detailed specification of steps, processes and responsibilities to be observed when implementing policies. Procedures are expressed in terms such as ‘must’, ‘will’ and ‘must not’ and need to be thought about carefully to ensure that prescription is not required in an area where professional discretion and judgement provides a better outcome and service.

Procurement Committee

A Committee the Department has established to review Procurement Plans and business cases. It is chaired by the Deputy Director General Finance and Administration.

Procurement plan

A procurement plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the stages of a purchase and how it will be managed.

The State Supply Commission's Procurement Planning and Contract Management Policy requires the development of a procurement plan for purchases with a total estimated price of $5 million and above. Procurement plans must be referred to the State Tender Review Committee for endorsement.

Programs for talent development

Schools may be authorised to conduct various programs which provide opportunities for students with special gifts, talents or aptitude. These include Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs and Approved Specialist Programs (ASP).

Enrolment is offered through a selection process and is guaranteed provided the offer of placement is accepted within the nominated timeframe.

Schools that are authorised to conduct GATE or ASP are required to ensure that sufficient classroom accommodation is available to conduct programs. Siblings of students who gained enrolment from outside the local-intake area into specialist programs and are still enrolled at the school will not be guaranteed enrolment in the school.

Prohibition order

A written order to leave the school premises for a maximum period of 60 days, issued by the principal pursuant to Section 199 of the School Education Act 1999 and Regulation 78 of the School Education Regulations 2000.

Proper assessment

Is one in which all the available relevant information is used in a fair and balanced way. It means only taking into account the applicant's skills, knowledge and abilities relevant to the requirements of the job. It requires that a genuine and thorough examination occur, and that this takes into account all relevant facts and circumstances that are reasonably available and known at the time a decision is made about a person's suitability.

Property

Items of any kind, whether real or personal, tangible or intangible, corporeal or incorporeal, and any interest in the item. It does not include money.

Protective isolation

A specific form of student withdrawal that may be considered for use with students whose behaviour places themselves or others at risk of harm. It is a planned intervention that provides the chance for a student to be removed from their regular school environment and be placed into a location, on their own, that is safe for themselves and others.

Provisional Improvement Notice

Is a notice issued to a person requiring them to address an occupational safety and health concern in the workplace.

Proximity card

The personal card that is issued to all employees identifying them as employees of the Department of Education and Training.

Psychological bullying

This includes repeated stalking, threats or implied threats, unwanted email or text messaging, abusive websites, threatening gestures, manipulation, emotional black-mail, and threats to an individual’s reputation and sense of safety.

Public interest disclosure

A Public Interest Disclosure is made when a person discloses to a proper authority information that tends to show past, present or proposed future improper conduct by a public body in the exercise of a public function in the following areas:

• improper conduct;
• an offence under a written law, including corruption;
• substantial unauthorised or irregular use of, or substantial mismanagement of, public resources; a matter of administration that can be investigated under section 14 of the Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1971;and
• an act or omission that involves a substantial and specific risk of injury to public health, prejudice to public safety or harm to the environment.

Disclosures are governed by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2003: http://www.slp.wa.gov.au/statutes/av.nsf/opssc

Public moneys

All school funds and securities of any kind collected, received or held by any person for or on behalf of the school, but does not include moneys held for or on behalf of the students, Parents and Citizens' Association or any other person.

Public property

All property, other than public moneys, owned by the school.

Public service officer

Has the same meaning as in s 3 of the Public Sector Management Act 1994.

Purchase order form

A manual purchase order form is considered as a monetary form. Care must be taken in the use and storage of the forms. Back to top

Q

Qualification

Awarded to a person on successful completion of a course in recognition of having achieved particular knowledge, skills or competencies.

Qualified privilege

The protection from incurring civil or criminal liability or professional misconduct when providing confidential information concerning suspected child abuse in good faith to the Department for Child Protection (DCP) or the WA Police.

Qualifying period

Qualifying period is the minimum period of time that an employee is required to serve in a position to become eligible for the higher duties allowance. Qualifying periods are outlined in relevant industrial agreements.Back to top

R

Racial Discrimination

Under discrimination legislation, race is defined as colour, descent, ethnic or national origin or nationality.

Direct racial discrimination occurs when a person is treated less favourably than another person, in the same or similar circumstances, based on their race or because a relative or associate is of a different racial identity.

Indirect discrimination occurs when an apparently neutral rule, policy, practice or procedure has a negative effect on a substantially higher proportion of people of a particular race, compared to people of another race, and the rule is unreasonable under the circumstances. This can occur even when there is no intention to discriminate.
 

Racial Harassment

Racial harassment (also referred to as racist bullying) may take many forms including threats, abuse, insults and taunts based on a person’s race or a characteristic belonging to, or generally believed to belong to a particular race. Harassment of a person because of their race, colour, descent, ethnic, national origin or nationality is unlawful. It is also unlawful to harass a person because a relative or associate of that person is of a different racial identity. Racial harassment can involve a single incident.

