Brisbane School of Distance Education

2021 HANDBOOK
for Home-based Students

Prep – Year 12

Innovation | Inspiration | Inclusion

© The State of Queensland (Department of Education) 2020

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT
While all care has been taken in preparing this publication, the State of Queensland (acting through the Department of
Education) does not warrant that the content is complete, accurate or current. The Department of Education expressly
disclaims any liability for any damage resulting from the use of the material contained in this publication and will not be
responsible for any loss, howsoever arising, from use of, or reliance on this material. If you rely on the information in this
publication, you are responsible for ensuring by independent verification its completeness, accuracy, and currency.

The information presented in this publication are distributed by the Brisbane School of Distance Education, Department of
Education (the department) as an information source only.

The information in this publication is correct at time of publishing and is subject to change without notice. Any updates to the
information in this publication will be available on the Brisbane School of Distance Education website.

Brisbane School of Distance Education

Brisbane School of Distance Education
www.brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
www.brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Corner Cavendish Road and Stanley Street East, Coorparoo Qld
4151
Corner Cavendish Road and Stanley Street East, Coorparoo Qld 4151
GPOBox
GPO Box1308,
1308,Brisbane
BrisbaneQld
Qld4001
4001
Telephone: 07 3727 07
Telephone: 2444 • 2444
3727 : 07 3324 0671
Email:enquiries@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Email: enquiries@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Enrolments:enrolments@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Enrolments: enrolments@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
 

Contents
Welcome..................................................................................................................................................................1

How to contact us....................................................................................................................................................2

What do we deliver? ...............................................................................................................................................3

Our curriculum offerings ...................................................................................................................................3
Curriculum overviews........................................................................................................................................4
Prep to Year 6.............................................................................................................................................4
Years 7 to 9.................................................................................................................................................5
Guidelines to selecting Years 10, 11 and 12 subjects................................................................................5
Language Studies.......................................................................................................................................5
Vocational Education and Training Years 10 to 12 ...........................................................................................6
BrisbaneSDE as an Registered Training Organisation (RTO) ...................................................................6
Work experience / placement ....................................................................................................................9
eKindy Queensland.........................................................................................................................................10

How do we deliver?...............................................................................................................................................12
Each student succeeding................................................................................................................................12
Online lessons................................................................................................................................................12
When do students attend their online lessons?........................................................................................12
Where does a student do these online lessons?......................................................................................12
Web-based courses / e-learning.....................................................................................................................12
Usernames and passwords......................................................................................................................12
Online learning.........................................................................................................................................13
Curriculum materials.................................................................................................................................13
Using the internet.....................................................................................................................................13
Electronic submission of school work.......................................................................................................13
Digital documents.....................................................................................................................................14
Audio files.................................................................................................................................................14
Visual files or scanned images.................................................................................................................14
Student email addresses for communication............................................................................................15
Whole School Pedagogical Framework .........................................................................................................15
Assessment and reporting..............................................................................................................................17
Prep to Year 6...........................................................................................................................................17
Years 7 to 12 ............................................................................................................................................17
NAPLAN testing .......................................................................................................................................17
Parent Teacher interviews .......................................................................................................................17

Our services .........................................................................................................................................................18

Discovery Centre ...........................................................................................................................................18
Student Support Services ..............................................................................................................................19

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What will I need?...................................................................................................................................................21
What equipment is required to participate in online lessons?.........................................................................21
How is the audio (voice) component of these lessons delivered?............................................................21
Technical specifications............................................................................................................................21
Home-based supervisor’s role........................................................................................................................22
Prep to Year 6...........................................................................................................................................22
Years 7 to 12.............................................................................................................................................22
Student photos for ID......................................................................................................................................23
Textbook supplies and equipment...................................................................................................................23

What do I need to know to enrol?..........................................................................................................................24

Prep to Year 12...............................................................................................................................................24
Eligibility for enrolment.............................................................................................................................24
Age requirements.....................................................................................................................................24
Categories of enrolment — Prep to Year 12...................................................................................................25
Distance education enrolment fee exempt categories....................................................................................25
Living in a remote area (geographic isolation / distance).........................................................................25
Health/Medical condition..........................................................................................................................26
Itinerant lifestyle Australia.........................................................................................................................26
Itenerant lifestyle overseas ......................................................................................................................26
Exclusion..................................................................................................................................................26
Suspension because of charge-related grounds......................................................................................26
Parental or carer responsibilities..............................................................................................................26
Other categories of enrolment..................................................................................................................26
When to enrol..................................................................................................................................................27
How to enrol....................................................................................................................................................27

What will it cost?....................................................................................................................................................28

Fee policy........................................................................................................................................................28
Department of Education (DoE) distance education enrolment fee.........................................................28
Exemption.................................................................................................................................................28
Waiver.......................................................................................................................................................28
Brisbane School of Distance Education charges............................................................................................29
Courier fees (overseas enrolments only) .................................................................................................29
Camps / Enrichment days .......................................................................................................................30
Voluntary financial contribution ................................................................................................................30
Refunds...........................................................................................................................................................30
Subject/Compulsory resource fee refund.................................................................................................30
Pro-rata refund.........................................................................................................................................30
Payment options ............................................................................................................................................31
Payment for School Fees upon enrolment...............................................................................................31
Payment for excursions/activities.............................................................................................................31
Other payment options available .............................................................................................................31

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 Financial assistance........................................................................................................................................32
Textbook Resource Allowance (TRA).......................................................................................................32
Computer hardware subsidy.....................................................................................................................32
Broadband internet subsidy......................................................................................................................32
Assistance for isolated children................................................................................................................33
ABSTUDY (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students)......................................................................33
Youth allowance........................................................................................................................................33

What are the school’s expectations?.....................................................................................................................34

Student attendance.........................................................................................................................................34
Prep to Year 6...........................................................................................................................................34
Years 7 to 12.............................................................................................................................................34
Absences..................................................................................................................................................34
Prep to Year 12: Unexplained absences..................................................................................................35
Prep to Year 12: Reporting a student absence.........................................................................................35
Contact with BrisbaneSDE..............................................................................................................................35
Personal visits..........................................................................................................................................35
Contact with teachers...............................................................................................................................35
Returning work to teachers.......................................................................................................................35
Return of resources........................................................................................................................................36
2021 School holidays......................................................................................................................................36
Responsible Behaviour Plan for students (extract).........................................................................................37
Context.....................................................................................................................................................37
BrisbaneSDE Code..................................................................................................................................37
Responsibilities.........................................................................................................................................37
Homework policy.............................................................................................................................................39
Assessment policy..........................................................................................................................................39
Rationale/Aim of policy.............................................................................................................................39
Related legislation / DoE / QCAA policy...................................................................................................40
Purpose and principles of assessment.....................................................................................................40
Responsibilities.........................................................................................................................................40
Engaging in learning and assessment......................................................................................................41
Submission of non-supervised internal assessment (i.e. assignments)...................................................44
Completion of supervised internal assessment (i.e. examinations)..........................................................44
Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA) ..................................................................44
Years 7–10; and Year 11 Units 1 and 2....................................................................................................46
Years 11–12 Units 3 and 4........................................................................................................................46
Supporting documentation........................................................................................................................46
Currency of supporting documentation: Units 3 and 4.............................................................................47
Inability to complete assessment..............................................................................................................47
Resolving issues of concern...........................................................................................................................48
Privacy statement...........................................................................................................................................48

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Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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Welcome
from the Executive Principal

Our Vision is to be The School of The Future.

Our Mission 
is to provide highly engaging learning opportunities for each
student with a focus on Innovation, Inspiration and Inclusion.

We Value 
working collaboratively and strengthening our collective
capacity with families and the community to enhance and
progress each student’s learning and wellbeing.

Dear Home-based Supervisors and Students,

I would like to warmly welcome you to Brisbane School of Distance Education
(BrisbaneSDE).
Our school has a long proud history of providing a unique learning environment for
students and their families who are located in a variety of settings across Queensland,
Australia and the world. We are a leader in online delivery of learning for students. We
are dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning through thoughtful innovation,
inspiration and inclusion for each student who attends our school.
The school has a well-earned and impressive reputation amongst our school
community and the wider educational community for the ability to cater for individual
student needs. This approach to student learning is provided through flexible,
individualised and quality curriculum programs, combined with a focus on the very
important teacher-student relationship and Home-based Supervisor involvement.
Our school is well served by dedicated, enthusiastic, caring and committed staff
who willingly and ably share their talents and abilities with students, families and
other professionals. Teachers provide daily online lessons using leading edge ICT
technologies and pedagogies. They follow up the teaching program by contacting
students and families regularly to ensure engagement with the learning program.
A good school is not just built — it is created through the combined dedicated
commitment of parents, students and staff all working together to achieve the very
best for students. At BrisbaneSDE our staff, our families and our school community,
work together to shape the future direction of our school.
We hope that you find this handbook useful as a general introduction to the school
and that you gain some appreciation of the pride we take in our school; our passion
for excellence and the performance that we achieve. I encourage you to visit our
school website to better understand how BrisbaneSDE can cater for your child’s
learning needs.
I look forward to your family being part of our great school.

Judy Menary
Executive Principal

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How to contact us
Brisbane School of Distance Education
Address: Corner Cavendish Road and Stanley Street East
Coorparoo Qld 4151
Postal Address: GPO Box 1308
Brisbane Qld 4001
Telephone: (07) 3727 2444
Email: enquiries@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Website: www.brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
School office hours: 8.00 am – 4.00 pm, every school day
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BrisbaneSchoolofDistanceEducation/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/brisbanesde

Services
Community engagement: Email: communityengagement@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2803
Enrolments: Email: enrolments@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2444​
Finance Email: accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2408
Reporting absences: Email: absences@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2666
Guidance Officers: https://brisbanesde.eq.edu.au/support-and-resources/guidance-officer
Discovery Centre: Email: library@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2720

Executive Principal
Judy Menary Email: the.principal@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2434

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What do we deliver?
Our curriculum offerings
BrisbaneSDE offers an innovative, online Prep to Year 12 curriculum catering for diversity and inclusivity. Our
program is provided through 70-minute lessons, delivered through web conferencing, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
and a variety of digital platforms.
BrisbaneSDE delivers the Australian Curriculum across Prep to Year 10. The Australian Curriculum is composed
of eight learning areas that provide the focus for teaching and learning — Mathematics, Science, English,
Humanities and Social Sciences, Technology, The Arts, Health and Physical Education and Languages.
Detailed information regarding BrisbaneSDE curriculum offerings are published annually on our school website
for new and continuing parents and students to access. This information includes:
• Subject guides: Outlining time allocations, requirements and topics studied.
• Work rate calendars: Outlining unit plans, topics to be studied and a schedule of due dates for the
submission of both formative and summative work.
In addition, the Australian Curriculum provides opportunities for the contribution and development of the seven
general capabilities and three cross-curriculum priorities in each learning area.
The seven general capabilities are:
• Literacy
• Numeracy
• Information and communication technology competence
• Critical and creative thinking
• Ethical behaviour
• Personal and social capability
• Intercultural understanding.
The three cross-curriculum priorities are:
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures
• Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia
• Sustainability.
The implementation of the Australian Curriculum is supported by:
• BrisbaneSDE Effective Pedagogical Practices
• BrisbaneSDE belief that our teaching and learning is focused on improving individual student outcomes
• the integration of ICTs offering new ways of working for young adolescents
• assessment that promotes complex thinking and problem solving.
The underpinning philosophies of our programs are to provide a supportive environment which will encourage
students to realise their full potential.
The Years 7 and 8 curriculum is designed to build the foundations for future pathways where students are
introduced to each learning area. In Years 9 and 10, there is more focus on developing the future pathways that
are then studied in the senior phase of schooling.
The required core subjects and elective subjects, which students study whilst in Year 9 and 10, offer students
an opportunity to develop a wide variety of skills. Students are encouraged to select the subjects that suit their
needs and potential post-schooling pathway. The elective options allow students to specialise in subjects or
experience a wide range of subjects throughout Year 9 and 10. When students are in Year 10, they will be
required to complete their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan. This is preparation for the Senior Phase of
Learning when students make decisions about their educational pathway while in Years 11 and 12.

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Therefore, please read the Subject Guides on the school website before completing your student’s subject
selections for Years 9 and 10. Please consider the following:
• subjects that students find interesting are the best place to start
• students generally like subjects in which they do well. Year 8 results can be a good guide to assist with
decision making about electives.
• it is important to take into account the career opportunities and pathways open to students and consider the
school subjects that each path requires. The Guidance Officers at BrisbaneSDE are a valuable source of
information about career planning and subject choices. Please, do not hesitate to contact them.
Being aware of the required elective subjects in future careers is extremely important, particularly when
choosing subjects for Years 11 and 12.
Note: BrisbaneSDE will endeavour to meet these selections, however, if subject numbers are not large enough
to form a class, or if all classes are full in a subject area, students will be contacted to choose an alternative
subject. Confirmation of subject selection will occur once enrolment forms with corresponding documentation
have been submitted.

Curriculum overviews
Prep to Year 6
Prep is the first compulsory year of school. Years 1 to 3 continues the curriculum and teaching practices of the
Early Phase of Learning and acknowledges the unique philosophy of pedagogical approaches that define Early
Childhood Education. Years 4 to 6 programs place students at the focal point of the educational process, with
curriculum offerings and teaching practices that acknowledge student interests, skills and learning styles. The
curriculum for students in Prep to Year 6 meets the requirements of the Australian Curriculum in the Learning
Areas of English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Science (HASS), Technology (Digital and
Design), The Arts and Health and Physical Education. Japanese is also studied in Years 5 and 6.

Prep Years 1 and 2 Years 3 and 4 Years 5 and 6

Students complete Students study the Students study the Students study the
20 units over the course following Australian following Australian following Australian
of the year incorporating Curriculum subjects: Curriculum subjects: Curriculum subjects:
the following subjects: 1. English 1. English 1. English
1. English 2. Maths 2. Maths 2. Maths
2. Maths 3. Science 3. Science 3. Science
3. Science 4. Humanities and Social 4. Humanities and Social 4. Humanities and Social
4. History Science (HASS) Science (HASS) Science (HASS)
5. HPE 5. HPE 5. HPE 5. HPE
6. The Arts 6. The Arts 6. The Arts 6. The Arts
7. Technologies 7. Technologies 7. Technologies 7. Technologies
8. Languages

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Years 7 to 9

Embedding foundations for the future

In Years 7 to 9, BrisbaneSDE delivers the Australian Curriculum in full. Students are expected to undertake the
full complement of subject offerings as a student of our school.
At the Years 7 and 8 level, the subjects English, Mathematics and Science are required to be undertaken by all
students as year-long subjects. History, Geography, HPE, The Arts, Technologies and a foreign language are to
be undertaken as semester subjects.
At the Year 9 level, the subjects English, Mathematics and Science are required to be undertaken by all
students as year-long subjects. History and HPE are undertaken as semester subjects. Students choose
elective subjects from Geography, The Arts, Technologies or Languages.
All Years 7, 8 and 9 students are required to undertake study in six subjects in each semester, unless a modified
subject load has been approved by the Head of School or Guidance Officer.
Students study the following Australian Curriculum subjects:
1. English
2. Maths
3. Science
4. Humanities and Social Science (HASS)
5. HPE
6. The Arts
7. Languages
8. Technologies

Guidelines to selecting Years 10, 11 and 12 subjects

Please refer to the 2021 Subject Guide for Home-based Students: Years 11–12 on the BrisbaneSDE website.

