Welcome to BLENNZ's policy repository, where you'll find our complete framework of operational and board policies. These documents reflect our commitment to excellence in education for blind and low vision learners while ensuring compliance with National Administration Guidelines (NAGs).
Our policies are regularly reviewed and updated to maintain best practices in specialised education, safety, and governance.
Organised into six NAG categories, this collection includes both operational policies (OP) that guide daily activities and board policies (BPN) that establish our governance framework. Each policy is dated to help you identify the most current version, and all documents are available in Word format for accessibility.
Whether you're a staff member, parent, or stakeholder, these policies provide clear guidelines for all aspects of BLENNZ's operations, from curriculum delivery to health and safety protocols.
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Curriculum Requirements
Operational Policies
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OP1-01 2021 Homai Campus School IEP PolicyThis policy outlines the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process at Homai Campus School, emphasising collaboration, goal-setting, and regular reviews to support students with visual impairments. Word, 36 KB 
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OP1-02 2023 Digital Technologies PolicyBLENNZ's Digital Technologies Policy outlines responsible use of IT systems, ensuring student safety and data protection whilst promoting digital literacy and innovation. Word, 37 KB 
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OP1-03 2025 Assessment for National QualificationsBLENNZ must notify NZQA before assessing ākonga against standards under its code. Limited Scope affects quality assurance and applies only to Homai Campus School and Immersion programmes. Word, 45 KB 
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OP1-04 2023 Satellite Classes PolicyThis document outlines approved satellite classes for BLENNZ, detailing locations, student numbers, and staffing across various regions. Word, 25 KB 
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OP1-05 2023 Relationships Sexuality Education PolicyThis policy outlines BLENNZ's approach to relationships and sexuality education, emphasising inclusivity, wellbeing, and age-appropriate learning for ākonga who have a vision impairment. Word, 42 KB 
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OP1-06 2023 Authorised Entity PolicyThis policy outlines BLENNZ's approach as an authorised entity for accessible format copying, ensuring equitable access to copyrighted materials for ākonga who have a print-disability. Word, 45 KB 
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OP1-07 2023 Collection Development for Library PolicyBLENNZ's library collection development policy outlines guidelines for selecting, acquiring, and maintaining resources to support learners who have a vision impairment and their educators. Word, 41 KB 
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OP1-08 2023 Work Experience PolicyBLENNZ's Work Experience Policy outlines procedures for arranging student placements, ensuring safety, and promoting valuable learning opportunities in real-world work environments. Word, 44 KB 
Board Policies
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BPN1-1 2025 Curriculum PolicyBLENNZ provides curriculum based on the New Zealand Curriculum, Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, and Te Whāriki, emphasizing the Expanded Core Curriculum and cultural responsiveness. Word, 40 KB 
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BPN1-2 2022 Research Ethics PolicyBLENNZ emphasises the importance of research and development in education, supporting staff and others, while ensuring ethical standards and participant rights are upheld. Word, 34 KB 
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BPN1-2a Research Ethics Approval ProcessGaining approval from BLENNZ to carry out research involving BLENNZ students and/or their families, and/or BLENNZ staff members. Word, 24 KB 
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BPN1-2b Research Ethics HandbookUseful explanations of research concepts and procedures that may assist applicants wishing to carry out research with BLENNZ support and participation Word, 41 KB 
Documentation and Self Review
Board Policies
Employer Responsibilities
Operational Policies
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OP3-01 2023 Concerns and Complaints PolicyBLENNZ’s policy ensures fair and timely resolution of concerns and complaints from ākonga, whānau, and staff, distinguishing between informal concerns and serious matters requiring managerial consultation. Word, 50 KB 
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OP3-02 2021 Management Unit PolicyBLENNZ is entitled to management units for staffing, determined by the Education (School Staffing) Order, reviewed every three years, excluding Resource Teachers Vision and Braille Allowance units. Word, 38 KB 
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OP3-03 2021 Equal Employment Opportunities PolicyBLENNZ is committed to being an employer of choice, ensuring a diverse, fair work environment, and rejecting all forms of discrimination as defined by the Human Rights Act. Word, 38 KB 