Racial Hatred

Insulting, humiliating, offending or intimidating a person or group in public on the basis of their race is unlawful. A variety of acts can constitute racial hatred, including speaking, singing, making gestures, drawings, images and written publications such as newspapers, leaflets and websites. Racial hatred is also known as racial vilification.

Racism

Is when one person or group of people receive less favourable treatment than another person or group in the same position would have received on the grounds of their ‘race’, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin. Discrimination of this kind can be direct (overt) or indirect (covert).

Racism

The expression of intolerance or hatred towards another race or other races through behaviour or attitude.

Racist Bullying

Bullying or harassing a person because of their race is also referred to as racist bullying.

Record

Information no matter how recorded, which includes:

• any thing on which there is writing or Braille;
• a map, plan, diagram or graph;
• a drawing, pictorial or graphic work, or photograph;
• any thing on which there are figures, marks, perforations, or symbols, having a meaning for persons qualified to interpret them;
• any thing from which images, sounds or writings can be reproduced with or without the aid of anything else; and
• any thing on which information has been stored or recorded, either mechanically, magnetically, or electronically.

Recordkeeping

The systematic organisation and control of recorded information in any format from the time it is created to its final disposition.

Recordkeeping plan

A document that sets out how an organisation manages its records.

 

 

 

Recordkeeping system

A manual or automated system which captures and provides access to records over time that has features for maintaining authentic, reliable, complete and usable records that function as evidence of business transactions.

Records management

A systematic approach to the creation, maintenance, use and disposition of records.

Recovery

Measures which support emergency or critical incident -affected individuals and school communities in reconstruction of the physical infrastructure and restoration of emotional, economic, environmental and physical wellbeing.

Redeployee

A redeployee is a permanent employee whose job function has been abolished because of restructuring, amalgamation or closure, outsourcing, downsizing or changes in Departmental services and operations.

Redeployment

Redeployment is an efficient and effective management process for placing redeployees into suitable alternative positions in the Department of Education and Training or in other public sector agencies. Redeployment is not a disciplinary process. It does not identify individual employees who are considered unsuitable by the organisation or who are poor or sub-standard performers. Where poor performance is identified, redeployment cannot be exercised to facilitate the mobility of such employees.

Redundancy

Redundancy under the Public Sector Standard is a term that refers to the position that is made surplus to the needs of the organisation. It is the position that is made redundant, not the person.

Referring a complaint

Forwarding the complaint to a more appropriate person or level to manage.

Regional

The area of Western Australia apart from the Perth metropolitan area.

Registered employee

A registered employee is an employee whose position has been abolished and cannot be transferred internally who has been registered for external redeployment with the Public Sector Management Division of the Department of the Premier and Cabinet under regulation 11 of the Public Sector Management Act 1994.

Registered Training Organisation

An organisation registered by a state or territory recognition authority to deliver training and/or conduct assessments and issue nationally recognised qualifications in accordance with the Australian Quality Training Framework.

Relational bullying

This usually involves repeatedly ostracising others by leaving them out or convincing others to exclude or reject another individual or group from their social connections, making up or spreading rumours and sharing or threatening to share others personal information.

Relevant Change to Criminal Record

 When a person is charged with or convicted of a Class 1 or Class 2 offence as listed in the Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Regulations 2005.

Research

A systematic investigation designed to increase the stock of knowledge. For the purpose of this policy, the definition excludes:

• activities undertaken as part of normal teaching/lecturing practice; and
• undergraduate student assignments below the level of an Honours degree or an equivalent fourth year qualification, which are confined to one site.

Under these exclusions, the site manager can be directly approached without centralised approval from the Department of Education.

Researcher/research applicant

An external party sponsoring or undertaking research where that research is not commissioned by the Department. This definition includes:

• employees of the Department who undertake research for a qualification with an education provider; and
• recipients of Department funding for research that has not been commissioned by the Department.

Resolution

An outcome of a complaint that is satisfactory to both parties.

Resource items

Property within the prescribed categories (see Appendix B), which are portable and attractive with a value of between $1 000 and $4 999 and with a total useful life of two years or more.

Respondent

The person who is the subject of a complaint.

Respondent

The person who is the subject of a complaint.

Respondent

For internal complaints, the person who is the subject of a complaint. For external complaints, both the Department of Education and the alleged harasser are the respondent.

Response

Actions taken immediately prior to, during and immediately after an emergency or critical incident to ensure that its effects are minimised.

Responsible Parenting Agreement

A formal written agreement between a parent and an authorised officer in one of the Departments of Education, Child Protection or Corrective Services. Parents may be asked to enter into a Responsible Parenting Agreement where the child is under 15 years of age and demonstrating anti-social or offending behaviour, not attending school where there is no reasonable cause for the absence or is at risk of developing such behaviours. Agreements document support to be provided by the Department (and/or other agencies) and actions to be undertaken by parents.