Language Studies
BrisbaneSDE views language learning as vital to the academic, vocational, personal and social development
of our students. Language learning improves the ability of students to be active participants within Australian
society and in our ever increasingly connected world.

Mandatory Language studies in Years 5, 6, 7 and 8

It is mandatory for all state school students in Years 5, 6, 7 and 8 to study a Language. At BrisbaneSDE,
Japanese is the language provided for Years 5 and 6 students. Students in Years 7 and 8 are able to select one
language from the range of languages offered in the 2021 BrisbaneSDE Subject Guides.
For more information regarding the language offered in Years 5–6, please refer to the 2021 Subject Guide for
Home-based and School-based Students: Prep – Year 6.
For more information regarding each language offered in Years 7–10, please refer to 2021 Subject Guide for
Home-based and School-based Students: Years 7–10.
For other enquiries regarding language studies, please contact the Languages Head of Department. Please
refer to the Staff contact list: https://brisbanesde.eq.edu.au/our-school/our-staff.

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Vocational Education and Training Years 10 to 12
It is a mandatory requirement that students undertaking Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications
attend all online lessons in order to demonstrate the development of their skills and knowledge. This enables
BrisbaneSDE trainers and assessors to undertake observation of each student for the purpose of assessing
competence for individual units of competency.

BrisbaneSDE as an Registered Training Organisation (RTO)

BrisbaneSDE is recognised as an Registered Training Organisation (RTO # 1585) that operates within the
principles and standards of the National VET Regulator (NVR). As an RTO, BrisbaneSDE is registered to
deliver, assess and issue qualifications that fall within its scope of registration. The scope of registration
indicates the vocational area, level of qualification and period of registration. BrisbaneSDE’s registration is
through the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA), as Delegate for the Australian Skills
Quality Authority (ASQA).
BrisbaneSDE is committed to ensuring students are offered a range of learning experiences in order to attain
the highest qualification possible. BrisbaneSDE aims to provide students with employment related skills and an
understanding of the work environment, career options and pathways for further education, employment and
lifelong learning.
BrisbaneSDE offers a range of VET courses which:
• respond to industry, community and employment opportunities
• ensure equity in access
• provide opportunities to work towards a nationally recognised qualification and articulation to further
education
• provide students with the opportunity to participate in programs and activities which foster and develop
enterprise skills.

Competency-based assessment
Assessment in VET is competency based. In order to be successful in gaining competency, students must
demonstrate consistent application of knowledge and skills to the standard of performance required in
the workplace. Students must be able to transfer and apply skills and knowledge to new situations and
environments.
Students are provided with numerous opportunities to demonstrate competency throughout the duration of the
course. This could be through face-to-face observations, observations during the mandatory online lessons,
web conferencing sessions, competency conversations, folio submissions, response to questions, group work
etc. Feedback is provided verbally, on assessment cover sheets, during online lessons and in the Learning
Management System. The terms Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory are used in relation to training activities.
There are three possible results given when assessing units of competency — Competent, Working towards
competency or Not competent. A result of Competent is only given when a full unit of competency has been
attained.
In order to gather further evidence of the student’s abilities, the student may be required to complete
structured work experience/placement. Note: The amount of work placement to be undertaken depends on the
requirements of the certificate course — some courses require a specified minimum amount of work placement,
for example, 120 hours. Work placement enables the student to demonstrate competency at tasks that require
specific equipment which he/she may not have at home, or complete tasks which involve activities that can only
be experienced in a workplace, such as working with children.
Students are required to complete all units of competency in a qualification to be awarded the full Certificate. If
the full qualification is not achieved, a Statement of Attainment is issued listing the units of competency attained.

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RTO Code of Practice
As a registered training organisation (RTO), BrisbaneSDE has agreed to operate within the ‘Standards for RTOs
2015’. These standards include a commitment to recognise the training qualifications issued by other RTOs.
Our school:
• recognises the importance of students receiving a broad-based education, comprising of both general and
vocational education
• is registered with the QCAA to provide the relevant units of competency
• has in place an assessment policy that applies to all subjects offered at this school
• has a process for addressing any concerns, and offers access to a range of people who can provide advice
and guidance about the vocational elements in the subjects offered (for example, teachers, Heads of
Department, Inclusion and Student Support (ISS) staff, guidance officers and administrators).

Legislative requirements
BrisbaneSDE strives to meet all legislative requirements of the national regulator — The Australian Skills Quality
Authority (ASQA). In particular, Workplace Health and Safety, Workplace Relations and Vocational Placement
Standards will be met at all times.

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

A Unique Student Identifier, or USI, is an identifying code (letters and numbers) that provides access to an
account into which records of vocational education and training are banked. This account follows an individual
for life and allows easy retrieval of evidence. All students studying a certificate course, either with BrisbaneSDE,
an External RTO or as part of an Apprenticeship/Traineeship, must apply for a USI.
To create a USI or obtain further information, refer to the Unique Student Identifier website (www.usi.gov.au).
Students are required to self-register to create their USI on enrolment or prior to commencing training.
Note: Certification can only be issued when the student has created and supplied their USI.

Access and equity

All students will be enrolled in an ethical and responsible manner and consistent with the requirements of the
curriculum, National Training Package and essential standards.
Appropriately qualified staff will assess the extent to which the applicant is likely to achieve the stated
competency standards and outcomes of the course, based on their academic results and experience.
The BrisbaneSDE Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) indicative assessment tool is used to conduct
testing for students enrolling in Certificate courses. The LLN Indicative Test is used to ensure the student has
the required LLN levels for the qualification and to determine what LLN support the student may need.

Quality management focus

BrisbaneSDE has a commitment to providing a quality service and a focus on continuous improvement. We
value feedback from students, staff and employers for incorporation into future programs.

Client service
The BrisbaneSDE RTO has sound management practices to ensure effective client service. In particular, we
have client service standards to ensure timely issue of student assessment results and qualifications. These will
be appropriate to competency achieved and issued in accordance with national guidelines.
Our quality focus includes a Recognition of Prior Learning Policy, a fair and equitable Refund Policy, a
Complaints and Appeals Policy, and student welfare and guidance services. Where necessary, arrangements
will be made for those clients requiring literacy and/or numeracy support programs. We will take every
opportunity to ensure that this information is disseminated, understood and valued by personnel and clients.
Our student information will ensure that all fees and charges are known to students before enrolment, that
course content and assessment procedures are explained and that vocational outcomes are outlined.

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External audit
BrisbaneSDE has agreed to participate in monitoring and audit processes required by the Queensland
Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA).

Management and administration

BrisbaneSDE has policies and management strategies, which ensure sound financial and administrative
practices. School Management practices guarantee the organisation’s sound financial position. Students’
records are managed securely and confidentially and are available for student perusal on request.
BrisbaneSDE, under the Queensland Department of Education, has adequate insurance policies.
The ultimate responsibility for the delivery of VET and compliance with the Standards for RTOs 2015
at BrisbaneSDE rests with the Executive Principal as Chief Executive Officer of the BrisbaneSDE RTO.
Responsibility for day-to-day management of the RTO is delegated to the RTO Manager (Head of Department,
VET and Business, Years 10–12).

Marketing and advertising

BrisbaneSDE markets vocational education and training products with integrity, accuracy and professionalism,
avoiding vague and ambiguous statements. In the provision of information, no false or misleading comparisons
are drawn with any other training organisation or training product. This is in accordance with the ‘Standards for
RTOs 2015’.

Training and assessment standards

BrisbaneSDE has personnel with appropriate qualifications and experience to deliver the training and facilitate
the assessment relevant to the training products offered. Assessment will meet the National Assessment
Principles (including Recognition for Prior Learning and Credit Transfer). Adequate facilities, equipment and
training materials will be utilised to ensure the learning environment is conducive to the success of students.

Sanctions
BrisbaneSDE will honour all guarantees outlined in our Code of Practice. We understand that if we do not meet
the obligations of this Code or supporting regulatory requirements, we may have our registration as an RTO
withdrawn.

Complaints/appeals
Any person wishing to make a complaint against BrisbaneSDE concerning its conduct as an RTO/School, an
appeal or other matter, shall have access to a complaints and appeals process that ensures the principles of
natural justice and procedural fairness, as documented on the BrisbaneSDE website, VET page.
The RTO Manager will maintain a Register of Complaints which documents all formal complaints and their
resolution.
All formal complaints and appeals will be heard and decided on within 60 calendar days of receiving the written
complaint or appeal. If the school RTO considers more than 60 calendar days are required to process and
finalise the complaint or appeal, the complainant or appellant will be informed of the reasons in writing and will
be regularly updated on the progress of the matter.
If the processes fail to resolve the complaint or appeal, a review by an independent party will be provided if
requested. Complaints or appeals can be made to any member of staff, either verbally or in writing.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain exemption from part or all of a course of study
due to having previously learned skills and knowledge. The objective of the RPL process is to ensure that
an individual’s prior learning achieved through formal and informal training, work experience or other life
experiences is appropriately recognised. RPL is granted if the student is able to verify that they have achieved
the elements of competency standards being assessed.
RPL is a formal process available to all students. BrisbaneSDE informs students of their ability to apply for RPL
during induction and via the Student VET Handbook, and has an application form that students can complete if
they wish to apply for recognition (available from the BrisbaneSDE website, VET forms page)
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If a student decides to apply, he/she will have to provide evidence to support the application. Evidence may
include examples of work, referees’ reports and certificates. The initial application for RPL may be successful or
the student may be asked to provide more information, attend an interview, talk with teachers by telephone or
complete a practical assessment.

Credit Transfer
When the student enrols at BrisbaneSDE, they may apply for a Credit Transfer for any vocational competencies
previously completed as part of a VET course or an Apprenticeship/Traineeship.
Credit transfer can occur when students transfer from another provider/RTO to BrisbaneSDE part-way through
their VET course or if they have achieved unit/s of competency in another qualification that are the same as or
equivalent to the unit/s of competency undertaken.
To obtain credit transfer for Units of Competency, students will need to:
• complete an Application for Credit Transfer
• provide copies (which can be authenticated) of the qualification with transcript or a statement of attainment
• submit the above to their teacher or directly to the RTO Manager for processing.

Work experience / placement

Full-time school-age students over 14 years of age are offered the opportunity to participate in work experience.
In addition, some VET courses require students to complete structured work placement. (Check the subject
guides to see which certificates require mandatory work placement.)
Work experience provides students with opportunities to:
• understand the world of work
• sample a variety of employment possibilities
• prepare for the demands and expectations of the working world
• support assessment and/or learning in a VET course.

Conditions
Students:
• must reside in Queensland
• must be 14 years of age
• may work a maximum of 30 days a year in one or more types of work
• must not receive payment from the employer
• must have written consent from their parent/guardian before placement if they are under 18 years of age
• must have the placement negotiated with / facilitated by BrisbaneSDE and must not commence placement
until all documents are signed by the student, parent, employer and the Principal
• must fill in the Work Experience: Code of Conduct agreement and Work experience placement for school
students Agreement, and return it them to BrisbaneSDE to trigger the placement process
• must obtain their SmartMove Certificate (http://smartmove.safetyline.wa.gov.au) to fulfil the Workplace
Health and Safety requirements prior to commencing their placement
• who wish to undertake work experience with children and young people, will need to apply for a Blue Card.
Refer to www.bluecard.qld.gov.au
• who wish to undertake work experience in the construction industry must have obtained a General
Construction Induction Card. Refer to https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/construction/workplace-hazards/
general-construction-induction.
During work experience, an indemnity policy is taken out by Department of Education, covering public liability
for the employer, in case of accidental damage to property, goods or members of the public.
Contact the BrisbaneSDE VET Department for further information.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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handbook-hb-p-12 9
eKindy Queensland
The eKindy program operates under a different section of legislation to that which applies to distance education
programs for students in Prep to Year 12. Eligibility requirements for registering for eKindy are different to those
for enrolling in Prep to Year 12 programs delivered by the BrisbaneSDE.
eKindy is a comprehensive ‘at home’ kindergarten program for children in the year before Prep. The program
is supported by a qualified early childhood teacher and covers 15 hours of Kindergarten per week for 40 weeks
a year (school terms only). The program aligns with the national Early Years Learning Framework and the
Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guideline.
The BrisbaneSDE provides eKindy across the State. Each year, the eKindy program may be delivered from a
number of schools of distance education (including Cairns, Mt Isa, Longreach, Charleville, Capricornia, Charters
Towers and Brisbane).

Eligibility for registration

A child is eligible for eKindy if they turn 4 by 30 June in their kindy year and they or their parent/s are Australian
citizens or permanent residents of Australia and they fit into one of the following categories:
• Distance: Their residence is at least 16 km by the most direct route by road from the nearest centre-based
service catering to kindergarten-aged children.
• Medical: They have a medical certificate stating they are unable to attend a centre-based service for more
than 10 consecutive weeks due to their health.
• Travelling/Itinerant lifestyle due to the parent’s work: The child’s principal place of residence is likely to
change at least twice during the registration year; or the child will have to spend a period of at least 10
weeks, or a number of periods of at least two weeks that total at least 10 weeks, away from the child’s
principal place of residence during the registration year.

eKindy fees and financial assistance

eKindy is provided to eligible families at no cost. Overseas families are responsible for all costs associated with
mailing of materials, telephone calls/conferencing and web conferencing.
A one-off ICT subsidy of $750.00 is available and will be paid to eKindy Queensland families who meet the
following requirements:
• Students have been registered continuously for six calendar months from the beginning of the school year
• Students have maintained active engagement in the eKindy program, that is:
◦◦ The eKindy child regularly attends at least one web session per week from home.
◦◦ The parent/tutor and child are progressing through the units at a reasonable pace and/or completing
activities negotiated with the teacher.
◦◦ A parent/tutor regularly provides useful information to the teacher about their child’s learning (at least
fortnightly).
◦◦ Students have returned all on loan materials/kits as required by the date they become due.
A child who attends an eKindy pod for a third of the eKindy program (one day per week pod attendance), will
receive $500.00, or two thirds of the eKindy program (two days per week pod attendance), will receive $250.00
if the preceding requirements have been met.
If they attend a pod, some of the program must be completed at home to be eligible to receive the subsidy.
BrisbaneSDE will provide information to families about claiming this subsidy in Term 3 as families become eligible.
A non-refundable fee of $50.00 is charged for additional ‘on loan’ items — four boxes of materials per year (one
box each term). Families are not required to have these materials as part of their eKindy program.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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When to register
A waiting list is opened at the beginning of May for the following year. Parents will then be sent the registration
form when it becomes available in October. Registrations may be submitted at any time during the child’s kindy
year. The minimum registration period is 10 weeks (one term). Children are allocated to a kindy group when a
teacher is able to be appointed to support a group of children. The eKindy teacher supporting a child/family may
be located at any school of distance education in the state.

