Whole School Communication

Communication Guidelines

Good communication is the result of parents, staff and students working together in partnership. Communication should be respectful, honest and courteous, with everyone listening to each other.

Parents have an opportunity to meet with their child’s teacher on two occasions, for different purposes: early in Term Two after the Interim Report has been sent home to discuss how well the child has transitioned to their new class and school; and early in Term Three after the Semester One report has been sent home to discuss the child’s academic progress.

At various times, however, staff or parents may request an interview to discuss concerns that may be academic or pastoral in nature. Please be considerate of the time constraints under which teachers operate and ensure demands on a teacher’s time are reasonable. Staff members are willing to promote excellent communication and partnership with parents, and they expect consideration and respect from parents.

If an interaction between a staff member and parent deteriorates to include rude, inappropriate, intimidating, threatening or bullying behaviour, the staff member will terminate the interview.

School Communication

The school uses a range of approaches to communicate with parents. These include the following methods.

1. The Anchor e-newsletter is distributed each week. It is emailed direct to current parents, alumni and friends of the school.
2. MyGSG is an online portal for current parents of GSG and is available via secure login. It is the primary source of information about events concerning your child/ren.
3. Information about student progress is provided through SEQTA Engage and parents are encouraged to check SEQTA regularly, along with maintaining communication with their child’s teachers.
4. Student Diary: The student diary is a tool for students to manage their responsibilities and is also a means of communication between parents and the school. At times, a reminder note from your child’s teacher may be placed in the student diary. The student diary is used for requests or information of a day-to-day nature. It is not appropriate for resolving serious or sensitive issues.
5. Communication via telephone is appropriate for immediate or urgent concerns.
6. Email is suitable for routine information or clarification. It is not an appropriate forum for resolving serious or sensitive issues.
7. Parent/teacher interviews should be organised for extended discussions to resolve concerns. Before school is not a suitable time for an impromptu interview as teachers are busy preparing for the day ahead. A mutually convenient time should be planned for such meetings.

A summary of communication strategies is available here.

Please abide by the advice about communication provided in the Code of Conduct.