Responsible Parenting Order

A Responsible Parenting Order compels a parent(s) to take up the support offered by agencies and to meet their responsibilities in exercising appropriate control over their child’s anti-social, offending or truanting behaviour. A Regional Executive Director may endorse a principal’s recommendation to the Director General that an application for an order be made in respect of the child, where every effort to engage the parent voluntarily has failed and it is considered that it will make a positive difference to the child’s behaviour.

Responsible Person

A person:

• who is a parent of the student;
• who, in the case of a student who has turned 18 or is a prescribed child, the student; or
• who is an adult, responsible for the child and whose details have been provided on enrolment.
   

Restorative practice

The practice of managing conflict and tension by refocussing on repairing harm and strengthening relationships. It endeavours to replace punitive disciplinary processes with those that support the student to restore relationships harmed by their behaviour.

Retention and disposal schedule

Establishes the minimum retention period for each type of record listed in the schedule regardless of medium, and dictates the final action for the record.

Risk

The chance of something happening that can cause an accident, injury or harm and is measured in terms of consequences and likelihood.

Risk

The chance of something happening that will have an impact on objectives. It is measured in terms of consequences and likelihood.

Risk assessment

The process used to determine management priorities by evaluating and comparing the level of risk against predetermined standards.

RiskBase

RiskBase is an electronic web-based application developed by RiskCover and hosted by RiskCover on behalf of the Department.

The application contains the following information:

• Risk descriptions along with causes and effects.
• Properties of the risk such as status, risk owner, risk category, impact range, and review dates, etc.
• Existing controls, controls rating and information regarding their effectiveness (controls assurance).
• Consequence, likelihood and level of risk ratings.
• Recommended and approved treatment action plans.
• Risk acceptance decisions.
• Notes and comments.
   

Risk control

A procedure, system, activity, policy or process that reduces the likelihood and/or consequences of a risk. A risk may have more than one control and a control may address more than one risk.

Risk identification

The process of determining what can happen, why and how.

Risk management

Risk Management is the culture, processes and structures that are directed towards the effective management of potential opportunities and adverse effects.

Risk review

Periodic assessment of risks to determine if there have been changes over time.

Risk treatment

A selective application of appropriate techniques and management principles to reduce either likelihood of an occurrence or its consequences, or both.

RTO

An organisation registered by a state or territory recognition authority to deliver training and/or conduct assessments and issue nationally recognised qualifications in accordance with the Australian Quality Training Framework.Back to top

S

Safety and health committee

A committee comprising principals/line managers and employees that has been established under Part IV Division 2 of the OSH Act to monitor safety and health issues in a workplace.

Safety and health representative

An employee who has been elected under Part IV Division 1 of the OSH Act to represent other employees in the interests of safety and health at the workplace for which they were elected.

School activity

An activity that is organised or managed by a member of the teaching staff or non-teaching staff as part of his or her duties.

School activity

All activities undertaken as part of the educational program including attendance at a Vocational Education and Training (VET) for School Students (VSS) program.

School Administrator

A member of the teaching staff appointed under Section 237(a) of the School Education Act 1999 and associated regulations.

School administrator

For the purpose of this policy the following positions are defined as school administrators;

• principal
• vice principal
• deputy principal
• head of school
• head of department
• programme coordinator
• coordinator
• manager
• senior lecturer
• head of learning area
   

School attendance panel

A School Attendance Panel is a small group of people appointed to provide advice and assistance to students and the parent(s) of students who are not fulfilling the legal requirements of school attendance.

School-based specialist programs

Operated independently by individual secondary schools to service the needs for extension and enrichment within the local school population, a number of school-based programs have been developed. School-based specialist programs cover a range of learning areas.

School based traineeship

A workplace learning program that allows full time secondary students to be paid for nationally accredited training. All training is recognised by the Curriculum Council as contributing towards secondary graduation.

School Based Traineeship, Aboriginal School Based Traineeship And School Based Apprenticeships

Workplace learning programs that allow full-time senior secondary students to begin their (paid) apprenticeship or traineeship in Years 11 or 12, while also completing their Western Australian Certificate of Education.

School based workplace learning coordinator (the coordinator)

A Department of Education and Training employee, working at a school, who coordinates workplace learning.

School community

All members of the school staff – both teaching and non-teaching, all students attending the school and all parents and family members.

School community service program

The program of service activities organised by each school.

School discipline advisory panel

A small group of people who provide comments and recommendations to the Director General about a student’s breach of school discipline, the way the school has dealt with it and whether the breach warrants an exclusion order.

School facilities and resources

School buildings and the facilities contained within them; school grounds and recreation areas and associated structures; and parking areas.

School funds

All moneys and securities of any kind collected, received or held by any person for and on behalf of the school, but does not include moneys held for or on behalf of the students, Parents and Citizens’ Association or any other person.

School health service

The School Health Service is provided to schools in order to promote healthy development in children and young adolescents. The School Health Service provided to government schools is jointly funded by the Department of Health and the Department of Education, with school health service staff employed by the Department of Health.

