PARENT INFORMATION BOOK - Castlemaine Primary School
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
PARENT
INFORMATION
BOOK[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
Parent Information Book Welcome to Castlemaine Primary School.
Calendar for Year 2021
January February March
Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31
April May June
Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30
31
July August September
Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
1 2 3 4 1 1 2 3 4 5
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30
30 31
October November December
Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su
1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 27 28 29 30 31
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS & SCHOOL HOLIDAYS CURRICULUM DAYS (STUDENT FREE DAYS)
4 days p.a. dates TBC in newsletter
PREP REST DAYS DURING FEBRUARY[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
WELCOME
On behalf of the teachers of Castlemaine Primary School we TERM DATES FOR STUDENTS
welcome you and your child to our school community. See the calendar on page 1. Please note that there is a
This booklet is intended to give you an overview of the staggered start in term 1 with prep children commencing
operations of the school and hopefully answer the more classes on Thursday 28th January at 8.50am
common questions parents may have.
STUDENT FREE DAYS (Curriculum Days)
At school, we build on the foundations laid by parents in the The department provides schools with 4 student free days
early years, and starting school can be both an exciting and per year for schools to use for administration, planning and
anxious time for parents and children so it is important that professional development activities. Students are not
home and school maintain close contact. required at school on these days. Parents should make
arrangements for the care of children on these days. These
We have highly qualified, caring and dedicated teachers, well days will be provided in advance to parents via the school
equipped to create appropriate learning environments for newsletter.
children. School programs aim to cater for the many
differences in children – academically, socially, emotionally
and physically – and to challenge them to do their best.
SCHOOL TIMES
8.35 am Yard duty commences
If you don’t find the information you are seeking in these
pages, please contact the school. We look forward to a long 8.50 am 1st learning block
and successful association with your family. Children should be in class and ready to learn
at 8.50am.
Peter McConnell Parents should ensure their child is at school
Principal @ 5-10minutes before the 8.50am bell.
10.50 am 1st recess
Includes supervised eating time in class or on
CONTACT DETAILS
decking.
Address: Corner Mostyn and Urquhart Streets.
11.30 am 2nd learning block
Castlemaine. Victoria. 3450.
Telephone: 5472 1452
Facsimile: 5470 5052 1.30 pm 2nd Recess
Email Address: castlemaine.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au Includes supervised eating time in class or on
Website: http://cpswebsite.castlemaineps.net/ decking.
2.20 pm 3rd learning block
2020 STAFF
3.20 pm Students dismissed
PRINCIPAL Peter McConnell
Yard duty commences
3.35 pm Yard duty ceases
BUSINESS Joanne Martin (Mon-Thu)
Children not collected by this time will be
MANAGERS Sally Douglas (Fri)
brought to the office and may be placed in
Out of School Hours Care Program. Parents
EDUCATION Judy Cawthan
will be responsible for any costs incurred.
SUPPORT Jan Hull
STAFF
Supervision times are between 8.35am and 3.35pm. No
supervision is available outside these times. If parents
CLASS Amaya Osbourn-Macpherson
require additional supervision of their children, the YMCA
TEACHERS Kristie Conn (Mon, Tues)
operates an after school care program. See Out of School
Megan Butler (Wed – Fri)
Hours Care Program).
Rachel Harvey
Brianna Brown (Mon, Tues)
Kate Ward (Wed, Thurs, Fri)
Joshua Ball
Demy Pye
Jessica Cox
Juliet Jeffreys[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
SCHOOLING DURING THE COVID-19
EVENT
At the time of writing, all Victorian
schools are subject to restrictions as a
result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Victorian Chief health Officer
advises the government on the most
appropriate strategies for managing
this outbreak. Schools may be
impacted by restrictions during 2020
and possibly extending into 2021.
As these restrictions can change
significantly depending on state/local
circumstances, all parents are advised
to regularly check the school
newsletter for updates on school
operations.[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
ABSENCE NOTES
If your child is absent from school a note outlining the reason BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS AND SCOOTERS
for that absence must be provided. (DET requirement). An The riding of bicycles, roller skates, skateboards or scooters
absence note can be written and signed by the parent and in the school grounds is not permitted. Children should
deposited in the letterbox located in the administration dismount bicycles at gates and walk these directly to the bike
office. racks. Bicycles are the responsibility of the owner and should
be locked using a chain and lock to prevent theft. Children
ALLERGIES AND ANAPHYLAXIS are not permitted to handle or interfere in any way with a
bicycle belonging to another person.
We currently have a number of children who have allergies
to certain foods including one child who can have an
Each year children in grades 3-6 participate in a Bike
anaphylactic reaction to nuts and eggs. It is extremely
Education Safety Program (usually term 4). Staff take
difficult to avoid potentially harmful food products coming
children through a series of safety and skills lessons. Parents
into the school so the best approach is to ensure community
will be notified of these programs through the school
members are aware of what foods can be dangerous to
newsletter and notices from your class teacher. Participation
others, and ensure that children understand the importance
is subject to appropriate conduct. Children must have a
of good hygiene as a way to minimise the risk to those
roadworthy helmet and bike to participate.
children with allergies.
BOOK CLUB
We can all support these children and minimise their risk of Your child will have the opportunity to buy books through
exposure to egg and nut products by: the Ashton Scholastic Book Club at regular intervals during
Good hygiene practices: teach your child to wash their the year. When offers are made by this club, details will be
face and hands with soap and water. This is critical if included in the school's Newsletter.
your child has eaten or handled eggs and/or nut
products. BUSHFIRE SEASON – SCHOOL PROCEDURES FOR CODE RED
Help your children become more familiar with the DAYS
contents of various foods they may have in their lunch Fire danger ratings and warnings are used in Victoria to
boxes. If certain foods have nuts or egg in them, if this provide clear direction on the safest options for preserving
is known to the teacher and child, they can then take life.
appropriate steps to ensure the risk to others is
minimised. SCHOOLS AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES LISTED ON THE DET
BUSHFIRE AT-RISK REGISTER (BARR) WILL BE CLOSED WHEN
Choose foods which do not contain eggs or nuts where
A CODE RED FIRE DANGER RATING DAY IS DETERMINED IN
possible.