How to register
It is helpful if registrations are submitted for:
• Semester 1 — by mid-January in the year the child is eligible to attend.
• Semester 2 — by mid-June in the year the child is eligible to attend.
Note: Registrations in Term 4 are not generally accepted, but will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The
registration form is available on https://brisbanesde.eq.edu.au/supportandresources/formsanddocuments/
documents/ekindy/ekindy-registration.pdf.
Parents will need to provide proof of the child’s date of birth when submitting a registration form. Parents are
also required to provide information to explain why they are eligible for eKindy (for example, the distance to the
nearest early childhood service, medical certificate and/or details of travelling plans).

Other requirements
Families are required to have access to a personal computer, internet access, webcam, a telephone with a
speaker/hands-free function and a headset with microphone.
We recommend a 512k broadband connection. If this is not possible, a minimum of a 256k broadband
connection is required.

Time commitment and attendance

The program involves families supporting their kindy-aged child to engage in a learning program for 15 hours
each week. Parents are required to provide weekly feedback to their child’s teacher.
Parents also need to ensure their child attends scheduled web sessions (up to three 20-minute sessions) each
week.
Note: To maintain registration status:
• Children must actively engage in eKindy experiences regularly, as negotiated with the child’s teacher.
• Parents must contact their child’s teacher weekly, where possible, but can negotiate fortnightly contact to
share information about their child’s learning experiences and progress.
As places in the program are fully funded, registrations may be cancelled if families/children are not actively
engaging as required. If families are not contactable by phone or email, an email and letter will be sent to the
last known addresses and registration will be cancelled if no response is received from the family within two
weeks of the date the email/letter is sent.
For more specific information about the eKindy program and materials, please visit the eKindy page on the
BrisbaneSDE website https://brisbanesde.eq.edu.au/enrolments/ekindy, or use your QR reader on your phone.
See below:

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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handbook-hb-p-12 11
 

How do we deliver?
Each student succeeding
We have a deep belief that each student can succeed. We give a high priority to building and maintaining
positive and caring relationships between students, parents and staff members. We work hard to maintain a
learning environment that is safe, respectful and tolerant. We promote educational rigour through innovation,
inspiration and inclusion.

Online lessons
At BrisbaneSDE, learning is delivered through online lessons. These lessons occur as part of a regular
timetabled school day. Students are expected to attend all online lessons. Online lessons are delivered via a
web conferencing platform and require internet access.
It is the policy of BrisbaneSDE to make recordings of online lessons across all year levels and subject areas.
These recordings remain available for a limited period after the completion of the lesson so that they can be
accessed by students who are unable to participate in the scheduled lesson due to illness or for students who
wish to review the lesson for revision purposes. Access to the recorded lesson is available to students via the
Learning Management System. This access is restricted to BrisbaneSDE students and is password protected.
All recordings are made in accordance with the Department of Education (DoE) regulations.

When do students attend their online lessons?

Prep to Year 6
Students are expected to attend school each day and will follow a weekly timetable. Students will be advised of
their scheduled lesson timetable by their class teacher/s.

Years 7 to 12
Students are expected to be available to participate in all lessons. Students will receive the timetables at the
commencement of their enrolment outlining the time allocations to subjects. Further information regarding the
time allocation and other essential information can be found in the Subject Guides on the BrisbaneSDE website.

Where does a student do these online lessons?

Students attend their online lessons from their own location.

Web-based courses / e-learning

Usernames and passwords
On enrolment, all students are issued with a username and password for all Department of Education platforms
(MIS email, the Learning Place). This enables them to access online courses, the school Discovery Centre and
other learning and support materials.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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Online learning
All courses are delivered online. Students have access to instructional materials, learning resources,
chat groups, email connections and discussion boards. Teachers and students make use of these online
communications and resources as an integral part of the schooling experience. It is important that students
have reliable and regular access to the internet as all courses require students to download materials and
submit work electronically.

Curriculum materials
Depending on the subjects and courses students select, a range of different curriculum materials and learning
resources may be provided to students. All courses are delivered online and all curriculum materials can be
accessed online. Some courses contain supplementary printed material which will be provided. Online learning
materials may be supplemented with a range of other materials including (but not limited to) CDs, DVDs, text
books, magazines, novels, plays and newspapers.

Using the internet

The use of the internet as a learning tool underpins the learning programs used in this school. Like any
community based resource, there are responsibilities parents and students must be aware of when using the
internet. Parents and home-based supervisors are encouraged to:
• ensure students are aware of the risks and benefits associated with the use of internet services and the
measures within the home to minimise these risks
• develop intranet, internet and email usage guidelines
• prepare students to cope with unanticipated access to materials or people that may pose a risk.
As part of the school’s enrolment agreement, parents/carers also acknowledge the following:
• the internet can provide students with valuable learning experiences
• the internet gives access to information on computers around the world
• the school cannot control what is on those computers
• a very small part of that information can be illegal, dangerous or offensive.
Teachers will always exercise their duty of care. Protection against exposure to harmful information should
depend finally upon responsible use by students. Students using the internet irresponsibly will be subject to
appropriate action by the school. Please refer to the BrisbaneSDE Responsible Behaviour plan for all students.
Consequences for breach of rules relating to internet and email usage may include loss of internet access on
the school’s computers when onsite at BrisbaneSDE and suspension from attending online lessons or exclusion
from the school.

Electronic submission of school work

There is the facility for the electronic return of work using email, OneDrive, OneNote, the Learning Place or the
Learning Management System. However, before electronically submitting work, it is recommended that students
check with their teacher/s to determine the suitability of electronic work return for that particular subject. Some
subjects and/or tasks within subjects are better suited to electronic work return than others.
Electronic submission of work is through the relevant Learning Management System subject course (for
example, Digital Dropbox, Wiki upload, assignment upload), teacher OneDrive, teacher email or class OneNote
by the date as stated on the work rate calendar.
When returning work electronically, students need to ensure a copy of the work is saved on their computer
and USB storage device at least until after a result for the work has been received. It is the responsibility of
the student to ensure they have preserved copies of all work transmitted in the event of a transmission error
occurring and take a screen shot of any error to prove that submission was actually attempted.
Please refer to the assessment policy on the BrisbaneSDE website.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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handbook-hb-p-12 13
Digital documents
Recommended formats for digital documents may include one of the following formats. Students are to check
with their teacher for appropriate format prior to due date of submission of school work.
• .doc or .docx — Word document
• .html — web page
• .xls or .xlsx — Excel spreadsheet
• .pdf — Adobe Acrobat format
• .ppt or .pptx — PowerPoint
Download your free Microsoft Office 365: https://login.microsoftonline.com/.
Note: Enrolled students will need to log in using their EQ email and password.

Audio files
Audio work will be accepted in the following formats:
• .mp3 digital format
• .wav
• in a format that can be opened in Windows Media Player.

Visual files or scanned images

Images are to be in one of the following formats:
• .jpg — jpeg (preferably)
• .gif (are also accepted but sometimes can be large)
• .bmp (are also accepted but can be too large)
• .avi — video
• .mpeg — video
• .wmv — video
• .mp4 — video
Video files must be in mp4 format with the following minimum settings:
• 150 kbps or greater; or
• display size 320 x 240.
Video files may be sent to the school in CD-Rom, DVD or on a flash drive/USB drive if they are too large to
upload. Please label these with the student’s name.
If a submission is made but the attachment is blank or unable to be opened, it will not be accepted as being
submitted by the due date. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the document is attached and is in a
readable format.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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14 handbook-hb-p-12
Student email addresses for communication
All enrolled students will use an official Department of Education (DoE) webmail address for communication with
the school, for example, jsmit1@eq.edu.au. This address will be provided following enrolment. BrisbaneSDE
staff will only communicate to the student’s DoE email address. Students must conform to the acceptable use
of email. DoE email addresses can be monitored and retrieved if required. Using the DoE email address also
allows the school to provide password resets as required.

Whole School Pedagogical Framework

BrisbaneSDE’s pedagogical framework is supported by a synthesis of research that informs practices that result
in improved student learning. Informing research has been drawn from:
• The New Taxonomy of Educational Objectives, Marzano & Kendall 2007
• The New Art and Science of Teaching, Marazano, 2017
• Embedded Formative Assessment, Wiliam, 2011
• Gradual Release of Responsibility, Fisher & Frey, 2013
• Visible Learning for Teachers, Hattie, 2012
The Pedagogical Framework also encapsulates BrisbaneSDE’s vision of each student succeeding through
Inspiration, Innovation and Inclusion. It highlights the school’s commitment to a futures-driven curriculum,
focussing on embedding 21st century skills across unit planning and lesson delivery from Prep to Year 12.

PEDAGOGICAL FRAMEWORK P–12 2020

Each student succeeding
Teaching,
IMPACT Coaching and Teaching
Learning and 11–12
Assessment plans instructional model mentoring for Thinking

Year and Literacy Numeracy

Unit plans
P–10

Three levels
Pedagogy
of planning
Enacted
Assessment
Curriculum as learning
Formative
Australian assessment
Curriculum Assessment
P–10 for learning

Differentiation Wellbeing
Vocational
Education
Intended Experienced
Feedback
and Training Curriculum Know Curriculum
your
student
Queensland
Senior Curriculum Engagement Data

Reporting
Achieved Assessed Aligned Assessment
Curriculum Curriculum assessment of learning

Moderation

Summative
assessment

Innovation Inspiration Inclusion

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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handbook-hb-p-12 15
The framework also reflects the six core systemic principles in the Department of Education State School
Improvement Strategy and the curriculum cycle that interrelates roles, responsibilities and support for
teachers. Supporting the BrisbaneSDE Pedagogical Framework is the IMPACT instructional model. This
model focuses on maximising student success by delivering high quality learning and teaching episodes that
balance independent and collaborative learning, both online and offline. The pedagogical framework informs
professional learning and instructional leadership at all levels. Drawn from the IMPACT instructional model are
BrisbaneSDE’s Effective Pedagogical Practices. These practices are used in all online lessons to support each
student succeeding across the curriculum. Our nine Effective Pedagogical Practices are:
• Learning intentions
• Success criteria
• Activating prior knowledge
• Modelling
• Questioning
• Visuals
• Scaffolding
• Feedback (to, from and between students)
• Metacognition
In all online lessons, these Effective Pedagogical Practices are employed by teachers and students so that each
student’s success is clearly visible.

LEARNING INTENTIONS REFLECTION

AND SUCCESS CRITERIA LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND FEEDBACK

Students Students Students

1. What am I learning? 2. How am I going? 4. How can I improve?
BrisbaneSDE students: 3. How do I know? 5. Where do I go for help?
• explain what they are learning in each BrisbaneSDE students: BrisbaneSDE students:
lesson
• explain how activities in lessons help them • use success criteria to identify when they
• explain what success will look like learn are on track and when they need help
• explain how they will demonstrate their • reflect on their learning during a lesson to • use success criteria to reflect on their
learning by the end of the lesson. monitor their progress. learning at the end of each lesson and plan
how to improve
• use success criteria to evaluate the learning
of their peers and provide feedback to help
them improve
• identify strategies for improvement.

Teachers Teachers Teachers

1. What am I teaching? 4. How will I know when all students 5. What then?
2. Why am I teaching it? have learned it? BrisbaneSDE teachers:
3. How will I teach it? BrisbaneSDE teachers: • use evidence of each student’s learning to
• create activities that align to the success plan the next lesson
BrisbaneSDE teachers:
criteria in lessons • use evidence of each student’s learning to
• create student-friendly learning intentions differentiate future instruction
• collect evidence to determine whether each
and success criteria that are informed by the
student has been successful in every lesson • use evidence of each student’s learning to
curriculum they are teaching
• revisit success criteria during lessons so provide feedback to students.
• engage students with their learning
students can monitor their progress
intentions and success criteria each lesson.
• lead students to reflect on their learning using
success criteria at the end of each lesson.

The embedding of our Effective Pedagogical Practices is support through the following documents, all of which
are available through our pedagogical framework site which is accessed via the staff intranet homepage:
• BrisbaneSDE Effective Pedagogical Practices
• Lesson observation tool
• Lesson planning template
• Teacher reflection guide.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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16 handbook-hb-p-12
Assessment and reporting
Each BrisbaneSDE student, including school-based enrolments, receives a formal report at the completion of
Semesters 1 and 2.
The schools Assessment Policy is included at the back of this handbook.

Prep to Year 6
A student folio is used to monitor and assess each student as part of the learning and teaching process.
Information is gathered from scheduled assessment tasks, interaction during online lessons and other
opportunities for interaction to make valid and informed decisions relating to student’s progress, achievements,
efforts and behaviour. Student work is moderated by teachers across the year levels to achieve consistency of
achievement levels issued.

Years 7 to 12
Assessment in Years 7–12 is focused on providing parent/caregivers with meaningful information relating to the
achievement of their child in each of the subject areas being undertaken. An assessment of effort and behaviour
is also provided.
The A–E five point scale is used (except for VET subjects). Moderation of student work occurs at all year levels
to ensure comparability of assessments.
A: Evidence in a student’s work typically demonstrates a very high level of knowledge and understanding of
concepts, facts and procedures, and application of processes.
B: Evidence in a student’s work typically demonstrates a high level of knowledge and understanding of
concepts, facts and procedures, and application of processes.
C: Evidence in a student’s work typically demonstrates a sound level of knowledge and understanding of
concepts, facts and procedures, and application of processes.
D: Evidence in a student’s work typically demonstrates a limited knowledge and understanding of concepts,
facts and procedures, and application of processes.
E: Evidence in a student’s work typically demonstrates a very limited knowledge and understanding of
concepts, facts and procedures, and application of processes.
N: If a student receives an N, it means that insufficient evidence has been obtained to be able to make a valid
assessment of their achievement.
VET subjects are reported as Working Towards Competency (WTC) until the student achieves the final
qualification.

NAPLAN testing
Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are required to participate in the National Assessment Program Literacy and
Numeracy (NAPLAN). Arrangements are made to have students participate in this test either at BrisbaneSDE,
a local school or some other negotiated location. Parents are required to seek official exemption through the
Executive Principal if they do not wish their child to participate in NAPLAN testing.

