News

Get #FirstDay2021 ready for the new school year

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:25:16 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

We’re participating in Share Our Space over Summer 2020/21

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 13:53:01 AEDT

Share Our Space will be operating in participating schools from Monday 21 December 2020 to Friday, 22 January 2021, including public holidays.

Schools Spectacular remixed for television

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 13:29:45 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 11:20:16 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’

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 13:42:20 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 13:30:26 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 17:43:38 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 15:28:17 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 17:50:11 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 10:39:59 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 22:54:45 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 10:15:13 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 15:13:47 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 09:08:03 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 09:03:07 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 14:48:32 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 17:38:19 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 10:48:51 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 18:52:59 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 09:15:30 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 16:39:56 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 10:46:57 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

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 18:42:58 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 20:18:34 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 18:53:03 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 13:01:11 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 16:15:05 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 16:42:58 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 14:12:11 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 13:33:38 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 11:20:26 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 11:38:40 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 14:01:05 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 11:33:39 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 12:20:27 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 15:05:19 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 15:07:02 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 14:19:47 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.

Did you know our playground is open in the holidays?

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 15:26:57 AEST

We are excited to participate in the Share Our Space program when it returns these autumn school holidays. Participating public schools across regional and metro areas of the state will continue to open their playgrounds, ovals and sports courts for the whole community to enjoy.

You and your children can play in public schools all over NSW. Schools from Lord Howe Island Central School 600km off the east coast of mainland Australia all the way to Palinyewah Public School in the far west will share their outdoor facilities as part of the program.

Participating schools are open 7 days a week between 8am-6pm from 13 to 26 April 2019, including weekends and public holidays.

Come and visit our playground. For more information or to find another participating school near you, visit Share Our Space.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:14:56 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 14:52:57 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 12:23:15 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.

Just hangin' around

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:03:17 AEST

Look what's arrived at Awaba Public School!

The school received additional funding to help support students with disabilities. We have purchased hand-eye coordination resources, sensory resources and these awesome hammocks!

Jacob enjoying the serenity.

Rachael loving the new swing.

Jeepers creepers!

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:02:58 AEST

Riley Swan in year 5 arrived at school last week with an amazing specimen of a python skin. The skin was close to 4m long and still intact! Thank goodness he aquired it from his grandfather's farm in Coonabarabran!

Kindergarten orientation

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:03:42 AEST

This Friday the 7th of September Awaba Public School opens the door to welcome students enrolling in Kindergarten in 2019. Everyone welcome! The P&C will be holding a yummy afternoon tea for parents to enjoy while the students and new students enjoy an informal play session. Starts at 2.00pm and finishes at 3.00pm

Please see the attachment for further dates. Hope to see you!

Kindergarten O Letter (docx 263 KB)

Kiwanis terrific kids

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 19:04:01 AEST

Last Friday the 31st of August, we celebrated two students as Kiwanis Terrific Kids. From Year 2, congratulations go to Alistair Tamplin and from year 6 we congratulate Cianna Butler. Outstanding effort and well done.

Kiwanis Terrific Kid

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:47 AEST

Our June Kiwanis Terrific Kid is Joel Cook. He is a year 5 student who takes the time to ensure that students and staff alike are happy.

Joel Cook and Annette from Kiwanis

What Is Terrific Kids? (pdf 418 KB)

Annual Swim School

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:17 AEST

It's swim school time again in 2018! Our students attend an annual swimming school at Toronto Swim Centre which goes for 2 weeks. The instructors are provided through grants, school and P&C funds. It's a life-saving skill for Aussie kids and to tell the truth, they love it too! Here are some pictures from the fortnight.

Mystique

Travis, Cooper and Joel

It is wonderful to see how much the students improve over the course of daily swimming for 10 days iin a row. Well done all.

Awaba School Goes Clucky

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:21 AEST

Last week eggs and 3 chickens arrived Monday morning from Henny Penny Hatching Program.
K12 have been looking at farms, farm animals etc. Our students have watched eggs starting to hatch. Most of the chickens were hatched through the night period over the past week.

ALL HAVE NOW HATCHED AND GONE TO GOOD HOMES!

The first three little chicks - so cute

Almost there.

Hatched!

A huge thank you to Mrs. Boyce for organising such an amazing experience for the kids of Awaba, and the staff!!!!

