WALLACIA PUBLIC SCHOOL 1573-1585 Mulgoa Road

WALLACIA NSW 2745 Tel: 4773 8433

Fax: 4773 9050 Email: Wallacia-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Principal: Mr Trev Mason

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‘Today is for Tomorrow’

SAFE RESPECTFUL LEARNERS

NEWS FROM WALLACIA PUBLIC SCHOOL Term 4 Week 6 Date: Monday 19 November 2018

What a sensational year so far. I love our school. Thank you to everyone for your support and engagement to ensure we work together to continuously strive for the best we can be. We have just over a month of the school year left, so let’s make it count! Have you ever asked yourself, where does the time go? It’s never too late to be punctual! Does your family start the day with repeated orders and pleading to various members to get up, get dressed, have their breakfast, pack their school bag, brush their teeth… Some children are always late – to school, to classes, with homework – and the chaos of their lives has an effect on their ability to learn. A calm, well-organised start to the day and successful time management help develop the habits that lead to good learning. Effective time management leads to greater contentment. Satisfaction with how we use our time is an important predictor of happiness. Time is the basis on which we operate our lives and if we’re happy with the way we manage time, we’re on our way to being happy with our life. Being late is a way of life for many people. But good timekeeping can be learnt. For some, lateness is the only way they can get anything done. We convinced ourselves that racing to the deadline is the way we work best, and leave everything to the last minute to get that adrenaline rush that charges us up to get the job done. But there is a cost of the worry, feelings of panic and lying awake at night as the deadline looms and one hasn’t yet started. How can we change these habits? Help the unpunctual members of your family take responsibility for their own lateness. It pays to begin when they are young but it’s never too late to start. Set their alarms, establish routines like who is first to use the bathroom, have breakfast ready and expect them to be out the door on time. One unpunctual member of the family can raise the stress levels for everyone. Being left behind just once is often all that it takes to change habitual lateness. Time for a change – Here are some ideas that I personally use with my family and myself. Reduce distractions. Turn off your e-mail alert and social media notifications so you can stay focused, and set a time limit for how often you check them. Place a limit on the time you spend watching TV, playing games, surfing the net, and sitting on the sofa day-dreaming. Change your perception of time and be aware of how you are using the time you have. If necessary, set your watch and your clocks five minutes early (gets me every morning). Use your technology (computer, phone, and pad) to send you reminders. Always leave a minimum of five minutes more than you think you’ll need to get anywhere. Make it a personal standard to be on time to class, appointments and meetings. Think about other people and how they feel having to wait for you.

Plan homework, assignments and deadlines with progress dates so you easily meet the deadline. Aim to hand in work the day before it is due. Giving yourself some leeway allows you to have second thoughts, correct mistakes and make improvements. Late work is usually careless work. Try ‘To Do’ lists and learn to enjoy ticking off each task as they get it done. I do this every day. Keep a detailed calendar and a checklist for progress. Regard lack of punctuality as a lack of manners. People who always keep others waiting regard themselves as more important. They are sending a clear message that your time is not as important as theirs. We can convince ourselves that we work best when under pressure. That really is that this is an excuse for time-wasting and refusing to get organised. To feel more in control of your time, take note of when you are late and by how much. It’s often a standard amount and conforms to a pattern. Often you can be punctual by giving yourself a margin of only ten minutes — to get to the school gates, to work and to meet friends. Factor this in and arrive slightly earlier than you usually would. This might mean getting out of bed ten minutes earlier. And being aware when you are wasting time. Acknowledgement: Emma Cook, The Times October 10, 2018; Andrea Perry, author of Isn’t It About Time: How to Stop Putting Things Off And Get On With Your Life; Clare Evans, author of Time Management for Dummies. “Life Hacks” Leaders of Educational Change Makers