Parent Teacher interviews

Each semester, parents are offered the opportunity to formerly speak with teachers about the progress of
individual students. This is separate to the informal conversations that parents and teachers will often have.
All bookings are made through an online system. Parents are advised of the dates and bookings process well
prior to the interviews.
Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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Our services
Discovery Centre
The BrisbaneSDE Discovery Centre is a dynamic library space that serves the needs of our unique and diverse
school community.
The Discovery Centre provides our community with access to an extensive range of library resources, both print
and online.
The Discovery Centre supports the school community by providing:
• an extensive range of print and online resources that are current and relevant
• encouragement to develop a love of reading through leisure and extension reading programs and literature
related activities
• access to subject specific databases, newspaper and magazine subscriptions
• online and face to face research support for students and staff
• access to eBooks via the Qld State Schools eBooks Digital Library
Our Teacher Librarians and Support Staff assist students to:
• select reading materials
• gather and use information effectively
• gain the skills necessary to become successful and independent lifelong learners
• become digitally literate.

General library information

The Discovery Centre online catalogue can be accessed via the BrisbaneSDE website. Here students can
reserve and renew loans, access subscription databases and collated online resources for research.
Book parcels are sent to students at their home address within Australia. A reply paid address is included for
return postage.
You are encouraged to visit the Discovery Centre when visiting the school campus. Opening hours are from
7.45 am to 3.00 pm during school terms (closed school holidays and student free days).

Contact information
Postal address: Discovery Centre
Brisbane School of Distance Education
GPO Box 1308
Brisbane Qld 4001
Email: library@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Phone: (07) 3727 2720

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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Student Support Services
The BrisbaneSDE Inclusion and Student Support (ISS) department are operational from Prep to Year 12. The
programs developed by ISS deliver opportunities focused on the individual success of each student.

Prep to Year 10
At BrisbaneSDE, our teachers deliver programs to students with diverse learning needs, including students
with verified disabilities (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Speech and Language Impairment,
Vision Impairment, Physical Impairment, Hearing Impairment). Student learning is differentiated and, in some
situations, further individualised to provide a quality curriculum that removes multiple barriers to student
learning.
In P–10, differentiated learning occurs to enable students to access the Australian Curriculum alongside their
same age peers. For a small number of students, individualised programs are delivered by our inclusion
and student support teachers where one or more of the following adjustments may be made: an alternative
curriculum at a different age level; differentiated assessment and learning schedule.

Years 11 and 12
By the end of Year 10 all students will have a Senior Education and Training Plan (SET Plan), which is a
plan that helps students structure their learning around their abilities, interests and ambitions. A number of
pathways are presented during the process and students can either study towards the Queensland Certificate of
Education (QCE) or the Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA).
At BrisbaneSDE, we have a dedicated team of QCIA teachers who deliver a full-time individualised learning
program to students. The QCIA adds to the suite of certificates that the Queensland Curriculum and
Assessment Authority (QCAA) issue. This ensures that the educational achievement of all students can be
reviewed and recognised in transition to post-school. BrisbaneSDE staff work with government and non-
government organisations, industry, employers, tertiary providers and advocacy groups to support stronger
partnerships between school and parents of students with a disability. To be eligible for a QCIA pathway,
students must have impairments or difficulties in learning that are not primarily due to socioeconomic, cultural
and/or linguistic factors. Please note: a QCE pathway is always explored first to ensure the right decisions are
made before entering a QCIA pathway.

Pathways and Engagement

BrisbaneSDE Pathways and Engagement Deans support the wellbeing and engagement of our students
as they progress from prep to Year 12. The Deans are an additional point of contact for parents/carers and
students for non-curriculum issues and liaise with teachers, Heads of Department and parents/carers/home-
based supervisors in supporting our students.

Guidance Officers
There are Guidance Officers supporting each year level at BrisbaneSDE who provide guidance and counselling
services to students and their families (P–12).
Guidance services include, but are not limited to:
• contributing to the BrisbaneSDE whole-school approach to wellbeing and good mental health
• providing guidance to families and career counselling for students in senior schooling in:
◦◦ Year 12 post-secondary preparations and Queensland Tertiary Admission Centre (QTAC) applications
◦◦ Year 10 Senior Education and Training Plans (SETP), in partnership with parents and
◦◦ developing and monitoring special provisions with students, parents and BrisbaneSDE staff
◦◦ complex case management of students and referral to outside agencies, as required
◦◦ psychometric assessment and evaluations to student learning and barriers to learning

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handbook-hb-p-12 19
 ◦◦ optimising access to curriculum and engagement in learning for all students
◦◦ supporting students with specialised health needs (for example, mental health and disability)
◦◦ liaising with staff state-wide to determine the most appropriate educational options for students
◦◦ planning support programs assisting students to achieve positive outcomes.
Appointments to see a Guidance Officer can be made by direct contact with the relevant Guidance Officer.

Indigenous student support services

Teacher aide support is offered to students who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. The role of
the teacher aide is to support the student once per week in their learning and engagement.

Enrichment activities
A range of additional services are provided within sub-schools to enhance learning. These include activities
such as camps, enrichment days, excursions, sports days, swim schools, home visits and home-based
supervisors training. Details are available on our Events calendar.
It is important to register for events by following links for registering on the BrisbaneSDE website.

School sport
BrisbaneSDE is affiliated with Education Queensland’s Primary and Secondary School Sport. Therefore,
students who are enrolled at BrisbaneSDE are eligible to enter school competitions and school trials in their
home district organised by the Department of Education Schools and Regional Sports Officers. A list of available
sports can be found on the Queensland School Sports website (https://queenslandschoolsport.eq.edu.au).
Eligible students must be at least ten years old to enter Primary School trials.
Interested students or parents must, in the first instance, contact one of the Health and Physical Education
teachers at BrisbaneSDE. They will provide information on the nomination process. Parents should not attempt
to nominate students for events through local schools unless the student is enrolled with that school.

Newsletters
The school produces an informative newsletter each term, with two being published in Term 1 each year.

Student Representative Council

The school has an established Student Representative Council that is the voice of the student body. It provides
a formal mechanism for students to communicate with the school’s decision makers.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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What will I need?

What equipment is required to participate in online
lessons?
For students participating in web-conferencing, a computer, internet connection and computer headset with
microphone are required.

How is the audio (voice) component of these lessons delivered?

A student must have a headset with both audio and microphone. A headset without a microphone is not
acceptable.

Technical specifications
Essential
• Access to the internet
• A desktop or laptop computer

Computer specification requirements (Windows) — any brand

• Intel Core i5 Quad Core processor or AMD equivalent (minimum requirement)
• GeForce GTX 1030 4GB (or later) (or other brand equivalent) Graphics Card (Optional) (Needed for Year 10,
11 and 12 Graphic Design, Art, etc.)
• A 500GB HDD or 250GB SSD (additional external HDD for backup is recommended)
• CD/DVD Optical drive or USB connected external CD drive
• Windows 10 Home or Pro (Windows 10 Education is not supported)

Mac compatibility list

• OSX Sierra (OSX 10.12) or up
• iMac — 2016 or later
• MacBook Air — 2016 or later
• MacBook Pro — 2016 or later

Essential requirements (Windows/Mac)

• An internet connection with at least 3 or 4 megabytes per second download speed (Broadband/Cable/DSL
preferred)
• Printer (any model/brand)
• USB Flash Drive (any brand, model and storage space)
• Minimum 30GB USB/Flash drive or external HDD for backups
• Microsoft Office (A free copy of Office 365 is offered to all students enrolled with BrisbaneSDE)
• Adobe Acrobat Reader (to read .pdf files) (free download)
• Adobe Flash Player + Flash Plugin (free download)
• Java 8 Update 131 or later (Windows only)
• Mozilla Firefox and/or Google Chrome (to be used as the default browser) (Internet Explorer is not
supported)
• Subscription to any virus protection (Norton’s, McAfee and Avast are most commonly used)
• Stereo or mono capable headset (5.1 or 7.1 surround sound not supported)
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Optional accessories (Windows/Mac)
• External USB Mouse (Recommended for all laptops)
• External additional monitor (Recommended for all small laptops)
• External USB drawing pad (discuss with your teacher before purchasing)
Note: Vision-impaired students may be required to access additional software. This is up to the user’s
discretion.
Parental Controls: If you intend to use Parental Controls on your student’s computer, it is recommended you
use the default Windows Parental Control system or Mac equivalent. Third-party programs have been known to
cause issues (example: Qustodio Parental Control).
Tablets: It is possible to do school work on most tablets (excluding Amazon Kindle or Kindle Fire) but you will be
unable to attend class as BrisbaneSDE does not currently have an Android or IOS app
Note: Tablets or 2-in-1 laptops that use a Windows operating system will be able to access classes.

Home-based supervisor’s role

Prep to Year 6
It is an expectation that every student enrolled in Primary School is supervised and supported. The home-based
supervisor is required to be of adult age (18 years and over). The success of a student in distance education
relies heavily on the crucial role that the home-based supervisor plays in supporting the supervision and
engagement in the program. A student is not able to be their own teacher and needs the ongoing support of the
home-based supervisor. Before a decision is made to engage in the online learning provided by BrisbaneSDE, a
prospective home-based supervisor needs to be aware they:
• must be present with the student during the day. (There are legal repercussions for supervisors who leave
students unattended for extended periods of time — particularly students of a certain age group)
• are responsible for support of curriculum delivery in partnership with the teacher through supervision of
student engagement in learning and ensure they are meeting the expectations for students.
• adhere to the expectation that students attend lessons comparable to a full school day
• are responsible for provision and maintenance of all hardware and software equipment required to engage
with BrisbaneSDE
• are responsible for ensuring students meet the assessment requirements and due dates
• are required to provide explanation for absence from online lessons.
Students will be required to participate in a variety of activities, including sports and learning experiences that
will require active supervision of students by the home-based supervisor. The home-based supervisor accepts
responsibility for the safety of the student during these activities.

Years 7 to 12
It is generally assumed that a student in Years 7 to 12 has developed skills to begin to operate as an
independent learner. The main interactions guiding the learning process occur at the teacher-student level.
(The role of the home-based supervisor becomes more of a supervisory and support role for the student.)
The home-based supervisor oversees student participation in the program, attendance at online lessons and
compliance with the Work Rate Calendar requirements for each subject. If a deadline cannot be met, the home-
based supervisor needs to discuss this with the relevant class teacher and refer to the assessment policy.
Home-based supervisors are encouraged to contact the relevant Head of Department to discuss any issues
relating to the program delivery.

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Student photos for ID
Students are required to supply a digital photograph (head and shoulders) of themselves upon enrolment and
each following year of enrolment. The photographs will be used as a way to identify students at activity days,
sports days and exams to ensure the safety of all students on the school campus.
Students who are unable to forward a digital photograph should include a colour passport size photograph with
the enrolment application or continuing enrolment documentation.
In all cases, the student’s face must be clear. Please do not forward photographs where the student is wearing
a hat or cap.
This photo will also be used for those students wishing to obtain a student ID card. If emailing the photograph
separately to the enrolment documents, details of the student’s full name and date of birth must accompany the
photograph.
The ID card will be issued when the enrolment has been approved. The cost of a Student ID card is $10.00
(including GST). Please refer to the Payment Forms on the BrisbaneSDE website. The student ID is valid for
the school year only.

Queensland Rail / Brisbane transport

On presentation of your Student ID card, a student concession can be obtained on Queensland Rail.
Concessions are only available to full-time students.
On presentation of your Student ID card, a student concession can also be obtained on Brisbane City Council
buses and ferries. Concessions are only available to full-time students living in the Brisbane metropolitan area.

Textbook supplies and equipment

Years 7 to 10
In 2021, BrisbaneSDE is using Jacaranda LearnON Digital Bundle for all students in Years 7 to 10.
Jacaranda LearnON Digital Bundle is a high quality digital learning package of 16 engaging resources that
comes with dedicated training and support, making it easy to start or progress the digital teaching and learning
journey. The Jacaranda LearnON digital bundle is available to use on any device, anytime, anywhere, allowing
students 24/7 access to their educational content. The digital bundle provides parents with affordable digital
educational content. The digital bundle includes nine Australian Curriculum titles across core subjects and six
supplementary digital products.
The Jacaranda Bundle resource is compulsory for students in Years 7 to 10. Please refer to the appropriate
year level Payment Form. More information on the Jacaranda Bundle can be found at http://www.jacaranda.
com.au/bundle/australian-curriculum/.
Some year levels require the use of support materials and textbooks in addition to the learning materials
supplied by BrisbaneSDE. The obligation is on students to purchase their textbooks and other materials, as the
school does not sell them.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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handbook-hb-p-12 23
 

What do I need to know to enrol?

Prep to Year 12
Eligibility for enrolment
The general requirement for enrolment in the BrisbaneSDE in 2021 is that the student seeking enrolment is:
• an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• a child of an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Proof of residency may be requested to support enrolment under some categories. This may take the form of a
copy of electoral roll registration, current rates notice or equivalent documentation.
Please note: Under section 117 of the Australian Constitution, the school can only accept enrolments from
Australian citizens located in other states of Australia. This does not cover residents of the ACT or the Northern
Territory.
Students are required to have access to a personal computer and internet access in order to receive all
available services from the school. Refer to What equipment is required to participate in online lessons? section
in this handbook.

Age requirements

Prep year
Prep year is the first year of schooling and provides the foundation of a child’s education. Prep year is a
compulsory year of schooling for Queensland children. To be eligible for enrolment in the Prep program in 2021,
the child must have been born between 1 July 2015 and 30 June 2016. Before enrolment can be accepted,
proof of date of birth must be submitted, for example, a photocopy of birth certificate or baptismal certificate,
clinic card or passport. Parents may apply for early entry to Prep through the following application process or
may make the decision to delay entry to Prep.

Early entry into Prep

Parents and carers of children may seek early entry to Prep for their child. The Education (General Provisions)
Regulation 2006 states that the Principal may enrol a child in the preparatory year at the school, regardless of
the child’s age, if the Principal is satisfied the child:
• had started education in another State or country that is equivalent to the preparatory year; and
• is ready for education in the preparatory year, having regard to the child’s attributes.
As part of an application for early entry, parents will need to provide evidence of the child’s aptitude and ability,
social and emotional competence, physical development and level of knowledge and understanding that
suggest Prep is an appropriate placement. Early entry to Prep will require an interview process and advice will
be sought from early childhood providers who may have had contact with the child.
Parents should first discuss their intention to make an application with the Head of School Prep–Year 6. The
Head of School will be able to provide information about the application process and possible sources of
evidence.

Other year levels

A child will be enrolled into their age appropriate year level. Programming may be adjusted to accommodate a
child’s individual learning needs.

Disclaimer: Information contained in this document is correct at time of publishing.

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Categories of enrolment — Prep to Year 12
Schools of distance education are considered schools of choice and are available to any student who believes
that the services offered meet their educational needs. A high degree of family support for the student is
essential for the success of a home-based learner.
Distance education enrolment fees for the provision of distance education apply for home-based students.
Students may be exempt from paying the enrolment fee for a distance education program on the following
grounds:
• Living in a remote area
• Health/medical condition
• Itinerant lifestyle — within australia and overseas
• Exclusion
• Suspension because of charge-related grounds
• Parental or carer responsibilities.
Students who do not meet the criteria for exemption of the distance education enrolment fee may enrol as a
home-based student on the following grounds:
• Home-based student by choice (distance education enrolment fee applies)
• Travelling overseas (distance education enrolment fee applies)
• Travelling within australia (distance education enrolment fee applies).

