News

Get #FirstDay2021 ready for the new school year

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:29:39 AEDT

Be prepared for the new school year with our back to school tips and tools.

The start of a new school year can be both an exciting and demanding time for parents and students alike.

Our parents and carers Back to school hub can help you prepare for the year ahead with practical articles, tools, activities, calendars and checklists so you and your child can be ready from day1, term 1.

Find out about our COVID-safe school guidelines, download fun activity sheets to complete with your child, read about our health and wellbeing resources and more.

If your child is starting kindergarten, check out our starting school guide for everything you need to know from enrolment to what to expect throughout your child’s first school year.

Video – #FirstDay2021

Duration – 0:49

Schools Spectacular remixed for television

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 13:31:59 AEDT

Relive memorable acts and performances from the past four years in a special televised Schools Spectacular event.

The annual Schools Spectacular, cancelled this year due to the pandemic, will entertain audiences with a special television broadcast next week.

The Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed will air on Channel 7 on Saturday 5 December at 7pm.

The two-hour broadcast will feature memorable acts and spectacular moments from the past four years.

The show will also feature a surprise digital performance from this year’s graduating Class of 2020 with the Year 12 students sharing their passion and talents while celebrating with NSW Education for one last time.

This technical feat aims to inspire audiences as more than 70 dancers, singers, instrumental musicians and signing performers from across NSW assemble virtually for the performance.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, said this event is an opportunity to revisit memories of past performances and celebrate the talents of students in NSW public schools.

“Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed will be an extraordinary broadcast and a unique opportunity to look back at some of the many achievements of our talented performing arts students and their hard working and committed teachers from the past four years,” he said.

Audiences can also share their own memories and see highlights from past Schools Spectacular performances on the Schools Spectacular Facebook page.

Schools Spectacular Remixed 2020 is produced by the NSW Department of Education and proudly supported by Presenting Partners, Telstra and the NSW Teachers Federation, and Segment Partner, RØDE Microphones.

Celebrate Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed on Saturday 5 December at 7pm on Channel 7.

Supporting effective learning at school and home with the 'What Works Best: 2020 update'

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:25:06 AEDT

The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines the eight most effective teaching practices and how these can be supported at home.

Parents and carers can support effective student learning at home through the ‘What Works Best’ resource, now updated for 2020.

The What Works Best resource has been very successful helping teachers bring the best teaching practices into their classrooms. The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines eight evidence-based teaching practices that teachers can use in their classrooms to improve student learning.

You can find out more about these practices, how it’s used in schools, our handy guide for parents and carers and conversation tips to help continue student learning at home when you visit the ‘What Works Best’ parents and carers hub.

Supporting effective learning at school and home with the ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:11:08 AEDT

The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines the eight most effective teaching practices and how these can be supported at home.

Parents and carers can support effective student learning at home through the ‘What Works Best’ resource, now updated for 2020.

School Updates App - be prepared for any emergency

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:11:37 AEDT

Receive notifications of school closures. Opt in to receive timely, accurate notifications about the operational status of your chosen NSW public school(s).

The NSW School Updates App was created to help our parents and carers check on the status of their school during last summer’s bushfire season. And it’s been invaluable during COVID when schools were required to close for deep cleaning.

The app is free and available now for iOS and Android users.

Visit NSW School Updates App to download and for more information

Privacy information

The app doesn't store any personal or identifiable information.

Join in the virtual NAIDOC Week celebrations

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 17:46:48 AEDT

Education celebrates NAIDOC Week 2020 (8 – 15 November 2020) with the theme ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’.

It’s a time to reflect and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of the First Nation peoples – recognising them as the traditional owners of the land.

Schools were invited to film and submit videos to celebrate history, culture and achievements of past and present Aboriginal and Torres Strait students.

Secretary, Mark Scott will give an opening address on Monday, 9 November and then Aboriginal students run a Question and Answers session with Mark Scott, Cindy Berwick, President of the NSW AECG; Martin Graham, Deputy Secretary; Michelle Hall, Executive Director, Connecetd Communities and Karen Jones, Executive Director, Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships.

Tuesday will showcase how NSW public schools are embedding Aboriginal cultural practices. Special thanks to; Windale Public School Preschool, Terrigal Public School, Wilcannia Central School and Murrumbidgee Regional High School for participating.

Wednesday will highlight the outstanding achievements of Benson Igua Saulo, In-coming Consul-General to the US based in Houston (2021), as his is interviewed by current students from his former schools, Tamworth High School and Peel High School.

Thursday will see Uncle Michael Jarrett deliver a Gumbaynggirr language lesson.

Friday will close out our virtual celebration with a beautiful virtual choir led by Uncle Archie Roach. Students will join him singing ‘Took the children away’ and ‘Children came back’.

Join the virtual celebration via video streams hosted by Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships , each weekday morning, at 9:30am, during NAIDOC Week 2020.

2021 term dates now available

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 15:30:52 AEDT

Most students start Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division) in Term 1 2021.

To support a strong start to 2021, school staff will now have two school development days at the beginning of Term 1.

For 2021, students will return to school on Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division), unless otherwise notified by the school. School term dates for 2021 are now available.

Western division schools, also known as ‘late start’ schools, are located in the far western region of NSW. Check if your school is a Late start school.

#MathsTrainsBrains for the future

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:02:56 AEDT

Parents and carers can now explore the importance of mathematical skills with the new Everyday Maths experience, featuring activities, resources and explainers targeted to year groups.

The digital launch is part of the NSW Mathematics Strategy 2025, which aims to strengthen mathematics teaching in NSW public schools, promote understanding of the usefulness of mathematics and build positive perceptions of mathematics.

Tune into Education LIVE to find out how high profile Australians like media guru Kellie Hush, former Olympian Steve Solomon and former Masterchef Alice Zaslavsky use maths in their everyday lives.

Video – #MathsTrainsBrains

Duration – 1:00

Have your before and after school care needs changed?