School premises

Premises used for or in connection with government schools including buildings and other things erected or standing on those premises.

School property

School property refers to property of every kind, whether real or personal, tangible or intangible, corporeal or incorporeal, and any interest in property.

Schools as registered training organisations (RTOs)

Schools may operate as Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) for the purpose of providing VET opportunities to school students. It is not intended that schools will operate on a commercial basis or in competition with other RTOs.

School Select

School Select is a process that allows principals to recruit, select and appoint their staff to meet school needs.

Schools Executive

Provides strategic analysis and advice to Corporate Executive and the Joint Executive Committee. It manages risk and acts as a forum for reviewing school performance, coordinating directorate plans and overseeing and directing the delivery of programs.

School site

The school at which the student is enrolled.

School site plan

The plan of the school site showing the general layout of buildings. The site plan may include Emergency Exits/Evacuation Escape Routes, location of any fire fighting equipment and the direction/location of the Evacuation Assembly Area. It may also identify the location of Fire Hydrant/s, gas storage and control valves, and the electrical system Main Isolating Switch.

School staff

School-based employees of the Department of Education, including teaching and non-teaching staff.

School support staff

Non-teaching staff are defined in Section 235 (1)(a), (c) and (d) of the School Education Act 1999, being Public Service Officers, Other Officers and Wages Staff respectively.

Scope

States who the policy applies to, who is responsible for implementing the policy and the context it will be implemented in.

Screening committee

The Screening Committee is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the Director General and making recommendations to Managing Directors and the Director, Western Australian College of Teaching (WACOT) concerning employees/applicants whose convictions are disclosed as a result of criminal record checks.

Screening unit

The Screening Unit acts on behalf of the Screening Committee to administer criminal record checks for the Department of Education and Training, and TAFEWA Colleges.

Secondary visa holder

Can be a member of the family unit, an interdependent partner, or a dependent child of the interdependent partner.

Secondment

Secondment is the voluntary placement of an employee to a position with a gaining employer for a defined period, with the requirement that the employee returns to the home employer on completion of the secondment.

Selection criteria

These are academic and other criteria such as work experience, industry involvement and employment status which are used to rank eligible applicants competing for entry to a qualification. In most cases selection criteria are applied only if there are more applicants than available places in a qualification.

Semester

The six-month period that contains the study start date of a unit in which the student is enrolled.

Serious breach of discipline

A serious breach of school discipline is one that adversely affects, or threatens, the safety of a person at the school.

Service activity

An activity undertaken by students, individually or in collaboration with other students, for the benefit of others, but which does not attract any substantial material reward.

A service activity can be a single event or require a regular commitment over a period of time e.g. several weeks or months. It can be direct (involving personal contact i.e. visiting the elderly) or indirect (e.g. fundraising, environmental initiatives, food drives).

Service activities should:

• benefit others;
• give service in an area of need; and
• provide opportunities for reflection and learning.

Service activity management plan

A plan describing how each service activity will be organised and managed to meet the requirements of this document.

Service organisation

An organisation, agency or group that provides services in the community and hosts Community Service Program students.

Service organisation coordinator

An adult employee of a service organisation who coordinates the activities of Community Service Program students hosted by the organisation.

Sexual abuse

Any type of sexual behaviour involving a child where the child is the subject of bribery, coercion, a threat, exploitation or violence; or the child has less power than another person involved in the behaviour; or there is a significant disparity in the developmental function or maturity of the child and another person involved in the behaviour. It includes sexual penetration, encouraging a child to perform indecent acts such as touching genitals, penis/digital penetration or oral sex, inappropriate touching, exposure to sexual acts or pornographic materials and using electronic means to procure or expose a child to indecent material..

Sexual Harassment

Under sections 24 (employees) and 25 (students) of the Western Australian Equal Opportunity Act 1984 a person is sexually harassed if:

• they are subject to an unwelcome sexual advance, unwelcome request for sexual favours or other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature; and
• the person reasonably believes if they reject or object to that behaviour they will be disadvantaged or they are disadvantaged.

Sexual harassment does not need to be repeated or continuous. It can involve a single incident. Sexual harassment of employees, colleagues, students and potential students is unlawful.
 

Sexual Harassment

Is an unwelcome sexual advance, an unwelcome request for sexual favours or other unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. It includes:

• spoken or written harassment, for example, sexualised jokes or obscene remarks;
• non-verbal harassment (for example, glaring/staring/gesturing in a sexual way), presence of suggestive or sexual magazines/pictures/posters/etc on display or contained in a person's belongings; and
• electronic harassment, for example, sending sexually suggestive comments, obscene messages or jokes.
   

Sexual harassment

Any form of sexual attention that is unwelcome, uninvited and unreciprocated, which makes a person feel humiliated, intimidated or offended. Behaviours must be considered within the developmental level of the child. Where a student is old enough to anticipate that their actions would cause distress to a person, an intention 'not to harm' is no defence. It includes:

• spoken or written harassment, for example, sexualised jokes or obscene remarks;
• non-verbal harassment (for example, glaring/staring/gesturing in a sexual way), presence of suggestive or sexual magazines/pictures/posters/etc on display or contained in a person's belongings; and
• electronic harassment, for example, sending sexually suggestive comments, obscene messages or jokes.

Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is conduct of a sexual nature that is unwelcome, uninvited and unreciprocated, which makes a person feel humiliated, intimidated or offended.

Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to the following.

a) Spoken or written harassment which includes:

• risqué or smutty jokes or innuendo;
• sexual or obscene remarks; propositions or requests for sexual favours;
• sexual compliments;
• stated or implied employment advantage or reprisal as a result of sexual advances; and
• comments that have a sexual component about a person's private life, such as their marital status, sexual activity, sexual preference, morality or physical appearance.

b) Visual harassment which includes:

• leering, staring or gesturing in a sexual way; and
• presence of suggestive or sexual magazines, pictures, posters, pin-ups or cartoons in the work or learning environment, either displayed in a public place or in a person's work area which is accessible by others, or may even include those contained in a person's belongings at work or school.

c) Physical harassment which includes:

• an act of touching, patting, fondling, brushing, slapping or grabbing in a sexual manner.

d) Electronic harassment which includes:

• sending of lewd pictures, posters or cartoons (Internet, e-mail or screensavers) in the work and learning environment;
• sexually suggestive comments, obscene messages or jokes sent via e-mail; and
• invitations or requests for sex sent via e-mail.

Sexual harassment is not behaviour based on mutual attraction, friendship and respect. If the interaction is consensual, welcome and reciprocated it is not sexual harassment.

Shared accommodation

Accommodation that is, either shared by two or more single employees or occupied by one single employee, with the potential to be shared at a later date.

Short-term vacancy

Short-term vacancy is defined as a Temporary Deployment (Acting) opportunity of less than six months' duration.

Siblings

The term sibling is defined in the School Education Regulations 2000. This policy uses a reworded definition which captures the spirit of the regulations. Sibling is defined as:

• a brother or sister of the child (with at least one biological parent in common or adopted), irrespective of their place of residence;
• a stepbrother or sister of the child (where the spouse or de facto partner of the child's parent is not the child's parent), whose usual place of residence is the same as that of the child; or
• a child officially in care or foster care and living at the same place of residence with another child enrolled at the school.

Significant records

Provide evidence of the business activity of the organisation. Significant records are those that:

• contain information which is of administrative, legal, fiscal, evidential or historical value and is not recorded elsewhere on the public record;
• document important communication and/or a transaction between employees or between a employee and another party; and
• document the rationale behind policy, senior employee decisions and directives.

 

Site manager

School principals and all officers who have executive responsibility for overall management of any Department site.

Site manager

Officers who have executive responsibility for overall management of any Department of Education and Training site.

Spam

A generic term used to describe electronic junk mail. That is, unwanted messages sent to an email account or mobile phone. Messages do not have to be sent out in bulk to be considered spam - under Australian law, a single electronic message can also be considered spam.

Special religious education

Is based on distinctive religious tenets or beliefs and may be provided in public schools by persons authorised to deliver Special Religious Education (SRE).

Spent Convictions Act 1988

In Western Australia the Spent Convictions Act 1988 provides for certain convictions to be spent (expunged from the record) generally after 10 years provided there have been no further convictions. This prevents discrimination against people for whom disclosing certain convictions may cause difficulties in; for example, finding or keeping employment, access to finance or travel, in legal proceedings, holding public office, fulfilling civic duties or in home or social life.

Under the provisions of Section 7(1) of the Spent Convictions Act 1988, only lesser convictions can be spent by the WA Police Service, after a time period of 10 years plus any term of imprisonment that may have been imposed. The application form provides details of further restrictions. A lesser conviction is one for which imprisonment of twelve months or less, or a fine of less than $15,000 was imposed. All other convictions, such as serious convictions applicable under Section 6 of the Spent Conviction Act 1988 can only be spent by applying to the District Court. Once spent, a conviction will not usually be disclosed on a criminal record check. However, exemptions from provisions of the Spent Convictions Act 1988 allow DET and TAFE Colleges access to information about such convictions.

Sponsorship

Sponsorship is the purchase of the right to associate the sponsor’s name, products or services with the sponsored organisation’s service, product or activity in return for negotiated benefits.

Sponsorship is a business activity as it involves an exchange that has a measurable value to each party in commercial, marketing or philanthropic terms.

The following are not considered to be sponsorship activities unless included as part of an overall sponsorship package in which other direct sponsorship benefits are provided:

• stand-alone advertising contracts;
• joint ventures, consultancies or partnerships in which the organisations share ownership and responsibility for the ultimate outcome or product; projects such as displays and exhibitions in which the sponsor does not receive genuine and measurable value for money;
• grants, gifts, donations, bequests, endowments and prizes;
• scholarships; and
• research projects except where it could relate to or influence public policy.

