WELCOME
Our school aims to provide a quality educational program for each child. The school program is supported by a wide range of teaching, non-teaching and student service staff.Our school aims to be an effective and efficient centre of learning for its children and one which provides a caring, safe and inclusive environment in which learning can take place.
At all times we strive to maintain positive and open relations with parents/carers. We hope our Parents' Handbook will provide answers to any questions about our school.
Parents are welcome at school and we encourage your involvement. If, at any time, you have questions about any aspect of our school, please do not hesitate to contact us for information or clarification.
Principal: Tim Sewell
MAJOR LEARNING OUTCOMES (as per the Curriculum Framework)1. Students use language to understand, develop and communicate ideas and information and interact with others.
2. Students select, integrate and apply numerical and spatial concepts and techniques.
3. Students recognise when and what information is needed, locate and obtain it from a range of sources and evaluate, use and share it with others.
4. Students select, use and adapt technologies.
5. Students describe and reason about patterns, structures and relationships in order to understand, interpret, justify and make predictions.
6. Students visualise consequences, think laterally, recognise opportunity and potential and are prepared to test options.
7. Students understand and appreciate the physical, biological and technological world and have the knowledge and skills to make decisions in relation to it.
8. Students understand their cultural, geographic and historical contexts and have the knowledge, skills and values necessary for active participation in Australian life.
9. Students interact with people and cultures other than their own and are equipped to contribute to the global community.
10. Students participate in creative activity of their own and understand and engage with the artistic, cultural and intellectual work of others.
11. Students value and implement practices that promote personal growth and well-being.
12. Students are self-motivated and confident in their approach to learning and are able to work individually and collaboratively.
13. Students recognise that everyone has the right to feel valued and be safe, and, in this regard, understand their rights and obligations and behave responsibly.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION STAFFTELEPHONES:
Principal Mr Tim Sewell Deputy Principal Mrs Alicia Lobato Registrar Mrs Julie Whelan School Officer Mrs Myra Carey TERM DATES:
Primary School 9390 5555 Canteen 9390 6487 Dental Unit 9390 8434 Facsimile Primary School 9390 5394 westps@iinet.net.au Web Page http://members.iinet.net.au/~westps IN TERM HOLIDAYS
Semester 1 Term 1 Monday 2 February - Thursday 9 April Mid-Semester Term Break Friday 10 April - Tuesday 28 April Term 2 Wednesday 29 April - Friday 3 July Mid-Year Term Break Saturday 4 July - Monday 20 July Semester 2 Term 3 Tuesday 21 July - Friday 25 September Mid-Semester Term Break Saturday 26 September - Monday 12 October Term 4 Tuesday 13 October - Thursday 17 December
Monday 2 March Labour Day
Friday 10 April Good Friday
Monday 13 April Easter Monday
Monday 27 April Anzac Day holiday
Monday 1 June Foundation Day
Monday 28 September Queen's birthday holiday SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT DAYS:
Students do not attend school on the following dates:
Monday 27 April
Monday 30 July
Monday 12 OctoberDRESS AND UNIFORM
SIREN TIMES
8.45am Classes Commence
10.15am Morning recess
10.32am End Recess
10.35am
12.35pm Eat lunch in classroom
12.45pm End eating time
1.12pm End Lunch
1.15pm
3.00pm Classes Finish, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Friday
2.30pm Early Close Wednesday
As part of our general aim to develop a sense of pride in our school, children should wear the school uniform to school. We have a dress code and ask parents to assist us to ensure it is met. Wearing of school uniforms or school colours to any excursion is compulsory.Details of the school uniform are as follows:
Girls - Summer: White polo t-shirt
Bottle green skorts
Bottle green shorts
Bottle green sports skirt
Red school hat or capWinter: As above plus
Bottle green jacket
Bottle green jumper
Bottle green vest
Bottle green jazz pants
Bottle green cargo pantsBoys - Summer: White polo t-shirt
Bottle green shorts
Red school sun hat or capWinter: As above plus
Bottle green jacket
Bottle green jumper
Bottle green vest
Bottle green cargo pantsSport - Girls: Green sports skirt and faction T-shirt.
Boys: Shorts and faction T-shirt.DRESS AND UNIFORM
PURCHASING OF UNIFORM ITEMS
1. Cleanliness is a prime concern and any features such as dirty clothes, dirty bare feet or unkempt long hair are not acceptable.
2. Children with long hair are required to wear their hair tied back. This reduces transmission of head lice.
3. Good habits of hygiene are obviously dependent largely upon education in the home. Parents will be contacted should children arrive at school in an undesirable state of appearance or cleanliness.
4. Dangling earrings and strong necklaces/chokers (eg. on fishing line or leather thong) are dangerous and MUST NOT be worn to school. For safety reasons, children generally should not wear any form of jewellery to school.