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 10:44:07 AEST

The Department of Education wants to hear from all NSW parents about their specific care needs in light of COVID-19.

The NSW Government is committed to making before and after school care available to families at all NSW public primary schools, but we understand your work arrangements and care needs may have changed due to COVID-19.

To better understand how parents can best be supported to access the before and after school care, the department and Service NSW have developed a short survey.

Have your say:

visit service.nsw.gov.au/basc
email BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Updates to COVID-19 restrictions affecting NSW schools

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 22:58:05 AEST

Latest COVID-19 case locations in NSW

NSW Health has a website to inform you of the actions you should take if you have been in a location where there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 within NSW. Monitor the site and follow the relevant health advice if you have been at any of the locations at the specified dates and times.

Students and staff who have travelled through or visited Victoria

All students and staff who have visited Victoria must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for 14 days.

Except for students and staff who reside in a border town, all students and staff who have visited Victoria in the 14 days before the commencement of school should not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

Students and staff who are unable to return to school due to these self-isolation requirements will be supported to learn and work remotely during the self-isolation period via the online learning hubs until they return to on-campus learning and teaching.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Information for students and staff on new NSW-Victoria border restrictions

The NSW Government has announced further tightening to the restrictions for people travelling across the NSW-Victorian border.

From midnight Tuesday 21 July a border zone, defined along the Murray River, will be established.

Anyone travelling from Victoria to NSW must apply for a new permit through Service NSW.

Victorian residents who have been in one of the restricted areas in Victoria in the last 14 days must not enter NSW.

Attending schools along the border

Current permits will expire at midnight, Tuesday 21 July. We strongly encourage all parents and staff to check they have a permit and if not, apply for one through Service NSW.

Students and staff who reside in Victoria will need to be eligible for a border permit to attend school in person.

Under the new public health order, the border zone has been reduced significantly.

Not all students and staff may be eligible for a border permit under the public health order. If you are not eligible for a border permit you will not be able to cross the border. Students and staff will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

Further information on the new border zone is available from Service NSW.

Border permits can be rescinded at any time if a cluster outbreak in your community occurs. We encourage parents to monitor local circumstances regularly as things may change in the coming days or weeks.

Transport to and from school will run as scheduled. For travel advice to and from school refer to Transport for NSW.

New restrictions affecting boarding schools

Any student returning from Victoria to reside at a boarding school in NSW must now self-isolate for 14 days in a NSW location separate to the boarding school. They must also obtain a negative test swab from day 10 of their isolation before entering school and have written confirmation of the test result and the period spent isolating.

Those who are unable to return to boarding while they are completing the self-isolation period will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

More information

Returning to school in Term 3

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 11:09:45 AEST

Our school will be open to welcome students back to onsite learning from the beginning of Term 3 – Tuesday 21 July 2020.

As you would be aware the border between NSW and Victoria closed as of 12:01am 8 July 2020.

All staff and students returning from Victoria after this time must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days.

All students who have been in Victoria in the last 14 days before the commencement of school must not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Students who are unable to return to school due to the border closures or self-isolation will be supported to learn remotely.

We would like to remind our community the most important action you can take is to practise good hand hygiene and physical distancing. Our school will be vigilant in implementing these requirements to minimise the risk at school.

Curriculum reform focuses on deep learning

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 16:11:37 AEST

Changes to the NSW school curriculum will be the biggest education shake-up in 30 years.

The reforms, announced by the NSW Government on Tuesday, will start rolling out in 2021. All Kindergarten to Year 12 students will learn the new curriculum by 2024.

The changes are in response to the NSW Curriculum Review by Professor Geoff Masters and will ensure every student is prepared and ready for their future.

The reforms are based on:

decluttering the curriculum by reducing unnecessary subjects
a ‘back to basics approach’ that will see a renewed focus on the core subjects of English, maths and science
Year 11 and Year 12 prequalification for university and TAFE courses.

Education Week to celebrate learning together

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 09:21:48 AEST

Education Week 2020 will be held from Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August.

Education Week is our annual week of celebration to highlight the achievements of our students and staff and the role of public schools as the cornerstone of their communities.

This year’s theme is ‘Learning together’ and it reflects the incredible months of 2020 where NSW public school students have continued to learn and achieve, despite natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our schools have experienced significant disruption but our staff – in partnership with parents and carers – have worked tirelessly to ensure that high quality teaching and learning has continued for all students.

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott said the best learning takes place when there is a partnership of students, teachers, parents, carers and the community.

“Our schools and families benefit from strong, respectful relationships where responsibility for student learning is shared,” Mr Scott said.

“As our lives slowly return to normal, it’s time for us to reflect on the achievements and resilience of our entire school community. We look forward to celebrating Education Week with all of you in August.”

Statewide events for Education Week include:

a live stream launch on Monday, 3 August
activities for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day on Tuesday, 4 August
a live streamed student film festival on Wednesday, 5 August.

Schools are invited to share photos, videos and stories of local celebrations on social media using the hashtag #EdWeek20 or send an email to educationweek@det.nsw.edu.au.

NSW students return to the classroom full-time

Tue, 19 May 2020 09:20:03 AEST

Students across NSW will be back in the classroom full-time from next Monday, 25 May.

The success of the phased return to face to face teaching has demonstrated the education system and community are ready for school to come back full-time.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell thanked school communities and parents for their patience during this difficult time.

Ms Berejiklian said a return to full-time face to face teaching and learning is crucial for the education progress of every child in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.

“Since starting a managed return to the classroom, we have seen a strong degree of confidence from our school communities in managing COVID-19 and a clear desire for all students to be back at school,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We expect schools to stick with the health advice – increased cleaning, access to hygiene supplies and compliance with hygience practices – and look forward to seeing all students back on campus five days a week.

“The health advice is very clear; a return to full-time face to face teaching is safe.”

Over the last two weeks schools have been working hard to support students practise good hygiene and implement new routines at school, which has been successful giving the community confidence that full-time face to face teaching can resume.

