From the Principal

Attendance

Consistent attendance at school is a crucial factor in regard to ongoing achievement in learning. This term we have experienced higher than average absence data, especially in regard to 'Unexplained Absences'. We certainly acknowledge that with COVID restrictions still in place that it can be difficult to know whether or not children should be attending, and we understand that at times it is best to err on the side of caution. It is, however, extremely important that the school is notified of the reason for absence as five or more 'Unexplained Absences' will result in a triggered notification from the Department of Education and a subsequent letter. If your child has had a COVID test with a negative result, but still have a sniffle etc., and have been cleared by a doctor they are okay to return to school 

Notifying the school of absences is also a safety precaution. When a child is 'Unexplained' for attendance, the school has no idea if the child has been sent to school and something has happened on the way or has chosen not to go into class.

This week all families will receive an email outlining our updated Attendance Procedures. Please take sometime to read through this.

Conversation with Teachers

Please be aware that the time between 8:30 – 9:00am is time for teachers to be greeting children and getting prepared for a settled and calm start to the day. We ask that drop off time is done quickly to ensure that the children can settle in for the day, and also that the social distancing within the classroom is adhered to as per Public Health instructions.

Quick messages during this time relating to something that will be important for the teacher to know for the day are perfectly acceptable.

If you need to talk with your child’s teacher in relation to any concerns or sensitive matters, it is important to make a time with the teacher so that this can be conducted in a forum where the teacher can focus on the situation in a confidential manner. You can make a time to meet with your child’s teacher by emailing them directly, emailing via the school email or contacting the school office. If there is an urgent matter to be attended to, please talk with the office staff who will contact a Senior staff member to talk with you.

Winter Festival

Our School Association team have been working extremely hard to put together this year's Winter Festival. This is a family event and aimed at bringing the community together so rally your friends and extended family, slip on those winter woollies and join us for a great time on Friday evening! Please see further information further on within this newsletter. 

Aussie of the Month - May

Congratulations to Brodie Button on being the successful nominee for our Primary Aussie of the Month for May. Our Early Years Aussie of the Month will be announced on Thursday at our Prep-2 assembly.

Karen