Marks Point Public School is committed to explicitly teaching and modelling positive behaviour and supporting all students to be engaged with their learning. We regularly review and update our behaviour support and management plan in line with new policies and procedures and this includes how we manage behaviour. The table below demonstrates clear expectations relating to behaviours, including those that we would like to consistently see. These behaviours have been defined under the headings of our school core values - Respect, Responsibility and Excellence. It is each class teacher’s responsibility to ensure all students are aware of our ‘expected behaviours’, as well as warning, minor or major behaviours.
Each week we have a PBL Findon focus. This focus is explicitly taught in all classes and promoted across the school, displayed on the PBL sign and shared on social media platforms.
Findon ‘frequent flyers’ are handed to students who exhibit positive/expected behaviours. Each classroom has a letter box, where Findon’s are collected. All letter boxes are taken to our fortnightly assemblies, with one student drawn from each letter box choosing a prize. All Findon’s are then placed in a visible box in the school hall, with whole school rewards labelled, to work together to achieve. Targets and rewards are collaboratively set at the beginning of the year with students nominating activities, followed by a whole school vote for the top 4 activities and order. Whole school rewards are organised by the PBL staff team, as levels are met.
Awards: 3 merits, 2 values and 1 behaviour award per class are handed out during our fortnightly assemblies to acknowledge students demonstrating or striving for Respect, Responsibility and Excellence. When a student receives 5 awards, they bring them to the office to receive a ‘Principal’s Award’ at the next assembly. Students are aiming for a ‘School Medal’, which is awarded to students who receive 10 Principal Awards throughout their schooling at Marks Point Public School.
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Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures
External Providers Procedures
A-Z
Attendance
All children have the right to an education. Only by regular school attendance can children make the most of educational opportunities, leading to greater social and economic outcomes.
The Education Act 1990 requires that parents (including carers) ensure that children of compulsory school age are enrolled at and regularly attend school. Children are required by law to attend school daily. For planned student absences in excess of five school days, (i.e. family holiday) please see the office for an Application for Extended Leave – Travel form. Absences are recorded on children’s reports at the end of Semester One and Two. Absences can also be explained using the SENTRAL parent portal, which can be downloaded onto both Apple and Android devices. If you require assistance downloading the app, please visit the office.
Accidents and Sickness
Emergency contact numbers are provided at the time of enrolment. Parents/carers nominate who can be contacted in case of sickness or accidents. It is important to keep this information updated, along with all relevant medical information. Please inform the school of any changes in writing (email is preferred). Students who become unwell should report to their class teacher. Every effort will be made to contact the parent/carer or an emergency contact if a student is deemed too unwell to remain at school. If your child appears unwell in the morning before school, you should consider keeping them at home. Every care is taken to avoid accidents at school, and this is achieved by providing safe, supervised play areas and instilling school expectations which promote safety. In the event of accidents, first aid will be administered by qualified staff members. Injured students should always report their injuries to their class teacher or the teacher on playground duty. In the case of serious matters, every effort will be made to contact the parents/carers or the emergency contacts. If these numbers cannot be reached, an ambulance will be called. Incidents or hazards which happen at school are recorded in Sentral. If you are visiting the school and experience or witness an accident, you may be asked to complete an incident notification.
Ambulance
In the case of a serious accident, an ambulance will be organised and the school will contact the parents/carers as soon as possible. There is no cost to parents/carers when an ambulance is called by the school.
Anaphylaxis
Parents/carers are to request a copy of their child’s Anaphylaxis Action Plan from their GP and provide this plan to the office for any child who is diagnosed as anaphylactic. It is important that any updated plans are provided to the school.
Assemblies
Assemblies are held in the hall every fortnight. These are held on Fridays in odd weeks, starting at 2:10pm.
Assessments
In keeping with Government Policy, Department Assessments are administered each year.
Year 1 Phonics Screening Check - Administered to all Year 1 students in NSW Department schools in mid Term 3 each year, to assess how they are progressing with phonics. The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check assesses how students blend sounds together to read a word. The Check takes 5–7 minutes and is carried out in the classroom, by teachers, with each student individually. Results are available immediately. Teachers analyse the results and, if necessary, plan for any additional support students might require, by targeting teaching, aligned with NSW English syllabus outcomes.
NAPLAN – Administered to all students in Year 3 and Year 5 (as well as Year 7 and Year 9). These Assessments cover Writing, Reading, Language Conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy. These assessments are held in Term 1 each year and results are sent to parents/carers in Term 3.