THEIR BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY DISTRICT.
Avoid peanut butter at school. This product, more than
any other, can stick to hands and faces and be left on Castlemaine Primary School has been identified as being
objects touched by children. Please don’t send peanut one of those at high bushfire risk and is listed on the BARR.
butter food items to school.
BUSHFIRE SEASON –NOTIFICATION OF CLOSURES
Anaphylactic reactions can be life threatening. Where possible, we will
provide parents with up
to four days notice of a
ART SMOCKS
potential Code Red day
There is no need to provide an art smock as the school has
class sets of art smocks which all children should wear during closure by letter and via
our Compass school app.
art sessions involving paint, glue, etc.
Once we are advised of the confirmation of the Code Red day
ASSEMBLIES
we will provide you with advice via the Compass app and a
Assemblies are a time to celebrate achievements and come
hardcopy notice provided to the oldest child in the family (if
together as a school community. Whole school assemblies
time permits this).
take place each Monday at 2.50pm. These assemblies are
organised and hosted by the senior students, and showcase
Once confirmed, the decision to close will not change,
a different class and their work each week.
regardless of changes in the weather forecast. This is to
avoid confusion and help your family plan alternative care
Generally each class will present at an assembly once per
term. The newsletter will list the date each class will be arrangements for your child.
presenting at the weekly assembly. Parents of that class are
It is important to note that:
welcome to attend the assembly. NOTE: Preps do not
conduct an assembly in term 1. No staff will be on site on days where the school is closed
due to a forecast Code Red day.[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
Out-of-school-hours care will also be cancelled on these
days.
School camps will be cancelled if a Code Red fire danger Who makes the decision to close a school or children's
rating day is determined for the Bureau of Meteorology service?
district in which the camp is located. The decision to pre-emptively close schools and children's
Depending on which Bureau of Meteorology district is services is made by the Department, based on a Code Red
impacted, bus route cancellations will affect our school. day being determined by the Emergency Management
Commissioner.
On these Code Red days families are encouraged to enact
their Bushfire Survival Plan – on such days children should How will I know if my school or children's service is likely to
never be left at home or in the care of older children. close this fire season?
For those of us living in a bushfire prone area, the CFA advise Schools and children's services considered to be at risk have
that when Code Red days are forecast, the safest option is to been included on the Department’s Bushfire At-Risk Register
leave the night before or early on the morning of the Code and informed of their status on the Register. Further
Red day. information on the Register is available from this website.
WHAT CAN PARENTS DO? How much notice will I have if my school or children's
DOWNLOAD THE COMPASS APP so that you can receive service is going to be closed?
updates on closures and emergency management. It is intended that families will be provided with as much
notice as possible of a planned closure. However, if
Make sure your FAMILY’S BUSHFIRE SURVIVAL PLAN IS
unexpected weather patterns are experienced, closures may
UP-TO-DATE and includes alternative care arrangements happen at short notice.
in the event that our school is closed.
ENSURE WE HAVE YOUR CURRENT CONTACT DETAILS, The final decision to close a school or children's service will
including your mobile phone numbers. Keep in touch with be confirmed no later than 1.00pm the day before the
us by reading our newsletters, and by talking to your child’s planned closure. Schools and children's services are
expected to communicate planned closures to families.
teacher or any other member of the teaching staff about
our emergency management plan. Families are encouraged to ensure that their bushfire
Most importantly at this time of year, if you’re planning a survival plan always includes alternative care arrangements
holiday or short stay in the bush or in a coastal area, you for children in the event of a planned closure. No child
should check warnings in advance of travel and remain should be left at home alone or under the supervision of
vigilant during your stay. older children.
If your child is old enough, talk to them about bushfires and
Who will tell me that my school, kindergarten, or child care
your family’s bushfire survival plan. centre will be closed?
You can access more information about children’s You will be directly advised by your school or children's
services closures on the Department of Education and service. Information will also be published on this website.
Early Childhood Development website – see
http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/health What happens if the forecast changes?
/pages/closures.aspx If the Bureau of Meteorology downgrades the risk forecast
in the days leading-up to a planned closure, the closure will
For up-to-date information on this year’s fire season, visit
still go ahead to avoid confusion.
the CFA website at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call the 24-hour
Victorian Bushfires Information Line on 1800 240 667. The final decision to pre-emptively close a school or
children’s service will be confirmed no later than 1.00pm the
CODE RED DAY FAQ day before the planned closure. Once the decision to close
What is a planned closure? has been confirmed, there will be no change – regardless of
Schools and education and care services (children's services) improvements to the weather conditions the following
identified as being at the greatest risk of bushfires will be afternoon or overnight. This will help limit confusion and
pre-emptively closed on days determined by the Emergency provide time for parents and guardians to make alternative
Management Commissioner as having a Code Red Fire care arrangements for their children.
Danger Rating.
What should my school-age child do if their school is
Why are we pre-emptively closing schools and children's closed?
services? Families are encouraged to ensure that their bushfire
The Department’s priority is the safety of its staff, students survival plans include alternative care arrangements for
and children. On a Code Red day all facilities on the children in the event of a planned closure. Given the
Department’s Bushfire At-Risk Register will be closed. expected severity of the weather conditions, children should[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
not be left unattended or under the supervision of older Register that enter high-risk areas will be pre-emptively
children. closed as well.