New School Sign

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:56 AEST

Our new school sign is shining brightly! The P&C and school staff agreed to utilise Community Consultation Funding to provide a space to better inform the community at large of upcoming events and celebrations.

We love it!

3456 Cooking Arancini

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:08 AEST

On Friday the 22nd of June our 3456 class, under the instruction of Mr. Gray, created yummy Arancini Balls. First, they made a risotto and let it cool. Then they rolled the rice balls in crumbs and deep fried them. What fun!!! Here's the link to a yummy recipe Arancini Balls

Cooper and Seth

Riley

Lana

Cooper

Natalie

Travis and Joel

Joel and Ellen

ready to be fried

The mess - thinking about cleaning the room :(

Debating

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:25 AEST

Awaba Debating Team Unbeaten!

Our debating team hosted a debate on Thursday the 7th of June and welcomed Fassifern PS. The topic of the debate was "Teachers and parents should limit children's' time on devices". Our team debated on the negative and put forward some convincing arguments to win the debate. Fassifern PS were good sports and we thank them for making it a great day.

Our team loving the debate: Left to right - Arielle, Cianna, Riley, and Jarrod

The debating process

The teams after the debate.

Pirate Day

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:58 AEST

On Friday the 8th of June our school dressed up as pirates to raise money for an amazing cause. Pirate Day raises money for research on childhood cancer. We raised $72. Thank you to all our community for your donations!

K12 pirates with cannonballs! Yum

The Awaba Pirate Crew - aye me hearties!!!

Drew's Glenrock Excursion Update

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:26 AEST

Written by Drew Smith

Aim: The aim of Awaba Public School's April excursion to Glenrock Recreational Area was to give students a beginning knowledge of a local Aboriginal heritage and cultural area in Newcastle.

Outcome: Kids were very enthusiastic with Ranger Gary's tour and we met the aim extremely well. All of the students asked questions, even the kids that wouldn't really ask questions. The kids were abuzz with excitement.

Ranger Gary - smoking Ceremony

The trail . Native Strawberry . The falls

Story Telling

Our gorgeous lunchtime storytelling spot

Future: We realised we would like to include an Aboriginal cultural perspective into our Big Day Out programs. The Big Day Out allows kids to learn about the world around them through real life excursions. Students report back to the school through videos, posters, reports, news articles etc.

KEEP A WATCH FOR BIG DAY OUT NEWS STORIES NEXT TERM!

Cycle Workshop

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:24 AEST

This afternoon, 23rd May 2018, our primary class enjoyed a free cycle workshop with Scott. Scott set up a makeshift road way complete with bikes, helmets, stop signs, U-turns and give way signs. Students were required to use hand signals and obey all the usual road rules. What a fun and important lesson for our students. This workshop is made possible through Lake Macquarie City Council. Thank you very much for the support of Awaba students.

Kids doing a U-turn

Waiting for a turn

Stop at the stop sign

Kiwanis Terrific Kids Assembly

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:47 AEST

Awaba Public School was extremely honoured to welcome Annette from Kiwanis to the first Terrific Kids Assembly this morning, 23rd May 2018.

The first recipient of this prestigious award is Mystique Gibbs in year 5. She is very deserving of this award as a friendly, caring and happy Awaba student. Congratulations Mystique!

Kiwanis also very generously donated $500 to our school. We can't thank them enough for their support for the benefit of all children. Thank you!

That's Miss Tip very excited to receive the $500 donation. The school captains, Arielle Gormly and Cianna Butler thanked Annette on behalf of the students and staff.

ANZAC 2018

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:40:19 AEST

On Tuesday the 1st of May our school held the 2018 ANZAC ceremony. Thank you Mr. Gray and year 6 for a very touching and thoughtful ceremony.

All students took part in lessons about the meaning of the day and K12 students made paper wreaths to lay at the flag poles.

Mayson - Kinder and Kohen - Year 2

Sharlie

Walk Safely To School Healthy Breakfast

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 22:41:15 AEST

On Friday the 18th of May Awaba students, staff and community enjoyed a healthy breakfast after a brisk walk to school. A great time was had by all and we all rolled off to class a little later than usual. Thank you everyone for sending in food to share. We have enough fruit to last us into the next week.