Check-in Assessments - Check-in assessments are online assessments for students in Years 3 to 9. All students complete a reading assessment and a numeracy assessment. Year 6 students also complete a writing assessment. Schools can access data soon after the completion of the assessment. These assessments supplement existing school practices to identify how students are performing in literacy and numeracy, and to help teachers tailor their teaching more specifically to student’s needs.
Asthma, Allergy and Health Care
Parents/carers are to develop an Asthma Action Plan or Allergy Action Plan, in consultation with their GP, and submit the plan to the office for any child who is diagnosed as having asthma or an allergy. The school can assist with additional health needs and requests, such as; medication, toileting and chronic conditions. To assist us in supporting your child/ren, please make a time to speak with the Office.
Best Start Kindergarten Assessment
Best Start Kindergarten Assessments are completed early in Term 1 and every Kindergarten student takes part. Staff work with each child individually to assess their skills and knowledge. Feedback will be given to parents/carers early in Term 1.
Bicycles and Scooters
Marks Point follows the guidelines set down by the RMS (Roads and Maritime Services), which state that children under 10 years, are not physically mature enough to ride safely to school unsupervised. Students from 5-9 years of age may only ride their bikes/scooters to school if accompanied by an adult. At school, bikes and scooters are to be placed in the bike rack at students’ own risk. The school is not responsible for theft or damage. It is compulsory for students to wear a bike helmet when riding to and from school. Students are not permitted to ride bikes or scooters inside the playground.
Birthdays
If you wish to send a cake to celebrate your child’s birthday, please send small individual cakes, rather than one large cake, which requires cutting. Small items are easier to distribute and more hygienic to handle. Please do not send candles, matches or knives for birthday cakes. Please be advised that we have a number of students and staff who are anaphylactic or are restricted to a gluten or dairy free diet. Any small cakes that are brought in must come with a complete list of ingredients.
Book Club
Scholastic Australia is a book company which allows parents/carers to purchase books at an economical price through the school. Catalogues are sent home a number of times throughout the year. To place an order from Book Club, please place the completed order form and money in an envelope and take to the Office by the due date. Alternatively, parents/carers can order online through the LOOP system. Just log onto to the Scholastic website to process your order. All orders accumulate points, so we are able to purchase books for our school library at no cost.
Canteen
The school P&C offers a wide range of healthy foods at reasonable prices. Please contact the Canteen Supervisor to volunteer, or for further information please call the school on 4945 4433. The canteen operates Wednesday-Friday. All lunch and recess orders must be placed before 9:00am.
Orders can be placed via the My School Connect app or written on a paper bag with name, class details and money enclosed and placed in the box outside the canteen. Class baskets are collected from the canteen for each class and distributed to the students. Price lists are available in the My School Connect app or from the office (prices subject to change).
Car Parking
Parents/carers are advised to observe the speed and parking signs near the school. It is not only illegal, but dangerous to disregard these signs. Police enforce these regulations. The car park is for staff parking, deliveries and emergency vehicles only. Please do not park in the car park or driveways to drop off or collect your child.
Change of Details
It is important to notify the school of any changes in writing, so our records can be kept up-to-date. Parents/carers can change details at any time using the Sentral parent portal, or by emailing the school with the new details.
Code of Conduct for Parents and Visitors to the School
The NSW DoE have important documents regarding student and community behaviour. These documents can be found in our school office.
Parents/carers and visitors to the school are expected to:
Not approach other students regarding issues that may arise (please see a teacher).
Report to the office and sign in if you are staying in the school grounds after 9:00am, e.g. canteen volunteers, parent helpers.
Treat all persons associated with the school with respect and courtesy.
Make appointments in advance to meet with a staff member.
Follow requests of staff.
Allow staff to supervise, investigate and manage students without interference.
Complaints
From time-to-time, parents/carers or other members of the school community may need to approach the school to discuss; the progress or wellbeing of your own child, express concerns about actions of other students, enquire about a school policy or procedure or express concerns about actions of staff.
There are procedures and processes to ensure problems are solved in a timely manner, in a safe and harmonious way. On occasions, it may be necessary to lodge a formal complaint. If this is the case, please contact the office for a copy of the document ‘Responding to Suggestions, Complaints and Allegations’.
Counsellor
The School Counsellor provides a confidential service, which supports the school. Counsellors are here to assist staff and students with cognitive and behavioural assessments or support which may be required. The School Counsellor is trained to provide expert advice and support regarding access to additional support.
At Marks Point, the School Counsellor is available every Tuesday, by appointment. If you would like to speak to the School Counsellor, you can request a referral form from the office.