Is it likely that my school or children's service will be closed Will school off-site activities (e.g. camps and excursions)
for consecutive days? If yes, how will I know? continue to operate on high-bushfire risk days? What
It is possible that schools and children's services will be happens if my child’s off-site activity is threatened by fire?
closed for consecutive days. Information about ongoing Yes, off-site activities will continue throughout the year as
closures will be published on the Department’s closures they are an important part of school programs. However, off-
page. Where possible, schools and children's services will site activities in high bushfire risk areas affected by a
contact families directly to confirm their ongoing closure(s). predicted Code Red day will be cancelled or rescheduled.
Your school will assess the likely threat of fire when
To get warnings and find out what’s happening, listen to ABC organising off-site activities during the summer fire season.
local radio, call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on If an off-site activity is threatened by fire, your school will
1800 240 667, go to cfa.vic.gov.au, and/or check the enact its emergency management plan.
FireReady telephone application.
What have schools and children's services on the
On average, how many days does the government predict Department’s Bushfire At-Risk Register done to prepare for
that schools and children's services will need to close due the summer fire season?
to Code Red days? Schools and children's services on the Department’s Bushfire
While we cannot predict the exact number of days, it should At-Risk Register have:
be noted that there has not been a determined Code Red Reviewed and updated their emergency management
day since January 2010. plans and submitted them to their region
Held staff training sessions and drills with students and
When my school or children's service is closed, will any staff children
remain on site? Been offered training in emergency management
No. The safety of staff and children is our main priority. planning
Schools and children's services have been advised that no- Undertaken works, where required, around their
one is to remain on site when their facility is closed due to facilities to manage vegetation
high-bushfire danger risk.
What else can I do?
Will there be times when my school is closed but another • Ensure that your school or children's service has your
school not far away remains open? current emergency contact details
Yes. If your school is on the Bushfire At-Risk Register then it • Review and update your family bushfire survival plan
will close on Code Red fire danger days. Schools not far away • Keep in touch with your facility
may remain open because they are not on the Bushfire At- • Look out for more information about activities your local
Risk Register. community is planning
• Go to www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call 1800 240 667 for more
Does this also apply to children's services? information
Children's services that are on the Bushfire At-Risk Register
are required to close on Code Red fire danger days. However COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR TEACHER
because such services are not owned or managed by the Communication between parents and the school is very
Department they may also decide to close on other high-risk important to enable staff to act in the best interests of our
days. Services are expected to advise all affected families of children. Parents should remember that schools are work
such decisions. environments for teachers and students and trying to talk
with a teacher prior to classes commencing at 8.50am is not
Can I keep my child away if I’m concerned about the risk of an appropriate time as the teacher will be heavily involved
fires - even if my school or children's service remains open? in preparation for classes and supervision of their students.
Yes. If your family decides to enact its bushfire survival plan,
the most appropriate place for your child may be with you The best time to talk with a teacher is after 3.20pm when
and your family, and not at school or in child care. You must the teacher is likely to have more time to discuss matters.
advise your school or childcare provider as soon as possible Often a short note can provide your teacher with
of your child’s absence. information they may need about your child, otherwise it is
best to contact your teacher or the office and make a time
to meet. It is appropriate to indicate what you would like to
My child travels by bus to school. Will bus routes be closed discuss so that any information can be gathered prior to the
on Code Red days? meeting if required.
Similar to Code Red facilities that pre-emptively close on
determined Code Red days, bus routes servicing these
schools will also be cancelled on Code Red days. Bus routes
from schools not on the Department’s Bushfire At-Risk[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
EARLY YEARS LITERACY PROGRAM Please contact the school office if you have any other
The Early Years Literacy Program focuses on a strategic, queries.
balanced and comprehensive approach to Literacy. The key
features of this program are: EXCURSIONS
Focused two hours of literacy per day. Excursions are an important part of the school program and
A balanced mix of reading, writing, speaking and begin in the Prep year. Experiences such as those listed
listening tasks; above form the basis for work done in the classroom prior
and following the excursion undertaken.
Regular monitoring of student progress; and
Participation in camps, excursions or other school activities
Targeted assistance for students requiring extra is conditional on:
support. A signed permission form returned to the school by the
legal parent or guardian.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Full payment prior to the activity commencing.
The Department of Education and Early Childhood Appropriate and reliable behaviour by the child.
Development (DET) aims to ensure a safe and secure Children who are considered a potential risk to
environment for all children, staff and volunteers who work themselves or others will be refused permission to
or participate in schools. Every facility in Victoria is required attend camps and excursions.
to have an Emergency Management Plan (EMP). The
purpose of the EMP is to: GARDEN CLUB
Each week we conduct a garden club at recess time. The club
Provide a considered response to emergencies and is run by parent volunteers and so is dependent on their
critical incidents availability. The club is open to all comers.
Minimise the impact of these events on children and
young people, staff, volunteers and visitors HEAD LICE
Facilitate the return of the workplace to normal Headlice can be a common problem where ever young
operations as soon as possible; and children gather together. Head lice can be transferred from
Provide staff with the tools that, if faced with an one child to another quite easily. If a child is found to have
emergency situation, will enable them to cope. live head lice, parents are notified to collect their children
from school. The child can return to school once an approved
Effective planning and management of emergencies helps treatment has commenced.
minimise trauma and distress to those within the facilities
and allows teaching, learning and care services to be Two treatment options are available:
maintained or resumed as a priority. 1. Chemical shampoo purchased from a chemist. It is
Natural disasters such as floods, fires and storms can strike a important to note that the chemical treatment DOES
community with little or no warning. Children and young NOT necessarily kill all lice or eggs and follow up
people rely on and find great comfort in the adults who treatments will be required.
protect them. Staff must therefore know how to help them 2. Comb and conditioner method of removing headlice
through an emergency and support their recovery. and eggs. This is more time consuming but a safer option
for the child.