5. No tongue piercing, nose rings, or tattoos to be worn at school at any time.
6. Appropriate footwear is required at all times. Thongs are not permitted. (Except to wear to and from the pool during Interm Swimming)
7. All children are required to wear a hat when outside The rule is NO HAT, NO PLAY IN THE SUN.
Parents are asked to ensure that all items of clothing are marked with the student’s name.
The P & C sell uniforms through the school. Items available are: printed T-shirts, bottle green shorts, bottle green skorts, green pleated sports skirts and red hats and caps, jazz pants, cargo pants, microfibre tracksuits, rugby tops and zip jackets. Also available: school badge, library bags and carpet squares. Orders for Westfield Park printed bottle green tracksuits and windcheaters will be taken prior to winter. Second hand items of uniform in good condition, which have been donated by parents, are also quite often available at reasonable prices from the Uniform Shop.
The Uniform Shop (behind the Canteen) is usually open two mornings per week Monday and Friday 8.00 – 9.00am. or by arrangement with staff. Details of openings will be sent home each term.
DAILY REQUIREMENTS
Every child in the school needs the following items AT ALL TIMES. If they are lost, broken or used up they MUST BE REPLACED. Please ensure that each item is named so it can be identified and returned to the child if found.
1 x School Bag
2 x H Pencils (Staedtler)
1 x Red Marking Pencil (Years 5-7 Biro)
1 x Wooden Ruler (Rulex-Trueline)
1 x soft Eraser
1 x pkt Coloured Pencils
1 x Pencil Case
1 x Art Shirt
1 x Biro (Years 5-7)
1 x Library BagThe school arranges yearly stationery orders for all year levels. A list of requirements is sent home with all students in term four of the previous year. The order is available for collection in the week before school begins for the New Year. Payment is made upon collection if not beforehand.
Our school prides itself on the work standards achieved here. Obviously children lacking the correct equipment will have difficulty achieving standards required. Please ensure that all issued workbooks and pads are securely covered so that they remain neat and tidy throughout the year.
NEW ENROLMENTS
At first enrolment, a Birth Certificate or Extract of Birth Entry must be sighted before enrolment can be completed.The school requires a copy of your child’s vaccination record on enrolment. If your child has not had their scheduled 4-5 year old vaccinations at enrolment you will need to supply the school with this record once vaccinations are completed. We would encourage you to have the vaccinations done at 4 years of age prior to enrolment.
CUSTODY ADVICE
Year One children attend full time from day one of Term One.
Custody and guardianship matters need to be recorded on the Admission Card.
In cases where custody advice is noted, the Family Court Order regarding custody and guardianship rights must be photocopied and placed in the student's file. Confidentiality is respected. Please keep the office informed of any changes to court orders.It is important that the school is kept informed of any changes to information originally provided on the Enrolment Card.
FACTIONS
All children in the school are placed into a faction upon enrolment. The placement of incoming students in their respective faction is carried out by the Registrar in consultation with the Deputy Principal. All members of a family are to be placed in the same faction. Some school activities: eg. sports, class activities, playground, and assembly, are organized where the Faction format can be utilized if considered appropriate.
The Factions and their colours at Westfield Park Primary School are as follows:BLUE MARRI
GREEN WANDOO
RED JARRAHFaction Sports Shirts are available through the P&C Uniform Shop.
CONTRIBUTIONS AND CHARGES
To help ensure that we have sufficient equipment for your children's needs we ask that you make an annual contribution as per the Contributions and Charges information sheet. This money may be paid direct to the Registrar at the office who will issue a receipt. If you wish to pay the money in instalments please advise us so we can take this into account with our budgeting.Note that the charges indicated are collected as activities occur in classrooms. The voluntary contribution would be appreciated early in the year and can be paid at the same time as the pre-ordered personal items list is collected.
If a child is responsible for the loss or damage to school equipment it may be necessary for parents to replace that piece of equipment.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
In the event of a child becoming ill or being injured at school the emergency contact name and phone number as entered on the Admission Card will be used - if the parent/carer/guardian cannot be contacted.
It is very important that the school be advised if any of these details are changed.Please ensure that the following details are kept up to date on your child's Admission Card.
a) Your own address and contact telephone number.
b) The name, address and telephone number of a contact person in case you are unavailable.
c) The name, address and telephone number of a local doctor to whom we can take the child in an emergency.
d) Any allergies such as bee stings, which affect your child, and any medication
used and/or provided by you.
e) Emergency Care Plan for students with known medical conditions that require specific interventions.EARLY ARRIVAL OF CHILDREN
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
Children are required by law to attend school unless prevented by sickness or other unavoidable cause. Parents are required to furnish the school with a note to explain each and every absence of a child. Where no note is received, the teacher is required to send home an official Absentee Note for the parent to fill in and return to the school. Children whose absenteeism is considered to be seriously excessive will be reported to the School Attendance Officer of the Education Department for further action.