Ms Mitchell said she was eager to see students back in the classroom full-time.

“Our principals, teachers, support staff, parents and carers have gone above and beyond to continue the education of our students while we respond to this pandemic,” Ms Mitchell said.

“My priority is the education of our children. We know that parents across NSW share our desire for students to be back in school, and that is our expectation.

“Schools will need to maintain the measures and precautions they have put in place for the foreseeable future, including no assemblies and excursions.

“Teachers will be focused on identifying where their students are at in their education and we will be supporting them to recognise and assist those students who need additional help.”

Read the department's latest advice for families.

Keeping our school COVIDSafe

Tue, 12 May 2020 15:01:44 AEST

Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community by downloading the app.

Social distancing and washing your hands remain the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The COVIDSafe app, developed by the Australian Government, helps to reduce the spread by allowing health experts to find close contacts faster and more accurately.

The app does not track your location. It uses your phone's Bluetooth to record other users you come into contact with, so if they test positive, NSW Health can let you know.

Find out more:

Students begin return to classrooms

Fri, 08 May 2020 17:49:56 AEST

From Monday 11 May (Week 3) students will begin a phased return to school.

The phased return will maintain distancing in the classroom while supporting students' education and wellbeing.

Most students will continue learning from home and will only attend school 1 day each week.

Our school will continue to provide detailed information about the return to the classroom throughout the rest of Term 2.

Measures to keep schools clean and safe for all students and staff include:

25% more cleaning time focused on high-touch areas
priority deliveries of hygiene supplies including soap and hand sanitiser
local school changes to pick up, drop off, lunch and recess times and processes.

Religion and ethics lessons continue at home

Tue, 05 May 2020 11:04:54 AEST

Students learning from home can continue to access Special religious education (SRE) and Special education in ethics (SEE) classes.

Face-to-face SRE, SEE and Voluntary student activities of a religious nature in schools (VSA) will not be available until schools resume normal operations.

In response to requests from school communities, SRE and SEE approved providers are delivering their authorised curriculum with modifications to allow students to learn from home from the start of Term 2.

The lesson content and the mode of delivery has been reviewed and modified for easy access by students. The approved providers recognise that learning at home will not replicate face-to-face learning at school.

The learning from home SRE and SEE programs are now available:

Tune in at 8.45am to NSW Education LIVE

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:07:46 AEST

To welcome our students back for Term 2, join us at 8.45am from Wednesday 29 April to Friday 8 May for a special live stream.

Musician Guy Sebastian, TV foodies Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and Manu Feildel, Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis, Sydney Swans player Ollie Florent, and our very own Eddie Woo, have donated their time to kick start learning from home each morning from 29 April - 8 May.

Tune in each day at 8:45am. We can't wait to see you!

NSW students to transition back to the classroom in Term 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 09:33:56 AEST

NSW school students will gradually transition back to the classroom during Term 2 as the Government continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell outlined the plan for students attending NSW public schools to progressively return to face-to-face learning in week three of Term 2.

Ms Berejiklian said health advice continues to be that schools remain open, and parents, teachers and students can be confident that school is safe place.

“We are grateful to all families who kept their children home from school at the end of Term 1 and to teachers who worked tirelessly to deliver education online,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This allowed us critical time to prepare our schools to develop better online learning options and for considering additional hygiene measures to allow schools to return.

“We know that nothing is more important than a child’s education, and we must begin to return our students to their classrooms in a considered way.

“Under these changes, from week three of Term 2, every student will be attending school for one day a week.

“We will look to increase the number of days students are at school in a staged way and hope to have all children back at school full-time by Term 3.

“I’d like to thank the Catholic and Independent schools for working with the NSW Government at this time, as well as staff, including teachers, principals and cleaners, for working so hard to prepare for a resumption of school.

“I’d also like to thank parents for what has been a tough month, often juggling working from home and caring for children. We hope the partial resumption of on campus learning will provide some much needed relief to those families.”

During the first stage of on-campus learning, parents will be encouraged to keep their children home except on their allocated day of face-to-face learning. Initially, about a quarter of a school’s students are expected to be on site at any one time. The specific days students will be required to attend school each week will vary from school to school and will be clearly communicated to parents.

Classes will be split across schools, allowing schools to appropriately social distance students and teachers.

As always, schools will remain open for students who need them and no child will be turned away from school.

Ms Mitchell said careful consideration had been given to support the school community, providing clarity and certainty on the path forward.

“This plan provides a clear path that balances community concerns with a need to deliver continuity of quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Hand sanitiser will be available in all classrooms and provisions are in place for at-risk teachers to work from home. Drop off, pick up, recess and lunchtimes will also be staggered to ensure social distancing.”

In addition to the staged return to school, the NSW Government has committed up to $95.7 million to help keep casual and temporary school staff engaged in active work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our casual and temporary teachers and other non-teaching staff across NSW schools are critical to our education system, and will help ensure the educational outcomes for our students during this staged return,” Ms Mitchell said.

A cross-sector working group of teachers will also be established to report back to the Minister on recent innovations and educational developments assembled during the COVID-19 period that are suitable to support future educational delivery.

“It’s important that we have an inventory of the cutting edge teaching solutions and recognise the best efforts of our amazing NSW teachers during a difficult time,” Ms Mitchell said.

Teachers will have an additional day to prepare for Term 2 on Tuesday 28 April making the first day of term for students Wednesday 29 April.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Keep your family entertained these school holidays

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 17:05:05 AEST

We know it’s been a challenging Term 1. Just as many communities began recovering from fires, droughts and floods, we moved to learning from home to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The school holidays are coming, which means your family is about to have a lot of free time and nowhere to go.

To support you while looking after children we’ve put together a handy guide of activities to stimulate young minds and keep your family busy and engaged.

Check out our parents and carers toolkit for important self-care tips, free parenting podcasts and apps.