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OP3-04 2022 Code of Conduct PolicyBLENNZ commits to fair employment practices, expecting staff to act with integrity and professionalism, adhering to the Charter and policies. Policy applies to all employees. Word, 38 KB 
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OP3-05 2021 Non Teaching Staff Leave PolicyThis policy ensures non-teaching staff leave applications align with employment agreements and the Holidays Act 2003, covering various leave types without overriding NZ Legislation. Word, 39 KB 
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OP3-06 2021 Teaching Staff Leave PolicyThis policy ensures teaching staff leave aligns with employment agreements and the Holidays Act 2003, covering various leave types, and requires teachers to take annual leave outside term dates. Word, 43 KB 
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OP3-07 2021 Working from Home and Staff Children in the Work Place PolicyBLENNZ Board allows remote work or children in the workplace when appropriate, adhering to policies and respecting directives during school closures or emergencies. Word, 39 KB 
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OP3-08 2020 Professional Growth Cycle PolicyBLENNZ commits to improving teaching quality through a consistent appraisal system, focusing on self-evaluation, reflective practice, and professional development, ensuring alignment with the BLENNZ Charter. Word, 32 KB 
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OP3-09 2023 Succession Planning PolicyBLENNZ values succession planning to ensure leadership continuity, retain expertise, and align with ākonga needs, promoting ongoing effective performance and strategic staff development. Word, 31 KB 
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OP3-10 2021 Induction PolicyBLENNZ ensures smooth integration of new employees, volunteers, and contractors, fostering skill development and alignment with organisational culture for mutual benefit. Word, 29 KB 
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OP3-11 2021 Homai Campus Classroom Release Time PolicyBLENNZ provides classroom release time to teachers at Homai Campus School, Satellite Classes, and Transition Programme to address workload and enhance ākonga learning and professional growth. Word, 24 KB 
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OP3-12 2020 Staff Recruitment and Appointment PolicyBLENNZ prioritises staff quality and mandatory safety checks under the Vulnerable Children’s Act 2014, ensuring the safety and effective learning of ākonga at all times. Word, 36 KB 
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OP3-13 2023 Return to Work Policy Staying at Work PolicyBLENNZ's policy ensures a safe return to work for employees after leave due to various reasons, prioritising their health and following due process if termination is necessary. Word, 44 KB 
Board Policies
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BPN3-1 2023 Delegations PolicyThe BLENNZ Board of Trustees oversees all activities, delegating specific responsibilities to the Principal and staff to ensure effective governance and accountability in line with legal requirements. Word, 35 KB 
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BPN3-1a Schedule of DelegationsThe BLENNZ Board retains authority over key decisions, including budget approvals, staff appointments, and legal actions, ensuring governance and accountability while delegating daily operations to the Principal and senior staff. Word, 30 KB 
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BPN3-2 2024 Role and Responsibilities of the Principal PolicyThe Principal, as the school's professional leader and Board's chief executive, ensures ethical practices, oversees policy implementation, and manages daily operations in partnership with the Board. Word, 75 KB 
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BPN3-3 2024 Personnel Management PolicyThe BLENNZ Board of Trustees ensures compliance with relevant legislation, delegating personnel management to the Principal and others, while maintaining oversight through consultations and a personnel subcommittee. Word, 32 KB 
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BPN3-4 2025 Principals Performance Management PolicyThe BLENNZ School Board annually reviews the principal's performance to ensure high educational achievement for students, following a structured process with interim reviews and formal assessments. Word, 43 KB 
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BPN3-5 2025 Disciplinary Process in Relation to the PrincipalThis policy outlines the BLENNZ Board's process for addressing complaints or policy violations concerning the principal, starting with informal resolution and escalating to formal disciplinary action with expert advice if needed. Word, 26 KB 
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BPN3-6 2024 BOT Concerns and Complaints PolicyThe BLENNZ Board ensures all complaints are handled promptly and professionally, maintaining a safe environment with accessible procedures, delegating responsibilities to the Principal. Word, 34 KB 
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BPN3-6a BOT Accessible Checklist for Concerns and ComplaintsAccessible checklist detailing the process for handling complaints, ensuring proper procedures, verifying awareness, consulting advisors, acknowledging complaints, and taking appropriate actions. Word, 23 KB 