Many teachers come early, but they do so to prepare their work for the day. Children should not arrive before 8.30am It is important that parents comply with this request. All children arriving before 8.30am must report to the covered assembly area. Children and/or parents are not to enter classrooms prior to 8.30am unless an appointment has been made with the teacher. Students who arrive early are required to sit in the undercover area and are not allowed to play with equipment or to run around in case of accident. CHILDREN ARRIVING LATE FOR SCHOOL
Children arriving at school after 9.00am, accompanied or unaccompanied, must report to the office. The late arrival will be noted before they proceed or are taken to their class by staff.This procedure allows us to monitor and intervene in cases where patterns of lateness are disrupting the education program.
GOING HOME
Children going home should not cross over Cammillo Road. THE UNDERPASS, purpose built for their safety, should be accessed by all pedestrians. WEDNESDAY EARLY CLOSE- School finishes at 2:30pm.
The school has responsibility for the care and supervision of children during school hours. Once the children arrive at school they are forbidden to leave the school premises without the permission of the Principal. Children going home for lunch must have a note from their parents.
Parents who collect children during school hours must report to the office for a leave pass before collecting the child from their classroom. These procedures are for the safety and protection of children, your assistance in complying with them helps us to ensure this.Children not collected by 2.30pm on Wednesdays must proceed to the Library where they will be supervised until such time that a parent/guardian arrives. A release form needs to be completed prior to pick up from the Library.
LEAVING SCHOOL PREMISES DURING THE DAY
The school has responsibility for the care and supervision of children during school hours. Once the children arrive at school they are forbidden to leave the school premises without the permission of the Principal. Children going home for lunch must have a note from their parents. They will be issued with a leave pass if they go home on their own.Parents who collect children during school hours must report to the office to complete paperwork before collecting the child from their classroom. These procedures are for the safety and protection of children, your assistance in complying with them helps us to ensure this.
SICK CHILDREN
While we do not like children to miss school, we ask that if your child is unwell, they STAY at HOME. We have NO FACILITIES to deal with sick children. Teachers dealing with unwell children interrupt classroom teaching time, and it is very distressing for the children to be away from the care of home at such times. Parents or emergency contacts will be phoned when children are ill at school. HEAD LICE
Pediculosis - Head Lice ( Nits )
Children with head lice are excluded from school. They are allowed to return the day after treatment has commenced. Parents are asked to check their child’s hair regularly and to treat when necessary. Vigilance on the part of all parents will assist in minimizing the extent of this community problem.
LOST PROPERTY
All articles of clothing, especially jumpers, shoes and coats, MUST BE CLEARLY MARKED WITH THE CHILD'S NAME. Lost property is the responsibility of the individual child. Teachers do not have the time to look for children's lost articles. A "Lost Property" basket will be kept in the wet area of each block for those items with no names. Parents are welcome to look for lost items when convenient.
Lost property is displayed at term’s end in the undercover area for students and parents to check for missing items.
MOBILE PHONESChildren are not permitted to use mobile phones whilst at school. Any need for contact with family during the school day can be facilitated through the admin office. Parents complete The Mobile Phone Record Sheet if they want their child to carry, and have access to, a mobile phone on the journey to and from school. On arrival at school students are expected to give their phones to teachers who will lock them away for the day. Any student who carries a mobile phone may have it confiscated if it is being used during the school day. The school takes no responsibility for the loss of mobile phones. BIKES/SCOOTERS
All bicycles must be chained up to avoid possible loss during school time. There have been instances where people passing the school have stolen bicycles during school times. Scooters brought to school are the responsibility of the child. In some cases teachers have allowed students to store these in classrooms. Please check with the individual teacher as to what he or she will permit in the context of their classroom. Under no circumstances are students allowed to ride these on school grounds. Students caught doing so will incur a ban on their scooter being brought to school.Parents are reminded of the safety requirements of bike riding and the possible safety gear available for scooter riders. Police Officers recommend that no child under the age of ten be allowed to ride a bike on the roadway unsupervised due to their lack of maturity in relation to road safety.
The school staff takes no responsibility for bikes or scooters brought to school.
USE OF CAR PARK
Parents are requested to respect the "No Entry" sign to the section of the car park nearest the school. This section is for staff vehicles only. The children should not walk through the car park under any circumstance, as this is highly dangerous. It is imperative that parents practise the utmost caution in the streets near the school when picking up children. Parking is also available on the corner of O’Sullivan Drive and Cammillo Road (use underpass to access the school grounds).