In the event of a critical incident occurring during school In each case, a special nit comb purchased from the chemist
hours, the EMP will be implemented. Notification to parents must be used.
will be through the Compass school app. Parents are strongly
advised that coming to the school during an emergency A common complaint we hear at school is that a child was
event could disrupt and interfere with the implementation ‘treated’ and then returned to school and was again infected
of the EMP and the delivery of support by the appropriate with headlice. While this is possible, it is highly unlikely that
emergency services. Parents will be updated through the all eggs or lice will be removed in one treatment, as a result
compass app and advised when it is safe to collect their missed eggs can hatch out ‘reinfecting’ your child. It is
children. necessary to re-treat for headlice repeatedly over several
weeks until all signs of headlice/nits are gone.
ENROLMENT REQUIREMENTS
To complete the enrolment requirements of the Department To minimise infestation by head lice:
of Education, Employment and Training the following forms 1. Tie long hair back each school day (this includes boys).
and information are required by the School Office – 2. Be vigilant and check your child’s hair regularly at home.
· Enrolment form – completed and signed 3. If you find signs of infestation, treat your child as soon
· Immunisation Form as possible.
· Local Excursion form 4. Contact the school to inform us so that we can notify all
· Uniform Order parents through the newsletter that head lice are in the
· Copy of birth certificate school, and encourage them to take quick action.
· Asthma Management Form (if required)[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
Further information and advice can be sought from the Scarlet Fever - Until medical certificate of recovery is
following website: Scratching for answers produced.
https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/public-health/infectious- Tuberculosis - Until a medical certificate is produced
diseases/disease-information-advice/head-lice stating that the patient is no longer infectious.
Viral Hepatitis - Until a medical certificate of recovery is
NOTE: Management of all aspects of your child’s health is a produced or where no medical certificate is available
parental responsibility. The school is required to follow the child may be re-admitted on subsidence of
health regulations in relation to all infectious diseases and symptoms provided that at least seven days have
health risks which means that students will be excluded passed since the onset of jaundice.
from school in accordance with health regulations. Whooping Cough - Excluded for 4 weeks or until a
medical certificate of recovery is produced.
HOMEWORK
There is an expectation that all children read every night at INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT)
each grade level. From time to time classroom teachers set We have an ICT rich school with a 1 to 1 Netbook program
homework tasks such as spelling, maths, research or project for Years 3 - 6. The 1 to 1 technology program means that
work. If you or your child are unsure of the expectations in each child has a Netbook (a small Notebook computer)
relation to a homework task, please contact your class which is available for school use. Students have access to the
teacher for clarification. internet to support their learning. All other classrooms have
access to netbooks or tablets.
IMMUNIZATION CERTIFICATES Interactive screens are used by teachers and students during
The provision of a School Entry Immunization Certificate is a whole class instruction or small group work. We also use
Department of Education requirement. These certificates digital cameras to record what students are doing (still
can be obtained from the Australian Childhood photos or video).
Immunisation Register (ph: 1800 653 809) or from any The cost of infrastructure, maintenance and management of
Medicare office. ICT in schools is significant. Students have access to the
technology on the condition that they use it appropriately at
INFECTIOUS DISEASES all times. Cyber bullying, or the use of technology to harass
Infections can spread quickly at school. Some illnesses can or attack/insult others is a serious offence and may incur
have serious after effects, accordingly, the School Medical disciplinary action.
Service exclusion list must be followed. If your child does not
have a full immunisation certificate, they may be excluded INQUIRY LEARNING
from school for the duration of an infectious disease Learning should be based around student's questions.
outbreak. Students work together to solve problems rather than
Chicken Pox - For at least 7 days after the beginning of receiving direct instructions on what to do from the teacher.
the illness and until the last lesion has healed. The teacher's job in an inquiry learning environment is
Conjunctivitis - Until discharge from eyes has stopped. therefore not to provide knowledge, but instead to help
Diphtheria - Until 2 negative swab tests have been students along the process of discovering knowledge
received at intervals of not less than 48 hours - the first themselves.
swab taken 72 hours after cessation of antibiotics or
chemotherapeutic agents. 'Inquiry-based learning is a student centred or active
Head Lice - Students are to be withdrawn from school learning approach that takes as its starting point the natural
until appropriate treatment (ie. lotion applied) has been process of inquiry, building on this to develop information
administered. processing and problem-solving skills. The focus is on 'how
Impetigo (School Sores) - Until sores have fully healed. we know' rather than 'what we know', with students actively
Child may be permitted to return provided appropriate involved in the construction of their own knowledge'.
treatment is being applied and that sores are properly
covered with occlusive dressings. LATENESS
Measles - For at least 7 days from the appearance of the Family life can be very busy – especially in the morning when
rash or until a medical certificate of recovery is getting children ready for school. Good routines, plenty of
produced. rest are crucial in getting everyone to school on time.
Mumps - Until fully recovered. Occasionally things don’t go according to plan and, despite
Ringworm - Until appropriate treatment has the best efforts, you may arrive late to school. If so, please
commenced unless ordered by the School Medical sign your child in at the office before taking them to class.
Officer.
Rubella (German Measles) - Until fully recovered and at If however lateness is becoming a habit, it is a sign that the
least 4 days have passed since the appearance of the morning routines and planning need to be reviewed.
rash.
Scabies - Until appropriate treatment has commenced Please consider that the class teacher and students are
unless ordered by School Medical Officer. already at work when you arrive and it is not appropriate
to interrupt classes to discuss matters with the class[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
teacher at that time. Please respect the work of students LUNCH AND THE SCHOOL TIMETABLE
and teachers and try to minimise disruption during classes The school is operating a timetable which provides two
as much as possible. recess times through the day. These are at 10.50am and
1.30pm. These times may not fit into the ‘traditional’ lunch
LATE ARRIVAL OR EARLY DEPARTURES break times so we encourage parents to provide two
The Sign In/Out Book is located in the Administration Office. reasonable size snacks or meals for their child rather than
Parents must sign in if they bring their child to school after the traditional small morning snack and lunch meal.