Court Orders
Parents/carers must supply any relevant court orders or similar documentation to the school. If these orders are changed through the courts, an updated copy is to be provided to the school. The school cannot act only on verbal advice regarding custody orders. Family Court orders are made with paramount consideration to the child’s best interests. Schools will facilitate compliance with them, where possible.
Curriculum
Marks Point offers a balanced educational program, which includes the whole range of K-6 subjects. The Primary Curriculum is currently organised into Key Learning Areas (often referred to as KLAs):
▪ English ▪ Mathematics ▪ Science and Technology (ICT) ▪ HSIE
▪ Creative and Practical Arts (Music, Visual Arts, Dance, Drama)
▪ Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PD/H/PE)
In NSW, primary school curricula is organised into Stages, rather than year levels:
Enrolment
Children can be enrolled at school from Kindergarten to Year 6. Enrolments can be completed online via the school website. The following documents are required;
▪ Current Immunisation History ▪ Court Orders (if applicable) ▪ Medical Forms (if applicable)
Students transferring from another school are flagged on our computer system and all relevant information is requested from their previous school (if they attended a NSW Public School). A non-local application form must be filled in for families residing outside the Marks Point Public School’s zoned intake area and places cannot always be guaranteed.
Entering or Leaving
Due to WHS issues, families should enter the school through the pedestrian gates only. These gates are located on Findon Street and Ashley Street. Students are never allowed to walk through the car park as a means of entering or leaving the school.
Evacuations and Lockdown Procedures
To align with Department requirements, and for general safety reasons, the school has a set of evacuation and lockdown procedures, designed to provide for the kinds of emergencies we hope never arise. From time to time, we organise evacuation or lockdown drills so that students and staff are aware of procedures. Students practice lockdowns in the buildings and evacuations by vacating rooms and assembling in a safe area (back of the playground or Baxter Oval).
Excursions
Where possible, all classes participate in planned excursions during the year, which enhance educational experiences. These are arranged to support and stimulate learning in the classroom. Parents/carers are informed, outlining the purpose of the excursion and costs, through the Sentral Parent Portal. Excursions, performances and cultural events are considered to be part of our school’s regular educational programs and students are expected to attend. If you require financial assistance, please contact the Office to discuss the matter confidentially.
External Providers (NDIS)
If your child has NDIS funding and requires specialist support, e.g. speech pathology, occupational therapy (OT), psychology etc, during school hours, parents/carers are asked to contact the office for information.
Extracurricular Activities
At Marks Point, students have opportunities to participate in extra-curricular opportunities. These include activities such as; Star Struck, debating, public speaking competitions, spelling bees, representative sports, gala days and guitar. Other opportunities may arise during the year. Students/parents/carers are notified about these activities through the Sentral Parent Portal and have the choice to participate.
Fruit Break
We promote healthy eating during our morning session, when we have a short fruit break (approx. 5-7 mins). During this time we encourage children to bring a piece of fruit or vegetables, e.g. small apple, banana, watermelon, rockmelon, grapes, strawberries or carrot sticks etc, in a container. Water only is to be drunk in classrooms.
Galgabba Community of Schools (CoS)
Marks Point Public School is a proud member of the Galgabba Community of Schools (CoS). This includes Swansea High School and its six feeder Primary Schools (Blacksmiths PS, Caves Beach PS, Marks Point PS, Nords Wharf PS, Pelican Flat PS and Swansea PS). Prinicipal’s meet twice a term to plan collaborative events for the students. High School Information sessions and transition days for Year 6 students are held each year. Parents/carers will be informed of the dates as soon as they are made available. Students may apply for enrolment in selective, sporting or agricultural High Schools. Please contact these schools if you would like information regarding their enrolment process.
Gates
The Findon Street and Ashley Street gates will be opened at 8:30am and closed at approximately 9:00am each day. Entry to the school will then be through Findon Street (gate closest to the office). The gates will be re-opened at 2:55pm, to allow the students to leave at the end of the day. These measures have been put in place to increase student safety. All visitors must report to the office during the day, as per the usual procedure.
Homework - Home Reading
Daily home reading is the homework required by all students at Marks Point Public School. All students K-6 are expected to participate in Home Reading and are required to read for at least 15-20mins each night (preferrable to a parent/carer) and to record the information in their Home Reading Diary. Reading together can be a valuable time shared with your child and an opportunity to discuss their learning. Reading with your child each night will help across all areas of school.