STUDENT INSURANCE
Children are not covered by insurance while they are at school. Private cover is available through the various insurance companies. DUTY
There are always sufficient teachers on duty in the different playing areas during the recess and lunch breaks to adequately attend to playground problems. If a teacher on duty is unaware of an incident it is the responsibility of the child to seek out the teacher and make a report. Where this occurs close to siren time the report should be made to the class teacher for follow up. COMMUNICATION
Close home/school contact is essential to support your child’s progress. Please use your child’s diary as a day-to-day tool for communication. To keep you informed a newsletter is sent home fortnightly. Please ensure yours is RECEIVED and READ.
Newsletters are normally sent home on Thursdays of the week when there is no Assembly. Parents are encouraged to make appointments to discuss concerns or changes that might impact their child with the class teacher. Should a parent wish to discuss matters with an administrator, appointments can be scheduled through the admin office.The formal staff/parent communication channels are the Westfield Park Primary School Council and the P & C Association. They provide a forum for school policy matters BUT NOT for the discussion of personal issues, which should be discussed with the class teacher or Principal.
SCHOOL BASED COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICER
PLAYGROUP
A playgroup for children aged from 0 to 4 years is held at the school on Monday mornings. If you are interested in bringing your young children to join in the fun please contact the school on 9390 5555 or contact The School Based Community Liaison Officer, Mrs Phyllis Angus.
Mrs Phyllis Angus is the school based Community Liaison Officer. She runs regular parent class representatives meetings and general parent workshops. If you are interested in volunteering in the school or want to know more about becoming involved please feel free to contact her on 9390 5555.SWIMMING LESSONS
ABORIGINAL/ISLANDER EDUCATION OFFICER
Ms Bronwyn Colbung is the school AIEO. She is available to support parents of Indigenous students. Please contact her on 9390 5555 to make an appointment.
The Department of Education and Training In-term swimming lessons will be held in term one in 2005. Students’ lessons are 40 minutes in duration and are conducted by fully accredited teachers over 10 days. The Education Department supplies teachers at no cost. Parents must cover the cost of transport and pool entry. See charge information sheet. PEAC
Some selected children are invited to do extension work in the Primary Extension and Challenge Program. If selected, parents will be contacted and may choose to send their child, remembering that transport and cost of courses is your responsibility.
EVACUATION
EXCURSIONS
To conform with Education Department of WA requirements and for general safety reasons, the school has set evacuation procedures designed to provide for the kinds of emergencies we hope never arise - earthquake, fire etc.
Parents are advised that regular practice will occur to ensure correct procedures are followed
Teachers often organise excursions to enhance the delivery of school programs. These activities are often significant in their contribution to achieving the desired outcomes of learning areas. However, educational excursions require school personnel to be particularly careful in protecting the welfare of students.
All schools have guidelines set down by the Department of Education and Training regarding the safety of students during activities away from the school environment. These guidelines tell us that we must have authorisation from parents/guardians to obtain emergency medical attention in the event of an accident. For this reason we request that you complete an authorisation form for each excursion.
Where costs allow and where they fit the education program, excursions may be organised at intervals. Written parental consent will be obtained for all educational excursions.
Generally, as excursion costs are calculated on whole class attendance, refunds will not be made in the event of your child being unable to attend. In certain circumstances, refunds on the entry component of the excursion may be considered.
Sufficient time is allowed for children to “remember” the excursion fee: children will not be afforded the luxury of ringing home for money / permission slips / equipment when they forget to bring these on the required date.
The Contributions and Charges Information sheet contains the details of expected costs for excursions in 2008.1. Accidents to Children
2. First Aid
3. Syringes and Needles
4. Infectious Diseases
5. Administration of medication
6. Immunisation Schedule1. ACCIDENTS TO CHILDREN
Minor injuries or illness during the day are normally attended to at school. In more serious situations, every endeavour is made to contact a parent to arrange for the child to be collected from school. In extreme emergencies the child may be taken to a doctor or hospital.Therefore, it is most important that parents ensure that EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS are kept up to date. These are kept on all Enrolment Cards and parents need to see that the School Registrar is advised if telephone numbers and/or addresses are altered.
2. FIRST AID
Minimal First Aid can be offered by the staff. The types of injury, which our staff can manage, may include - small cuts/bruises/grazes.Any injuries beyond this may necessitate a staff member taking the child to the nearest local Doctor (eg: Asthma attack) and something more serious may warrant an ambulance.
The general procedure is to assist the child to become more comfortable and to return to lessons. Beyond this the parents may be contacted at home or at work, and ALWAYS in the case of a head injury.Therefore, whenever there is any doubt at all, the problem is referred to the parents, who may make their own decisions on the medical treatment required by their child.
3. SYRINGES AND NEEDLES
In the event of a student discovering a syringe on the school grounds or on the way to school, the student should inform the Office. Under no circumstances is a child to pick up or dispose of a syringe or needle. Specific arrangements are in place to attend to such an occurrence.