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BPN3-6b BOT Checklist for Concerns and ComplaintsA Board complaints checklist. Once a letter of complaint has been received, the board chair should ensure the outlined process is followed Word, 27 KB 
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BPN3-6c Flowchart Accessible BOT Process for Concerns and ComplaintsAn accessible flowchart detailing the Board of Trustees Concerns and Complaints Process Word, 24 KB 
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BPN3-6d Flowchart BOT Process for Concerns and ComplaintsNZSTA PDF showing the Concerns and complaints process Word, 100 KB 
Financial and Property Management
Operational Policies
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OP4-01 2022 Conflicts of Interest PolicyBLENNZ ensures responsible use of public funds and assets, managing conflicts of interest to maintain lawful, fair decision-making. The Principal oversees staff-related conflicts. Word, 38 KB 
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OP4-02 2024 Provision of Gifts PolicyBLENNZ ensures gift expenditures are business-related, avoiding undue influence. Decisions follow Ministry and OAG guidelines, with the Principal managing and delegating responsibilities. Word, 49 KB 
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OP4-03 2021 Purchasing PolicyBLENNZ ensures consistent practice, value for money, and clear audit trails for purchases. The Principal manages this policy, with possible delegations outlined in the Board’s Delegation Policy. Word, 38 KB 
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OP4-04 2021 Credit Card PolicyBLENNZ ensures credit card expenditures are business-related. The Principal manages this policy, with possible delegations outlined in the Board’s Delegation Policy. BLENNZ uses AoG credit cards. Word, 39 KB 
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OP4-05 2024 Travel PolicyThe BLENNZ Board ensures travel expenses are business-related, cost-effective, and fairly reimbursed. The Principal oversees policy implementation and may delegate responsibilities. Guidelines are reviewed annually. Word, 47 KB 
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OP4-06 2024 Sensitive Expenditure PolicyBLENNZ ensures all expenditures are business-related, avoiding personal benefits. The Principal manages this policy, with possible delegations outlined in the Board’s Delegation Policy. Word, 44 KB 
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OP4-07 2023 Theft and Fraud PreventionBLENNZ must safeguard its resources, while the Principal is tasked with preventing and detecting theft and fraud by employees, contractors, and recipients. Word, 41 KB 
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OP4-08 2023 Use of Vehicles by BLENNZ Staff PolicyBLENNZ provides vehicles for staff work use, not personal travel. Vehicle use is reviewed for cost-effectiveness, prioritising ākonga needs, staff safety, and fairness. Word, 47 KB 
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OP4-09 2023 Payments by Parents of Akonga PolicyBLENNZ complies with the Education Act 1989 by following Ministry guidelines, joining the donation scheme, and not seeking donations from Homai Campus School parents. Word, 38 KB 
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OP4-10 2023 Staff Reimbursement of Expenses PolicyBLENNZ reimburses fair and reasonable expenses for NZ travel, considering employment conditions. Requests may be declined if not deemed fair. Policies guide reimbursement. Word, 32 KB 
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OP4-11 2023 Use of BLENNZ Facilities PolicyBLENNZ ensures safe, appropriate use of its facilities, prioritising ākonga, whānau, and staff safety. External use is guided by policy, with approval rights reserved. Word, 42 KB 
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OP4-12 2021 Families Reimbursement of Expenses PolicyBLENNZ ensures timely and fair reimbursement for Ministry-funded expenses, with consistent processes and claimable amounts. This policy details eligible costs and the claiming procedure. Word, 38 KB 
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OP4-13 2021 BLENNZ Vehicles PolicyBLENNZ will provide staff with vehicles owned, leased, or rented by BLENNZ whenever possible, ensuring they have the necessary transportation for their work. Word, 37 KB 
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OP4-14 2021 Use of BLENNZ Residential Accommodation PolicyBLENNZ ensures efficient and safe use of Homai Campus accommodation, prioritising ākonga safety. Users must comply with Government or Secretary of Education mandates, including vaccination and mask-wearing. Word, 38 KB 
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OP4-15 2021 Property Managment PolicyBLENNZ ensures a suitable environment for ākonga and staff, maintaining buildings to high safety standards and coordinating with host schools and other entities for property upkeep. Word, 38 KB 
Board Policies
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BPN4-1 2023 Finance and PropertyThe Board of Trustees must allocate funds per BLENNZ's charter, monitor expenditure, ensure audited accounts, comply with asset management agreements, and maintain safe, healthy facilities. Word, 18 KB 