8.50am, and sign out if taking their child before 3.20pm. This
enables staff to track and monitor changes to attendance Parents should monitor their child’s food habits and adjust
throughout the day. This is a legal requirement and it is these meals accordingly until they have struck the ‘balance’
critical to enable staff to account for all people in the school needed for their child. We find that younger children can
in the event of an emergency. take a long time to eat a meal as they can be easily distracted
PLEASE ENSURE YOU USE THIS PROCEDURE IF COMING from the task. The allotted time frame is @ 10 minutes of
LATE OR LEAVING EARLY. supervised eating time. Parents can assist us by preparing
lunchboxes with well prepared food and containers that are
LIBRARY BAGS easily and independently manageable by your child.
Children are encouraged to bring along a library bag before
books are borrowed. Each child will have the opportunity to While treats have a place in a child’s diet, it is important that
borrow from the school library each week. Borrowing is a lunches are balanced and ensure good nutrition variety.
privilege and the borrower is responsible for the care and Our school is a ‘bin free’ school yard and children are not
return of books borrowed. permitted to take wrapped foods outside to play. Children
are encouraged to place any wrappers back in the lunch box
LOST PROPERTY for disposal at home. Children are encouraged to bring ‘nude
Unnamed clothing which accumulates throughout the year food’ which means food stored in reusable containers rather
will be put on display for identification and collection then than plastic disposable wrappers.
any unclaimed clothing will be given to a charitable society
at the end of each term. MEDICAL ISSUES
Any children who have medical issues such as allergies,
A box containing lost property is located in the corridor anaphylaxis, asthma, eczema etc. must provide a current
outside the office. Parents are encouraged to check for items medical form. This provides staff with an appropriate care
their children have misplaced. Please name all items of plan to be developed. Any changes to the child’s medical
clothing, drink bottles and lunch boxes. status must be communicated to the school as soon as
possible.
LUNCHES
The school does not operate a daily canteen. Parents are MEDICATION AT SCHOOL
encouraged to provide healthy snacks and lunches for their (i) Any medicines sent to school should be brought to the
children. Children are not permitted to leave the school to office and the parent must provide clear written
go to shops to purchase lunches. instructions of times and dosage.
Once a fortnight, Parents Club conduct a special lunch day (ii) As schools are not permitted to administer pain relief
providing a nutritious and tasty meal for a very reasonable tablets to children, parents must complete a written note
price. These lunches are optional and children will be and provide a tablet to school if they wish to have one
provided with order forms for special lunches. provided to their child.
(iii) All tablets/medicine must be in the original
Students are supervised for @ 10minutes when eating packaging/container.
meals. Some younger children can take significantly longer
than this (especially preps in term 1). Please assist children MOBILE PHONES AT SCHOOL
with meals by providing foods which are easy for them to The department of Education has introduced a state-wide
manage and eat. ‘Finger’ type foods are ideal for preps as school mobile phone policy. ALL students who bring a mobile
they are easy to eat and to hold with little hands. phone to school are required to present these to the office
each morning for secure, safe storage. Phones can be
Children are encouraged to put uneaten food back in their collected on departure. All schools are required to install
lunch boxes so that parents can monitor what their child eats secure storage facilities for mobile phones.
each day. If you find your child (especially P-1 children) are
not eating a great deal through the day, this is not an NOTE: No student is permitted to take photos or any other
uncommon occurrence. Please contact your class teacher to recordings of others on school property. Parents should
discuss how we may be able to support your child with their contact the school if they wish to speak with their child or
food. pass on a message as phones are required to be securely
stored in the office.[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
MONEY AND NOTES activities throughout the year. These activities include
Money and notices should be deposited in the secure letter special lunch days, the annual Christmas party, class parties,
box in the front office. All notes and money should be in a fetes, support with transition programs and many other
sealed envelope together with the child's name, the events. Meetings are held at the school usually two to three
amount of money and the activity on the front of the times a term. New parents with an interest inactively
envelope. supporting the school are always very welcome. Meeting
Parents are encouraged to buy a box of envelopes at the dates are advertised in the Newsletter.
start of the year so that notes and money can reach their
intended destination. Please be careful of some self-sealing PERSONAL BELONGINGS/PRIVATE PROPERTY
envelopes as $2 coins can slip out the ends of the sealed Parents, teachers and students are responsible for personal
areas. belongings brought to school. The school discourages
students and parents from bringing personal belongings to
NOTE: The school takes no responsibility for loose money school and they do so at their own risk. The department of
or notes left in classrooms, handed to teachers in passing education does not cover the costs associated with lost,
in corridors, or left on counters. The correct procedure is to stolen or damaged property in schools.
seal notes and money in an envelope with details on the PERSONAL RECORDS
outside. The envelope can then be mailed into the secure The school keeps confidential records for each child. It is
letter box located in the front office. essential that we be informed of any changes to a family
situation. While this will assist us generally, it is particularly
MUSIC TUITION PROGRAM helpful in emergencies or instances requiring sensitive
Private music tutors conduct individual or small group judgement (e.g. custody). Such items as changes of address,
programs for students. These programs generally take place telephone number, guardianship, emergency contacts etc.
during school times or after school hours. Costs associated are important to the welfare and safety of your child. If your
with the music tuition program are paid directly to the music contact details, emergency contact details or other
tutor. If you are interested in your child participating, please information change, please ensure that you update these
contact the school for further information. details in writing with the office. All matters are treated with
confidentiality.
NAMES ON PERSONAL ITEMS
Please label all items children bring or wear to school, e.g. POLICY DOCUMENTS
lunch boxes, clothing, swimming gear, reader boxes etc. Lost Policies around a range of issues that arise in schools are
property crate is located in the corridor outside the developed to guide and support school operations. Local
staffroom. Other unclaimed items are sent to charitable policies are developed and approved by school council.
organizations at the end of each term. Some other policies are developed by the department of
education and operate in all schools.