Distance education enrolment fee exempt

categories
Living in a remote area (geographic isolation / distance)
This category applies where the student is unable to attend a local school due to the home location being in
a remote area within the meaning of Section 49 of the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006. A person is
deemed to be living in a remote area:
• where the person’s principal place of residence:
◦◦ is at least 16 km from the nearest applicable school; and
◦◦ is at least 4.5 km from a school transport service approved by the chief executive (transport) or a public
transport service to the nearest applicable school; or
• where the person’s principal place of residence:
◦◦ is at least 16 km from the nearest applicable school; and
◦◦ is less than 4.5 km from a school transport service approved by the chief executive (transport) or a public
transport service to the nearest applicable school; and is:
▪▪ at least 56 km from the nearest applicable school using the route travelled by the transport service; or
▪▪ at least 3 hours travelling time a day from the nearest applicable school using the transport service.
The person’s family must measure the distance from their property entrance to the nearest State educational
institution providing an education program appropriate for the student:
• if there is no school transport service to the institution — by the shortest practicable route; or
• if there is a school transport service to the institution — by the total of the distance from the student’s
property entrance to the school transport access point and the distance travelled by the school transport
service from that point to the institution.

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handbook-hb-p-12 25
Health/Medical condition
A student who has a physical health problem or experiences a social/emotional condition of such severity that
the student is unable to attend a local school on a full-time basis for more than 80 consecutive school days
may be enrolled with BrisbaneSDE. A medical certificate stating this fact must be submitted. Documentation to
support an application for eligibility under the medical condition category must include a medical certificate from
a relevant medical practitioner or a person registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law to
practise in the psychology profession, other than as a student.
Your school may provide BrisbaneSDE with supporting information for fee exemption under the medical
category. Supporting information from your current school may expedite enrolment with fee exemption for
medical reasons. See Medical enrolment page of the school website for further information.

Itinerant lifestyle Australia

A student has an itinerant lifestyle if the nature of the occupation in which the student or parent of the student
is engaged requires a change in the student’s principal place of residence at least twice in the relevant school
year. Refer to Section 53(2) of the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006 for further information.

Itenerant lifestyle overseas

(Distance Education Enrolment Fee does not apply to this category — courier fees apply)
This category of enrolment includes children of families who are travelling or temporarily residing overseas for a
continuous period of 80 or more consecutive school days. Students must be children of Australian citizens who
intend to return to Australia. Courier fees may apply. Please refer to our Fee policy in the following pages for
further information.

Exclusion
A student who has been excluded from a State school under section 291 of the Education (General Provisions)
Act 2006 or from certain State schools under Section 298 of the Act or is excluded from all State schools may
be enrolled with BrisbaneSDE. Supporting documentation must be submitted.

Suspension because of charge-related grounds

A student who has been suspended from a State school under Chapter 12, part 3, division 2 of the Education
(General Provision) Act 2006 on a charge-related ground may be enrolled with BrisbaneSDE. Supporting
documentation must be submitted.

Parental or carer responsibilities

A student who cannot attend a State school because the person is caring for their child or a child whom the
student has or exercises parental responsibility or a student who is providing care for someone, other than a
child, may be enrolled with BrisbaneSDE. A medical certificate stating that fact must be provided.

Other categories of enrolment

Home-based learners (Distance Education Enrolment Fee applies to this category)

A student may be enrolled as a home-based learner where it is determined that the student does not meet the
criteria of any other category but chooses distance education as the preferred education provider. Please refer
to our Fee policy for further information.

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26 handbook-hb-p-12
Travelling within Australia and overseas (Distance Education Enrolment Fee applies
to this category)
This category of enrolment includes children of families who are travelling within Australia or overseas for a
continuous period of 80 or more consecutive school days. Children of families residing in one location within
Australia for three months or more are no longer considered eligible for enrolment and are required to attend a
local school.
Parents seeking to enrol their students under the ‘travelling overseas’ or ‘travelling within Australia’ categories
must provide a comprehensive itinerary of their travel plans. After enrolment, the school must be informed of
any changes to the itinerary so that materials can be sent to the appropriate address without delay. Incorrect
addresses will cause significant delays with the return of lesson materials to students.

When to enrol
Providing the eligibility for enrolment criteria is met, a student may seek enrolment with the BrisbaneSDE at any
time. However, the following points should be considered when making an application for enrolment:
• It is recommended that the enrolment process is finalised in time for the student to commence from the
beginning of the school year. Completed enrolment applications and continuing enrolment documentation
for 2021 is to be received by BrisbaneSDE by 13 November, 2020. This enables the student to receive the
learning materials for the commencement of the school year, be allocated to the most appropriate class and
timetabled for online lessons.
• Should enrolment be sought after the commencement of the school year, it is recommended that the
enrolment be commenced at the beginning of a new school term. This allows the student to make a smooth
transition into the distance learning mode.
• Generally, it is not recommended that enrolment be sought for a period of less than 80 consecutive school
days. Experience indicates that a student and the home-based supervisor require this period of time to make
a successful transition to a distance mode of learning.
• A student may apply to enrol at any time. All enrolments must meet eligibility criteria. Refer to categories of
enrolment on the previous pages.

How to enrol
An enrolment application form can be obtained from the BrisbaneSDE website on the New enrolments page or
by contacting the Enrolments Section. An enrolment application must be completed for each student. Before
enrolment can be accepted, proof of date of birth must be submitted, for example, photocopy of birth certificate
or passport, if not previously enrolled in a Department of Education (DoE) school.
Supporting documentation to accompany the enrolment application form must also be included when returning
the enrolment application form. An enrolment checklist outlining supporting documentation required for each
category is supplied with the enrolment application form.
Failure to include any of the requested supporting documentation will result in delays in processing the
enrolment application.
Completed enrolment application forms should be:
Emailed to: enrolments@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or
Posted to: Enrolment Services
Brisbane School of Distance Education
GPO Box 1308
Brisbane QLD 4001

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What will it cost?

Fee policy
Department of Education (DoE) distance education enrolment fee
Home-based distance education students are charged an enrolment fee under Section 52 of the Education
(General Provisions) Act 2006 unless they are exempt from payment or obtain a waiver of the fee. Each year,
the regulatory fees for distance education are increased in line with the Consumer Price Index. The fee for 2021
is $1 560.00.
Students who have a choice of studying through distance education or of attending a State school but choose
distance education, pay an annual enrolment fee and are responsible for their own ongoing online costs. They
are not eligible for government subsidies.
Distance education services do not commence until the deposit of the Distance Education Enrolment fee is
received, when enrolling prior to 31 May 2021.
An invoice will be issued for the annual fee, whereby families are required to pay the minimum deposit of
$750.00 in addition to any applicable subject/resource fees. The remaining balance is due by 31 May 2021.
Please see ‘Statement of Fees’ for further information.
Families can make self-managed instalments towards the balance of the annual fee, by using the original
issued invoice details. Approval is not required where balance is being finalised by the 31 May 2021. Should for
any reason, an extension is required. A request must be placed in writing to the Finance Manager.
Please contact the team by email: accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone (07) 3727 2412
Students who enrol after 31 May 2021 are required to pay the enrolment fee in full before distance education
services can commence.

Exemption
Home-based students may be exempt from paying the enrolment fee for a distance education program on the
following grounds:
• geographic isolation / distance
• health/medical condition
• itinerant lifestyle — Australia and overseas
• exclusion
• parental or carer responsibilities.
Please refer to previous pages on eligibility.

Waiver
Home-based students who are enrolled in a program of distance education at a State school, and are not
exempt from payment, can apply for a waiver of the fee under Section 54 of the Education (General Provisions)
Act 2006. The waiver applies only to the school year for which it is granted. The Executive Principal of
BrisbaneSDE may waive payment of the fee if satisfied the student is:
• undertaking distance education and would suffer a significant educational disadvantage if the student were
not able to continue in the program; and
• that payment of the fee would cause financial hardship to the person liable to pay it.
The Executive Principal may also waive the fee if satisfied the waiver is appropriate and reasonable because
exceptional circumstances exist in relation to the student. Applications for each student will be assessed on a
case-by-case basis. For the application form available from the BrisbaneSDE website.
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Brisbane School of Distance Education charges
At BrisbaneSDE there are compulsory subject charges and resource fees. Please refer to the Statement of
Fees (Home-based students) for further information.
Payment of applicable subject/resource charges must be made upon receipt of invoice in order for enrolment to
progress.
Fees are reviewed annually, endorsed by the BrisbaneSDE Executive Team and a Parent Representative.
In 2021, a new fee structure has been introduced. Compulsory Resource Fees will apply to each student
enrolling in Prep to Year 10 at BrisbaneSDE. This will include students who may have been exempt in the
past due to alternative programs. This fee will continue to be upon ‘user pays’ arrangement and is strictly not
a ‘resource scheme’. This means there are no pro-rata refunds. Please see Statement of Fees (Home-based
students) and/or our Refund Policy for further information.

Students in Years 7 to 10
Students who enrol before 28 February 2021, will be required to pay the Compulsory GAP Resource Fee. The
GAP fee is the difference between the annual compulsory resource fee and the Textbook Resource Allowance,
which is being retained by Brisbane School of Distance Education.
Students who enrol from 1 March 2021, will be required to pay the full Annual Compulsory Resource Fee as a
textbook resource allowance may not be claimable by Brisbane School of Distance Education.
Note: Vocational Education and Training Certificates are not included in the compulsory resource fee and will
continue to be invoiced individually.
Years 11 and 12 will continue to be on a user pays arrangement. However subject fees will not be payable upon
enrolment. The Textbook Resource Allowance credit will be applied to eligible student accounts. Invoices will
be raised according to subject selections. Credits will be applied to any 2021 subject fees in the first instance,
then any other outstanding 2021 invoice such as Home Schooling Balances. Families can then elect to allocate
any remaining credits to other outstanding debts that may appear. In the event the students account remains
in credit, families can elect to use towards future activities such as camps, excursions, formals, senior jersey
etc. Upon completion of students enrolment with BrisbaneSDE, any remaining credits will be refunded to the
financially responsible person. Families are welcome to request a refund for their credit at any time — please
contact the Finance Team by email: accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone (07) 3727 2408.
In the event a credit does not exist or does not cover the full amount invoiced for 2021 school fees. Payment is
required within 14 days of issued invoice.
All fees are listed in the Statement of Fees (Home-based students). Please note not all subjects incur a fee in
Years 11 and 12.
Statements will be issued to all student who have a debt or credit on their account in Term 2, 2021.
BrisbaneSDE has recommended a voluntary financial contribution of $150.00 per child or $300.00 per family.
The first $30.00 of each per child’s contribution and the first $60.00 from each family contribution will go directly
to the school’s Discovery Centre. The remaining monies will go towards student technology support.

Courier fees (overseas enrolments only)

Overseas families can choose to use and pay for a courier service. Enrolments in Semester 1 must pay the
full annual fees as listed in Statement of Fees (Home-based students) included in the enrolment package.
Enrolments from Semester 2 onwards pay 50% of the listed fee.
Students may be entitled to a refund of unused courier fees. All refunds must be requested in writing.
Parent/ caregivers should contact the Finance Team via email: accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone:
(07) 3727 2410 and request a refund for the unused portion of their courier fees.

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Camps / Enrichment days
Camps and enrichment days will be funded through a ‘user pays’ system. Students will be sent an invitation
and payment in full will be required prior to the event. The cost of tutorials and activity days will depend on the
materials purchased. School camps will be on a full cost recovery basis. Students will be notified of the cost
closer to the event.
Refunds of camp / excursion payments will be assessed on an individual basis. Some costs may not be
refundable (for example, non-returnable payments already paid on behalf of the student).
Any surplus funds will be returned if the amount exceeds $20.00 per student, unless specifically requested by
parent/guardian/organiser.
In the event that an activity is cancelled, all payments received will automatically be applied as credit to the
student account if the amount is less than $20.00. Families can elect for this amount to be credited against
existing outstanding debts or request a refund.

Voluntary financial contribution

The school is resourced by the State Government through grant funding to provide a core educational service
to students. Voluntary financial contributions are used by the school to provide an enhanced educational service
and to enhance resources available for student learning.
If you wish to make a voluntary contribution please refer to the Voluntary Financial Contribution Information
Sheet contained in the enrolment package. This explains in more depth the details of this contribution. The
Voluntary Resource Contribution will not be invoiced and will not be a debt at any stage. You can allocate any
amount as per the schools guideline or an alternative amount you see suitable on the generic Optional Payment
Form.
No refunds will apply to the voluntary resource contribution.

Refunds
It is BrisbaneSDE’s preference to make refund payments directly into a nominated bank account. If details
have been provided via the Bank details form, it is the person’s responsibility to ensure they update their bank
account details with the school as necessary. The Bank details form is available on the school website. In the
event that bank account details have not been provided or a student has cancelled their enrolment without, or
prior to, providing bank account details, a cheque will be issued.
Any refunds will be paid to the person identified on the original invoice. Should this not be the person identified
on the Subject Selection Form, both parties involved need to agree to any change in the refund payment. For
further information please contact the Finance Team via email: accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone:
(07) 3727 2408.

Subject/Compulsory resource fee refund

Refunds do not apply unless otherwise specified on the Statement of Fees, however, refunds may be
considered if enrolment is less than 10 school days, as a ‘grace period’. Parents/caregivers must complete a
Request for refund form on behalf of the student/s to commence the refund process.
Applications should be submitted to the Finance Team to be considered and processed.

Pro-rata refund
A home-based distance education student can apply for a partial refund of the annual distance enrolment
fee. The enrolment of the student must cease before the end of first semester. The refund must be requested

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before the end of the first semester by completing the ‘Home-based Students Refund Application’ form available
from the BrisbaneSDE website. Complete the form and state the reason/s for the application and the date the
enrolment ceased. This form should be forwarded to the Enrolment Services Section of BrisbaneSDE. The fee
may be partially refunded if, due to a change in personal circumstances, the student is no longer enrolled in
the program of distance education. Personal circumstances may include a change in family circumstance that
necessitates a move in residence to another location.
Refund applications will not be considered after the end of Semester 1. Refunds are pro-rated from the first
day of the school year and are not pro-rated from the date of enrolment. Refunds will be determined after
considering a recommendation from the school’s Executive Principal.
Where an applicant is not satisfied with a refund decision, parent/caregivers have 14 days after notification, to
apply for a reconsideration of the decision. This application is to be lodged with the school’s Executive Principal.