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BPN4-2 2023 Asset Capitalisation PolicyThe Board of Trustees will manage BLENNZ assets, ensuring compliance with the Education Act 1989, Public Finance Act 1989, Financial Reporting Act 1993, and National Administration Guidelines. Word, 37 KB 
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BPN4-3 2023 Cash Management BOT PolicyThe Board of Trustees ensures BLENNZ's cash resources are protected, adhering to sound financial management standards, and delegates daily management to the Principal and staff. Word, 32 KB 
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BPN4-4 2023 Financial Management PolicyThe Board of Trustees manages BLENNZ's financial resources, ensuring accountability, safeguarding assets, and delegating tasks while retaining oversight, in line with governance obligations and strategic goals. Word, 28 KB 
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BPN4-5 2025 Conflict of InterestThe BLENNZ School Board's conflict of interest policy ensures integrity by requiring disclosure of interests and exclusion from relevant discussions and decisions for affected board members. Word, 35 KB 
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BPN4-6 2023 Trustee Remuneration and Expenses PolicyThe BLENNZ Board sets reimbursement amounts for members, covers travel and time expenses, and reviews costs annually. The Principal receives the same payment as trustees. Word, 29 KB 
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BPN4-7 2023 Principals Professional Expenses PolicyThe Principal of BLENNZ, as the professional leader and Board's Chief Executive, receives financial support for professional expenses and development, separate from their salary. Word, 36 KB 
Health and Safety
Operational Policies
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OP5-0 2021 Health and Safety PolicyBLENNZ ensures health and safety for all by complying with relevant legislation and standards, expecting everyone to act safely and avoid accidents in all workplaces. Word, 35 KB 
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OP5-01 2024 Safe Driving PolicyBLENNZ promotes a safe driving culture by ensuring staff demonstrate safe driving skills, maintaining vehicles, providing driver training, and adhering to traffic laws and safety procedures. Word, 49 KB 
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OP5-02 2022 Anti Bullying PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe learning environment for ākonga by following health and safety guidelines, preventing bullying, and adhering to policies in various educational settings. Word, 41 KB 
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OP5-04 2023 First Aid PolicyBLENNZ ensures first aid care for all, complies with health and safety regulations, and maintains a trained workforce with up-to-date CPR certification across various roles. Word, 40 KB 
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OP5-06 2022 Akonga Mental Health and Wellbeing PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga's mental and emotional wellbeing by promoting good mental health, supporting vision loss management, and aiding adaptation to life changes in residential programs. Word, 51 KB 
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OP5-07 2022 Handling and Transfer of Akonga PolicyBLENNZ ensures health and safety by training and supporting staff to manage ākonga handling tasks, reducing injury risks, and following relevant protocols in all locations. Word, 30 KB 
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OP5-08 2021 Workplace Bullying and Harassment PolicyBLENNZ is committed to a safe, positive work environment, protecting staff from bullying and harassment, and meeting statutory responsibilities under relevant health and safety legislation. Word, 40 KB 
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OP5-09 2023 Sun Safe PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga and staff are protected from UVR exposure, recognising the risk of skin cancer, with a sun protection policy from 10am to 4pm, September to April. Word, 32 KB 
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OP5-1 2021 Safe Driving PolicyBLENNZ promotes a safe driving culture by ensuring staff demonstrate safe driving habits and maintaining all vehicles in safe, clean, and roadworthy condition for work purposes. Word, 45 KB 
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OP5-10 2023 Surrender and Property Search PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe environment for ākonga and staff, adhering to reasonable search and seizure practices, while protecting rights under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990. Word, 43 KB 
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OP5-11 2023 Simulated Vision Loss PolicyBLENNZ ensures simulated vision loss is used appropriately to provide insight. It doesn't fully simulate all vision loss types or social impacts. Staff must seek advice before use. Word, 43 KB 
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OP5-12 2021 Sexual Harassment PolicyBLENNZ treats sexual harassment as illegal discrimination, not tolerated. Offenders face disciplinary action. Staff must conduct themselves to minimise the risk of harassment. Word, 38 KB 