If you need a break, the Service NSW before and after school care finder can help locate vacation care programs near you.

No child will be turned away from school

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:28:51 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education's advice regarding schools is very clear. No child in NSW will be turned away from school.

Schools will remain open for parents who want their children to attend irrespective of their profession or working arrangements.

The decision to keep schools open has been made based on advice from NSW Health, which has not changed.

The department will provide continuity of learning for all students both on and off campus and the Premier, for practical reasons, has encouraged parents to keep their children at home if they could.

Schools will communicate directly with parents on what learning options are available using their communication methods such as the school website, newsletters, emails and other online tools.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

New COVID-19 restrictions begin as schools move towards online learning

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 13:39:32 AEDT

The NSW Government has taken significant new steps to increase restrictions across the state - triggering the next level of enforcement necessary to fight COVID-19.

Following the decisions made by National Cabinet, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed the shutdown to protect NSW citizens.

"I understand many in the community are worried, and these changes will affect everyday lives, and may be upsetting," Ms Berejiklian said.

"But these decisions will make us all safer, they are taken with the health of all citizens in mind, and they must be taken now.

"If you have the capacity to work from home, you should do so."

In line with health advice, from midday today, the following non-essential activities and businesses will be temporarily shut down:

pubs, registered clubs
gyms, indoor sporting venues
cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs
restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery
religious gatherings, places of worship (excluding small weddings and funerals that comply with the 4m2 rule, which can proceed).

It is important to note essential gatherings at places such as hospitals, workplaces, constructions sites and for public transport are exempt and will continue.

As confirmed last night by the Prime Minister schools will remain open, based on health advice, which has not changed.

But from tomorrow, in NSW, for practical reasons, parents are encouraged to keep their children at home.

"Because nearly 30 per cent of children are already being kept out of school, for practical reasons NSW is encouraging parents to keep their children at home," Ms Berejiklian said.

"This will ensure there is only one unit of work, whether the student is at home or at school.

"No child will be turned away from school."

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Schools to implement distancing measures

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 20:32:10 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education is introducing proactive measures to limit the impact of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in our schools.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the Department of Education, today announced that schools would adopt social distancing measures requiring them to cancel assemblies, excursions, travel, some events and conferences.

Mr Scott said these measures are precautionary and designed to reduce exposure via non-essential gatherings.

"Schools have been a focus of the community and the government as the impacts of coronavirus have developed globally," Mr Scott said.

"From Monday onwards, I expect school assemblies and substantial gatherings to be cancelled, along with all excursions.

"The community expects schools to be as safe as possible. We are implementing these measures to provide peace of mind for students, parents and staff."

"These cancellations also extend to inter-school arts, sports, initiative activities and events.

All major arts, sports and initiative activities and events will temporarily be ceased until further notice. This includes whole-school sporting events and inter-school events involving three or more schools.

"Local inter-school sport and other activities can proceed, but we ask organisers to ensure that as far as possible, reasonable precautions are taken," Mr Scott said.

"I trust our principals and staff to show leadership during this time."

Schools will be provided with more detailed advice and suggestions on how they can adjust their day to day activities with minimal disruption.

The department is continuing to prepare for further closures if necessary with scaling up of technology, additional training of staff and preparation of offsite lessons.

Families and students in self-isolation can find useful information to continue learning from home.

For the latest information, check COVID-19 advice for schools.

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:59:32 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:15:13 AEDT

Starting school is a big moment in a child’s life. Here’s how to make the most of it.

We can’t wait for you to join us for a great year – the first step towards a lifelong love of learning.

Visit the department’s primary school resources for hints, tips and checklists to make a great start to the new school year, whether your child is starting Kindergarten or Year 6.

You’ll find:

Getting ready for primary school booklet – everything you need to be #Ready2020
Daisy’s First Day – the story of Daisy the koala’s first adventure at Kindergarten
advice from teachers – they’ve been through this before.

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:31:37 AEDT

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way to protect your family from harmful diseases this holiday season and into 2020. Visit your doctor for general health and vaccination advice.

Immunisation not only protects you and your family but also others in your community, by reducing the spread of preventable diseases.

Children starting school in 2020 must have up-to-date immunisations to enrol.

These vaccinations help protect children from highly infectious and severe diseases including whooping cough and measles.

Travel health

If you’re travelling overseas during the school holidays, you may need vaccinations or medication – both for general health protection and for region-specific diseases.

If you’re travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, you may even need a flu shot.

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:56:39 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 14:22:08 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:35:58 AEST

We want to better understand your needs for before and after school care in NSW.

Have your say today on before and after school care.

Fill out the survey by Service NSW to share your specific care needs and to register interest to stay informed of new developments.

Your input will provide insights into where there are gaps in service availability and help us to deliver extra places where they are needed.

You can also contact the team responsible for rolling out the before and after school care commitment at BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:22:31 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Get involved at home

Join in at home and read your child a bedtime story. Studies show that reading a bedtime story six days a week can give kids almost a year’s head start when they begin school. Reading has also been shown to develop empathy, promote critical thinking and help children find a sense of self.

Join in from the classroom

Bestselling children’s author and illustrator Matt Stanton will broadcast live to primary school children across the country from the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday 17 September. We invite schools to register for the livestream of this free event.

Stanton’s author talk is among more than 140 events happening across the country involving more than 50 authors.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – #ReadingHour authors talk about their favourite place to read

Duration: 0:38

Looking for a good spot to open a book? We asked authors Benjamin Law, Morris Gleitzman, Jacqueline Harvey and Mick Elliott about their favourite place to read.

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:41:59 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:05:28 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:36:58 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:23:08 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:11:53 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:09:15 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:13:48 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:19:15 AEDT

Now that students are back to school after a break it’s a good time to chat with your child about safe behaviours when you walk or commute to school.

Here are our top tips to help our students make a safe trip:

1. Be alert and aware

Take note of the dangers you come across on your walk and bring them to your child’s attention. Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways. Talk to your child about being alert in a road environment.