PARENTS & CITIZENS ASSOCIATION
The P & C Association currently meets on the second Tuesday of each month. A notice of time and location is sent home through the school newsletter. The meetings are generally only an hour long and an open invitation exists for any interested parents and community members to attend.The P & C is the forum through which parents are able to support the school. It is not designed for complaints regarding individual teachers or students. These matters should be taken directly to the Principal.
One of the major functions of the P & C is fundraising. Funds raised are used to purchase additional resources or assets to improve the school environment or the standard of education for students. The P & C also run the School Canteen and School Uniform Shop.
The office bearers of the P & C are elected at the AGM, which is held at the first meeting each year. Financial members of the P & C pay a small levy each year, payable at the AGM or any monthly meeting. This gives them the right to vote on issues and at the A.G.M.
The Westfield Park P & C Association welcome new members and are constantly looking for new or different ideas. Members are not required to attend every meeting.
SCHOOL COUNCIL
The functions of the School Council are as listed in the Education Act:
1. To take part2. To promote the school in the community
- in establishing and reviewing from time to time, the school’s objectives, priorities and general policy directions;
- in the planning of financial arrangements necessary to fund those objectives, priorities and directions; and
- in evaluating the school’s performance in achieving them
3. To take part in formulising codes of conduct for the students at the school;
4. To determine in consultation with students and their parents and staff of the school a dress code for students when they are attending or representing the school.
In carrying out these functions the staff together with the school community have an opportunity to work together for the benefit of students attending the school.
It is important to also note that the School Council is not responsible for the following:
PARENT/TEACHER DISCUSSIONS
- Individual staff matters.
- Individual parent matters.
- Individual student matters.
- Implementation of curriculum
- Spending of P & C raised funds.
- Staff employment, assessment or development.
It is important that parents take the opportunity to discuss their children's progress with the class teacher on a regular basis.All teachers conduct Term 1 Parent Meetings to introduce themselves to parents and discuss the educational program of the class.
Parent interviews are offered to all parents in Term 1 and are encouraged throughout the school year.
Parents wishing to have an interview with teachers should contact the school by telephone or note to arrange an appointment time.
Parents are requested not to seek lengthy discussions with the teacher without making a prior appointment. Teachers cannot hold such discussions during teaching time or before school when they are busy preparing for the day's work. Interruptions to this preparation time can upset the whole day's routine.
HOMEWORK
A variety of homework activities can support the learning process.Reading, discussions, cooking, excursions and shopping are examples of real life learning activities which parents can engage children in to share in the teacher’s learning process.
Our school homework policy highlights the following considerations -
HOMEWORK HINTS
1. The nature and amount of homework set is the prerogative of the class teacher but complies to school policy and will be outlined to parents in Term 1 meetings and class newsletters.
2. Homework is not busy work rather it is supplementary activity to compliment the work being done in class.
3. There is no formal homework required of students in the junior and middle years of primary school however individual teachers may ask for parental assistance to initiate opportunities for younger students to do home reading, spelling or revision. Teachers may, in collaboration with parents, provide a student with some extra work to assist where a student is experiencing difficulties with learning.
4. The time occupied by homework will vary and students will only be expected to have formal homework four days in any week. Students in year seven should do no more than 45-60 minutes of homework a night.
5. Homework will not be given in such volume as to unnecessarily reduce the amount of time that children have at home for recreational and cultural pursuits.
6. Homework will not be given as a punishment.
7. Homework is the responsibility of the child and should be supervised by the parent.
Here are some suggestions, which may help parents.
1. Don't let homework sessions become a time of family disruption and tension. Work done under such conditions can reinforce a child's dislike for school and schoolwork.
2. Encourage your child, praise freely and offer constructive feedback.
3. If possible, supply your child with his own desk/table in his own room away from the distractions of other people, T.V. etc.
4. If helping or supervising your child's homework, choose a time when you can give all your attention to the task, eg. don't try to hear reading over the kitchen stove.
5. Keep a regular set time for the homework to be done, preferably not straight after a heavy meal.
6. If any problems at all arise which you cannot resolve, MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO DISCUSS IT WITH THE TEACHER.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES
As a general rule, formal assemblies are held on alternative Thursdays at 9.00am. to allow
pre primary students to attend. Dates and times for assemblies are given in newsletters and term calendars. Each class takes a turn to run the assembly.
The class running the assembly usually provides the item. Honour Certificates, and Citizenship Awards are handed out and this is usually the opportunity for delivering notices, which are of interest to the whole school. Parents are most welcome to attend.
Not all children receive an Honour Certificate or Citizenship Award. One certificate per class per assembly is awarded for specific effort. There is no rule that every child must receive a certificate during the course of the year.