NEWSLETTERS & NOTICES These policies are periodically reviewed by council to ensure
The primary way in which the school disseminates they appropriately reflect practice across the school.
information to parents is through the weekly newsletter and Our school website has a series of policies for parents to
Compass newsfeed. The newsletter is published on Friday on refer to. Please go to: castlemaineps.vic.edu.au
the Compass school app. This significantly reduces the costs
associated with printing and distributing the newsletter and PREP TRANSITION TO SCHOOL
makes it readily available to parents. If required, a hardcopy Each year in term 3, all primary schools and kinders meet to
can be sent home on request. develop the transition process between kinder and schools.
Schools each conduct 3 transition sessions for kinder
From time to time, your child may also bring home a hard children who will be attending the school the following year.
copy notice relating to activities in the school. Please watch These are conducted in November and December each year.
for these. If you think you may have lost or mislaid a notice, At these sessions children participate in a variety of hands-
please contact the office as spare copies are generally on activities in the classroom setting. Parents are
available on request. Generally notices and reminders for encouraged to depart for a short while to facilitate the
parents will be distributed via the Compass app. Parents are development of relations between the child and teacher.
strongly encouraged to download the app to keep up to date
with information on events at the school. At Castlemaine Primary School, parents who have their first
child attending school are encouraged to attend the parent
OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE PROGRAM (OSHC) briefings operating concurrently with the children’s
This program is operated by the YMCA. Details and cost of transition program. The parent program generally covers the
the program are available by contacting the YMCA in following topics and is conducted over 3 sessions:
Bendigo or accessing the YMCA website. (i) Introduction to the school and curriculum.
Uniforms and ordering.
PARENTS COLLECTIVE (ii) Preparing your child (and self) for school. School
Parents collective is an informal group of parents who fees.
provide positive support the school through various (iii) Managing anxiety and helping your child at school[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
SCHOOL HOURS
Prep attendance in term 1: To help our new Prep children 8.35 am Yard duty commences
adjust and cope with the demands of longer school days and 8.50 am 1st learning block Children should be in class
more intense activities, their hours of attendance are and seated at 8.50am.
modified at the start of the year. During February, prep PLEASE ENSURE YOUR CHILD IS AT SCHOOL
children will not attend school each Wednesday. This rest AT LEAST 5 MINUTES BEFORE CLASSES
day in the middle of the week will assist with the transition COMMENCE
from Kinder to longer hours and school routines. 10.50 1st recess
am Includes supervised eating time in class or on
Collecting prep children: Prep children should be collected decking.
after school from the asphalt area near their rooms. This is 11.30 2nd learning block
to ensure that your child leaves the school under adult am
supervision and learns to cross roads appropriately. Parents 1.30 pm 2nd Recess
are encouraged to collect children in this way during term Includes supervised eating time in class or on
1. decking.
2.20 pm 3rd learning block
REPORTING TO PARENTS 3.20 pm Students dismissed
Initial meetings with parents take place in term 1. This is an 3.35 pm Yard duty ceases
opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher and for you to Children not collected by this time will be
provide background or relevant information which may brought to the office and may be placed in Out
support your child’s learning and school experience. This of School Hours Care Program. Parents will be
meeting is not provided as a report to parents but an responsible for the costs incurred.
opportunity for parents to inform the class teacher about
their child. VARIATIONS TO REGULAR SCHOOL HOURS
Formal report meetings are held at the end of semester 2 End of Term dismissal – On the last day of each term,
(June). Parents will be provided with a time to meet with students are dismissed earlier than the usual dismissal time
your child’s teacher to discuss their progress. Formal written – usually 2.30pm unless otherwise notified. Please see the
reports are provided to parents twice a year at the end of newsletter and Compass app for further details.
term 2 and term 4.
If a parent feels there is a need to meet with their teacher at End of school year dismissal time – The last day of the school
any other time, please contact the office to make a mutual year will have an earlier dismissal time. This can be as early
time to do so. as 1.15pm. The dismissal time at Castlemaine PS will be
determined by the district school bus timetable on that day.
SCHOOL ENTRY IMMUNISATION CERTIFICATE Parents will be notified of the dismissal time through the
A school entry immunisation certificate is required newsletter and Compass school app.
regardless of whether your child has been immunized or not.
This certificate is available from The Australian Childhood Curriculum Days, or Student Free Days – The Department of
Immunisation Register (phone 1800 653 809) or at any Education provides all schools with 4 of these days each
Medicare Office. year. These days are used for administration and
professional development activities. Students are not
SCHOOL COUNCIL required on these days. When the dates for these activities
The School Council is an organization representing parents are confirmed, the dates are provided to parents in advance
and staff which oversees the operation of the school. through the school’s newsletter.
Parents are elected to Council in February/March each year
and serve a two year term. Council is responsible for school CODE RED DAYS – Our school is listed on the Bushfire At Risk
development and for developing and reviewing school Register (BARR). On Code Red days, the school will close.
policies. Parents will be notified, in this case however warning may
be short, please be vigilant on days of extreme weather and
SCHOOL ENTRY ASSESSMENT monitor the CFA website and Compass school app. All
To ensure we know your child and their academic needs as parents should develop Code Red day plans which include
early as possible, the Prep teachers will implement a series appropriate care for your children in the event of Code Red
of assessment tasks during February. These tasks will involve school closures.
some literacy and numeracy activities and discussions with
teachers. The information from these assessments provide SCHOOL PROGRAMS
benchmark data enabling teachers to determine your child’s Our School offers a comprehensive curriculum guided by the
current knowledge and skills and to adapt programs to suit government’s Victorian Curriculum. Core curriculum areas of
their learning. Numeracy and Literacy form the basis of our daily learning.
The students’ learning is enhanced through the study of
other curriculum areas: Science, The Arts (visual and
performance), Technology, Health and Physical Education,[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
Interpersonal Development, Humanities (Geography & decided with considerable input from students) encourage
History). and maintain appropriate behaviour, while teaching
students to work toward accomplishing a goal.