Immunisations
‘The Public Health’ Act, 2010 requires parents/carers to provide documented evidence of the immunisation status of all children enrolling in a school. This does not mean that immunisation is compulsory. However, in the event of an outbreak of a vaccine preventable illness, students who have not been vaccinated will be required to remain at home for the duration of the outbreak.
Students starting school for the first time, who have not already had booster immunisation, should have one booster injection against diphtheria and tetanus and one booster dose of oral polio vaccine. Students can be vaccinated against measles/mumps. Please seek your family doctor’s advice if you have any questions.
Inclusive Education
We pride ourselves on providing an inclusive education environment for all students. At Marks Point Public School, we provide extensive support through our Learning and Support Team, Wellbeing Officer, Breakfast Club, lunches through Food Bank, as well as Well Education, SistaSpeak sessions and many more initiatives.
If your child has a confirmed disability, or is on an NDIS plan, please make a time to speak with the Learning and Support teacher, as additional support may be provided, to ensure your child is getting the best education possible.
Infectious Diseases
Please access the following website for a list of all infectious diseases and their time frames; www.health.gov.au. If there is an outbreak in the school, information and fact sheets will be provided to the school community.
Internet Use
The internet is an important resource in many teaching and learning programs. The Department of Education has placed filters on the information coming from the internet, to ensure suitability of the material accessed. Students are responsible for demonstrating appropriate behaviour on school computers, just as they are in the classroom or playground. Students responsible for interfering with the learning rights of others and/or actively seeking inappropriate material on the internet will receive consequences in accordance with the school’s behaviour support and management processes.
Interviews
Parents/carers are encouraged to contact us to discuss any relevant matters. In the first instance, contact should be made with the class teacher, as they can usually solve all problems/enquiries quickly and efficiently. If the matter cannot be resolved by the class teacher, the executive member responsible for the Stage is the next person to approach. They will follow up on any issues you raise. Parents and carers can book an interview with a teacher, executive member or Principal by phoning the school office on 4945 4433.
Please call the office to make an appointment to discuss any issues which may arise, with the relevant staff member. If you are not sure who to talk to, the office staff can point you in the right direction.
Items Brought to School
The school bears no responsibility for items that are brought to school and are subsequently lost or damaged. Any items which are valuable or fragile should not be brought to school. Toys are only to be brought to school as part of class news. Students do not need large amounts of money at school.
Kindergarten Transition
Preschool aged children, who will be enrolling at Marks Point Public School in the following year, are invited to attend Kindergarten transition sessions. Please contact the school to advise your child is starting school the following year, so we can contact you with details regarding transition days and times, as well as our parent/carer information sessions.
Late Arrivals/Early Leavers
If students arrive to school after 9:00am, they must present to the office with an adult, to be given a late arrival slip to take to their teacher. If you need to collect your child earlier than 3:00pm, for an appointment or other reason, please visit the office to have them recorded as an early departure. Students will be called to the front office to be collected. No adults are to go to the classrooms to pick up children. If your child is being picked up by a person other than the parent/carer, you must notify the school by phone or in writing prior to this happening, to ensure the safety of our students.
Learning Support Team
The Learning Support Team (LST), comprising of the Learning and Support Teacher (LaST), School Learning Support Officers (SLSOs), Assistant Principal Wellbeing, Principal, School Counsellor and Wellbeing Officer, meet on a regular basis in order to discuss planning and adjustments for both individual students and groups of students. Personalised Learning and Support Plans (PLaSPs) are completed in consultation with parents/carers and the LST.
Library
All classes have weekly library lessons. Borrowing is undertaken during their lesson and a library bag is needed to protect books in transit to and from school. All Kindergarten students are provided with a school library bag when they attend transition sessions. Lost or damaged books are expected to be replaced by the parents/carers, so please keep them out of the reach of younger children and pets. Class library days will be communicated to families each term.
Lost Property
Please label all your child’s belongings including; uniform items, jumpers and hats, as well as lunch box and drink bottle. If an item is found with the student’s name on it, it will be returned to them. Items without a name will be placed in the Lost Property tub. Parents/carers are encouraged to check lost property as soon as possible after an item is lost. Lost property is sent to charities once a term if unclaimed.
Medication
If medication has to be administered at school, written authority is required as to dosage, time and special conditions, in consultation with child’s doctor etc. Medication cannot be given without this authorisation. Forms to request the school administers medication can be obtained from the front office. All medication needs to be sent to the office, it cannot be kept in student’s bags.