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OP5-13 2022 BLENNZ OLE PolicyBLENNZ safeguards ākonga, parents, whānau, and staff in the OLE during business hours. Outside these hours, supervision is not the Board's responsibility without permission. Word, 39 KB 
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OP5-13a 2020 BLENNZ OLE ProceduresThese procedures support the Operational Policy: Homai Campus Outdoor Learning Environment (NAG 5). Word, 24 KB 
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OP5-14 2023 Managing Akonga attending BLENNZ Programmes PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe, respectful environment for ākonga to work, play, and learn, fostering responsibility and self-motivation through various educational programmes. Word, 42 KB 
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OP5-15 2023 Staff Alcohol PolicyStaff may consume alcohol only per policy or with Principal's approval. Their primary responsibility is the welfare of children at all times. Word, 38 KB 
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OP5-16 2023 Akonga Alcohol Approved PolicyWord, 39 KB 
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OP5-17 2023 Drug Free PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga safety by maintaining a drug-free environment across all campuses, buildings, and vehicles used by ākonga and staff. Word, 40 KB 
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OP5-18 2021 Food Safety PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe environment for ākonga and staff, adhering to food safety guidelines and promoting healthy eating to parents, whānau, and staff. Word, 40 KB 
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OP5-19 2023 Infectious Diseases PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga, staff, and visitors avoid contact with contagious individuals, managing communicable disease risks per Ministry of Health and Education guidelines. Word, 42 KB 
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OP5-19a 2020 Infectious Diseases MOE and MOH Factsheet on Communicable DiseasesSchools and early learning services must manage health and safety, including communicable disease outbreaks, by following legal guidelines and contacting health authorities when necessary. Word, 54 KB 
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OP5-20 2022 Readiness for Emergencies PolicyBLENNZ's Board of Trustees ensures a safe environment for ākonga, with comprehensive emergency plans addressing various threats to protect ākonga, staff, and visitors. Word, 38 KB 
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OP5-21 2022 Support for Akonga in Cases of Illness PolicyBLENNZ ensures appropriate care for unwell ākonga at Homai Campus and residential programmes, prioritising their best interests. Word, 55 KB 
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OP5-22 2021 Health and Safety Induction Training and Information PolicyBLENNZ provides employees with health and safety information and training, ensuring everyone understands their responsibilities and rights to a safe, healthy workplace. Word, 31 KB 
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OP5-23 2021 Health and Safety PPE PolicyBLENNZ protects employees from workplace risks, using this policy with other controls when necessary. It applies to all staff, contractors, and visitors. Word, 30 KB 
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OP5-24 2020 Injury and Incident Management and Reporting PolicyBLENNZ's incident management policy standardises processes, defines roles, and ensures accountability. It applies to all staff, contractors, volunteers, ākonga, and visitors. Word, 43 KB 
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OP5-25 2023 HS Visitors PolicyBLENNZ ensures safety by identifying all visitors on-site, complying with government mandates, and preventing harm under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. Word, 38 KB 
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OP5-26 2023 Risk Management PolicyBLENNZ's risk management policy ensures effective risk handling in all workplaces, complying with the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015, for all employees and visitors. Word, 41 KB 
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OP5-27 2023 Worker Engagement and Participation PolicyBLENNZ ensures all workers can engage in health and safety management, offering general and specific training to maintain a safe environment. Word, 42 KB 
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OP5-29 2022 Safe Lifting of Goods and Equipment PolicyBLENNZ ensures compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 by preventing employees from lifting heavy loads that could cause injury. Word, 34 KB 
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OP5-30 2023 Staff Wellbeing PolicyBLENNZ ensures a healthy, safe workplace by complying with legislation, promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging active participation in wellbeing initiatives. Word, 43 KB 
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OP5-31 2023 Traumatic Incidents PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe environment for ākonga and staff, with pre-planned traumatic incident management and appropriate interventions, considering various risk factors. Word, 43 KB 