CANTEEN
The Westfield Park Parents & Citizens Association operates a canteen which aims to provide lunches and supplements at moderate prices and make a small profit which is used by the P & C for the benefit of the students. The policy of the canteen is to supply food necessary for the growth and health of the students rather than make a high profit. Casual sales at recess and lunchtime include rolls and fresh fruit, flavoured milk and fruit drinks - icy poles are available at lunchtime only. Lunches are NOT available on the last day of each term.
Students are asked to order lunches and tender correct money before school.
New menus will be issued when necessary.The canteen has a paid organiser and is dependent on the help of volunteers. An efficient roster enables the canteen to be more viable and give better service to the students.
STUDENT SERVICES
For further information telephone the Canteen Supervisor, Mrs Sue Sturges on 9390 6487.
We are fortunate to have attached to the school a Psychologist, a Social Worker and Nurse who are trained and experienced to assist both children and parents with information, advice and guidance about problems arising out of unhappy situations at home or school.
The staff may be approached by a child, a parent or teacher. The Social Worker is available for home visits where these are warranted. Appointments are readily arranged by telephoning the school.
DENTAL THERAPY CENTRE
Dental Health Services continue to provide free dental care for students enrolled at school from five years of age upto and including Year 11.
If you are not enrolled, it’s not too late to enrol now.
Please ring the Westfield Park Dental Therapy Centre on 9390 8434
The Clinic is open from 8.15am - 4.30pm and some holidays.
LIBRARY/RESOURCE CENTRE
The school library has a collection of approximately 5000 fiction and non-fiction books, a small collection of CD Roms, posters, cassette tapes and videos.
Between 8.30 am and 3.15 pm, the library is open to students who wish to browse, borrow materials or research independently.To encourage care and responsibility amongst students, and to maintain the collection, all materials that are lost have to be paid for by parents.
It is also preferred that Pre-primary to Year 7 keep their books in a library bag to protect them.
The library as a focus for learning and social interaction:
Students are encouraged to use the library independently. This is achieved by:
(i) Teaching them how to access information through a variety of media.
(ii) Encouraging students to select books in their own time.
(iii) Encouraging individualised and small groups of 2-3 students to locate information and
research tasks assigned by the class teacher during school hours.
(iv) Enhancing their interest in literature.As part of the social development of students the library is open for recreational purposes during some lunch times.
MANAGING STUDENT BEHAVIOUR
To encourage a love of reading and raise funds for the library, a Book Fair is held once each year. Parents are welcome to browse through these books with their children. We also welcome parents who have the time to assist in the library, as well as those who simply want to keep abreast with what students are learning.
BACKGROUND
At Westfield Park Primary staff is committed and dedicated to the values of the Curriculum Framework. The five clusters of core values that expand to a set of thirty-two values underpin all work undertaken with students.The Five Clusters of core values are:
The integration of these values throughout the eight learning areas is done in a variety of ways. Teachers may include the use of the following:
- A pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to achievement of potential;
- Self acceptance and respect of self;
- Respect and concern for others and their rights;
- Social and civic responsibility;
- Environmental responsibility.
Value statements, in the form of posters, will be displayed in all classrooms
- goal setting exercises;
- maintaining a positive school ethos;
- accentuating the School Motto, School Creed and School Song;
- planning for individual needs of students in order to foster positive values learning;
- programs that engage students in self reflection, consideration and tolerance of others.
The code of behaviours for the school is summarised using the following four terms:
This code of behaviour is to be displayed in every classroom.
- Care;
- Courtesy;
- Respect;
- Responsibility.
BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT POLICY OUTLINE
Aims of the Behaviour Management planOur School aims to:
BULLYING
- create a positive environment within the school and classroom so that the teachers and students can work together in harmony.
- create a caring school environment where the rights and responsibilities of the individual are recognised and respected.
- recognise good behaviour of members of the school community whose actions promote a positive and caring school environment.
- establish a set of rules that protects the right of all individuals.
- establish a clear set of consequences for individuals who do not accept their responsibilities and break rules, so that they are encouraged to recognise and respect the rights of others.
- identify students "at risk" and implement strategies to help them.
- establish procedures so that conflicts can be resolved in a positive manner.
- give students the opportunity to build positive relationships with their teachers and other students.
- provide parents with an effective avenue of liaison with the school through the class techer of their children.
- spread pastoral care duties equitably amongst staff.
Our school is a no bullying zone. Staff actively discourage any form of bullying and are proactive with students to address any issues of bullying that arise. Students are encouraged to report any bullying incidents to their teachers so that these matters can be addressed. Should parents be aware that there child is being bullied they are asked to speak to the class room teacher. (Some children are hesitant to report matters themselves.)
Bullying is a problem across our society but is not tolerated at school. As a community we need to work together to eliminate bullying where it occurs. Your support of our Bullying Policy is sought. RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY
Right 1 We have the right to work at school without being disrupted. Responsibility Work without disturbing others Appropriate Behaviour We try out best;
We follow instructions;
We listen carefully;
We concentrate on our own work;
We line up and move around the school quietly.