Mobile Phones
Mobile phones are banned in all NSW Public Education Schools for students. Once at school, mobile phones should be turned off and be handed in at the front office and collected at the end of the school day by the student. If a child fails to hand in their mobile phone, it will be given to the Principal to be kept in a secure location. Parents/carers will then need to collect the phone from school.
Students must not lend a phone to another student during school hours for any use including, but not limited to, use as a phone, for text messaging or for use as a camera or a video recording device. The student who owns the phone will be held responsible for its use.
Students wishing to contact parents or carers during school hours may do so via the front office, with the knowledge and permission of a member of staff.
Filming and photographing on school grounds is not permitted, unless permission has been provided.
Newsletter
Our newsletter is posted twice a term to our school Facebook page, Sentral Parent Portal and uploaded to our school website. The newsletter informs families and our community about upcoming events, news of school activities and student achievements.
Notes and Money
All money and notes should be handed in to the front office between 8:30-9:00am. We ask that you please have the correct amount of money, as it is difficult to give change.
All money and notes are to be placed in a sealed envelope, and marked clearly with the student’s name and class. There is a notes/money slot on the counter in the front office for students to place envelopes.
Payments are also available online, via the Sentral Parent Portal.
Office Hours and Administration
Office hours are from 8:30-3:15pm.
School Administrative Manager - Mrs Sue-Ellen Robertson
School Administrative Officer - Miss Tailah Mostyn
Out of Schools Hours Care (OoSH)
Before and after school care operates Monday to Friday. Morning Session: 6:30-8:30am Afternoon Session: 3:00-6:00pm
For further information, please contact Denise at Marks Point OoSH.
The P&C Association is a school-based organisation, with membership open to parents/carers, staff and interested citizens.
What does the P&C do?
Promotes the interest of the school by bringing parents, citizens and staff into close co-operation
Assists in providing facilities and equipment for the school and promoting the school
Encourages parent/carer participation in curriculum and other educational aspects in school.
The P&C meet in Week 3 and Week 8 of each term. Please contact the school office for further details.
Parents & Citizens Association
Parent/carer participation is encouraged at Marks Point Public School. Showing an active interest in your child’s education reinforces the importance of school and learning. These are some of the ways you can participate in our school community:
▪ Join the P&C ▪ Become a parent helper ▪ Read everything your child brings home
▪ Participate in surveys ▪ Volunteer in the canteen ▪ Attend our special days
All parents must complete an online ‘Declaration for Child-Related Workers’. Please speak to the Office staff for more information.
Photographs
Photos are taken of our students by school staff when they are involved in special events and activities. Privacy legislation requires that we seek permission to publish these on our school social media pages, newsletter and school website. This permission is located on your school enrolment form. Permission to publish can be updated at any time in writing to the office.
Reporting to Parents
Marks Point Public School has an ‘open door’ policy in which parents/carers are encouraged to visit the school to get to know staff and discuss matters of interest and concern. To ensure that the teacher’s time is used most effectively and that disruptions to class routines are minimised, it is important that parents/carers phone the school to make an appointment to see the teacher, rather than just visiting and hoping the teacher will be available.
Formal reporting to parents/carers occurs twice a year, at the end of Term 2 and Term 4. During Term 1, parent/carer interviews are offered. Parents/carers are encouraged to see their child’s teacher at any point throughout the year, not just when interviews are offered.
School Hours
The school is open to students from 8:30am.
8:30am: Teacher supervision in the playground begins
9:00am: Stop play, go to the toilet, line up ready for the teacher and commence learning
11:00am: Lunch - students go to the lunch circles under the COLA to eat their lunch (15mins). Then students have play time with a variety of activities in the playground and library
11:50am: Students stop play, go to the toilet and line up under the COLA
11:55am: Students return to their classrooms to continue learning
1:50pm: Recess - students sit to eat recess under the COLA (10mins to eat and 10mins to play)
2:10pm: Recess finishes, students go to the toilet and line up for the afternoon session in class
3:00pm: End of school day
Students are not to arrive at school before 8:30am. There is no supervision prior to this time and they remain the responsibility of the parents/carers until this time. OoSH is available for care/supervision before 8:30am.
School Uniform
School uniforms can be purchased from the P&C uniform shop.
Our school community takes great pride in the fact that our students wear their school uniform. The uniform is available to purchase from the Uniform Shop via the My School Connect app or cash with an order form (available from the office).
Second-hand items are available to purchase for a gold coin donation.
If your child is going to be out of uniform for any reason, please write a note to explain this to their teacher.