Specialist teachers deliver programs in The Arts (performing
and visual), and French extending learning opportunities for The ultimate objective of Castlemaine Primary School is to
children. A strong emphasis is placed on providing a settled not only create a safe learning environment which most
learning environment with a focus on the core subjects of effectively utilises instructional time, but also to partner with
English and Mathematics. parents in reinforcing lifelong values in our students.
SCHOOL STRUCTURE Consequences for Poor Decisions
Our school’s class structures will vary from year to year. The As much as we ty to reinforce positive behaviour, there are
class structure is determined by a number of factors. A times when students make poor choices and may face
significant factor is the number of children within each disciplinary consequences. The main goal of any disciplinary
cohort. The department guidelines recommend that classes action is to help the student learn from their mistake and
in the early years (Prep-2) should be no larger than 21 where make better choices in the future.
possible, and grades 3-6 should be no larger than 26 where Specific Components
possible. Enrolments can vary from year to year and are not 1. Behavioural Expectations Are Clearly Defined.
always predictable. Our school has limited capacity for There are specifically defined expectations exhibited
expansion and 8 classrooms is considered the maximum throughout the school in positive, clearly stated rules.
number of classes our school can offer. The final class The expectations are linked to our four core values,
structure provided is, in the judgement of teachers, the one Respectful, Responsible, Learning, Community.
that provides the best balance for curriculum delivery, 2. Behavioural Expectations Are Taught.
gender and overall student numbers. The underlying theme is teaching behavioural
Allocation of students to classes is a complex process which expectations in the same manner as any core curriculum
takes place in November each year. This process is guided by subject. Expectations are taught to all students in all
the class Formation Policy (see our website). Parents are settings throughout the school. Behavioural
advised that requests for specific teachers or the placement expectations and rules are best learned through positive
of students in specific classes is contrary to this policy. examples, which can be modelled, combined with
opportunities for practise.
SCHOOL WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOURS 3. Appropriate Behaviours Are Acknowledged.
This year Castlemaine Primary School will begin to Appropriate behaviours are acknowledged on a regular
implement School Wide Positive Behaviour Support basis through praise and system-wide incentive
(SWPBS), a positive learning environment framework. Our programs to promote and reinforce behaviours
Wellbeing Student Learning Team has developed this demonstrated by individual students and classes. Any
information highlighting positive behaviours that coincide staff member will recognise and reward students
with our school wide expectations for students, staff and exhibiting GOTCHA behaviours.
parents. The goal is to use this framework to recognise the
positive expected behaviours associated with our school 4. Negative Behaviours Are Corrected Proactively.
values - Respectful, Responsible, Learning and Community. Specific procedures are designed to address students
who do not meet expectations. Students are informed
What is SWPBS? of unacceptable behaviour and re-taught the
SWPBS (School Wide Positive Behaviour Support) is an expectation or rule. Positive practise and consistency
evidence-based, school wide, proactive approach, which are important to promote success.
emphasises the instruction of social skills, data-based
decision making and the prevention of problematic SWPBS Home Connection
behaviour. While fostering positive behaviours and 1. Clearly Define And Communicate Expectations.
interactions, SWPBS also improves academic performance. Tell your child(ren) exactly what you want them to do.
It aims to create a positive school climate, a culture of Identify situations in which appropriate behaviour is
student competence and an open, responsive management important. Teach with examples and non-examples of
system for all school community members. appropriate behaviour. Model expectations through
your own behaviour.
The most important part of SWPBS is teaching expected
behaviours. This is accomplished by utilising a school-wide 2. Give Frequent, Positive Reinforcement For
matrix of behaviours, which encompasses Castlemaine Appropriate Behaviour.
Primary School’s four main values (Respectful, Responsible, Look for opportunities to praise your child(ren), praise
Learning, Community). them on the specific behaviour that they have practised.
Catch them doing something good!
Reinforcing Positive Behaviour
To reinforce positive behaviour, students are ‘rewarded’ for 3. Actively supervise your child(ren).
making good decisions. These rewards (which have been[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
Watch and interact with them while they engage in STUDENT FREE DAYS (CURRICULUM DAYS)
chores and play. Each year government schools are provided with four
Communicate your interest in and awareness of their student-free days for professional development, school
activities. planning and administration, curriculum development, and
student assessment and reporting purposes. Students do
4. Pre-correct and intervene early. not attend school on these days. These days are published
“Nip the problem in the bud!” Pre-correction involves in the newsletter as dates are confirmed each year.
seeing a possible problem coming and changing it
before it happens. Do not yell at a child for a The first day of is a student-free day in all government
behavioural issues that he/she has not yet committed schools to allow for appropriate planning to take place for
but instead, use the opportunity to re-teach the the arrival of students. The remaining three student-free
expected behaviour. days are determined by each individual school. Notification
of these days will be provided to parents through the school
Tips For Positive Behaviour newsletter.
Set the stage for success; reward the effort.
Stay calm. Use a calm voice. SECURITY AND SAFETY
Set reasonable limits. Everyone has a right to feel safe at school and the
Be consistent. Yes means yes and no means no. Department of Education takes the safety of its students and
Set the example. Actions speak louder than words. employees very seriously. The safety of students and
Have patience, and most of all, have fun and enjoy your employees is considered one of the highest priorities within
child(ren). the school. A school is a workplace subject to industrial laws
and regulations just like any other workplace. As such all
How Can Parents Be Involved With PBS At Home? teachers and students have a right to a workplace free from
Help out with the responsibility of homework. harassment, intimidation and aggression of any kind. They
Create posters with expectations for home. also have a right to their personal privacy.
Compare home rules with SWPBIS at school.