SRE

Is based on distinctive religious tenets or beliefs and may be provided in public schools by persons authorised to deliver Special Religious Education (SRE).

SRG

Staffing Review Group (SRG) assesses requests to create and/or fill vacant positions within Central Office and district education offices.

Staff

All employees of the Director General of the Department, including both teaching and non-teaching staff.

Staffing Review Group

Staffing Review Group (SRG) assesses requests to create and/or fill vacant positions within Central Office and district education offices.

Standards Review

In a Standards Review, principals, in collaboration with school staff, present to their Director Schools evidence, analysis and judgements related to the standards of student achievement -academic and non-academic. This includes longitudinal, comparative and sub-group data from system testing and other school-generated information on student achievement.

Star Choice Buyers' Guide

The Star Choice Buyers’ Guide produced by the Western Australian School Canteen Association (WASCA) is a register of all products that meet the FOCIS minimum nutrient criteria for the food type.

State archives

State archives are significant government records that must be retained permanently. They must be transferred to the State Records Office (SRO) or retained within an approved archival repository. Electronic records designated as having archival value are to remain in the custody of the organisation which created or managed them. These records must be managed in accordance with Public Records Policy No.8: Policy for the ongoing management of electronic records designated as having archival value. (Reference: State Records Office of WA website, August 2005, Frequently Asked Questions, viewed 30 August 2005) http://www.sro.wa.gov.au/government/faq.html#3

Statewide specialist services

Services provided to schools through the Centre for Inclusive Schooling, Hospital Schools Service, Vision Impairment Service and the WA Institute for Deaf Education.

Strategic initiatives

Strategic initiatives address critical or sensitive issues or questions. They usually span a number of programs, services or Directorates and may need a greater perceived level of independence or objectivity from those responsible for the area under evaluation. This includes Department of Education and Training grants for initiatives conducted by external parties.

Strategic Policy and Planning Branch

A branch within the Department of Education and Training that aims to provide high quality policy and planning advice in a timely manner. The Branch can be contacted for help with any aspect of this document.

Structured workplace learning

An accredited Curriculum Council subject that involves workplace learning that is structured, monitored, regulated and assessed by the Workplace Learning Supervisor.

Student

A person who is enrolled at a government school and, in the context of this Policy, attends a Vocational Education and Training (VET) for School Students (VSS) program at a TAFEWA college.

Student

A person who is enrolled at a government school.

Student health care summary

Provides an overview of a student's health needs, planning requirements and emergency contacts.

Subject establishment

The subject establishment is the Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff that a school principal allocates to a given learning area, for example, Society and Environment.

Substandard Performance

The performance of an employee is substandard if and only if the employee does not, in the performance of the functions that he or she is required to perform, attain or sustain a standard that a person may reasonably be expected to attain or sustain in the performance of those functions.

Substantive position

Substantive position is an employee’s permanent position at a public sector employing authority.

Superordinate

The person to whom an individual’s line manager reports, or a more senior manager.

Superordinate

The person to whom an individual’s line manager reports or a more senior manager and:

• in a school setting, will be no lower than principal; or
• in a non-school setting, will be no lower than director.
   

Supervisor

Is an adult with the official task of overseeing other persons or groups.

Supervisory team

Is a group of adults with the official task of overseeing other persons or groups.

Support Person

A person who the complainant or respondent elects to be present only as an observer at complaint resolution meetings. The support person does not participate in the meeting and is not permitted to express any opinions.

Support Person

A person who the employee, subject to this policy, elects to be present and observe at meetings where discussions relate to unsatisfactory and substandard performance.

Support person

A person who the complainant or respondent, subject to this policy, elects to be present and observe at meetings where discussions relate to a bullying complaint.

Support staff

Employees of the Department of Education other than Principals and teachers and employees of a TAFEWA College other than Managing Directors and lecturers.

SWL

Is Structured Workplace Learning, an accredited Curriculum Council subject that involves workplace learning that is structured, monitored, regulated and assessed by the Workplace Learning Supervisor.

Systemic racism

Is racism that is embedded in the policies and practices of an organisation. Back to top

T

TAFEWA external provider

A business/individual, other than those defined in Support Staff above, remunerated by the TAFEWA college to provide a venue, service and/or expertise appropriate to a particular activity.

Talented

Outstanding mastery of systematically developed abilities, called competencies (knowledge and skills), in at least one field of human activity. Talent emerges from ability as a consequence of the student’s learning experience.

Teacher-in-charge

The member of the teaching staff who is authorised by the principal to manage an excursion.

Teaching staff

Persons appointed by the Director General pursuant to section 236(2) of the School Education Act 1999 and consisting of the following classes:

• School administrators (principals and those as listed in regulation 127 of the School Education Regulations 2000);
• Teachers other than school administrators; and
• Any other class as prescribed in regulation 127A of the School Education Regulations 2000.
   