Sentral Parent Portal
This can be downloaded from the Apple or Google app stores. The app is free for all parents and carers. You use your email address to register, then select our school, which will link the app to your child. The Parent Portal app allows you to manage your child’s attendance, give permission for school activities and events, view the calendar, view school alerts, receive notifications and more. Please contact the school office for an access code.
Special Religious Education (SRE)
Scripture teachers visit the school each week and offer a combined Christian arrangement. Students attend sessions (Scripture or non-Scripture) according to the parent/carers request at the time of enrolment. If at any time you would like to change your preference, please write a note and send to the office with your child.
Sport
We have 4 sports houses at Marks Point Public School. Albatross - Green Eagles - Red Gulls - Blue Swans - Yellow Each student is placed into a house group and stay in that group throughout their Primary years. Sports house colours can be worn to the swimming, athletics and cross-country carnivals, which are held annually.
Student Assistance
We are able to provide financial assistance for educational costs (e.g. uniforms, excursions, etc.), for families facing financial difficulties. Please contact the office to discuss any concerns and complete a request form.
Student Parliament
The Student Parliament is made up of senior school leaders and class representatives. The Parliament meets with the Stage 3 teachers and students, to plan projects, fundraise, discuss student body concerns, and celebrate successes. Student Parliament representatives are voted in by their class mates each semester.
Technology
Technology is a significant element of modern society. At Marks Point students are introduced to laptops, iPads and interactive whiteboards from Kindergarten onwards. They are encouraged to view technology as an educational tool or resource, to be used across all subjects.
Our K-2 classrooms are resourced with 15-20 iPads per class and a trolley of laptops which is shared between the classes. Our 3-6 classrooms are each resourced with a class set of laptops. Students in Year 3 receive a laptop, which they will be able to use at school, throughout their primary school journey. Students must take responsibility of the laptop they are provided.
Work Health and Safety
Procedures are in place to ensure the safety of all visitors and members of the school community. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure a safe environment for students, staff and visitors. You are asked to report any unsafe conditions or hazards within the school to the office.
Additional Information for New Kindergarten Parents/Carers
Preparing for school days
Preparation is time well spent! Prepare the night before, so the first morning runs smoothly, without rushing. Your child needs to get to bed at a reasonable time, as being overtired the next day will not help. Serve a regular breakfast, no surprises. Pack lunch for your child, using familiar, enjoyed foods and in containers they are able to open easily. Plan and discuss the day in a positive manner. Talk about food, in particular what is for lunch and what is for recess. Please provide plenty to drink (preferably water). Have fun on the way to school, relax and play games.
Kindergarten’s first day
On their first day, we ask that you bring your child to the Findon Street gate entry from 8:45am, for student and family photos. Parents/carers and students will then make their way to the Kindergarten room, to meet the class teacher.
If you have any paperwork which needs to be taken to the office, please take your child to their classroom first and then go to the office.
You are welcome to take some photos of your own child and spend a few minutes with your child outside the classroom on the verandah. When it is time to leave – smile, reassure your child that you will pick them up later, then say goodbye and leave. Even if your child is upset, staff will be able to settle them when you leave.
For the first 2 weeks, the class teacher will walk Kindergarten students to the Findon Street gate at 2:55pm for pick up. We ask parents/carers to wait inside the Findon Street gate for easy collection.
From Week 3 onwards, please collect your child at 3:00pm from the gate organised with your child.
School Drop Off
Go through your regular goodbye routine and leave. A kiss and drop routine works best. Students quickly settle down once parents/carers have left. If you are concerned, you are welcome to telephone the school later.
Home time
Be reliable and on time. It is traumatic being excited to see your parent/carer and have them run late. If you are going to be unavoidably late, please phone the school, so a message can be passed on to your child and their teacher. After Week 3, please collect your child from the Findon Street or Ashley Street gates. Set aside time to stop, discuss and listen to your child and talk to them about their day at school.
What will my child need for school?
Wear full school uniform
Lunch packed in a lunch box/lunch bag (they can open independently)
Recess packed in a separate lunch box/lunch bag (they can open independently)
Fruit or vegetables, as well as a drink bottle containing water, so your child can participate in our daily ‘fruit break’ program. Good ideas – cut pieces of apple (or any other fruit), and place into a small container or zip lock bag. Raw carrots, beans, snow peas, strawberries, kiwi fruit, banana, cucumber and tomato are some of the great fresh foods to help keep our kids healthy
A school hat – a gift provided by the school P&C for each Kindergarten student
Spare underwear in case of a toileting accident
A school bag, which is easily recognisable and easy to open. A key tag can be attached to the zipper pull if needed
All bags, lunch boxes and containers, drink bottles, clothing items, school bags, etc. need to be clearly marked with your child’s full name
Tips for parents/carers of children starting school
Starting school can be a busy time for all concerned. The Summer season is nearly over and a new school year is ahead. For some, this is the first time. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
Learn the names of the important people at the school
This will help you communicate with your child about what they do each day at school and who they interact with. It is also important that you have a relationship with your child’s teacher to ensure you are up to date with your child’s progress.