Right 2 We have the right to be treated with honesty, respect and courtesy. Responsibility Always be cooperative and considerate of others. Appropriate Behaviour We are polite and respectful;
We are honest'
We are considerate and supportive of others.The Rights and Responsibilities of the School Community are displayed throughout the school. Regular discussions are carried out on these with the students.
Right 3 We have the right to work and play in a clean and safe environment. Responsibility Care for our school grounds and property;
Work and play safely and sensibly.Appropriate Behaviour We walk in all non-playing areas;
We wear hats when outdoors;
We walk our bikes and scooters in the school grounds;
We eat only in the set areas;
We show respect for property;
We only enter classrooms with permission;
We care for our school environment;
We leave school only with permission.STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
STAFF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Students have the RIGHT to: Students have the RESPONSIBILITY to:
- learn at school in a purposeful and supportive environment without being disrupted;
- be treated with respect, courtesy and honesty;
- work and play in a safe, secure, friendly and clean environment.
- work without disturbing others;
- always be cooperative and considerate of others;
- work and play sensibly, in a way that protects the safety and well-being of ourselves and others;
- care for our school grounds and property.
PARENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Staff have the RIGHT to; Staff have the RESPONSIBILITY to:
- be treated with respect, courtesy and honesty;
- teach in a safe, secure, friendly and clean environment;
- teach in a purposeful, supportive and non-disruptive environment;
- cooperation and support from parents.
- model respectful, courteous and honest behaviour;
- ensure that the school environment is kept neat, tidy and secure;
- establish good student relationships and a positive classroom atmosphere;
- ensure good organisation and planning;
- ensure that all children are given the opportunity to earn and receive acknowledgement of their work;
- consistently apply the school's behaviour management policy;
- report student positive and negative behaviour to parents.
Parents have the RIGHT to: Parents have the RESPONSIBILITY to:
- access a meaningful and good quality education for their child;
- be informed of curriculum material relevant to the school's behaviour management policy and procedures;
- be informed of their child's progress and of decisions affecting their child's health and welfare;
- be heard in an appropriate forum on mattes related to the rights of their child while in the care of the school.
- support the school in providing a meaningful and good quality education for their child;
- ensure that their child attends school and is punctual;
- ensure that the physical and emotional condition of their child is appropriate for effective learning;
- ensure that their child is provided with appropriate materials to make effective use of the learning environment.
- behave in a respectful, courteous, friendly and honest manner when addressing with the school any issue concerning their child;
- support the school in it's application of the behaviour management policy.
Staff at Westfield Park Primary strive to provide an inclusive learning environment where all students are valued and where all members of the learning community are to be respected. Matters of procedural fairness, equity, cultural sensitivity and inclusivity underpin the processes of the school in relation to the management of students’ behaviour. Further, staff members apply restorative justice practices in their attempts to support students engage as positive members of the school community.
Desirable Behaviours
Students are expected to display appropriate social behaviours as members of the school community. In displaying Care, Courtesy, Respect and Responsibility students will demonstrate the following:
• Consideration of the rights of others
• Thoughtfulness
• Respect for property
• Respect for the environment
• Courtesy to others through attentive listening and appropriate responses
• A sense of ownership and pride in their school.The School’s Behaviour Management Policy and Plan outlines the details of school rules and procedures for class and playground behaviours.
Students’ Rights
• learn at school in a purposeful and supportive environment without being disrupted:
• be treated with respect, courtesy and honesty:
• work and play in a safe, secure,
• friendly and clean environmentStudents’ Responsibilities
• work without disturbing others:
• always be cooperative and considerate of others;
• work and play sensibly, in a way that protects the safety and wellbeing of ourselves and others;
• care for our school grounds and property.THE RULES OF OUR SCHOOL
Student Compliance:
• Students must follow the instructions of teachers.
•
Designated student access areas:
• Students are only permitted in designated areas of the school. Students are only allowed in classrooms when a staff member is present.
The following areas are out of bounds to all students:
• wetland areas unless with a teacher.
• car parks and roadways.
• the area immediately behind the canteen.
• gardener’s shed.
• cleaner’s storerooms.
• the reserve on the edge of the oval unless with a teacher.
• students arriving at school early are expected to go to the undercover area and sit quietly until dismissed by staff to go to classes at 8.30am.
• The grassed area between the Administration Block and the intermediate block is a “Pupil Free Area”. Children should not use this area unless on a specific task, accompanied by their parents or directly involved in school business.
• Children are not allowed to return to classrooms once they have been dismissed for play at recess and lunch times.
• Students are not permitted to play on playground equipment before school.Students out of class during lesson:
• Students out of class during lesson time must carry a LARGE OUT OF CLASS PASSInternet access:
• Students and parents must sign the internet access policy agreement.