Any person who disrupts the normal operations of the
Recognise and reward positive behaviour
school, or is considered a potential threat to the safety of
staff and/or students may be ordered to leave the property
At the end of this document is a series of charts identifying
by the Principal or representative. If the nature of the threat
the positive behaviours expected of all school community
is considered serious, this may trigger an emergency
members. The School Wide Positive Behavior Booklet has
lockdown of all classrooms and police notification. A trespass
been sent home to all parents as a reference copy.
order may be issued which will prevent any further access to
the school grounds or buildings. A trespass order will result
SICKNESS AT SCHOOL
in police intervention each and every time it is contravened
Should your child become sick at school, you or your
and may result in formal charges applying.
emergency contact person will be notified and asked to pick
the child up. Children who are unwell should not be sent to
While the school encourages parents to participate in a
school as we cannot cater for sick children. If your child has
variety of volunteer programs, the Principal and teachers
a minor injury at school, staff will apply appropriate first aid
have the right to determine if any individual may or may not
and place a note informing you of the incident.
participate in school activities or enter classrooms. Schools
are not public places but work places for students and
In the event of a serious accident, an ambulance will be
teachers. Access to the school is granted subject, at all
called without hesitation. Parents are strongly encouraged
times, to appropriate conduct and respect for the school as
to take up an ambulance subscription as any costs
a workplace. Disruption to the operation of the classroom
associated with medical treatment are the responsibility of
or programs may result in this privilege being revoked.
parents.
Access to classrooms is conditional on appropriate conduct
SMOKING
and language at all times. Not all people are well suited to
The Government has declared our school buildings and
working with children in a classroom and while the school
school grounds to be smoke free zones. We ask that all
encourages parents to participate in a variety of volunteer
visitors to our school respect this requirement. Drinking of
programs, the Principal and teachers have the right to
alcohol on school premises is also not permitted.
determine if any individual may or may not participate in
school activities or enter classrooms. A Working With
SPECIAL EVENTS
Children Check (WWCC) is required before working in a
Dress-up days, Concerts, Activity Days etc. are conducted
school as either a volunteer or employee.
throughout the year. Parents and children are encouraged to
participate in these programs. Parents will be notified of
As part of our security procedures, all visitors must sign in
upcoming events through the school newsletter.
at the office before going to a classroom or other area to
work or participate in volunteer activities.[PARENT INFORMATION BOOK Castlemaine PS 0119
SCHOOL BUS SERVICE strongly advised to never place their own convenience over
The school bus service is a free service for eligible students. the safety of themselves or others.
To access the school bus service, you must live more than 4.8
km from your closest government primary school. Access to We encourage you to consider the following strategies to
the bus service may be granted under other circumstances minimise traffic issues around the school:
however a charge may apply. If you wish to find out more Walk or ride to school where possible.
about the school bus service, please contact the Principal to Seek parking a little further from the school and walk to
obtain further information. the school to drop off or collect your children.
Always use school crossings where available to
STUDENT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM encourage good safety habits for your children.
This program operates in grades 5 and 6. The students are Please observe and obey all road traffic laws and parking
divided into various work groups and each specialises in a signs in the area.
particular area. For example one group is responsible for Do not attempt U-turns in either Mostyn or Urquhart
organising and hosting each weekly assembly. Another is streets as the likelihood of a collision is very high.
responsible for developing and publishing the annual school Do not park in resident’s driveways.
magazine, other groups manage the sports store, others Do not park in school buses parking zones or obstruct
fundraising etc. school buses.
The aim of this program is to provide children with Staff of the school have no authority to direct traffic
experiences in working in real life work situations which movement on public roads. Parents and staff are encouraged
encourage leadership skills, cooperative and collaborative to report dangerous or inappropriate driver behaviour to the
skills, understanding of deadlines and responsibility. local police. Police will be requested to patrol the area if
incidents of inappropriate driver conduct are reported.
SWIMMING PROGRAM
A swimming program is held each year for grades 3-6. UNIFORM
Parents will be notified about these via information and The school has a compulsory uniform policy. All children are
permission forms sent home with children, and through the expected to wear the school uniform every day and to all
school’s newsletter. school activities. The exception will be school camps
(overnight activities).
COMPASS SCHOOL APP
The Compass app is a free application used by the school to Children are required to wear sunhats during Term 1 and 4
send information and reminders to parents on upcoming (and as required). Students should wear shoes appropriate
school events and activities. The school newsletter is also for outdoor activities and must have enclosed toes. Boots,
available to parents each Friday afternoon through the thongs, slippers or other such footwear are not appropriate
Compass app. for school activities and can result in injuries.
The app is also an important part of the school’s emergency Non uniform items are not to be worn in place of the school
management plan. The app can provide update information uniform.
to parents in the event of an emergency. All parents are
encouraged to download the app for this reason. Go to the If your child has to attend school out of uniform for a
Compass website or your app store to download the particular reason, please provide a written note so that all
COMPASS app for your device. teachers will be aware that your child will be out of uniform
for the day. Where children repeatedly attend school out of
TERM DATES FOR STUDENTS uniform, parents will be contacted. Our uniform provider is
Please note that there is a staggered start in term 1 with prep Beleza.
children commencing classes on Thursday 30th January at
8.50am Beleza Uniforms
207 Barker St. Castlemaine
2020 Mon, Wed, Fri 10am – 1pm
Term 1: 28 January (teachers start) to 27 March Saturday 10am – 1 pm
29 Jan. Grades 1-6 commence classes Tues, Thu, Sun closed
30 Jan. Prep students commence classes
Term 2: 14 April to 26 June WEBSITE
Term 3: 13 July to 18 September The school uses the compass app for general
Term 4: 5 October to 18 December communications with parents however the school website
provides resources that parents can access including school
TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT policy documents. The website is periodically updated as
Parking facilities around the school are limited, and traffic new policies are developed or reviewed.
congestion does occur during peak drop off and pick up Castlemaine PS website:
times. Increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic at these https://www.castlemaineps.vic.edu.au/
times makes for a dangerous combination and parents areYou can also read