2019 School Class Structure - I would like to share our possible class structure for 2019. It is very early days and anything can change with student numbers and class structures until the Department of Education cut-off day in March 2019. We are currently right on the threshold of 4 classes. If we lose one enrolment then we will need to condense into 3 classes. The actual class structure for 2019 class make-up, as it stands at the moment, would mean we have a Kindy, a 1-2, a 3-4, and a 5-6. 2019 School Leadership Nominations - Congratulations to the students who nominated for school leadership roles in 2019. We enjoyed viewing their applications. The successful nominees will present a formal speech to the school on Wednesday 29 November. Public Speaking - Well done to our Piper, Olivia, Adam and Katie who represented the school at Public Speaking Competition at Surveyors Creek Public School. They put on a strong show and we have received some good feedback around freedom of choosing topics in order to strengthen our position for next time. P and C Meeting - Our next P&C meeting is on Monday 3 December starting at 2.00pm in the school library. This will be the last P&C Meeting for the year. Everyone is welcome to attend. Year 6 Farewell - This year’s year 6 Farewell will be held on 11 December at Wallacia Bowling Club. The students will meet at 6 p.m. with the dinner starting at 6.30p.m. A huge thank you to the P&C for their efforts to support and lead a range of fundraising events to ensure our kids are able to enjoy a fantastic evening where they can reflect and debrief on finalising their journey of primary school. Presentation Day - Our annual School Presentation Assembly is on Wednesday 5 December at the Hubertus Club at Luddenham. We will begin at 9.30 am. We look forward to your attendance to celebrate the achievements for students throughout the 2018 school year. School hats - Students need to make sure they wear the school hat every day to school whether it is mufti day, sports day or anything else. One thing we don’t change is the wearing of a school hat. We enforce the ‘No School Hat No Play’ rule at Wallacia Pubic School and especially in terms 1 and 4. This means students without a school hat need to sit under the Shade Cloth during our play times.

Kindergarten Transition Program - It was great to see so many students and parents attend our Special Transition Program in our Kindergarten classroom and school library. A big thank you to Miss Carroll for leading this special event. The children settled very quickly and enjoyed the mornings with the special activities. We are holding our formal Kindergarten Orientation on Thursday 29 November. It will be great opportunity to share our organisation and what our school offers. I am looking forward to chatting to the parents as they start the journey through school at Wallacia. We will be giving out a personal letter to each family on Orientation Day which will outline when their child has their Best Start Assessment. Each student engages one on one with the teacher for this comprehensive assessment which provides us with detailed information so we are able to plan for each individual’s needs from the very start of their school life. This assessment will take place between Wednesday 30 January to Tuesday 5 February (inclusive). Kindergarten will commence from 8.55am on Wednesday 6 February. On this day parents will be invited to Morning Tea (9-9.30 am) for our special “Tissues and Tears!” The kids finish early for their first day at 12.30 p.m. On Thursday and Friday 07-08 February the students will finish at 1.20 p.m. We have found this supports a strong start to beginning Kindergarten as the reduced time supports lowering the cognitive load and sets up our kids for a successful start to school life. From Monday 11 February, week 3, all students begin full days, so will finish at 3.00p.m. End of year reports - Student reports will go out at the end of the year on Tuesday 18 December. Riding scooters and bikes - It has been bought to my attention from a number of people that there are a couple of children coming to and from school on their bikes and scooters who are not wearing helmets. Can you please support us with this and speak to your child as this is for their safety. Year 5/6 Excursion - Well done to our 5/6 students who attended the Great Aussie Bush Camp. The feedback from the students was sensational. This was a brilliant excursion and a fantastic opportunity for our senior students. Thank you to Mr Kelly for organising and leading this special event for our kids. Year 3/4 Camp - It was our 3/4 students’ turn at camp on Thursday and Friday of last week. These extra-curricular experiences are sensational opportunities for our kids to gain unique experiences, engage with others and grow in resilience, maturity and confidence. Thank you to Mrs Tritton for setting up and leading this amazing opportunity for our kids. Using technology safely - Please follow the link below to access “Managing your Digital Shadow”. This is about what you put online today could impact you in the future. I hope you find can discuss this with your child? The information comes all from a site recommended by the police called ‘Think U Know’ which you can get from www.thinkuknow.org.au Sick Leave – An explanation for absence must be provided to the school within 7 days from the first day of absence. All absences explanations must be in writing. This can be actioned via the WPS Skoolbag App or a written note to the classroom teacher. Regular attendance at school is essential for students to achieve quality life outcomes. Schools, in partnership with parents, are responsible for promoting the regular attendance of students. Attendance is not just about being at school but also about being on time. Being late 5 minutes a day equals 25 minutes over a week, 4 hours per term, or the equivalent of 3-4 days per year and over the schooling years is equivalent to one whole term of missed learning. When a student arrives late they have often missed the introduction to a lesson and they have missed time socialising with their peers. Future Star in the making - Last week our very own Katie Astley performed at the Glenbrook Spring Fair. Please see her video of her performance and I hope you like it as much as I did. It is gold! https://youtu.be/bAWi3O4FLq8

CONGRATULATIONS! Lily Lewis Year 6 2018

The Fred Hollows Foundation Humanity Award is presented to school students who show compassion, integrity and kindness, making a positive contribution to their school or community. This year Lily Lewis from Year 6 was selected as one of the award winners! She

attended the award ceremony at Parliament House, Sydney, and received her

award from the Hon. Rob Stokes, MP, Minister for Education, and Ms Gabi Hollows of the Foundation. Congratulations and very well done, Lily!

