A Community Commitment to Integrity

At Fourways High School, we continually celebrate the spirit, talent, and remarkable potential that defines our community. Our students are capable of outstanding achievements, and we hold the firm belief that every one of them can and will succeed on their own merit.
Today, we wish to speak with you all about a cornerstone of that success: our shared commitment to always doing the right thing.

Recently, we have seen a concerning trend that challenges our core values. Our School Assessment Irregularity Committee (SAIC) has been convened an unusually high number of times to address issues of academic integrity. This includes instances of cheating—such as using unauthorized materials or devices—as well as students missing assessments without following the required procedures to provide proof of a valid reason.

It is important for our entire community to understand that in both scenarios, the result, as per our school policy, is a zero on the assessment. This is not merely a punishment; it is a necessary measure to protect the fairness and integrity of our academic standards.

Why does this matter so much?

• Fairness to Others: Cheating, in any form, is deeply unfair. It disrespects the hard work of the vast majority of students who study diligently and earn every mark through their own effort. It violates the trust that is essential to a healthy learning environment.
• Personal Growth: The true cost of an irregularity is often paid by the student themselves. Assessments are not just about a grade; they are vital tools that provide an accurate mirror of a student’s understanding, highlighting both strengths and areas for growth. Circumventing this process ultimately hinders a student’s own academic progress and self-awareness.
• Shared Responsibility: We also encourage our students to understand that integrity extends to their role as community members. If a student becomes aware of an assessment irregularity, reporting it to a teacher or trusted staff member is an act of courage and a defence of our collective values. It is how we protect the hard work of everyone.

A Note on Missed Assessments:

We understand that illness and genuine emergencies occur. Our policy requires students to provide documentation (e.g., a medical certificate) for a missed assessment to distinguish between these unavoidable circumstances and a simple neglect of academic responsibilities. Following this process is a key part of learning accountability.

Our Collective Role

We are not just an institution that teaches subjects; we are a community dedicated to shaping people of strong character. This effort requires a partnership between students, staff, and parents.

• Students: We ask you to recommit to honesty, take pride in your own work, and have the courage to make choices that reflect self-respect.
• Parents: We encourage you to continue discussing the importance of integrity, responsibility, and perseverance with your children at home.
• Staff: We thank you for your unwavering dedication to upholding these standards and for guiding our students.

Together, let us ensure that Fourways High School is known not only for its academic excellence but for the outstanding character of its community. A community where doing the right thing is the only thing.