2. Hold hands

When on the footpath, at a crossing or in a car park always hold your child's hand. It is advised to do this up to the age of at least 8 years old and closely supervise until at least the age of 10.

3. Choose a safe crossing

Lead by example and choose a safe place to cross the road. Explain why it is the safest place to cross.

4. Set a good example

Your child watches everything you do, so if you cross at the crossing they will too. It is also important to share these messages with other carers who may walk with your child to school.

5. Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time you cross the road

Discuss this important road safety message. STOP! one step back from the kerb. LOOK! continuously both ways. LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK! whether it is safe to cross.

Practise makes perfect

The more supervised practice your child can get the better, so why not make Term 1 the start of a new routine to walk with your child to school more often.

Older children may be ready to make the journey to school independently. Before they take this step, observe if they are road safe and reinforce the road safety messages.

For more information, check out the department’s pedestrian safety advice for students, parents and carers.

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 14:57:40 AEDT

The first day of Kindergarten and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you make the most of this time and enjoy the experience, we’ve compiled some useful tips and checklists. We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

Our film #FirstDay2019 captures the excitement – and the nerves – of the rite of passage that is the first day of Kindergarten.

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:23:34 AEDT

Like all NSW public schools, this week we will receive a School Budget Allocation Report with our funding for 2019. The report will help us manage our total budget delivered through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM).

The RAM supports schools through needs-based funding to ensure a fair, efficient and transparent allocation of funds. Our school has the flexibility to make local decisions based on the specific needs of our students.

We will use our 2019 funding to support students and improve educational outcomes. The school executive will continue to work with the school community as we implement the school plan using this needs-based funding.

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Number Crunchers

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

Up with the BEST!

In exciting Figtree Heights news, School Vice Captain, Nathanael Burns competed in the Regional Finals of Number Crunchers recently at Mount St Thomas Public School. Number Crunchers is an exciting and challenging mathematics competition for Year 6 students. Students participating in Number Crunchers enjoy the challenge and thrill of performing mental mathematics to an audience and completing jumbled Rubik's cubes in lightning fast times. Nate was superior in his Number Cruncher round and won, meaning he will now participate in the State final in Sydney on September 3. The top number crunchers will be competing for the title of Grand Champion and Runner-up Champion. Nate also performed extremely well in the Rubik's Cube challenge, completing his cube in 1 minute and 12 seconds, no mean feat! Congratulations, Nate! We can't wait to hear how you go at the State Final.

Recycle and Win a Community Garden for our School

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

Recycle and Win!

As part of the 'win a Community Garden' for our school, not only do we need you to drop in your used toothbrushes and toothpaste containers we also need you to go online and vote for our school. Please click on the following link and let all your friends and family know to vote too. It is one vote per day. It would be incredible to win this initiative by helping our environment.

Vote Here

GRIP Leaders Day

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:28 AEST

Making an impact...

Twenty four of our school leaders took part in the GRIP Leadership conference at the University of Wollongong. Our leaders joined 300 other students from around the Sydney and Wollongong areas to learn about action they can take at a school level. The day way exciting, engaging and inspiring. Stay tuned to see what our leaders initiate with their newly developed leadership

The FHPS Fete is coming to TOWN!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:27 AEST

Summer Uniform Changeover

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

There is always debate over when it is time to change from winter to summer uniform. This year has not been any different. Students have been hounding Mrs Hayward of late and this time she thought she would give students an opportunity to convince her why the change should be made, instead of just saying yes. The FHPS student body took this challenge to an exciting level and really thought outside the box for ways they could get their point across. Head over to our Facebook page and take a look at these sample videos the students in years 5 and 6 made for Mrs Hayward.

Literacy and Numeracy Week

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:30 AEST

At Figtree Heights, we celebrate literacy and numeracy,

every week and this week was no exception. Literacy and numeracy skills are essential in every facet of our life and we have particularly enjoyed celebrating and sharing some of the wonderful things we do at our school, with our community. Take a look at our photo gallery to see some of the spectacular moments caught on camera.

K-2 Public Speaking

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:29 AEST

This week we had a selection of K-2 students present a speech in the hopes to be selected to represent our school at the Figtree Community of Schools K-2 Public Speaking Competition. Congratulations to the following students who were successful: Jony I, Ty A, Ethan D, Imogene A, Bryn F and Byron M.

Congratulations to our SIMF stars

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Congratulations to our Southern Illawarra Music Festival Choir. Last night the audience was blown away with our individual performance and wowed by the massed choir items. It is always wonderful to see another spectacular display of how Public Education provides countless opportunities for our children to shine. Well done Figtree Heights! You were simply incredible. A big thank you to Mr Costello and Miss Lysandrou for all their effort preparing our choir and also to Miss Sharpe for assisting in the countless hours leading up to this event.

Figtree High School Newsletters

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:28 AEST

You will now find copies of the Figtree High School Parent Bulletin on our website. There are some great news articles in this bulletin and it is a fantastic way to stay informed with all the wonderful things that are happening at our local high school. You will be able to find these on the Newsletter section of our website. Happy reading!!!

Citizenship Teams Invite

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Swimming Champion Assembly Invite

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

Figtree High School EXPO Night

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:28 AEST

Southern Stars online applications OPEN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

Online applications for 2017 Southern Stars individual performances are now open. Please follow this link to ensure you do not miss out.

https://southernstarseoi.wordpress.com/auditions/

Applications close on March 3rd.

Annual General Meeting

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Our Parents and Citizens Association will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 15th March. This meeting will be held in the Hive at 6:30pm. Please see the attached file for all information regarding this AGM. If you have any questions, please contact our P&C.

2017 AGM Information (pdf 1166 KB)

Twilight Night

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:33 AEST

Come and join the fun...

Our annual Twilight Night is approaching. Make sure you lock this event in your calendar. There will be a range of dinner options available and at 6pm the FHPS P&C Gold Coast Holiday raffle will be drawn...have you got your tickets yet?