Give all information about your child to the school, especially medical and special needs
You know your child best. Your child’s Kindergarten teacher will have many students to get to know. Help the teacher understand your child better and faster, by sharing information, specialist reports and insights.
Provide updates to emergency contact numbers
The school might need to contact you urgently. Provide up-to-date alternative contacts and numbers in case the school is unable to contact you. Remember to notify the office of any changes to contact information.
Make the school aware of any special family circumstances
Any changes to your child’s family situation can impact on their emotional and academic wellbeing. Inform your child’s teacher and office about any changed circumstances, so we can best support you and your child. Examples of special circumstances include; birth of a sibling, divorce, or the death of a loved one, etc.
Establish routines with your child and stick to them
Prepare your child for a more structured day. Make a daily routine, which includes meal time, talking time and home reading (homework).
Make sure your child is road/travel safe
Children should know how to safely cross the road, only at marked crossings. Please set a good example. Take particular care when you drop off and collect your child from school.
Become familiar with school activities/develop a relationship with the school
Parents/Carers are role models. If you are positive and encouraging toward school, your child will be too. Both the students and teachers will appreciate your involvement and assistance in activities, ranging from helping during sports and excursions, becoming a reading volunteer or gardening helper, to attending music and drama presentations.
Educate your child about ‘Stranger Danger’
Teach your child not to talk to strangers. They should not accept gifts or lifts from someone they do not know. Tell your child that an adult will never ask a child for help, as only other adults can help adults.
Label equipment and clothing
Replacing lost clothing and equipment is expensive and inconvenient. You should clearly mark every item with your child’s name. Try to remember to check if the name is still visible after each term. Sometimes labels fall off or names wash off from wear and tear, making it hard to return items of clothing misplaced at school.
Buddy system
Our Buddy system is a valuable part of transition to school at Marks Point Public School. Kindergarten students will meet their buddy from the senior classes during transition. This buddy will help to support them as they learn to understand their new school environment.
Buddies provide a familiar face and support for the new Kindergarten students for the first few weeks. Buddies also assist in the classrooms for the first few days, or as long as needed by the Kindergarten teacher.
Buddies also assist the Kindergarten students during lunchtime and recess. They sit with the new students whilst they eat and involve them in activities with other Kindergarten students after they have finished eating. They also assist them to visit the canteen, if needed. Kindergarten teachers and other staff on playground duty will be ensuring that all new students are settling in to school life.
Key Learning Areas (KLA’s)
As a parent/carer of a primary school student (K-6), it is important to know what your child may be learning, so you can support them at home. During each Stage, you and your child’s teachers will be the most important influences on their education. The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) is responsible for setting and monitoring quality teaching, learning, assessment and school standards across NSW. NESA set the learning requirements for each Stage of primary school. The four Stages are;
NESA develops syllabus documents for the six Key Learning Areas (KLAs) which includes;
English
Oral Language and Communication
Vocabulary
Phonological Awareness
Print Conventions
Phonic Knowledge
Reading Fluency
Reading Comprehension
Creating Written Texts
Spelling
Handwriting
Understanding and Responding to Literature
Mathematics
Number and Algebra
Measurement and Space
Statistics and Probability
Working Mathematically
Science and Technology
Students are encouraged to embrace new concepts and learn through trialling, testing and refining ideas. They are supported to participate responsibly in developing innovative ideas and solutions in response to questions and opportunities relevant to them and the world around them.
Students will learn about: Living World, Material World, Physical World, Earth and Space and Digital Technologies.
Human Society and It’s Environment [HSIE] (History and Geography)
Students are provided with opportunities to explore the past and present and develop an understanding of their personal and community identities. They investigate the interactions between people, places and environments, which shape their nation and world. They learn to participate in society as informed, responsible and active citizens.
Creative Arts
Students learn to appreciate the meanings and values which each art-form offers. They perform and express themselves through; Visual Arts, Music, Drama and Dance.
Personal Development/Health/Physical Education (PDHPE)
Students develop self-management, interpersonal and movement skills to help them become empowered, self-confident and socially responsible citizens.
