Our policies shape the environment in which our school operates. They help keep our students and staff safe and provide clear direction about how we act, make decisions, and support one another as a community.

Through the link below, you can access a range of Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong policies, procedures, and related publications. These documents are organised into two sections:

• Policies – outlining system-wide expectations and requirements
  
• Publications – including procedures, guidelines, and supporting documents

We encourage families and staff to familiarise themselves with these important documents, which guide our practice and ensure consistency across all Catholic schools in the Diocese.

Our school based policies and procedures are informed Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong by the Positive Behaviour for Learning Framework.

Please contact the school office if you would like any further information.

At St Joseph’s Catholic High School, we value open communication and positive partnerships with families. We recognise that from time to time concerns may arise, and we are committed to addressing these concerns in a way that is respectful, fair and focused on the wellbeing of students.

In line with the Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) Complaints Management Policy, we encourage families to raise concerns early so they can be resolved promptly and locally wherever possible. Feedback and complaints are viewed as an opportunity for reflection, improvement and strengthened relationships.

All complaints are handled with care, procedural fairness and within reasonable timeframes. We are committed to ensuring that no person is disadvantaged for raising a concern and that students are safeguarded at all times.

How to Raise a Concern

Most concerns can be resolved quickly through respectful communication at the school level.

Step 1: Raise the Concern with the School

If you have a concern, we encourage you to:

• Contact the school office and request an appointment
• Speak directly with the relevant staff member (for example, classroom teacher or PALS).

Early communication often leads to the most effective outcomes.

Step 2: Make a Formal Complaint (if needed)

If your concern is not resolved, or you are not comfortable raising it directly with the school, you may make a formal complaint:

• Online via the SJCHS Complaints Form
• In writing, by phone or in person
• Through the Catholic Education Office
  • complaints@dow.catholic.edu.au
  • (02) 4250 9000
  • LMB 8802, Wollongong NSW 2500

You will be asked to provide the following information:

• the issue you are raising;
• the outcome you are seeking;
• any other relevant information;
• any support requirements that you may need.

Complaints can be submitted with or without identifying information, but this may limit the school's ability to resolve the complaint adequately. Reasonable support is available for families who need assistance in making a complaint.

Timeframes

• Complaints are generally acknowledged within three school days
• Most complaints are resolved within 20 school days (or business days if managed by the Catholic Education Office)
• If a matter is complex or requires investigation, families will be informed and kept updated throughout the process

Child Safety Matters

Concerns relating to student safety, wellbeing or harm are treated as a priority and may be referred immediately to the Catholic Education Office or relevant authorities, in line with child protection requirements. Different processes and timeframes may apply in these circumstances.