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OP5-32 2022 Intimate and Personal Care PolicyBLENNZ ensures staff provide respectful, professional care to ākonga, promoting safety, privacy, dignity, and independence, while addressing individual needs sensitively. Word, 55 KB 
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OP5-33 2023 Cybersafety Digital Citizenship PolicyBLENNZ promotes safe, responsible technology use by fostering digital citizenship in ākonga, staff, and community, preparing them for effective societal participation. Word, 37 KB 
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OP5-34 2022 Swimming Pool Gym PolicyBLENNZ ensures safe use of Homai Campus pools and gym for hydrotherapy and physical education, following guidelines and enforcing policy compliance. Word, 60 KB 
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OP5-35 2022 Restraint and Seclusion PolicyBLENNZ ensures the health and safety of ākonga and staff, promoting a safe, inclusive learning environment, adhering to Ministry of Education guidelines. Word, 40 KB 
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OP5-35a 2018 Restraint and Seclusion MOE FormMinistry of Education Incident of Physical Restraint form to be completed by BLENNZ and returned to MoE. Word, 52 KB 
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OP5-36 2021 Food Allergies PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe environment for ākonga and staff, managing severe allergies and food intolerances, with systems to recognise and respond effectively. Word, 38 KB 
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OP5-37 2023 Communication Social Media PolicyBLENNZ uses social media to enhance learning and communication, ensuring safe, professional interactions while sharing information and receiving feedback from the community. Word, 39 KB 
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OP5-38 2023 Transportation of Akonga PolicyBLENNZ ensures the safety of ākonga and adults in BLENNZ vehicles, prohibiting personal vehicle use and requiring policy acknowledgment by staff. Word, 43 KB 
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OP5-39 2022 Lone Worker and Personal Safety PolicyBLENNZ ensures risks of working alone or in isolated areas are managed, providing effective communication means, per Health and Safety at Work Act (2015). Word, 56 KB 
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OP5-5 2023 Administration of Medication PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga receive necessary medication during programs, excluding those with parents. Staff receive legal protection, training, and support for medication administration. Word, 39 KB 
Board Policies
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Accessible EOTC Safety Management PlanThe EOTC safety management plan aligns with the school-wide health and safety system, following Ministry of Education guidelines and BLENNZ policies and procedures. Word, 1.1 MB 
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BPN5-2 2025 Health and PolicyThe BLENNZ Board is committed to health, safety, and wellbeing for all, complying with legislation, delegating implementation to the principal, and expecting everyone to contribute to a safe environment. Word, 36 KB 
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BPN5-3 2022 Education Outside the Classroom PolicyEOTC encompasses curriculum-based learning beyond classrooms, including local and overseas activities, excluding Specialist Services, and applies to all BLENNZ teaching spaces. Word, 44 KB 
Administration
Operational Policies
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OP6-01 2020 Admissions Transfers and Withdrawals PolicyAdmission to BLENNZ is for ākonga with special educational needs due to blindness, deafblindness, or low vision, meeting eligibility criteria. Word, 33 KB 
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OP6-01a 2020 Appendix A Criteria for Eligibility for BLENNZ ServicesBLENNZ ākonga, aged birth to 21, are blind, deafblind, or have low vision, often with additional needs, requiring tailored educational support. Word, 28 KB 
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OP6-01b 2020 Appendix B VRC Admission and Withdrawal ProceduresBLENNZ referral process: receive consent, acknowledge within 10 days, decide within 20 days, confirm at committee meeting, and involve Resource Teacher Vision. Word, 24 KB 
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OP6-01c 2021 Appendix C Criteria for Admission to SchoolAttendance at BLENNZ Homai School requires current BLENNZ enrollment, suitable placement, and an Individual Plan indicating best fit, with case-by-case distance consideration. Word, 32 KB 
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OP6-01d 2020 Appendix D Criteria for Access to National AssessmentKey criteria for ākonga national assessment include unclear diagnosis, sudden or significant vision changes, complex needs, and challenges accessing health services. Word, 23 KB 
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OP6-01e 2020 Appendix E Immersion Admission and Withdrawal ProceduresBLENNZ offers long-term residential and short-term immersion programmes for ākonga, prioritising those outside Auckland, based on educational needs and safety. Word, 24 KB 
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OP6-02 2019 Te Tiriti O Waitangi PolicyBLENNZ commits to a bicultural relationship with tangata whenua, upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and values, underpinning all policies. Word, 37 KB 