Local Band Appearance On Saturday 10 November, Palladium, a local band featuring Katie Astley (Year 6) and former student Lily Astley, performed at Glenbrook Spring Fair. Katie plays bass and Lily plays guitar. Great work, girls!

2019 School Leader Procedure 2018 Future Captains’ Speeches Mr Kelly is leading our 2019 School Leader process. We have addressed our Year 5 students and set out the expectations of the School Leadership Policy. The candidates have applied to the leadership team via an application addressing: examples displaying our school values of being a respectful, safe learner: any skills and previous experience of being a leader: involvement in the life of the school; and, how they will make a difference to Wallacia Public School. At Wallacia Public School the development of life-long leadership skills is one of the learning opportunities offered to all students. Having effective student leaders supports the development of responsible behaviours, a positive school tone and encourages students to model the values of integrity, excellence, fairness, responsibility, democracy, co-operation, participation, respect and care. School Leaders will be expected to: -To lead students from K-6 -To represent the school at special events -To participate fully and responsibly in all school activities -To lead or participate fully in the Student Representative Council (SRC) -To complete jobs/responsibilities as asked by teachers or principal -To lead assemblies -To assist other students and teachers and to demonstrate a willingness to perform extra duties in own time What is leadership? Leadership is the process of motivating, inspiring and empowering others to achieve a common goal or organisational success. It involves having a clear idea about what you are trying to achieve, and being able to communicate it to a team of people so that they can work together to achieve it. Being able to “lead” is demonstrated through various behaviours such as engaging others, having innovative thoughts, motivating others, encouraging people and organising activities to completion. As such “leading” isn’t about who is the best at public speaking or who can be the bossiest in class. It isn’t only demonstrated on special occasions. Responsibilities -To set a good example to all students -To wear complete school uniform at all times, including leadership badge, school hat, black shoes/joggers, school hair ribbons/bands etc. We ask for parental support in ensuring the correct full school uniform is worn at all times -To be fully prepared and punctual for the activity/event in which you are participating/leading e.g. buddy programs, assemblies etc -To behave appropriately at all times, in all situations -To follow school and class rules

Consequences -If a student leader breaches the Student Leadership Program Policy by not fulfilling their commitments, the Principal will issue a formal warning -Should a school leader then fail to fulfil his/her roles and responsibilities they will lose their leadership position What happens next? Once a student is successful with their nomination and pre-selection application, those students will then be invited to present their 2019 Captains’ Speeches to the school staff and students on WEDNESDAY 28 NOVEMBER (please note date change). Speeches are to be written prior to presenting to the students and school team. A democratic process will be followed throughout the elections, with Principal and staff discretion if required. Adherence to the school values throughout the students’ schooling will be considered throughout the process. Student leaders are expected to be a role model for other students and must demonstrate a range of behaviours as per Student Leadership Program Policy. Any queries or concerns about any student leadership process should be taken up with the Principal. Voting will follow immediately after the speeches are completed. The successful candidates for School Captains and Vice Captains will be introduced at the Presentation Day in their official positions. All other School Leader Positions will be notified early in term 1, 2019. When preparing their speech, students are asked to address the following criteria: -The speech should be between 1 and 2 minutes. -It should refer to specific highlights of your school life. -You should discuss previous roles of responsibility you have held e.g. Class Captain, SRC representative, captain of a sports team etc. -It should give examples of how you demonstrate the school values of a safe, respectful learner. Include qualities you possess that would make you a successful leader at Wallacia Public School. -Speeches should be interesting, sincere and original. Displaying a sense of humour can make a speech more memorable but gimmicks and props should not be used. We look forward to seeing some fabulous applications from our future leaders! Good luck to our potential 2019 school leaders.

KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION

INVITATION

Dear Parents and Pre-schoolers, you are invited to join us

at Wallacia Public School

On

Thursday 29 November 2018

From 9.15 am - 10.15 am In the Library

For Kindergarten Orientation

We look forward to seeing you and your pre-schooler

at this special event in your child’s life.

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Please return completed enrolment forms and all relevant papers* to the school office on or

before Thursday 22 November. Your help in this matter is greatly appreciated.