• No student is allowed to access the internet without a teacher present in the room.Leaving the school grounds:
• Students may only leave the school grounds during the school day after obtaining a permission note from the front office.Bicycles: Students bringing bicycles to school must:
• Use bike paths to enter and leave the school.
• Place bicycles in bike racks before school.
• Walk with their bicycles on school grounds.
• Students using scooters must also abide with the above. (Scooters may be stored in the classroom storerooms at the discretion of the teacher).
Skateboards:
• Skateboards are discouraged. They are not to be ridden on school grounds at any time.Unacceptable Behaviour:
The following behaviours are not acceptable at school:
• Spitting
• Obscene language or swearing
• Verbal or physical abuse of others, harassment or fighting
• Throwing dangerous objects
• Splashing, squirting, water bombs or wetting of other students
• Rough or dangerous games such as brandy or physical tackling
• Running on verandahs or walkways
• Sitting or swinging on verandah rails or goal posts on the oval
• Physical displays of affection between students
• Talking back or being disrespectful of adults.Medication:
• Students are not permitted to retain medication in their bags. All medication must be handed into the office with appropriate paperwork signed so that safe storage can be affected.Other items not permitted at school:
• Toys/sporting equipment
• Chewing gum
• Electronic equipment such as portable CD or tape players and computer games
• Knives or weapons of any kind or any explosive device
• Laser pointers
• MP3 Players
• Cameras
• Mobile Phones (Parents must sign the appropriate paper work if their child carries a mobile phone. These are to be surrendered to class teachers during the school day. This process is in place to reduce inappropriate use of mobile phones during school time.)
Food and Drinks:
• At the canteen students should join a queue. The saving of places or pushing in is not permitted.
• At lunchtime students are to eat their lunch in their designated area
• Students are not permitted to wander around while eating. Students should finish eating in the undercover area.Drop off and pick up zone:
• Students are not to leave the pathway until the vehicle has stopped. No student is permitted to move between cars to reach a vehicle for safety reasons.
• Students are expected to assess or exit the drop off area using the pathways.
• Students are not permitted to wander through the staff car park.Health and Safety
1. “We walk on the paths and concrete” - all children should be reminded that we don’t run.
2. All food scraps and papers must be deposited in bins provided.
3. Ball games are not permitted in the close proximity of any of the teaching blocks.
4. Students feeling unwell during recess or lunch, or having any problems in the playground need to seek assistance in the first instance from a Duty Teacher.
5. No sports equipment is provided for use before school starts each day. (Note all sports equipment is to be returned to the Sports Store at the end of the lunch session.)
6. All students are encouraged to play with children of approximately their own age i.e. one year either way is the general rule.
7. The undercover area is a passive area.Managing Behaviour
Staff use a variety of strategies to manage behaviour. The following list provides some indication of the types of actions taken to support appropriate behaviours:Positive Consequences
• Verbal praise and recognition
• Stickers. Stamps
• Certificates
• Credit slips, Bronze, silver and gold awards
• Free time
• Reward box prizes
• Diary notes
• Visits to Admin staff
• In term rewards
• End of term incentiveNegative Consequences
• Verbal reminder/ warning about unacceptable behaviour
• Count on the class tally chart as per the 123 Magic Discipline Program
• Time out mat/ chair
• Sent to Reflection Room Teacher
• Sent to admin for isolation period
• Restricted play or staggered play
• Demerit slip
• Community Service
• Detention
• Suspension: In/Out of schoolIndividual Behaviour Plans
Where a student’s behaviour escalates and there are repeated breaches of the school rules and code of conduct, parents will be asked to meet with staff to formulate an Individual Behaviour Plan. In certain circumstances the school may involve the school psychologist or members of the Canning District Student Services Team. Other agencies may also become involved in assisting with the management of severe behaviours. (E.G: Armadale Health Services- Doctors and Clinical Psychologists, PMH staff, SPER staff, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Family Pathways, Families at Work, Strong Families, Disability Services Commission and Department of Community Development)Use of Physical Restraint
In cases where a student is acting in a manner that places at risk the physical safety of themselves, other students, school staff, or any other person, or there is a risk of damage to property, staff may consider the use of physical restraint.Parents as Partners
Parents and caregivers are important partners with staff in fostering appropriate student behaviours. Open communication between school and home is important in supporting students who are experiencing difficulty. The school will communicate with parents when there are concerns about a student’s behaviour.
Parents are encouraged to contact teachers or school administrators if they have any concerns about their child’s behaviour or its management.
KEEPING IN TOUCH
Parents, please feel free to ring the school at any time to make an appointment with your child's teacher if you are concerned about their progress. We need this communication if we are to maximise your child's full potential. Please also feel free to contact the Principal at any time. The policy of an 'open door' will apply during 2005 as it has in previous years.
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