Unlocking Heritage Travel Subsidy Grant

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:11 AEST

Our primary class (3456) will be going on an excursion on Friday the 6th of April, to Glenrock State Recreation Area. We will be accompanied by a guide, who will be teaching us about the history of the area and also the Aboriginal cultural history of Glenrock. Year 5 student, Drew Smith, has been an integral part in organising this tour and has even helped to apply for a grant to cover transportation of our students. (Please see below) - Stay tuned for more pictures and stories when we return.

The Unlocking Heritage travel subsidy program contributes $20 per student towards the travel costs to attend over 30 learning programs offered by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Sydney Living Museums.

This financial support is offered exclusively to primary schools in NSW receiving Resource Allocation Model (RAM) funding with an FOEI of 100 and over. With a diverse range of programs delivered at some of the most important cultural and heritage sites in NSW, the travel subsidy aims to improve access and increase participation by students in curriculum-linked excursions.

Sydney Living Museums is working towards accessing more funding for terms 3 and 4 in 2018. We would still like to encourage eligible schools to visit the Unlocking heritage web page and register their expression of interest to be placed on a waiting list.

Kiwanis and Awaba School

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:03 AEST

Kiwanis International is a global organisation of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. In an atmosphere of fun and friendship, Kiwanians aim to make a difference.

This is very true! Kiwanis approached our school this week in order to organise a wonderful program to benefit our students called, "Kiwanis Terrific Kids". On the last Wednesday of each month, a representative from Kiwanis will visit our assembly and present a student with a book, a badge and a certificate, in recognition of qualities such as; thoughtfulness, enthusiasm, respect, responsibility, inclusivity, friendliness, inquisitiveness and caring for others (these qualities come out of the anagram for TERRIFIC). The Terrific Kids motto is Believe and Achieve.

We can't thank them enough for the special care they offer the children in our care and the community at large. On behalf of the students, staff, and community I would like to thank them very, very much.

Stay tuned for Terrific Kid of the month news!

Stage 1 3D nets

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

Last week Stage 1 (year 1 and 2) were learning about 3D shapes. They made nets with play dough and matchsticks. This process allows students to have a hands-on knowledge of a particular shape's corners and edges, through visualisation.

Here are some of their creations:

The building process.

Cube by Bonnie

Cube by Alistair

Triangular pyramid by Tylah

Jayden with his triangular pyramid.

Small School's Cross Country

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:07 AEST

Last Tuesday our school joined Boolaroo PS, Speers Point PS and Fassifern PS at Argenton PS for the annual Small School's Cross Country event. Thank you Argenton for hosting fabulous day! 12 students have been given invitations to attend the zone carnival in April. Well done!

Sharlie and Tilly in Kindergarten.

Bonnie - Year 1

Sammi - Year 2

Kohen - Year 2

Rachael - Year 3

Travis - Year 4

Lana and Hannah - Year 4

Seth - year 4

Left to right - Jacob, Drew (back), Riley (in front), Joel (back), Cooper

Arielle look nervous - Year 6

Left to right - Jared (back), Cianna (front), Ellen and Riley

Possum Family

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:05 AEST

Our school COLA has a family of possums that have built a nest in the roof. We've seen them there for quite a few years and a couple of weeks ago we noticed a baby as well.

During the lunch break, a few students noticed that the baby had fallen from the roof. Miss Tip came out with the kitchen mittens to collect it and ring WIRES. It really loved the safety of her jacket and crawled inside.

Miss Tip and Mrs Maher were advised to check it out for movement and if it was OK to put it back near the nest when the students went home. They did just that and it crawled straight up the tree, waiting for mum to collect it. We keep our eyes out every day for it.

The Way Awaba Kids Cool Off For Christmas

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

On the last day of school in 2017 Awaba kids needed to cool off! The summer weather had been heating us up all week. Mrs Maher decided to buy a treat for all the kids, AND the staff. What fun?

The attack!!!

Kohen waiting to attack

And the water fight is well underway.

Vegie Cruch

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:11 AEST

What is The Big Vegie Crunch?

Did you know that only 5.4% of Australian children eat enough vegetables?
To encourage students to eat more vegetables, our school will be taking part in The Big Vegie

Crunch (as part of Vegetable Week) on Thursday 1st March at 10 am.
Schools across NSW will be joining together to break the record for the most students crunching

vegetables simultaneously.