*Birth Certificate; Immunisation history statement/certificate (not blue book), proof of address or

non-local/ out of area enrolment form, Emergency Health Care Plan, Court Orders (if applicable).

Mr Trev Mason

Principal

2019 Kindergarten Commencement Schedule

Weeks 1-2 Term 1 2019

Wednesday 30 January to Tuesday 5 February (inclusive)

Best Start Assessments Scheduled times: As stated on your personal letter (to be distributed on Orientation Day, Thurs 29 November)

Wednesday 6 February Kindergarten Commences 8.55am Parents Invited to Morning Tea (9-9.30 am) “Tissues and Tears!”

Finish/pick up time 12.30pm

Thursday 7 February Kindergarten Commences 8.55am

Finish/pick up time 1.20 pm

Friday 8 February Kindergarten Commences 8.55am

Finish/pick up time 1.20 pm

Week 3 Term 1 2019

Monday 11 February-Friday 15 February

Kindergarten Commences 8.55am

Finish /pick up time 3.00pm

P & C News On Sunday the 28th October our school was lucky enough to Have Black Lily Images host a family photo day to fundraise for our school., They are beautiful photos and I know all families are happy with the deal. Thanks to Kylie for your support of our school. We will see you again at our Year 6 farewell. The P&C Christmas Raffle is coming up on Wednesday 5th December at our Presentation Day. We need prizes for our raffle. We would appreciate any donations of New toys, books, Vouchers or board games. If you know of any local businesses willing to donate goods/voucher, we are happy to advertise for them. All donations can be placed in a box in the office by Friday 30th November. To commemorate the end of the school year our P & C will be hosting a free sausage sizzle at school on the 18th of December. Parents are invited to share this with their kids at lunch time. Please BYO Drinks as none will be available or for sale. Our next P & C meeting is on Monday 3rd December at 2pm in the Library. It is a great opportunity to hear about the events going on at school and give your opinion. Jeannette Cullen President Wallacia Public School P & C

Wallacia Public School P & C

The P&C Christmas Raffle is coming up on Wednesday 5th December at our Presentation Day. We need prizes for our raffle. We would appreciate any donations of New toys, books, Vouchers or board games. All donations can be placed in a box in the office by Friday 30th November. Thank you P&C Committee.

2018 PRESENTATION DAY This year’s Presentation Day will be held on Wednesday 5 December 2018 at the Hubertus Country Club, 205 Adams Road, Luddenham NSW 2745. This special day will commence at 9.30am. The children will travel by bus (free of charge to students), leaving school at 9.05am and returning to school at the conclusion of the Presentation Assembly. Please sign and return the note below prior to Monday 26 November 2018. Please note there is no cost for bus transport. Students are to wear full school uniform. You are most welcome to attend and help celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements of our students, from 9.30am at the Hubertus Club, Luddenham. Thank you, Trev Mason Principal

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PRESENTATION DAY PERMISSION NOTE TO BE

RETURNED PRIOR TO Monday 26 November 2018. I give permission for my child/ren____________________________ of class _______ to travel by bus to and from the Hubertus Country Club on Wednesday 5th December 2018 to attend School Presentation Day. I understand that this excursion has the approval of the Principal, and that there is no cost. Signature of Parent / Caregiver …………………................………………Date:…………………

KEY DATES

Friday November 23

School Spectacular Excursion

Closed Students require OPAL Cards

Thursday November 29

Kindergarten Orientation Morning

2019 Kindergarten

9.15-10.15am

Friday November 30

Whole School Assembly Kindergarten Presenting

2:15pm School Library

ALL WELCOME

Monday December 3

P & C Meeting 2.00pm School Library

ALL WELCOME

Wednesday December 5

Presentation Day

9.30am Hubertus Country Club Adams Road Luddenham

ALL WELCOME

Tuesday December 11

THANK YOU BREAKFAST

All 2019 Supporters & Helpers

Tuesday December 11

Year 6 Farewell Years 5 & 6

Tuesday December 18

Principal Reward Session & Morning Tea

Bronze, Silver & Gold Awards & Principal Awards

Tuesday December 18

P & C BBQ Lunch

Whole School

Wednesday December 19

LAST DAY FOR STUDENTS

HAPPY AND SAFE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 30 2019

ALL STUDENTS YEARS 1 – 6 RETURN TO SCHOOL

WELCOME BACK! 2019 WOW

‘Today is for Tomorrow’

SAFE RESPECTFUL LEARNERS