Life at Lifehouse
Our Philosophy
When the idea to make this provision a reality first came about, it was with the overwhelming belief that some students just could not succeed within the current system. Given a different expectation and the support of staff that have experience in this field, these pupils could also succeed! We believe that all students can make positive changes for themselves with the appropriate support and expertise and that these changes will be longer lasting and more real if they come from within the person. We recognise that sometimes change needs to come with outside help.
Does the Lifehouse have lots of rules and regulations?
We think our "rules" merely reflect the expectation that courteous behaviour is required in decent day to day life. Some "rules" are there to ensure the health and safety of everyone. We have day to day discipline procedures that mean the students may have a strike which would then require them to do extra washing up or have an apology letter to write. But this is balanced by a merit system that notices the good work and behaviour of the students and earns them reward time.
What we expect from the students?
Contracts
A pupil/parent/Lifehouse contract will be completed. This will provide clarity of expectation for all parties.
Attendance
As in any school, attendance is key to success and we will expect students to attend regularly. Non-attendance will be followed up in the normal way through contact with parents and then through the Education Welfare Officer. If a student is ill we expect a parent or carer to notify us as soon as possible. This is a health and safety issue and will be taken seriously.
Staying on site
Break times are supervised and students must stay on site. Any activity requiring students to go off site will always be supervised.
Respect
All members of the Lifehouse community will show respect to each other, property and the local and global community.
Health and Safety
There are specific rules regarding health and safety requirements in the kitchen, workshop and farm. These must be adhered to.
Smoking
We will encourage a no smoking policy and there is absolutely NO SMOKING in the building.
Personal belongings and dress
There will be no uniform but clothing should be appropriate. students will be expected to have with them long trousers, t-shirt and sensible shoes. a spare set of cloths the live at the Lifehouse is a good idea, incase of a muddy or wet activity. We will not be responsible for loss or damage of jewellery and students may be asked to remove items for health and safety reasons in certain activities.