What can you do to help?

Pack a container of vegetables (not fruit) for your child
to eat on the day
Keep serving up the vegetables at home!
If you require more information on what activities our school is doing over Vegetable Week, please contact the school or your child's teacher.
Mrs Boyce Vegetable Week School Coordinator

Thank you Woolworths for your very kind donation of a truly awesome vegie box!

Our entire school - with an earth shattering CRUNCH!!!!

Gerry, Bob and Steve

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:00 AEST

Our beautiful garden is producing some wonderful things this February. WE HAVE ROCKMELON!!!

Thanks to our fantastic gardener Hannah, we were all able to feast on the sweetest rockmelon in town. Hannah has lovingly cared for the melons she calls Gerry, Bob, and Steve. She has watered them tirelessly and even brought a huge palm frond in from home to shade them in the searing heat. Thank you, Hannah. We said thank you to Gerry today and we will be watching Bob and Steve as they mature.

Hannah with her friend, Gerry

Oh how sweet

Bob and baby Steve are loving our garden

Garden Bonanza

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:58 AEST

Our students and staff have returned after the summer break to find an amazing array of special things growing in our beautiful gardens! Mrs Maher and the students were busy planting in November with some plants kindly donated by Bunnings Warehouse. Linda Swinfield kindly purchased and laid the mulch. The students have been busy bees watering the plants before the break and Ron and Pauline across the road watered them for us while we were on holidays. Now we have to plan a menu to eat them! Check them out.

Mandarins are coming along nicely.

Wild Currants in our Bush Tucker Garden are doing fine.

Rock along with rockmelon!

Our native bees were swarming at the end of last year.

Zucchinis in bikinis.

The blueberry bushes have doubled in size!

A grapevine is working its way to K12's classroom.

Cucumber sandwiches for afternoon tea.

Green ones too!

Tomatoes

Cucumber flowers

Shhh...Don't wake the baby eggplants.

We'd also like to thank Toronto Men's Shed for making the signs for our garden. We love it!

K12s Cool Cooking Day

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:02 AEST

Last month K12 earned a fun cooking day as part of their class rewards. They worked extra hard to achieve the special day over the whole year. We wrote our menu as a class and printed it out. Then the fun began. We put on our special Awaba aprons and got started chopping, yes that's right chopping!

First on the menu was an entree of rice paper rolls filled with seasonal vegetables and rice noodles, accompanied with a sweet plum sauce. The fun was in the wetting and rolling!

Next was our main meal. We made chicken pasties with chicken, corn, peas, cherry tomatoes and cheese!

We got to eat the rice paper rolls for recess and then the pasties were ready for lunch.

After lunch, we made our dessert. We made mini Pavlovas with cream and fruit. Some of us made skewers.

We loved the food! Boy were we full!!!

Christmas Time

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:57 AEST

On behalf of the staff, students and the P&C we would like to wish everyone a very happy holiday season. Be safe and enjoy every second!

Cicada Mania

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:57 AEST

Cicada Time

It's that time of the year again! One of Awaba students' favourite lunchtime things to do is go hunting for Cicadas and their shells. They are abundant in our playground this time of year, and deafening! The tallest students are popular as they can reach for the discarded shells and they collect them in their lunchboxes.

In the words of most students, " They're a little bit creepy hey?"

Christmas Concert 2017

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:56 AEST

Awaba Public School's Christmas Concert 2017

Last night Awaba school hosted the first concert in the school grounds, with outstanding success. We welcomed a large crowd of parents and community members to our end of year celebration. We enjoyed a picnic dinner followed by some notable singing, dancing and acting. It was heart warming to see everyone so relaxed in their camping chairs. Our faces were sore from smiling! Our amazing P&C held a pizza dinner fundraiser, along with raffles, friendly actions and a cake stall. Our captains, Riley Kiskarlpati and Jared Young did a wonderful job of MC-ing the night.

The weather didn't stop the show, although it threatened a few times!

Students received book awards for success, citizenship shields and medals. The captains for 2018 were announced and they are Cianna Butler and Arielle Gormly. Congratulations girls, well deserved!

Here are some pics of the night. Oh, what a night!

Thank you to a wonderful staff, fabulous P&C and amazing students for your dedication and hard work to make this night a great success.