Teaching staff

Administrators, principals, deputy principals, teachers, heads of schools, heads of departments, program coordinators, coordinators and heads of learning areas. Other classes of teaching staff include staff who hold a teaching qualification recognised by the Department of Education and Training and are employed as teachers.

Temporary deployment (acting)

Temporary Deployment (Acting) is a term that applies to a temporary movement from one job to another job in the same employing authority at a higher classification level for a defined period.

Tenant

An employee of the Department of Education who is provided with allocated accommodation.

Third party copyright

Third party works are those that have not been created by the Department and include artwork, logos, images, photographs, diagrams, graphs, tables, text, conference papers, published articles, music etc. Third party copyright includes student work.

Traffic light system

The FOCiS minimum nutrient criteria have been used to define the categorisation of food and drinks into a traffic light system. Accordingly, food and drinks have been classified as green, amber, or red.

Green food and drinks are good sources of nutrients, contain less saturated fat and/or added sugar and/or salt and help to avoid an intake of excess energy (kJ).

Amber food and drinks have some nutritional value, contain moderate levels of saturated fat and/or added sugar and/or salt and can, in large serves, contribute excess energy (kJ).

Red food and drinks lack adequate nutritional value, are high in saturated fat and/or added sugar and/or salt and can contribute excess energy (kJ).

Trainee

Any person pursuant to the Vocational Education and Training Act 1996 bound to an employer, in a traineeship occupation, by a Training Contract.

Training accreditation council

Training Accreditation Council means the council established under the provisions of the Vocational Educational and Training Act 1996, commonly referred to as TAC.

Training Executive

Provides strategic analysis and advice to Corporate Executive and the Joint Executive Committee. It manages risk and acts as a forum for reviewing training performance, coordinating directorate plans and overseeing and directing the delivery of programs.

Training Plan Outline

"Training Plan Outline" means the document detailing the training plan agreed jointly by the employer, the apprentice/trainee, and the Registered Training Organisation at the commencement of the training, that outlines all aspects of the required training delivery and assessment leading to issuance of the qualification, commonly referred to as the TPO.

Training records system

The Department and Education and Training's apprenticeship and traineeship administrative management information system.

Training venue

The actual location of the Registered Training Organisation premises or temporary location where the approved off-the-job training is conducted.

Transfer

A permanent movement at level from one job to another with comparable conditions of service. Comparable conditions of service means the employee retains a similar or equivalent classification level based on salary or wage (excluding allowances) with no change in employment tenure or continuity of service.

Transparency Principle

The Transparency Principle requires decisions to be clear and capable of review.

Treasurer's instructions

The Treasurer may prepare and issue and amend instructions in accordance with the Financial Management Act 2006, called the Treasurer's Instructions, with respect to financial administration, including the principles, practices and procedures to be observed in the establishment and keeping of accounts.

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U

Unauthorised Absence

Unauthorised absences encompass truancy, those not considered acceptable by the principal, nominee or the Department of Education and where an explanation has not been provided by the parent.

Unemployed person

A person who holds:

• a Health Care Card issued by Centrelink with the code “NS” that identifies the person as being in receipt of the Newstart Allowance; or
• a Health Care Card issued by Centrelink with the code “YA” that identifies the person as being in receipt of Youth Allowance and a job seeker; or
• a Job Services identification card issued by Centrelink or by a Job Services Australia provider that includes a job seeker identification number.

 

Unit

The component of a course (i.e. a unit or module) in which VET on a discrete subject is provided in accordance with the specifications of the unit or module to students enrolled in the course.

Unresolved complaint

A complaint that has not been resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant.

Unsatisfactory performance

An employee exhibits unsatisfactory performance when a principal or line manager judges that his or her job functions are being carried out inadequately. Continued unsatisfactory performance may constitute substandard performance.

Users

All employees and authorised third parties, including:

• permanent and temporary employees of the Department of Education and Training (the Department);
• contractors;
• consultants;
• work experience students;
• volunteers; and
• employees affiliated with third parties who access the Department's computer networks.

User validation question

A question which is used to confirm the identity of a user. In earlier times this might have been WHAT IS YOUR MOTHER’S MAIDEN NAME? Users are typically requested to choose and record the questions and answers in advance so their identity can be checked in an emergency. The question must seek information which only that person is expected to know. Back to top

V

Vacancy

A vacant post, office or position within the Department of Education. A vacancy can result from the creation of a new post, office or position or by the temporary or permanent movement of another employee.

Venue

The building, grounds and facilities, external to the school/college, where planned activities occur during an excursion/program.

Verbal bullying

This involves the repeated use of words to hurt or humiliate another individual or group. Verbal bullying includes using put-downs, insulting language, name-calling, swearing, nasty notes and homophobic, racist or sexist comments.

VET for school students

Is an educational program:

• undertaken as part of a senior secondary certificate (that is, the Western Australian Certificate of Education); and
• its completion by the student provides credit toward a recognised VET qualification within the Australian Qualification Framework (New Pathways for Learning, MCEETYA, March 2000).