Payment options
Payment for School Fees upon enrolment
BrisbaneSDE’s preferred method of payment is BPOINT, a secure online payment portal.
Families will receive a system-generated invoice, individualised to the student enrolling. Payment options are
provided lower on the page of each invoice issued. Where families have multiple students it is important that
payment is made individually for each invoice.
The distance education fee (locally known as Home Schooling by Choice fee) will be invoiced in full. A minimum
payment amount will be noted on these invoices. The remaining balance is due by 31 May 2021. Families
are welcomed to make self-managed instalments to reduce the balance remaining using the original invoice
payment options.
Statements will be issued in Term 2. You may request a statement at anytime by contacting the Finance Team
by email accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone (07) 3727 2410.

Payment for excursions/activities

Each excursion/camp will be provided with its own unique payment form. The organiser will include with the
information/invitation, and payment is required before attendance. As this payment form is generic it is important
to note the Credit Reference Number (CRN) and invoice number when making payment. Please ensure students
name (in full) is included so we can identify and allocate the payment to the respective account correctly.
This page should be returned to the Finance Team to ensure payment is allocated and your space is confirmed
for the event.
There may be an event where invoices are raised directly to families where a specific group has been invited to
an excursion/event. Please use your unique payment options provided on the invoice.

Other payment options available

BrisbaneSDE will continue to offer traditional payment options as follows:
• Cheque/Money order made payable to Brisbane School of Distance Education
• EFTPOS in person at BrisbaneSDE (Monday to Friday; 8:00 am to 3:30 pm).
Note: School staff are unable to accept credit card details over the phone, please refer to your invoice for
alternative payment options. We encourage cashless transactions. No cash is held on the premises of Brisbane
School of Distance Education at any time, as a result change cannot be given and ask that correct money is
provided.

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Financial assistance
Textbook Resource Allowance (TRA)
Whilst BrisbaneSDE does not operate a textbook resource scheme, the restructure of fees will see the
allowance utilised in a new way. Effectively allowing families to receive the benefits of this allowance earlier in
the year, reducing upfront/out-of-pocket expenses when commencing enrolment.
Students who enrol prior to 28 February 2021:
• Years 7 to 10 will only be required to pay a Compulsory GAP Resource Fee which is the difference between
the annual fee and the eligible textbook resource allowance. Payments for the TRA will no longer be issued
to families as we have in the past. Refunds will be considered on an Annual compulsory resource fee in
accordance to our refund policy.
• Years 11 and 12 will not pay any subject fees upon enrolment. Credits will be issued to eligible student
accounts. Invoices are raised according to subject select and the credits are applied to offset fees. In the
event that the TRA Credit does not cover the full amount of the invoice, families are required to make
payment using the payment options. If a credit remains after the students account has been cleared of the
outstanding invoice/s, families can choose to leave on the student account for future use or request for the
funds to be refunded to the financially responsible person.
Students who enrol from 1 March, will be assessed and claimed individually. TRA is applied to any outstanding
invoices in the first instance and/payment is issued to the financially responsible person as listed on the Subject
Selection Form. A finance team member may be in contact with eligible students in Term 3 onwards to discuss
further.

Computer hardware subsidy

A computer hardware subsidy of $250.00 per student is offered to all Medical students and students Living in a
Remote Area. The subsidy may be used to:
• purchase/lease a new or refurbished computer and/or related hardware, or
• upgrade an existing computer (for example, adding memory, CD-ROM drive, scanner etc.), or
• replace an existing computer.
The student must be enrolled for a continuous six month period in order to be eligible for this subsidy. Students
who have met the eligibility criteria will receive the payment towards the end of Semester 1.
To enable the subsidy to be processed, the person identified on the Subject Selection Form as having 100%
financial responsibility for the student is required to complete an Bank details form and forward the completed
form to the BrisbaneSDE Finance Team via email: accounts@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au. For more information
contact the Community Engagement team via email: communityengagement@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone:
(07) 3727 2803.

Broadband internet subsidy

A subsidy of up to $500.00 per student per annum is offered to assist families of students Living in a Remote
Area to contribute to the costs of broadband internet access and download charges for the home classroom.
The student must be enrolled for a continuous six month period in order to be eligible for this subsidy.
The subsidy is provided to assist payment of monthly service fees for broadband internet. It is not intended
for the purchase of infrastructure, such as satellite dishes, although it is acknowledged that some broadband
internet providers may combine infrastructure, access and download fees.
Failure to provide these details will delay payment. It is the responsibility of the financially responsible person to
ensure the school has the most recent banking details at the time. To update the banking details at any time, the
financial person will need to complete the Bank details form.
Completed EFT bank details, with a physical signature, should be returned to the Finance team. For more
information contact the Community Engagement team via email: communityengagement@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
or phone: (07) 3727 2803.
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Assistance for isolated children
An allowance is payable for students who meet one of the following requirements:
• are geographically isolated from suitable government schooling; or
• suffer from a disability; or
• are from itinerant families.
General information and application forms are available from Centrelink offices or by calling 132 318. Further
information can also be found at Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme (www.humanservices.gov.au/
customer/services/centrelink/assistance-for-isolated-children).
Payment of this allowance is dependent upon the regular attendance at online lessons and the regular return of
work.

ABSTUDY (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students)

Financial assistance is available through Centrelink. Students who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
should contact the nearest Centrelink office on 132 318 for further information.

Youth allowance
Youth Allowance is available to students between 16 and 24 years of age studying on a regular, full-time basis.
Assistance may also be available for students over 15 years of age who are homeless, orphans or refugees, or
where other special circumstances exist.
Full time students must be enrolled in a minimum of four subjects. Four subjects is considered to be 75% of
a full-time student’s workload. In order to retain Youth Allowance benefits, students must be working at a rate
which satisfies the school’s workload requirements for each subject. This work rate is detailed in the Work Rate
Calendar for each subject or as an absolute minimum, one submission of work per month in each subject is
required along with regular attendance at online lessons in each subject.
Applications for Youth Allowance can be made at your nearest Centrelink office.
The work rate of students receiving benefits such as Youth Allowance, Abstudy and Assistance for Isolated
Children, is regularly monitored by Centrelink. Full-time students who do not submit work or attend online
lessons regularly, as specified by school Work Rate Calendars (or, as an absolute minimum, one submission
per month in each subject) and/or who fail to meet the workload requirements in the required number of
subjects, may have their benefits cancelled. Such students may also be required to repay benefits received
for the period during which their work rate has been unsatisfactory. Students who decide to apply for benefits
should, therefore, be prepared to be conscientious and work consistently or face the serious financial
consequences which may result.
This school has no way of knowing how much time students spend studying at home. Therefore, the only way
the school can certify that students are working at a satisfactory rate is through the amount of completed work
that is submitted to the school and by monitoring the attendance at online lessons. Work that is substantially
incomplete cannot be credited and will be returned for completion.
A Work Rate Calendar is issued for each subject. These calendars provide a work schedule which, if met, will
ensure that the student is working at a satisfactory rate.
The absolute minimum amount of work that is acceptable is one submission per month in each subject (or three
subjects in the case of specially approved benefits). However, at this rate, students will not be able to complete
the course on schedule.
If students have problems with work submissions, the school needs to be advised in writing so that the problem
can be officially recorded and addressed. Some consideration can be made for illness, but only if a medical
certificate is sent to the school and the Centrelink office at the time of the illness.

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What are the school’s expectations?

Student attendance

Prep to Year 6
It is an expectation that students attend all online lessons. The class teacher will monitor attendance. If a
student is unable to attend a scheduled lesson, it is the responsibility of the parent/caregiver to notify the school
by calling the absence line (07) 3727 2666, or email absences@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au.
Attendance in the distance mode of learning is also indicated by return of work as outlined in the Work Rate
Calendar for each subject. Schooling is compulsory from Prep to Year 6 (Primary) and all enrolled students are
expected to attend all online lessons and complete all subject work, as directed by classroom teachers and
scheduled in Work Rate Calendars.
The class teacher will maintain a record of work return. Concerns in relation to non-return of work and/or
non-engagement with the program will be referred through the school’s Engagement Process to the Head
of Department and if required to the Head of School. Parents/caregivers have a legal obligation under the
Education (General Provisions) Act 2006 to ensure that their child is engaged in the educational program being
provided by the school. The school will follow up reported cases of non-engagement/non-attendance.

Years 7 to 12
Attendance and engagement is monitored and followed up by teachers, Heads of Department, Pathways and
Engagement Deans and members of the Administration team. This includes scheduled lesson attendance and
return of assessment.
In Years 7 to 10, all students are in are in the compulsory phase of schooling. Students must participate in all
lessons and complete all course work as outlined in the work rate calendars and by due dates.
In Years 11 to 12, students are in the compulsory participation phase of schooling and must participate in all
lessons and submit all assessment items to be awarded credit. If a student fails to engage appropriately, they
may be asked to ‘show cause’ as to why they should be allowed to continue in the subject. Students who are
post compulsory school age and who fail to adhere to the attendance and engagement processes of the school
will have their enrolment reviewed.
In Years 11 to 12, all students must be on a minimum full QCE/QCIA pathway. Students not meeting this
requirement, due to non-engagement, may need to ‘show cause’ in regard to their continued enrolment. Support
to plan any changes to a senior program is available by contacting the Senior Pathways team.

Absences
To support each student succeeding, BrisbaneSDE expects each student to attend every online lesson and
to be actively engaged in purposeful learning. All student absences must be reported as soon as possible.
Student absences are recorded as explained and authorised, explained but unauthorised, or unexplained; as
per Department of Education policy. Only absences for school/education purposes are able to be authorised
by the Executive Principal. All other absences (except for illness or bereavement) are not authorised. Students
are required by the school to attend all online lessons, as per their timetable and the subject work rate calendar,
unless an approved exemption has been put in place.

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Prep to Year 12: Unexplained absences
BrisbaneSDE has a same day notification system for student absences. Notifications of unexplained absences
are provided to parents via a text message in the morning and an email at the end of the school day. For
students who are in out of home care, contact via phone call, will be made with the student’s carer immediately
after an unexplained absence is recorded.
To avoid receiving these notifications, please report your student’s absence on the morning of their absence
using one of the options below. This notification system is in accordance with Department of Education policy.

Prep to Year 12: Reporting a student absence

Option 1: Send an email
Send an email to the school via absences@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au including the student’s full name, reason for
absence and date of absence. If the absence is only for part of a day, please state which period/s the student
will be absent.

Option 2: Phone the school

Phone the student absence line on (07) 3727 2666. If you reach the message bank, please ensure you leave
details including the student’s full name, reason for absence and date of absence. If the absence is only for part
of a day, please state which period/s the student will be absent.
Further details related to reporting student absences are available on the school website https://brisbanesde.
eq.edu.au/our-school/absences.

Contact with BrisbaneSDE

The school office is open between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm. During this time, teachers at this school are involved
with online lessons. If you need to contact your teacher, you can send an email which will be answered as soon
as possible. Staff contact details are available on the BrisbaneSDE website.

Personal visits
Students and parents are always welcome to visit the school and are encouraged to do so. Before your visit to
BrisbaneSDE, please make arrangements with the teacher concerned, particularly if help is needed with any
subjects. It is requested that interviews with Guidance Officers also be arranged prior to visiting the school.
Students and parents are encouraged to visit the Discovery Centre. Discovery Centre visits need not be pre-
arranged.
Students in year levels up to and including Year 10 are not permitted on Campus unattended and without prior
appointment.

Contact with teachers

Students at BrisbaneSDE are expected to be in regular contact with their teachers. This contact could be
through scheduled lesson attendance, blogs, wiki, email, telephone or another approved method.
If students have an approved scheduled lesson exemption, they are required to watch lesson recordings,
access the Learning Management System and make contact with their teacher at least once per week.

Returning work to teachers

The regular return of work, as outlined in the subject Work Rate Calendar, is a requirement of enrolment.
Facilities exist for the electronic submission of work — refer to the section on Electronic submission of work in
this handbook. Non-compliance with regular return of work will affect academic rating and continued enrolment.
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Prep to Year 6
Return of work is generally ongoing during the learning phase of a unit. There is an expectation that completed
work is returned to the teacher upon completion. Generally, there is a culminating assessment task which is
required to be returned at the end of each unit.

Years 7 to 12
Students must complete work regularly and submit, as required, for each subject they are studying.
All submitted work must be clearly identified. Most items to be submitted should be uploaded to The Learning
Management System as this avoids the delay of postage and ensures a clear record of items submitted for both
the student and teacher.
If submitting work electronically:
• file name should include student name and the name of the assessment task
• each item should be uploaded/sent as a single file unless indicated otherwise in task instructions.
If sending by post:
• staple all pages in the correct order (student’s name at the top of each page)
• ensure that student name and address is included on the back of the envelope, as well as a list of the
subjects enclosed
• return work in the ‘Reply Paid’ envelope provided. Record the date you mailed the item on your Work Rate
Calendar or in your school diary
• retain a copy of the student’s work before sending.
All summative assessment items will be retained by the school for monitoring purposes.

Return of resources
After students have submitted their work:
• Gather up any resources (for example, CDs, DVDs, pictures, photos, books), which had been sent to
students, which were to be used in conjunction with online lesson materials.
• If the resources are no longer required, mail them back to BrisbaneSDE using the mail stickers or envelopes
that were provided with the resources.
• If the resources are still required, keep them but remember to check the Date Due, if shown on the
item. If the date has expired, contact Despatch via email: despatch@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au or phone:
(07) 3727 2703 and ask for an extension to save receiving overdue notices.

2021 School holidays

Students enrolled at BrisbaneSDE have the same holidays as those in other state schools. Parents intending to
take holidays outside of school holidays are asked to advise their teachers so that alternative arrangements can
be made for the return of school work.

School terms for 2021

School recommences: Wednesday 27 January 2021
Term 1: 27 January – 1 April 2021
Term 2: 19 April – 25 June 2021
Term 3: 12 July – 17 September 2021
Term 4: 5 October – 10 December 2021

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Years 10, 11 and 12 have different finishing dates in Term 4. Details as follows:
Year 10 Term 4 finishing date: Friday 26 November 2021
Year 11 Term 4 finishing date: Friday 26 November 2021
Year 12 Term 4 finishing date: Friday 19 November 2021
Parents are asked to refrain from taking their students out of school for holidays during school terms. Any
holiday/absence for more than 10 consecutive school days requires approval of the Executive Principal.

Responsible Behaviour Plan for students (extract)

Update will be available in 2021. Please refer to school website in 2021.
Context
The Department of Education is committed to provisions that ensure all young Queenslanders have a right
to receive a quality education. The Brisbane School of Distance Education Responsible Behaviour Plan is
underpinned by the Department of Education Code of School Behaviour — Better Behaviour Better Learning.
The BrisbaneSDE Responsible Behaviour Plan is based upon a set of rights to be enjoyed by all members of
the school community. These rights are associated with a set of responsibilities. School community members
exercise choice in how they behave. However, with choice, there are associated consequences. These
consequences are made clear in the policy.

