Respecting student's rights

Issues that adversely affect the whole of society also present barriers to the progress and achievement of students enrolled in schools. While some barriers arise from situations that are beyond the control of the school the obligation to overcome barriers to student learning spans the boundaries between the school and its community. Because schooling is compulsory, the needs of students who cannot of their own volition legally opt out of schooling should not be ignored. Schools have a responsibility to take steps to overcome risks to student achievement and safety which include: (a) absenteeism; (b) the use of drugs; (c) disturbed, disruptive, violent and anti social behaviour; and (d) poor mental and physical health.