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OP6-03 2023 Environmental Best Practice PolicyBLENNZ aims to improve environmental management by identifying and managing activities impacting the environment, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting sustainable practices. Word, 35 KB 
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OP6-04 2021 Animal Welfare PolicyBLENNZ ensures humane treatment of animals, complying with legal obligations, and educating ākonga on animal care and welfare through example and discussion. Word, 38 KB 
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OP6-05 2023 Non Custodial Parents Access to Akonga and their Records PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga well-being and compliance with Court Orders, granting non-custodial parents equal contact and access to records unless restricted by custody orders. Word, 41 KB 
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OP6-06 2023 HC Specialist Therapist Workload Management PolicyBLENNZ ensures equitable, reasonable, and safe workloads for specialist staff, prioritising direct ākonga support, with regular reviews to improve service outcomes. Word, 39 KB 
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OP6-07 2021 Smoke Free PolicyBLENNZ ensures a totally smokefree environment, including e-cigarettes and vaping, across all campuses, buildings, and vehicles, complying with the Smokefree Environments Act. Word, 37 KB 
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OP6-08 2024 BLENNZ Privacy Security and CCTV PolicyBLENNZ ensures a safe environment with 24/7 video surveillance, excluding private areas, managed by security firms or local managers, per site policies. Word, 49 KB 
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OP6-09 2021 Homai Campus School Attendance PolicyBLENNZ ensures ākonga attend school as legally required, following the Education Act 1989 and School Attendance Regulations 1951, supporting enrolment and attendance. Word, 34 KB 
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OP6-10 2021 Protected Disclosures PolicyBLENNZ complies with the Protected Disclosures Act 2000, guiding employees to report serious wrongdoing, ensuring protection from retaliation and legal liability. Word, 39 KB 
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OP6-11 2021 Safety Checking of Staff PolicyBLENNZ ensures compliance with the Vulnerable Children’s Act 2014, conducting consistent safety checks for all employees and volunteers working with ākonga. Word, 39 KB 
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OP6-12 2023 Privacy PolicyBLENNZ Board complies with the Privacy Act 2020, delegating responsibility to the Principal, who reports back on adherence every six months. Word, 42 KB 
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OP6-12a 2020 Privacy ProceduresBLENNZ's privacy procedures comply with Ministry of Education and Archives NZ guidelines, ensuring proper handling of school records without overriding established protocols. Word, 28 KB 
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OP6-13 2023 Storage and Destruction of Hard Copy and Electronic InformationBLENNZ must follow the Public Records Act 2005 for documentation retention, ensuring proper processes, privacy, and approval for online storage use. Word, 44 KB 
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OP6-14 2022 Copyright PolicyBLENNZ must comply with the Copyright Act 1994, focusing on ownership, moral rights, author identification, accessible formats, and new technologies amendments. Word, 44 KB 
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OP6-14a 2023 Copyright in the Classroom PolicyBLENNZ must comply with the Copyright Act 1994, ensuring copyright owners' exclusive rights are respected, and educating students on proper copyright use. Word, 51 KB 
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OP6-15 2023 Informed Consent for Specialist Service Provision PolicyBLENNZ staff must meet legal and ethical requirements for informed consent, ensuring ongoing communication and documentation with families and whānau. Word, 39 KB 
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OP6-17 2023 School Hours Term Dates PolicyBLENNZ ensures compliance with the Education Act 1989 by adhering to prescribed school hours and term dates, consulting with the community. Word, 40 KB 
Board Policies
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BPN6-1 2021 BOT Code of Ethics PolicyThe BLENNZ Board of Trustees commits to ethical conduct, prioritising ākonga needs, confidentiality, unity, conflict avoidance, and continuous self-monitoring. Word, 23 KB 
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BPN6-10 2023 Staff Trustee Role Description BOT PolicyThe BLENNZ staff trustee brings a staff perspective to Board decisions, ensuring adherence to policies, and prioritising ākonga interests and confidentiality. Word, 30 KB 
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BPN6-2 2021 Chairs Roles and Responsibilities PolicyThe BLENNZ Chair ensures Board integrity, represents the Board, facilitates meetings, promotes communication, and leads trustees, adhering to policies and legislation. Word, 34 KB 