Vexatious

A complaint which is instituted without sufficient grounds and serving only to cause annoyance.

Vexatious Complaint

A complaint which is instituted without sufficient grounds and serving only to cause annoyance.

Vicarious Liability

Employer is vicariously liable (legally responsible) under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 for acts of discrimination and harassment committed by employees in connection with their employment. This does not apply if the employer took all reasonable steps to prevent that unlawful act from taking place.

Victimisation

Actions such as threats, harassment or punishment of a person who is, will be or has been involved in a complaint under the Equal Opportunity Act 1984, is unlawful.

Victimisation

It is unlawful for anyone to threaten, harass or victimise a person who has been involved with a sexual harassment complaint.

Victimisation includes any unfavourable treatment such as adverse changes in the working environment, denial of training or promotion, making negative or belittling comments, restricting access to information necessary to perform one's work or exclusion by peers.

Complaints of victimisation related to a sexual harassment complaint will be dealt with in the same manner as a complaint of sexual harassment and may result in disciplinary action.

Violence

Incidents where a person is intimidated, threatened, physically assaulted or where property is deliberately damaged by another individual. It is an extreme use of force often resulting in injury or destruction. Violence does not necessarily involve an imbalance of power and can be a one-off incident.

Visitor

All persons on Department or TAFE colleges and/or school premises, other than current students and employees of the Department or TAFE colleges, who have good cause to be there.

Visitor

All persons on Department of Education and Training (the Department) and/or school premises, other than current students and employees of the Department, who have good cause to be there.

Vital records

Vital records are those that are essential for the ongoing business of an organisation and without which the organisation could not continue to function effectively. The identification and protection of such records is a primary object of records management and disaster planning. (Reference: State Records Office of NSW website, December 2003, Glossary S – Z, viewed 30 August 2005) .

Volunteer

An adult or organisation offering services or activities without remuneration for the services provided.

Volunteer

An adult or organisation offering services for school activities, but receiving no remuneration from the school for the services provided.

Volunteer

An adult or organisation offering services for school activities, but receiving no remuneration from the school.

VSS coordinator (schools)

A Department of Education school employee, based at a School, appointed by the Principal to undertake the school's responsibilities for a VSS program (including VET Coordinator positions).

VSS supervisor (colleges)

Refers to a number of differently titled positions including an Academic Manager, a Portfolio Director or their nominee who may be a lecturer or other support staff of a TAFEWA college with the authority to influence or direct the actions of students or employees involved in the program.Back to top

W

Wages staff

Those employees who are paid on a wage basis in accordance with the relevant Award or Agreement and employed in accordance with section 235 (1) (d) of the School Education Act 1999.

Whole school approach

A whole school approach is cohesive, collective and collaborative action in and by a school community that has been strategically constructed to improve student learning, behaviour and wellbeing, and the conditions that support these.

Work experience

The placement of a student in the workplace as an introduction to the work environment.

Workforce diversity

Is the extent to which the demographic profile of an organisation (for example, the gender and cultural background of its employees) matches the demographic profile of the community it serves.

Working meals

Meals, including morning and afternoon teas, provided to employees and non employees in a business activity such as a meeting, conference, professional development or training workshop are considered as working meals. On most occasions, working meals are provided at the location where the activity is conducted.

Working With Children Check (WWCC)

A compulsory national criminal record check for people who undertake child-related work in Western Australia by the WWC Screening Unit at the Department for Child Protection.

Working with children check card (WWCC card)

A card issued to a person when their WWCC has been successful. It is also referred to as an Assessment Notice. The WWCC Card includes a photograph, signature, expiry date, WWCC Card number and other personal details.

Workplace

Any place where employees are, or are likely to be, during the course of their work. This includes attendance at off-site locations during the course of work.

Workplace

The workplace encompasses places where employees are, or are likely to be during the course of their work. This includes places attended during activities sanctioned by the Department of Education and Training.

Workplace Bullying

Bullying is repeated, unreasonable or inappropriate behaviour that has the potential to offend or harm, thus creating a risk to the employee’s safety and health.

Workplace learning

The placement of a student in a work environment as part of a Work Experience, accredited Workplace Learning, School Based Traineeship or Apprenticeship program, or some School Apprenticeship Link programs.

Workplace learning

The placement of a student in a work environment as part of a Work Experience, Structured Workplace Learning or School Based Traineeship program.

Workplace learning coordinator

A role carried out by any employee pursuant to section 235 of the School Education Act 1999 or the Public Sector Management Act 1994, who is nominated by the principal to coordinate workplace learning for students enrolled in school-based programs. This role exists regardless of whether an external agency provides a workplace learning program service for the school or not.

Workplace learning management plan

A plan describing how the proposed workplace learning activity will be organised and managed to take account of the procedures set out in this document.

Workplace learning supervisor

An adult employee of a host workplace acting in a designated supervisory capacity.

Workplace supervisor

An adult employee of a host workplace acting in a designated supervisory capacity for the student(s) in workplace learning at that site.

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