BrisbaneSDE Code
All members of the BrisbaneSDE school community can expect to enjoy the following rights:
• Work together to obtain the best outcomes (Learning right)
• Be treated with, and treat others with, courtesy, respect and fairness (Fair treatment right)
• Take care of the safety of persons and property (Safety Right)
• Ask questions, share ideas and express opinions and allow others to do so (Communication right)
• Show pride in their own achievements, the achievements of others and the achievements of our school
(Positive image right).

Responsibilities
Student’s have the responsibility to:
• participate fully by meeting attendance requirements which are based on return of work as outlined in the
subject work rate calendar, participate in online lessons, engage with online course material, make regular
contact with teachers and attend at face-to-face school events/activities, where possible
• become familiar with the BrisbaneSDE Assessment Policy and to comply with the requirement’s outlines
• act at all times with respect and show tolerance towards other students and staff members
• follow appropriate protocols when engaged in online and teleconference sessions with teachers and other
students, as outlined in the Information and Communications Technology User Agreement
• check Daily Notices on the BrisbaneSDE website at the start of each school day
• use their EQ assigned webmail address for all communications with the school and take efforts to maintain
communication through regular clearing of emails
• work hard and comply with requests or directions from the teacher and other school staff members
• abide by school rules, as outlined in the BrisbaneSDE Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students, including not
bringing items to school which could be considered as weapons (for example, dangerous items such as knives)
• meet homework requirements, as outlined in this Handbook for Home-based students
• respect school property, including resources that are on loan.

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Parents/carers have the responsibility to:
• ensure your child participates fully in the educational program in which they are enrolled by meeting
attendance requirements. Refer to this Handbook for Home-based students for further information
• ensure that any request for exemption from scheduled lesson participation is made, in writing, to the relevant
Head of School
• ensure that an explanation for temporary absence from scheduled lesson attendance and/or requests for
extended absence from scheduled lesson attendance are communicated with the school
• ensure that you have read and understood the requirements outlined in school’s Assessment Policy
• ensure you comply with your legal obligation regarding compulsory schooling — details are contained within
s.176 and s.178 of the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006 (Qld) (‘the Act’):
◦◦ section 176(1)(b) of ‘the Act’ provides that each parent of a child of compulsory school age has the
obligation to ensure their child is attending school on every school day, for the educational program in
which the child is enrolled
◦◦ In 2007 Prep replaced preschool as the first year of school. Children must be 5 by 30 June in the year
they enrol
◦◦ failure to comply with the obligation in s.176(1)(b) ‘the Act’, without a reasonable excuse, is an offence.
If you are prosecuted for an offence, you are liable to a fine of up to $660.00 (6 penalty units) for the first
offence, and up to $1 320.00 (12 penalty units) for each further offence.
• ensure that your child has the necessary equipment (computer hardware and software, and internet
connectivity) to be able to fully engage in an online, e-learning environment
• understand that the school may record online lessons
• regularly check the BrisbaneSDE website for information relevant to school activities
• attend, where possible, open meetings for parents
• ensure all assessment conditions are met, as outlined in the BrisbaneSDE Student Assessment Policy
• ensure that work submitted by students is their own
• inform the school of any problems that may affect their child’s ability to learn.
BrisbaneSDE staff members have the responsibility to:
• design and implement engaging and flexible learning experiences for individuals and groups for delivery in
an e-learning environment
• inform parents/carers/home-based supervisors regularly about how their children are progressing
• design and implement intellectually challenging learning experiences which develop language, literacy and
numeracy
• create and maintain safe and supportive learning environments in an e-learning context
• store recorded lessons in a password protected environment
• support personal development and participation in society
• foster positive and productive relationships with families and the community
• inform students, parents/carers/home-based supervisors about what the teachers aim to teach the students
each term
• teach effectively and to set the highest standards in work and behaviour
• clearly articulate the school’s expectations regarding the Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students
• ensure that parents/carers/home-based supervisors are aware that the school does not have personal
accident insurance cover for students
• provide quality and timely feedback to students on submitted work
• contact parents/carers/home-based supervisors, as soon as is possible, if the school is concerned about the
child’s school work, behaviour, attendance or punctuality
• deal with complaints in an open, fair and transparent manner in accordance with departmental procedure,
Complaints Management — State Schools
• treat students and parents with respect.
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To find out more
A detailed copy is available at Responsible Behaviour Plan for all students. It is an expectation that, at the time
of enrolment students and parents/carers/home-based supervisors will provide a signed Enrolment Agreement
to conform to the BrisbaneSDE Responsible Behaviour Plan for the period of the enrolment.
It should be noted that any form of cyber bullying is expressly prohibited and carries consequences, as does the
bringing of any weapon (for example, blade or knife) onto school property.

Homework policy
Homework in a distance program may involve:
• completion of an incomplete task or a task left over from the day’s lesson
• preparation for the next lesson — pre-lesson reading
• time for reading, for example, a novel for English
• time to develop study summaries
• time to work on larger projects or assignments
• time to revise for an upcoming test or exam
• ‘off the job’ training (VET subjects) which may require access of external resources.
The time that will need to be devoted to each of these tasks will vary from day to day and week to week. For
example, closer to the end of a semester, more time may be required on revision for tests or exams.
Department of Education has established a policy in relation to the maximum hours of homework over a week.
The policy recommends the following maximum homework hours over a week:
• Prep year: Generally students will not be set homework.
• Years 1 to 3: Could be up to, but generally not more than, 1 hour per week.
• Years 4 and 5: Could be up to, but generally not more than, 2–3 hours per week.
• Years 6 and 7: Could be up to, but generally not more than, 3–4 hours per week.
• Years 8 and 9: Could be up to, but generally not more than, 5 hours per week.
• Years 10 to 12: The amount of time devoted to homework and independent study will vary according to the
student’s learning needs and individual program of learning, determined through their Senior Education and
Training (SET) Plan.
BrisbaneSDE recommends that students undertake homework within the recommended times specified at the
year levels at which they are enrolled. This should enable return of work in accordance with work rate calendar
requirements.
Any concerns in relation to homework, in the first instance, should be directed to the class or subject teacher.
Subsequent issues should be directed to the Head of Department of the relevant subject and year level.

Assessment policy
This is a summarised and condensed version of the BrisbaneSDE Assessment Policy. The full policy can be
found on the school website.

Rationale/Aim of policy
The vision of BrisbaneSDE is ‘Each student succeeding’.
This policy sets out the procedures for submission of work and completion of all assessment tasks in order to:
• Maximise the opportunity for all students to demonstrate what they know and can do
• Ensure fairness to all students
• Satisfy QCAA requirements for course completion and certification.
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Related legislation / DoE / QCAA policy
This policy is informed by the QCE and QCIA policy and procedures handbook 2019 v1.1, and the P–12
Curriculum and Reporting Framework.

Purpose and principles of assessment

Purpose of assessment
Assessment is the ongoing process of gathering, analysing and reflecting on evidence to make informed
judgments about the achievement or capabilities of individuals and cohorts.
Assessment information has multiple uses, including:
• Feedback to teachers, such as:
◦◦ diagnostic evidence of students’ strengths, ways of learning, areas of development, depth of knowledge,
and conceptual understandings, which informs the teacher about what students can do, and what
subsequent teaching is required to progress student learning
◦◦ refinement of quality teaching, by supporting teacher reflection and professional learning
◦◦ provision of information for certification
◦◦ measurement and evaluation of policies, programs, interventions and teaching strategies to provide
better understanding of student achievement and growth.
• Feedback to students, such as:
◦◦ clear, specific, meaningful and timely feedback about responses to particular tasks, allowing reflection on
the learning process and collaboration to support future learning and development
◦◦ enabling students to identify and reflect on the progress they are making, which is crucial to building self-
evaluation, self-efficacy and self-responsibility for in-depth and long-term learning
• Feedback to parents/carers, such as:
◦◦ evidence of student learning underpinning the provision of reports and advice for further progress, and
framing formal and informal conversations between teachers, parents/carers, and students.

Responsibilities

Teachers
In school-based assessment, teachers are accountable for designing assessment programs and making
judgments about the standards achieved by their students within the assessment and reporting timeframes:
• Teachers will support students by providing them, where appropriate, with modelling, scaffolding, and
annotated exemplar responses. They will engage students in feedback and reflection on their assessment,
and will be able to articulate reasoning behind judgments of the standards achieved.
• Teachers are responsible for providing timely feedback on drafts (P–10) and on one draft only (Years 11
and 12), provided that it is submitted by the draft due date.
• Teachers are responsible for informing parents/carers and the Head/s of Department when students do not
submit a draft by the draft due date.
• Teachers are responsible for informing parents/carers and the Head/s of Department when students do not
provide sufficient class work during assessment preparation periods to enable the teacher to monitor their
progress towards achieving the course objectives, or to authenticate their work.

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Heads of Department
• Heads of Department are accountable for quality-assuring assessment items in years P–12 using the
QCAA’s Principles of assessment and Attributes of quality assessment, and the Assessment and moderation
guidelines P–10, as applicable.
• In Years 11 and 12, Heads of Department are responsible for ensuring that summative assessment
instruments meet QCAA requirements for endorsement.
• Heads of Department are responsible for implementing processes to ensure accurate and reliable marking,
and for the submission of student results to the QCAA as required.
• Heads of Department are responsible for issuing an assessment planner for each subject, indicating due
dates for all assessment items. Students will be given reasonable notice (minimum two weeks) of any
changes to due dates via an emailed announcement though the Learning Management System course for
the subject. Amendments to assessment planners will be published to the school website as necessary.

Students
• Students are responsible for completing sufficient class work during assessment preparation periods to
enable their progress to be monitored and their work to be authenticated.
• Students are responsible for submitting draft and final responses to all assessment instruments on or before
the relevant due dates.
• Students, along with their parents / carers, are responsible for informing the school of any difficulties relating
to the completion of assessment tasks and providing documentary evidence to support an application for
Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments — AARA (see AARA section in the full Assessment
Policy).
• Students are responsible for arriving on time for examinations.
• Students are responsible for maintaining academic integrity.

Parents/Carers
• Parents and carers are responsible for supporting and encouraging their children to complete class work,
and to submit all drafts and final responses to assessment tasks by the relevant due date.
• Parents and carers, along with students, are responsible for informing the school of any difficulties relating to
the completion of assessment tasks and providing documentary evidence to support an application for AARA
(see AARA section in the full Assessment Policy).
• Parents and carers and home based supervisors are responsible for ensuring that students in years P–10
adhere to the conditions of supervised assessment, and that academic integrity is maintained during this
assessment.
• Parents and carers are responsible for ensuring that year 11 and 12 students attend all scheduled exams or
have secured the services of an official exam supervisor at an approved site.
• All exams must be completed by the required due date.

Engaging in learning and assessment

Students are expected to engage in the learning in the subject or course of study including the course
objectives. Students are required to complete all course and assessment requirements. This includes
completing all class work and homework activities.

Drafts
A draft is a preliminary version of a student’s response to an assessment instrument. The expectation of a draft
may vary from a brief outline to a response that is nearing completion. A draft can be used to provide feedback
on a response as well as to authenticate student work.

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Before submitting a draft, students may be required to develop an outline or discuss their approach with the
class teacher. Depending on the nature of the assessment instrument, students may be required to submit draft
work in stages.
The type of draft students are required to submit differs depending on the subject and assessment technique.
For example, if an assessment instrument requires an oral or multimodal presentation as the response, a draft
might be a rehearsal of this presentation.
Teachers provide feedback on a maximum of one draft per assessment instrument. This feedback may be given
in stages, depending on the nature of the assessment instrument.
Providing feedback is a consultative process, not a marking process. Teachers will not allocate a result for the
draft student response.
Feedback on a draft must not compromise the authenticity of student work. Teachers may not introduce new
ideas, language or research to improve the quality of student responses. Similarly, teachers may indicate some
key errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation and calculations, and remind students that the draft requires more
editing, but will not edit or correct all errors in a draft.
Feedback should encourage a student to reflect on strategies they might use to refine their response. In
providing feedback on a draft, teachers indicate aspects of the response that need to be improved or developed
to meet the requirements of the assessment instrument, ISMG, instrument-specific standards or syllabus
standards. For example, students may be advised to:
• consider other aspects of the text, report, performance or activity they are creating or responding to
• develop their response to show more awareness of the audience
• give priority to the most important points by rearranging the sequence and structure of ideas
• conduct further investigation to support an argument or communicate meaning
• edit their response to meet task requirements such as word length or page count
• include more accurate referencing.
Teachers may use a range of suitable strategies to provide feedback on the draft response. The strategy
chosen may differ depending on the mode of response. Possible strategies include:
• written feedback
• verbal feedback
• feedback provided through questioning
• a summary of feedback and advice to the whole class.

Non-submission of a draft
If a draft is an element of an assessment instrument, then submission of that draft by the relevant due date is
compulsory.
If no draft is submitted, the class teacher will contact the parent/carer/home based supervisor. An interview with
the Head of Department may be required.

Non-submission of a final response

When a student does not submit a response to an assessment instrument on or before the due date set by
the school, a result for that assessment may only be awarded if there is sufficient evidence available on or
before the due date (for example, class work, a draft, rehearsal notes, screenshots of student work, teacher
observations) to support a judgement of achievement against the relevant standards.

Years P–10: Australian Curriculum

Teachers make on-balance judgments about the evidence in student work based on a collection of assessment
items which together form a folio of student work that has been planned to provide sufficient evidence of
achievement in relation to the curriculum content and achievement standards.
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If an assessment item is not submitted by the due date, the student will receive a result for that assessment
based on the evidence available on or before the due date. This result will contribute towards the calculation of
the student’s end of semester grade.
If there is not sufficient evidence available on or before the due date to support a judgement of achievement, the
student will not receive a result for the assessment item.
Students who enrol after the beginning of a semester will be awarded an end of semester grade based on the
summative assessment items they complete after their enrolment.

Years 11–12: Units 1 and 2 — QCAA subjects

Schools report results for Units 1 and 2 to the QCAA as satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Teachers determine
satisfactory completion of a unit when:
• a student has completed sufficient assessment for the teacher to make an on-balance decision using the
reporting standards of the syllabus, and
• the evidence in the student’s responses demonstrates achievement of the unit objectives at a C standard or
above.
Assessment in Units 1 and 2 has been planned to provide, across all tasks, sufficient evidence of achievement
of the unit objectives.
If an assessment item is not submitted by the due date, the student will receive a result for that assessment
based on the evidence available on or before the due date. This result will contribute towards the determination
of satisfactory completion of the unit.
If there is not sufficient evidence available on or before the due date to support a judgement of achievement, the
student will not receive a result for the assessment item, and will not have completed the unit.
A student who does not satisfactorily complete Unit 1 or Unit 2 does not gain credit for that unit towards
their QCE. As a consequence, their QCE eligibility may be at risk, and the school may require the student to
reconsider their senior pathway to maintain eligibility.