Handwriting
A sample of the NSW Foundation Font handwriting script is below. If parents/carers are encouraging their child to write, it is best not to develop bad habits, which have to be corrected at a later stage. Handwriting is designed so that letters are easily joined in later years, to form cursive writing. If you are encouraging your child to write his or her own name, please refer to the handwriting sample below and ensure lower case letters are used, with the first letter being an upper case (capital letter).
Amanda X AMANDA
Pencil grip
Correct pencil grip is an important aspect of handwriting. Below is a diagram which illustrates the preferred pencil grip. Pencil grip relieves writing fatigue when students are required to write for sustained periods.
It is important for children to practise using the correct pencil grip, as illustrated below. This is the grip suggested for maximum flexibility and control. It also allows children to write fluently and neatly, as their writing develops and they need to write more quickly.
The writing implement is held between the thumb and middle finger, with the index finger resting on top. The thumb should be slightly bent, and the writing implement held firmly, but not tight. When writing (or drawing), the writing implement should not be pressed to heavily onto the paper. If the writing shows on the next page (like tracing), your child is pressing too heavily on the paper.
Line-up time
A music bell rings at the beginning of our school day, at lunch and also recess, to signal that it is time to line up. Students move to the music and line up in class lines. At the beginning of the day, students line up outside their classroom. After lunch, they line up under the COLA (Covered Outdoor Learning Area), for a school communication assembly (muster). After recess, students line up outside their classroom.
Healthy eating
Students in the first years of school are busy and energetic. Whilst a student is at school, they will consume around one third of their daily nutritional requirements during fruit break, lunch and recess. Therefore, it is important that their lunchbox is well planned and contains a variety of healthy and yummy choices. Please ensure your child has enough lunch and recess to provide the energy and nutrients needed to help them concentrate, learn and play. Here are some tips to encourage happy and healthy eating;
Try to involve your child in the selection of the foods they will have in their lunchbox and have them help out with the shopping, if possible. This will mean there is more of a chance of them eating everything.
Encourage them to bring home uneaten food, so you can monitor whether they are getting a balanced diet and adjust their food intake at home if necessary.
Pack a frozen drink in their lunch box in Summer to help keep their food cold.
Keep foods separate and well wrapped, making sure that little fingers can open each item.
Remember to send a disposable fork or spoon, when necessary.
If your child has a food allergy, make sure everyone knows the exact nature of this and what to do in an emergency.
Have something for your child to eat as soon as they get home after school. This gives them some energy and stops them feeling so tired.
Often children are hungry when they get home, and then too tired to eat well when the family has their meal. Providing a nourishing sandwich and some fruit when they get home is a healthy solution.
Every day is a new day!
Sometimes a child does not want to go to school and this can be very upsetting for both parents/carers and the child. Children might find separating from their home and family difficult when starting school and try to get their parent/carer to stay with them. However, some children may just take longer to feel comfortable in new situations. If your child does not want to go to school, it is nobody’s fault. We can work together to find a solution.
Be positive yourself, so your child knows that you feel good about school. Try not to show your child that you are worried or sad.
Listen to your child and encourage them to tell you about their feelings and fears.
Check what is happening at school with the teacher and discuss ways to help.
Quick goodbyes at school are best and students usually settle very quickly!
Parents/Carers can also assist their child to be self-sufficient by ensuring they know how to manage their lunchbox, backpack and clothing before beginning school.
Once your child starts school, we are always looking for helpers to change home readers, work in the canteen, uniform shop, help with reading programs and transporting students to and from sporting events. Your child loves to see you at school helping! By joining our school’s P&C, you can also make a positive impact!
Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)
Marks Point Public School is a PBL school. PBL is an educational process, which brings together the whole-school community to contribute to developing a positive, safe and supportive learning culture. The PBL framework assists schools to improve social, emotional, behavioural and academic outcomes for children and young people. PBL is a process, not a program. When PBL is implemented well, teachers and students have more time to focus on relationships and classroom instruction. Students and staff benefit from;
Reduced problem behaviour
Increased time to focus on instruction
Improved social-emotional wellbeing
Positive and respectful relationships among students and staff
Better support for teachers to teach, model and respond effectively to students’ needs
A predictable learning environment, where staff and students know what is expected, and to deliver effective practices, which can be sustained over time.
Our core values are – Respect, Responsibility and Excellence. Our mascot is ‘Findon’ as shown below.
We look forward to welcoming you to Marks Point Public School!