Hack To The Future!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:29 AEST

Click on the image to watch our SUPERSTAR Anastasia's hack.

'Zootopia' Movie Night

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:33 AEST

FHPS P&C Present 'Zootopia'

What do you have planned for Thursday 15th September? Come on down to Figtree Heights 'Thomas Stadium' and watch Zootopia. It will be a wonderful community event with food stalls available to grab dinner as you watch the movie. We can't wait to see you there!

Premier's Debating Challenge

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

Congratulations to our Debating Team. Yesterday, Madi, Marcus, Jacob and Ziggy took part in the Premier's Debating Challenge held at Lindsay Park Public School. In the first round of the day we were the negative team and were victorious over a very strong Nareena Hills PS team. In the second round of the day we took on Lindsay Park Public School in a hot topic of 'Animals should be banned from all sports'. We were the affirmative team and in a very close battle were again announced as the winners. The students were gracious in winning and now look forward to the next round of challenges. Congratulations team!

Reporting to Parents Survey

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

We are seeking your feedback...

In Week 3's newsletter there was a link to a quick survey about our reporting to parents format. Please click on the link in the newsletter to complete this survey. We thank you in advance for your feedback.

Blue Dragon OLYMPATHON

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Postponed...

Due to the terrible weather our Blue Dragon Olympathon was postponed on Friday. The new date is Friday 19th August. We cannot wait to see all the students dressed in their country colours and participate in all the exciting sporting activities we have planned. Parents and loved ones are welcome to come and cheer on.

Congratulations to our Netballers

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Last week our school netball knockout team played against Mawarra Public School in a tight Round 4 match. Unfortunately, we were not successful in our plight to the State finals, however, our girls played with courage and determination. Thank you to Miss Davies who coached the girls through all their matches and training sessions. We cannot wait for next year!

Kindergarten 2017 Information Night

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:30 AEST

Student Representative Council Term 2

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

Our Student Representative Council members for Term 2 will be receiving their badges at Super Star Assembly on Wednesday, May 11. Please come along and watch this special occasion. The assembly will start at 8:55am with the badges being presented after our Bronze and Silver Super Stars.

A Night at the Fair

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Working Bee THIS SATURDAY (19th March)

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:33 AEST

This coming Saturday we will be holding our first Working Bee for 2016. Can you lend a hand to make our school space a place where students thrive in their environment? If you love our school then pop on in and help out. The Working Bee will be on from 9am - 12pm. We hope to see you there!

Easter Hat Parade

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

Come one, come all to our Easter Hat Parade

This coming Thursday, March 24, our school is holding our Easter Hat Parade. The parade will begin at 10am under the COLA. Make sure you are there early enough to grab a seat!

All students will be making their Easter Hats at home and then proudly parade their creation for friends and family. Please note children may wear mufti clothes, however, appropriate footwear for school must be worn.

Our Year 6 parents have been busy putting together raffle prizes for the day so make sure you bring gold coins to purchase your tickets. Tickets will be available from 10am.

Facebook

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

Figtree Heights Facebook page is calling you...

Make sure you click on our 'LIKE' Facebook page for all recent updates and photos of upcoming events. This page is a great way to see canteen and P&C announcements and stay up to date with all things related to our upcoming 'Night at the Fair'.

University of Wollongong Science Fair

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:33 AEST

Good Luck to all our students participating in the University of Wollongong Science Fair this week.

We wish you all the best and can not wait to see your experiments on display. We will be having a second showing of these experiments in the school hall on Friday for all those students and parents who cannot make it to the University.

Indigenous Mural - a Stage 3 News Story

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:29 AEST

District Athletics PROPOSED Program

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

Following is a link to the CWPSSA 2015 District Athletics Carnival PROPOSED Program of events. Please be aware, although unlikely, events may change.

Proposed Program 2015 (pdf 64 KB)

Figtree High School Aboriginal Mural Unveil

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:27 AEST

Congratulations Figtree High!

Congratulations to the students, staff and community of Figtree High School on the unveiling of their Aboriginal Mural as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations. Mrs Hayward and our School Captains, Tess and Bailey, were lucky enough to witness this event, along with other students from our local community of schools and Figtree High students. This mural represents the hard work and dedication of a number of Aboriginal and non-Indigenous students and teachers over the course of the year. It is absolutely incredible and is displayed with pride in the main quadrangle.

Exceptional Teacher Awards!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:30 AEST

Nominations Now OPEN!

How exceptional is your teacher? How would you like to show them how amazing they are? Nominate them today for the Office Max A Day Made Better competition.

Nominate your teacher to go in the running for them to win a surprise event, $2000 worth of classroom supplies and an Apple iPad for your classroom.

Nominate now at Exceptional Teacher Awards

Exceptional teachers do more than just teach - by going above and beyond the call of duty they inspire, nurture and encourage students to build knowledge confidence and life skills.

NOMINATE TODAY!

District Cross Country

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

Central Wollongong PSSA Cross Country

The District Cross Country Carnival is ON tomorrow at Kembla Joggers, Integral Energy Park, Brownsville. The program is as follows:

9:15am Assemble

9:30am Walk course

9:50am Managers Meeting and Welcome

10am 3km Senior courses 12/13 girls and boys

11 years girls and boys

SENIOR PRESENTATIONS

12pm 2km courses 8/9 girls and boys

10 years girls and boys

JUNIOR PRESENTATIONS

2pm FINISH

All the very best to all our Figtree Heights runners tomorrow! It is such an achievement to run at a District Carnival. We are very proud of you!

P&C Meeting THIS WEDNESDAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

Mother's Day Stall

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:30 AEST

THIS FRIDAY, Year 6 students will be holding our annual Mother's Day Stall. All presents are $5 and students will need to ensure they bring this money to purchase a present on Friday. A flyer for the event will be sent home so please keep an eye out.