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BPN6-3 2022 Relationship Chair and Principal PolicyThe BLENNZ Board Chair and Principal must maintain a professional, respectful relationship, ensuring clear communication, mutual trust, and effective teamwork for school success. Word, 29 KB 
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BPN6-4 2021 Roles and Responsibilities PolicyThe BLENNZ Board ensures governance policies, sets strategic direction, monitors performance, manages risks, and upholds legal and ethical standards. Word, 64 KB 
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BPN6-5 2022 School Policy FrameworkThe BLENNZ Board of Trustees ensures ākonga progress and achievement through strategic leadership, governance policies, and delegating daily operations to the principal. Word, 32 KB 
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BPN6-6 2022 Meeting Process and Procedures PolicyThe BLENNZ Board ensures efficient, governance-focused meetings, encourages community participation, and delegates daily operations to the principal while maintaining confidentiality when necessary. Word, 35 KB 
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BPN6-7 2022 The Relationship between the Board and the Principal PolicyThe BLENNZ Board and Principal maintain a professional, respectful relationship, with clear roles, mutual trust, and open communication for effective leadership. Word, 28 KB 
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BPN6-8 2022 Board Induction PolicyThe BLENNZ Board ensures smooth trustee transitions with a comprehensive induction process, including welcome emails, governance materials, and site visits. Word, 32 KB 
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BPN6-9 2022 Reporting to the Board PolicyThe Principal reports to the BLENNZ Board on curriculum, finances, and legal matters, supporting strategic decisions and risk management with timely data. Word, 24 KB 
Child Protection Policy and Appendices
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2024 Child Protection PolicyBLENNZ's policy ensures ākonga protection from abuse, involving all stakeholders, complying with legislation, and prioritising child safety through robust procedures. Word, 73 KB 
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Appendix-01. Identifying Child Abuse AccessibleEmotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and family violence cause severe harm to ākonga's development, health, and emotional well-being. Word, 22 KB 
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Appendix-02. Responding to Child Protection ConcernsStaff must take ākonga disclosures seriously, stay calm, listen, reassure, document accurately, and follow BLENNZ procedures without leading questions. Word, 128 KB 
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Appendix-02a. Accessible Flow ChartChild Protection Procedure Flowhchart BLENNZ School and Residential Service Staff - Accessible version for when abuse is suspected or disclosed. Word, 25 KB 
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Appendix-03. BLENNZ Form Record of Concern AccessibleDocument to Record an Issue or Concern to record personal information, date and time or incident, relevant notes and actions taken. Word, 17 KB 
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Appendix-04. CT Process AccessibleDiscuss concerns with ākonga and whānau, gather necessary information, and make a referral to the Vulnerable Children’s Hub with family consent. Word, 18 KB 
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Appendix-05. MVCOT Form Childrens Team Referral FormOranga Tamariki and BLENNZ Children's Team Referral Form. To be completed and returned to Oranga Tamariki. Word, 84 KB 
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Appendix-06. MVCOT Form Report of ConcernReport of Concern to Oranga Tamariki. Discuss concerns with whānau before referring, unless immediate harm risk exists. Provide detailed information for better decision-making. Word, 66 KB 
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Appendix-07. Safe Working Practices AccessibleStaff must maintain professional boundaries, act as role models, ensure ākonga safety, and follow BLENNZ guidelines for physical interaction and communication. Word, 32 KB 
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Appendix-08. Child Focussed Recruitment AccessibleInterview questions should assess candidates' qualifications, attitudes, views on child safety, and experiences, ensuring they respect boundaries and prioritise ākonga safety. Word, 37 KB 
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Appendix-08a. Safe Recruitment FlowchartThe recruitment process includes applications, shortlisting, interviews, conditional offers with vetting, and final appointment confirmation, with rescreening every three years. Word, 23 KB 
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Appendix-09. BLENNZ Non Employee Safety Checking Employer Endorsement FormBLENNZ requires safety checks for all staff, contractors, and volunteers working with ākonga, including police vetting and identity verification. Word, 24 KB 
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Appendix-10. Short Stay Accommodation GuidelinesResidential wake staff cover all areas. Parents must supervise children, behave considerately, and are notified of responsibilities in writing and on-site. Word, 26 KB