Years 11–12: Units 3 and 4 — QCAA subjects

In order to receive an overall subject result from QCAA, a student must complete Units 3 and 4 together,
providing responses to each of the summative internal assessments and the external assessment (where
relevant) for the subject.
Where there is no evidence of a response to a summative assessment on or before the due date as set by
the school, the student will receive a result for that assessment based on the evidence available on or before
the due date. If there is not sufficient evidence available on or before the due date to support a judgement of
achievement, the student will not receive a result for the assessment item, and an overall subject result cannot
be allocated.
If a student does not achieve an overall subject result for a subject, they will not gain credit for Units 3 and
4 of that subject towards their QCE, and the subject will not contribute towards ATAR calculations. As a
consequence, their QCE and/or ATAR eligibility may be at risk.

Years 10–12: QCAA Short courses

When enrolled in a Short Course, students are expected to complete all course and assessment requirements.
For the course of study, there must be evidence of student responses to each summative internal assessment
to achieve a course result.
Where a student does not complete the summative assessments by the end of the summative year, an exit
result cannot be awarded. A student who does not receive an exit result does not gain credit for that short
course towards their QCE. As a consequence, their QCE eligibility may be at risk.

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Years 10–12: VET subjects
VET qualifications are made up of Core and Elective units of competency. In order to achieve a full VET
qualification, a student must be deemed ‘competent’ in all units of competency.
Under the Standards for RTOs 2015 there is a required volume of learning that must occur for each qualification
level. As VET assessment is competency-based, this must be undertaken with observation of the student’s
developing skills and competencies by the trainer/assessor occurring over time.
Therefore, in addition to submitting assessment tasks according to the prescribed due dates, students are
also mandatorily required to attend and actively participate in online lessons for the purpose of observation.
A student’s failure to regularly and actively attend lessons means that the trainer/assessor will not be able to
observe their work, and that assessment requirements cannot be met. I.e. in the case of VET assessment, non-
submission occurs when:
• a student has not submitted training activities and assessment tasks, and/or
• a student has not regularly attended or actively engaged in lessons.

Submission of non-supervised internal assessment (i.e. assignments)

Students must submit non-supervised internal assessment in accordance with the instructions provided on the
relevant task sheet.
Students must retain a copy of all assessment, and must not edit their copy of the response after it has been
submitted.
By submitting a response electronically using a unique EQ username and password, students thereby declare
that the response is their own work (except where otherwise acknowledged).

Completion of supervised internal assessment (i.e. examinations)

Years P–10
Students in Years P–10 must complete supervised assessment in the presence of a responsible adult, who may
be a parent or a family member. The adult is responsible for ensuring that the student adheres to the conditions
of the assessment instrument, and that academic integrity is maintained.

Years 11–12
Students in Years 11 and 12 must complete supervised assessment in the presence of an official supervisor.
The supervisor is responsible for ensuring that the student adheres to the conditions of the assessment
instrument, and that academic integrity is maintained.

Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA)

The Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) recognises that some students have disability,
impairment and/or medical conditions, or experience other circumstances that may be a barrier to their
performance in assessment. Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA) are designed to assist
these students.
AARA minimise barriers for eligible students to demonstrate their learning, knowledge and skill in assessment.
The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) and the Disability Standards for Education 2005 (DSE) seek to
eliminate, where possible, discrimination against people with disabilities. Compliance with these documents
ensures students are provided with opportunities to realise potential through participation in education and
training.

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The following principles inform decisions about AARA:
• Consultation — Decisions are made in consultation with the eligible student and, when appropriate, parents/
carers, relevant school staff and the QCAA. Schools ensure they maintain respect for the dignity and privacy
of the student, parents/carers and associates throughout the application and implementation of AARA.
• Timeliness — AARA are planned and negotiated as early as possible so that eligible students are supported
appropriately to participate in, and complete the requirements for, a course of study and assessment. Schools
identify and minimise barriers that prevent students from demonstrating their current knowledge and skills.
Reasonable adjustments are made to assessment conditions to make assessment accessible for all students
(see DSE s. 3.4) so that students have opportunities to demonstrate the assessed knowledge and skills.
• Standards-based assessment — The relevant exit or reporting standards are used to make judgments
about student achievement. The school is required to maintain the intent and rigour of assessment and
any other requirements or components that are inherent or essential to a course of study (see DSE s. 3.4).
Assessment standards and instrument-specific marking guides (ISMGs) are used to make judgments about
student work and are not modified. Actual achievement is assessed using evidence provided in student
responses, rather than perceived ability or potential achievement.
• Effects of AARA — Schools consider the effect of AARA on the student, including the effect on the student’s
ability to achieve learning outcomes, participate in courses of study and the effect on their independence and
demonstration of their knowledge and skills. Students should have opportunities to demonstrate a response
to assessment that is their own work. AARA are applied on a case-by-case basis with both the individual
student needs and the assessment technique or task taken into consideration. Schools consider the
identified disability, impairment and/or medical condition and the functional impact on the student’s capacity
to undertake particular requirements of an assessment. A student may not need or want adjustments for
some assessment techniques or instruments, or may need different adjustments in different assessments.
• Flexibility — Schools review the AARA provided and assess whether changes are needed over the duration
of a student’s schooling to allow for the changing needs of the student over time.
Students may also be eligible for AARA where illness and misadventure (i.e. unforeseen circumstances) or
other situations may prevent students from demonstrating their learning, knowledge and skill in internal and/or
external summative assessment.
Students are not eligible for AARA on the following grounds:
• Unfamiliarity with the English language
• Teacher absence or other teacher-related difficulties
• Matters that the student could have avoided (for example, misreading an exam timetable, misreading
instructions in exams)
• Matters of the student’s or parent’s own choosing (for example, family holidays).
The school is required to maintain the intent and rigour of assessment and any other requirements or
components that are inherent or essential to a course of study. Assessment standards and instrument-specific
marking guides (ISMGs) are used to make judgments about student work and are not modified.
AARA may involve an adjustment to:
• how the instrument is presented to the student (for example, for a student with a hearing impairment verbal
instructions might be provided as written instructions)
• how the student responds to the assessment (for example, a student with dyspraxia might complete the
assessment using a computer with approved software)
• the time allowed (for example, a student with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) might have
5 minutes per half-hour extra time provided in supervised assessment)
• the scheduling (for example, a student completes an assessment at a later time than others because of a
car accident on the day of the assessment)
• the environment in which the assessment is undertaken (for example, a student might sit in a different room
to the other students because they need a reader)
• the mode of the assessment (for example, a student with diagnosed anxiety might complete a spoken
assessment by pre-recording their response, rather than responding in front of the class).
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Years 7–10; and Year 11 Units 1 and 2
The school makes decisions about AARA for Years 7–10, and Year 11 Units 1 and 2.
The school has a responsibility to ensure that the AARA implemented for an eligible student for assessment in
Years 7 – 10 and Units 1 and 2 are aligned to those that are available for summative assessment in Units 3 and 4.
The provision of AARA for assessment in Years 7–10 or Units 1 and 2 by a school is not a guarantee that
students will be provided the same access or the same adjustments for assessment in Units 3 and 4.

Years 11–12 Units 3 and 4

Most decisions about AARA are made at the school level. The principal is required to report all decisions to
implement AARA to the QCAA, and to submit the required supporting documentation (see following).
For certain adjustments, schools are required to apply to the QCAA for approval and submit supporting
documentation before the AARA can be implemented.
Any application for extra time or rest breaks during an examination must be approved by the QCAA.

Supporting documentation

AARA for disability, impairment or medical condition

All applications for AARA on medical grounds require the submission of a medical report that provides:
• diagnosis of disability and/or medical condition
• date of diagnosis
• date of occurrence or onset of the disability and/or medical condition
• symptoms, treatment or course of action related to the disability and/or medical condition
• information about how the diagnosed disability, impairment and/or medical condition affects the student
participating in assessment, particularly timed assessment when considering external assessment
• professional recommendations regarding AARA.
Medical reports for all AARA applications in Years 7–12 must be completed on the QCAA medical report
template. This report is forwarded by the school to the QCAA if the application relates to Units 3 and 4
assessment.
The medical report must be completed by a relevant practitioner who is a general practitioner (GP), medical
specialist, or psychologist (registered under Queensland’s Medical Practitioners Registration Act 2001 and/or
Queensland’s Psychologists Registration Act 2001), and who is not related to the student or employed by the
school.

Evidence of verified disability

When a student has been verified as part of the Education Adjustment Program (EAP) or an equivalent process,
the formal notification of EAP provided by the relevant education authority may substitute for a medical report.
For Years 11 and 12, this may be considered only when the notification covers the duration of the student’s
enrolment in subjects for Units 3 and 4 in Applied and General subjects, or the General and General (Extension)
subject summative external assessment schedules in November, as applicable. Except with the prior written
agreement of the QCAA, in cases when verification has expired an updated medical report is required.

AARA for misadventure / other circumstances

Where the condition is not medical, applications must be supported by other relevant evidence, for example,
police reports or other official notices.

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Currency of supporting documentation: Units 3 and 4
The required currency of supporting medical documentation depends on the nature of the diagnosed disability,
impairment and/or medical condition.

Long-term conditions that are unlikely to improve over time

Except in exceptional circumstances, and with the prior written agreement of the QCAA, for long-term conditions
when the student is not covered by current Education Adjustment Program (EAP) verification or equivalent,
medical documentation must be dated no earlier than 1 January of the year of the student’s Year 10 enrolment.
This means that from the perspective of their Year 12 external assessment schedule, the maximum age of
supporting medical documentation allowable is two years and 10 months.
Where an application for AARA has been submitted in the case of a student with a long-term condition and
the condition deteriorates subsequent to the application decision, a further application may be submitted that
provides updated information regarding the student’s condition.

Short-term conditions or temporary injuries

Short-term conditions may improve or deteriorate over time depending on a range of influences and factors.
Except in exceptional circumstances, and with the prior written agreement of the QCAA, supporting medical
documentation for short-term conditions or temporary injuries, including mental health conditions such as
anxiety and depression, is to be dated:
• for summative internal assessments in all subjects and Short Courses, no earlier than six months prior to the
relevant Unit 3 or 4 assessment event
• for summative external assessments, no earlier than 1 April of the assessment year. The QCAA may require
an updated medical report closer to the assessment schedule.
Many General subjects have summative assessment for Unit 3 during Term 4 of Year 11. Supporting
documentation for short-term conditions should therefore be obtained during Term 3 of Year 11.

Inability to complete assessment

A student who is ill or otherwise unable to complete internal assessment must inform the school as soon
as practical (advising student name, year level, subject and class teacher). This may be before, during or
immediately after the assessment session.
AARA may be implemented to provide opportunities for the student to complete the assessment. Arrangements
such as comparable assessment and extensions may be considered when illness or misadventure is
established.
The school is required to meet QCAA timelines. Under no circumstances can the due date for an assessment
be extended beyond the date one week prior to the QCAA upload date for the relevant assessment instrument.
Where AARA is unable to be implemented due to the illness or event, and therefore the student is unable
to provide a response to a summative internal assessment, the school may use evidence gathered by the
student’s teacher during the assessment preparation time, for example, draft work, to make a judgment about
the student’s work. This evidence should only be used once other AARA have been exhausted.

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Resolving issues of concern
The Department of Education understands the importance of communication between school and parents.
Parents and community members play an important role in their student’s education and a strong partnership
between parents and schools enriches the learning experience.

Introduction
At BrisbaneSDE, effective partnerships between parents, students, the community and our school are important
to educational success. We are committed to ensuring all parents and students have their concerns dealt with
in a fair and equitable manner and there are processes and support structures in place to enable parents and
students to work through any concerns they may have.
During the course of your student’s school years, you may have cause to make a complaint about an issue or
concern you have with their education.
To achieve an effective resolution for all parties, when making your complaint, you should ensure you:
• provide complete and factual information in a timely manner
• deliver your complaint in a calm and reasoned manner.
The following procedure is in place to assist parents/carers and school staff to reach an outcome that is in the
best interest of the student.
1. Write down your concerns. It is often helpful to have information to refer to when making contact.
2. Email or phone the relevant staff member to discuss your concerns with a view to a positive outcome.
3. If a positive resolution is not reached, the relevant staff member or yourself may refer the concern to the
Head of Department / Manager or the appropriate officer on your behalf.
4. The Head of Department / Manager or appropriate officer will make contact with you re: the concern as soon
as possible.
5. As a member of our community, you may also contact a Head of Department / Manager or appropriate
officer if you feel resolution has not been reached. You are, however, strongly encouraged to contact the
relevant staff member in the first instance.
You can raise your complaint via email to communityengagement@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au.
For comprehensive information about the Department of Education complaints policy, please refer to the
following website https://www.qld.gov.au/education/schools/information/contact/complaint.
Note: Facebook or any other forms of social media are not avenues for complaints and no staff member will
respond to complaints through this method of communication.

Privacy statement
The Department of Education (DoE) through the Brisbane School of Distance Educations (BrisbaneSDE)
collects information for the purposes outlined in the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006 (EGPA 2006), and
in particular for:
• assessing whether your application for enrolment should be approved
• meeting reporting obligations required by law or under Federal–State Government funding arrangements
• administering and planning for providing appropriate education, training and support services to students
• assisting departmental staff to maintain the good order and management of schools, and to fulfil their duty of
care to all students and staff
• communicating with students and parents.

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The collection of this information is authorised by subsections 155 and 428 of the Education (General
Provisions) Act 2006 (EGPA 2006).
The Department of Education will disclose personal information from the enrolment forms to the Queensland
Curriculum and Assessment Authority when opening student accounts, in compliance with Part 3 of the
Education (Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority) Act 2014 (Qld). Personal information from
these forms will also be supplied to Centrelink in compliance with ss.194 and 195 of the Social Security
(Administration) Act 1999 (Cth). De-identified information concerning parents’ school and non-school education,
occupation group and main language other than English and students’ country of birth, main language other
than English, sex and Indigenous status, is supplied to the Australian Government Department of Education in
compliance with Federal–State Government funding agreements.
Personal information collected on enrolment forms may also be disclosed to third parties where authorised or
required by law. Your information will be stored securely.
If you wish to access or correct any of the personal information on the enrolment application forms or discuss
how it has been dealt with, please contact BrisbaneSDE in the first instance. If you have a concern or complaint
about the way your personal information has been collected, used, stored or disclosed, please also contact
BrisbaneSDE in the first instance.

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2021 HANDBOOK
for Home-based Students

Prep – Year 12

Brisbane School of Distance Education

www.brisbanesde.eq.edu.au

Corner Cavendish Road and Stanley Street East, Coorparoo Qld 4151
GPO Box 1308, Brisbane Qld 4001
Telephone: 07 3727 2444
Email: enquiries@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au
Enrolments: enrolments@brisbanesde.eq.edu.au