District Cross Country POSTPONED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

The Central Wollongong PSSA District Cross Country Carnival, set down for this Thursday has been POSTPONED. The new carnival date is TUESDAY 19th May. All features are the same. Please make sure that permission notes are handed back into school stipulating the new date.

The postponment of this carnival is out of the control of our Central Wollongong Cross Country convenors. Kembla Joggers (who have responsibility of the track) have closed the venue due to weather.

We thank you for your understanding on this matter.

Opportunity Class Applications Due

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

A reminder to all Year 4 parents who are wishing to apply for the Opportunity Class (OC) in 2016. Registrations are open now. Closing date is THIS FRIDAY (15/5/2015). Please remember, you, as a parent, must apply online. The school CANNOT apply on behalf of a student.

Premier's Reading Challenge

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

PRC Log On use your portal log on details

The Challenge aims to encourage a love of reading for leisure and pleasure in students, and to enable them to experience quality literature. It is not a competition but a challenge to each students to read, to read more and to read more widely.

PRC OPEN NOW

PRC CLOSES 21st August 2015

HOW MANY BOOK DO I NEED TO READ TO COMPLETE THE CHALLENGE?

WHAT BOOKS ARE INCLUDED?

click link ------------> BOOKLISTS

Road Rules Awareness Week

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

This week is Road Rules Awareness Week and we are looking at how we can, as members of the Figtree Heights Community, keep safe on our roads. There are two great links that will provide more information on this topic. Check them out and REMEMBER always be safe!

Ton 10 misunderstood road rule animations: Road Rules

Road Safety website: Road Safety website

How to use POP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:29 AEST

Please click on the link below to download the POP instructions.

POP instructions (pdf 468 KB)

FHPS in the news

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:27 AEST

Advertiser Article: Figtree Heights Public School Student Erin Erler used the 3D printer to create a Mouse Tidy hanging peg as the innovatove technology is gradually taken up by schools.

FHPS are one of the first schools to use 3D PRINTING

P&C OP Shop Ball

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

When: 8th November, 7pm

Where: FHPS Hall

Tickets: $15 (available at the FHPS office)

eCourse to complement Be Unreal program

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

Our parents are able to purchase an eCourse to complement the 'Be Unreal' program launched at FHPS this term. This is a fantastic opportunity as the eCourse is DISCOUNTED TO $47 (for FHPS parents ONLY).

For more information on the eCourse visit

http://cindyrussell.com.au/feel-awesome-whenever-you-want-for-kids-lets-help-them-now/.

To receive the discount just type FHPS into the discount box on checkout.

Information on the Be Unreal program is available at http://cindyrussell.com.au/school-program/.

Fun Theory

Stranger Danger

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

Children's safety first!

Our student's safety is of utmost importance here at Figtree Heights. We are constantly discussing with all our students ways to keep safe in and around the school. Stanger Danger is one of those topics we visit regularly. It requires vigilance and must always be something we are prepared for. Please take the time to discuss this issue with your children to make sure they are aware how important it is for them to stay safe.

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:28 AEST

5/6T (with Mrs Thurston's guidance) will be administrating our school's Twitter account.

Don't forget to also 'like' our Facebook page!

P&C Fundraiser- Entertainment Books

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:26 AEST

Figtree Heights Public School families enjoy
value all year round!

Entertainment™ Memberships are packed with hundreds of up to 50% off and 2-for-1 offers for the best local restaurants, cafés, attractions, hotel accommodation, travel and much more!

Preview the NEW
Memberships »

Order your new 2014 | 2015 NSW South Coast Entertainment™ Membership from Figtree Heights Public School and 20% of your Membership purchase goes towards our fundraising, and gives you over $20,000 worth of valuable offers valid through to 1 June 2015, for just $55!

Memberships are available for only a short time, and Figtree Heights Public School will be raising funds only until end of September 2014. Memberships can be purchased online or at School Reception.

Click here to order now.

"Each year we only need to use the Entertainment™ Book twice for it to pay for itself, and I save all
year long."

— Audrey

Figtree Heights Public School
Phone: 0411343398| Email: west1lis@police.nsw.gov.au

Athletics Carnival Schedule

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

Schedule of Events (docx 16 KB)

CROSS COUNTRY CARNIVAL CANCELLED TODAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:25 AEST

26.03.14 Due to the wet and slippery conditions our Cross Country Carnival has been cancelled. New date to be decided. Students can still wear sports uniform today.

Hot Shots Tennis Link

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:29 AEST

http://hotshots.tennis.com.au

PARENT SURVEY - Technology @ FHPS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

Over the next few weeks Figtree Heights Public School will be conducting a number of surveys. This is a part of our annual school review. It is a reflective practice to guide, support and inform our decisions relating to curriculum areas.

Each survey will focus on different aspects of our wonderful school. The first survey is on ICT (Information and Communication Technology) at FHPS.

Please take some time to complete the 10 questions, your response and continued support is greatly appreciated.

Here is a link to the survey:

Technology @ FHPS

SWIMMING CARNIVAL CANCELLED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:32 AEST

Swimming Carnival Cancelled

Unanderra Pool is closed

Postponed to Thursday 20/02/14

We apologise for any inconvenience

MARTY and BIANCA'S SPELLING BEE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:30 AEST

Please vote for our school via the following link. You can vote as many times as you want!

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

The prize is an incredible Greater Union movie ticket, popcorn and drink for each student at our school if we are successful in the spelling competition.

Personalised Learning and Support Tool (PLASST) 2013 Trial

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:31 AEST

Personalised Learning and Support Tool (PLASST) 2013 Trial

During the next few weeks our school, along with other public schools in the area, will be participating in the trial of a new tool (PLASST) being developed by the Department of Education and Communities for teachers to identify the learning and support needs of their students.

This trial is focussed on the development of a sound and reliable online tool that, when finalised, can be used by teachers in collaboration with parents and carers to identify the strengths and educational needs of students with additional learning and support needs. This information will assist schools in planning and personalising learning and support for individual students who require adjustments in their day to day learning.

