that no such behaviour will be tolerated on its premises.

In its student-parent handbook, which outlines what is expected of both groups -- extortion, fighting, physical abuse, and arson are among the list of forbidden activities.

Under extortion, it reads "students must not force money or personal property from another student through threat of physical harm (actual or implied)''.

The penalty for such action could range from suspension for one day and a meeting with the parents to a five-day suspension and parent conference.

Students caught fighting on or off school premises would face similar punishment.

Those who physically assault a staff member or another student could expect a five-day suspension or the maximum penalty -- expulsion .

And students, who bring explosive devices such as firecrackers or smoke bombs on the school premises or set fire to the school's buildings or grounds, would be suspended for two days at the least, with the maximum punishment being expulsion and Police involvement.

In addition to the above menacing behaviour, traditional misconduct like cheating, smoking, and cutting classes were also listed.

Sandys principal Mr. Melvyn Bassett admitted that the handbook contained some behaviour not covered in other school handbooks.

But, he said, "we are living in the real world.

"We want students and parents to know that we're not going to tolerate such behaviour.'' While noting that Sandys has not had any major problems involving students, like extortion, Mr. Bassett said: "Certainly we would want to discourage anything of this nature before it starts.

"We want students and staff to know they are safe here. We believe in providing a learning and nurturing environment.''