"Congratulations and thank you for a wonderful evening last night. Hats off to you all. A beautiful evening. An awesome venue and a fabulous little community." Sarah Balkin - parent.

Rudolf staff hair design - so cute!

Lana, Hannah, Mystique and Riley (kneeling)

Riley K, Arielle and CIanna singing Wonders to open the show!

Year 3 and 4 leaving the stage after their play, "Sick Christmas".

We look forward to seeing you again next year!!! :)

P&C Bunnings Barbecue Fundraiser

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:05 AEST

On Saturday the 25th of November our amazing P&C held a barbecue at Bunnings to help raise money for the students' playground equipment. It sure was a hot one! Thank you for supporting our students by buying a sausage and drink. The total profit for the day was $1400! What an effort. Thank you to Bunnings for donating a brand new barbecue for us to raffle. The winner of the barbecue was Mr Dave Snedden. A well-deserved win after a mammoth effort of cooking all day!

Vintage Fair Postponed

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:11 AEST

The Vintage Fair that was organised for Saturday the 11th of November has been postponed until April 2018.

Kindergarten Enrolment for 2018

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:02 AEST

Kindergarten Orientation (pdf 674 KB)

Please open this document to find the dates for the orientation sessions.

Smart Art

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

Smart Art (pdf 854 KB)

A group of students from Year 5 and 4 has entered the Smart Art Competition. The competition is offered through the St Vincent De Paul Society and asks entrants to submit artworks to describe, "What Inclusion Means To Me?"

Our students have entered a living sculpture that is made up of terracotta pots with succulent plants. The pots are the same shape, however, the outsides look quite different. This is how we all are, the same but different. The sculpture stands on different levels to represent how everyone learns at different rates and how we are all striving for different things.

The sculpture is on display at the Lake Macquarie Performing Art Centre - Lake Street Warners Bay on Wednesday the 4th of October, in the school holidays. Please see the above PDF document. Photos to come!

Responsible Pet Visit

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:06 AEST

On Tuesday the 5th of September Nicole and Thunda came to visit K12. The lesson talks about looking after your dog safely and how to approach dogs on leads in public. We have the visit every year and find it valuable for the students. They also teach you what to do if you are approached by an angry dog, off lead, which is very important for our students. Thank you to Nicole for allowing all of our students to approach and pat her wonderful dog. Thanks to the Victorian Government also for funding this wonderful program for free!

Bella meeting Thunda. Ask permission from the owner. Make a fist for the dog to smell before you pat.

Students enjoying the lesson Powerpoint.

Stand to the side, after you have asked permission, and stroke from below the collar along the back.

Questacon Science Excursion

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:05 AEST

On Tuesday the 15th of August, Awaba Public School attended the Questacon Science Exhibition at Coal Point Community Centre. We were greeted by volunteers at 10.30 and taken on a bush walk to explain local conservation efforts and the eradication of a weed pest. Students saw evidence of scientific study in a quadrat.This is an area where scientists section off a parcel of land and use it as a control. We learnt about the native fauna and flora found in the Coal Point area. Students were then treated to a wonderful array of hands on exhibits to get them thinking, questioning and learning. We sincerely thank the Questacon staff and volunteers, parents and staff and also a huge thank you to the YMCA for transporting our students to and from the centre. Here are some happy snaps!

K12 "Puff" the Dinosaur

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:01 AEST

Every Wednesday K12 take part in writing lessons with a text type focus. Where possible we do a practical lesson to accompany the writing. This week we made puff pastry dinosaurs to study procedural texts. We called them "Puff" the Dinosaur. We had yummy fun!

NAIDOC Day at Biraban Public School

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:03 AEST

On Friday the 28th of July our school was invited to join Biraban Public School for their annual NAIDOC Day celebration. Students enjoyed watching traditional dance performed by their dance group, we heard the Australian National Anthem sung in the Awabakal language, we tried crocodile and emu, and we participated in a rotation of five cultural activities organised by their dedicated staff and community.

Cooper painting a rock.

Solomon and Jet making their beads.

Awaba kids enjoying Mob Hip Hop.

Isabella and Arielle waiting for their turn in traditional games.

Travis and Kohen playing traditional games.

Drew and Kohen weaving grass.