The trial will involve teachers completing an online questionnaire about the educational needs of some of their students. Students themselves will not be required to complete any additional work or be formally assessed as part of the trial. This trial will not impact on students' education provisions.

Further information about the PLASST trial, including the collection and use of data in the trial, will be provided by the school in a letter to parents and carers.

If you have any questions about the PLASST trial, would like to discuss your child's involvement or would prefer that your child does not participate, please telephone the school.

Telephone Interpreter Service

If you need help with English to make an enquiry contact the Telephone Interpreter Service on 131 450 and ask for an interpreter in your language. The operator will call the number you provide and get an interpreter on the line to assist you with your conversation. You will not be charged for this service.

2012 Useful Information

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:24 AEST

Morning Supervision

Student supervision commences at 8.30am. There is NO supervision in the playground until 8.30am.

Students are asked not to be at school before 8.30am.

If a student arrives at school before 8.30am they MUST stay seated on the silver seats next to the covered walkway until 8.30am, when the morning supervision bell will sound.

Money Collection at School

When paying for school activities the following procedure is the preferred option.

Money sent in to school is to go to the class teacher in an envelope clearly marked with the student's name, class, activity name, and $ amount enclosed. This ensures that class teachers collect permission notes and mark the students as ‘paid'. The money is then sent to the office for counting. This way we monitor when money has been handed in (teacher checks and office staff check).

Correct money should be sent in where possible as we do not have change on a regular basis.

If paying by cheque please note that P&C and school activities will need separate cheques as we use different banks. Contact the office if you require clarification.

Payment for an activity should be a least the day before the activity - this reduces the last minute rush.

If a student forgets to pay, doesn't hand in the permission note or has decided not to be involved in the activity, then alternate arrangements for supervision will be arranged while the activity is on.

If you wish to clarify any of the above please do not hesitate in contacting the office.

Permission Notes

If a permission note is sent home for an activity it must be filled in, signed and returned to the student's class teacher.

If it is an activity that requires a payment and you are paying for other siblings in one envelope, please fill in each student's permission note and return it to their class

teacher, marking the note "paid by (name & class)". This ensures the class teacher has a note from your child and knows he/she has paid and can write that information in the money folder. Failure to use this system can lead to confusion (and an upset student) on the day of the activity.

Thank you for your support with this matter. If you need further clarification, please call at the school office.

Student Absences

Our school takes a particular interest in our students' well-being and the Dept. of Education requires us to keep accurate records of absences of our students. By following the guidelines set our below we can achieve this outcome.

Students who are absent from school are required to bring in an absentee note on their return to school. Phoning the school is not required for minor absences.

Long Absences

If your child is to be absent for an extended period (a week or more, maybe due to a family holiday), a note should be given to the class teacher prior to the student going on leave, explaining the reason for absence and for how long the absence will be. It is very important for the teacher and school to know this information.

If there is to be a long absence (again for a week or more) due to illness or injury please inform the school either by note or phone.

Absentee Booklets

Absentee booklets are available from the office for all families. They are an excellent way of recording and keeping track of absences. If you would like a booklet please collect one from the office, or ask your child to collect.

Failure to send in a written ‘reason for absence' note will result in ‘unjustified absences' being recorded on your child's School

Reports.

Welcome back - Students return January 30, 2012

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:33 AEST

Welcome back to school for all students in Years 1- 6. Kindergarten 2012 students will complete Best Start assessments during their designated day and time.

FHPS RELAY FOR LIFE TEAM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:27 AEST

SEPTEMBER 24 – SEPTEMBER 25

Kerryn McCann Athletics Centre, Gwynneville

Relay For Life is an overnight, community event where teams of 10-15 participate in a relay-

style walk or run to raise funds for Cancer Council. The event brings the whole community

together for a night of fun, entertainment, celebration and remembrance. Each Relay For Life

event is organised by a local volunteer organising committee on behalf of Cancer Council.

We have a team!

FIGTREE HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOL

Our Goal: $1000

How can you help?

· Sponsor our team or individual team members

· Join our team

By visiting

http://relay.cancercouncil.com.au/2011/illawarra_2011/Figtree-Heights-Public-School

· Make a donation at the front office

Any questions or enquiries please see Sarah Thurston

KINDER ENROLMENTS 2012

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:29 AEST

We have started our enrolment process for Kindergarten 2012.

‘In-Area' families with children who will be starting school in 2012 please collect, complete and return an Expression of Interest form from the school office.

‘Out-of Area' families who have children already attending Figtree Heights and have a kindergarten child wishing to start in 2012, please collect, complete and return an Expression of Interest form from the school office.

IF YOU ARE UNSURE IF YOU ARE 'IN-AREA' OR 'OUT-OF AREA', click on the link below:

IN-AREA ENROLLMENT BOUNDARIES (pdf, 28 KB)

It is important we get this information as soon as possible.

If you know any new families in our school community could you pass on this information (or slip this message in their letter box).

The school office has the list of streets that make up our area. Families who are unsure if they are ‘in-area' can phone, email or call into the school office for more information.

Ph: 42286555

E: figtreehts-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

FHPS absentee slips now online

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:27 AEST

FHPS Absentee slips are now available online.

You are now able to download FHPS absentee slips!

Follow these instructions :

1. Click on the 'Notes & Forms' green tab above.

2. Click on the 'General School Notes' page.

3. Click the link 'Absentee Slip', this will download a pdf.

4. Once loaded, click on the print icon - please note there are 3 absentee slips per page.

5. Fill in and send back to school.

News story

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 21:52:30 AEST

BLAKE MCKAY: SUCCESS AT STATE SWIMMING

A big congratulations to Year 2 student Blake McKay!

Blake represented the South Coast in the state swimming championships at Homebush on the 28 March, 2011. He came 18th overall in the 50m freestyle. He also beat his PB with a 41.85 second swim. Well Done Blake!