Lifeguard Visit

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:03 AEST

Each year NSW Lifeguards visit our school to prepare students for beach safety and to teach CPR to our senior students. The beach safety lessons include how to read the flags at the beach, who to look for if there is a danger, how to spot a rip, how to deal with Blue Bottle stings and being sun safe. The CPR lessons teach students that danger is the first thing to look out for before you approach any situation, call an ambulance and then you can decide. Students even use dummies to replicate a CPR situation. Thanks to the dedication of the NSW Lifeguards, in their off season, our students are better equipt to deal with the possibility of something going wrong while out and about each summer.

Enrolling Now

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:58 AEST

Please drop in and see us regarding enrollment. Please see the letter regarding Kindergarten Orientation in the news stories.

K12 Hot Chocolate

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:00 AEST

On Wednesdays, K12 and Miss Tiplady are focusing on writing. This week we made hot chocolate and wrote a recount about it. Students labelled the ingredients and talked through a procedure of how to make it. Each student stirred their own to create a yummy drink! Here are some pics.

This was Rachael's first time drinking hot chocolate and she loved it!

Sammi and her yummy hot chocolate.

Kohen and Bonnie got into it alright!

Chaice is enjoying her delicious drink.

NAIDOC Mural

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:04 AEST

On Wednesday the 5th of July two of our students' artworks were unveiled at Toronto Macquarie Shores Swimming Club. Their works were a part of a larger mural designed and made to acknowledge our local Aboriginal Community. Students took part in a workshop run by Sarette Fielding, a renounced local Aboriginal Artist, to produce works related to Lake Macquarie. We offer our thanks for the opportunity provided to our students to be part of this wonderful event.

Drew and I (Alison Tiplady - Principal) at the unvieling of the Nikinba mural.

Laser Tag

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:03 AEST

During the school holidays, the P&C held a fundraiser at Laser Tag. Thank you very much for organising the day and I've heard they had a blast!

Crazy Hair Day Term 2

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:57 AEST

In term 2 students earned a Crazy Hair Day for all of their hard work and dedication to their studies. Here are some groovy styles.

From left to right: Drew Smith, Cianna Butler, Solomon Tamplin and under, Riley Kiskarpati

Awaba Oranges

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:55 AEST

Finally, our Navel Orange tree has given a bounty of fruit. We planted this tree in 2008 and then moved it a couple of years ago. It really seems to like the new spot and has produced around 16 oranges. We tasted them yesterday and we may need to juice them this time as they taste a little like lemons. We are so happy to be getting fruit!

Toronto Art Fair

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

Our K12 class entered the Toronto Arts Fair this year. Their work was included in the art walk at the Toronto Foreshore. The theme was "What Lives In Your Garden?"

Well done K12 and thank you to Mrs Boyce our K12 class teacher for your wonderful work with Dragonflies.

Inclusion At Awaba

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:00 AEST

At Awaba PS we believe in inclusion for all students, parents, staff and our community. We uphold a Stonger Smarter ethos and seek opportunities to undertake activities to promote inclusion for all. While working closely with our Aboriginal student Drew Smith, we decided to follow his idea to extend our inclusive garden to include a decorated flowerpot that represents each student and their development and growth while at school. Parents are invited to purchase a plant that represents their child for planting when the pots are ready.

Drew invited a few students along on a shopping trip recently to find the perfect pot. We have researched how to decorate them and will complete the garden in term 3.

Riley, Drew, Jared and Mystique - Shopping trip for inclusion

Zone Cross Country Carnival 2017

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:11 AEST

On Friday the 12th of May a hand full of students attended the West Lake's Zone Cross Country Carnival at Myuna Bay Sport And Recreation facility. Students who represented were: Jared Young - year 5, Cooper Butler - Year 4, Sam Ashmore - Year 4, Kayleigh - Year 3, Solomon Tamplin - Year 2 and Tara Crameri - Year 2.

The weather held up for a wonderful cool running day. Special thanks to those parents who could give the time to cheer on the students in their races. Also a special thank you to Mr Tamplin for agreeing to be a course official for the day.

Small School's Athletics Carnival

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:07 AEST

On Wednesday the 31st of May our students competed in the combined school's athletics carnival. The schools involved were Fassifern (organisers), Boolaroo, Argenton and of course Awaba Public School. The weather was cool and dry which made for wonderful running and field events.

Sidney Swinfield, Riley Swan, Sam Ashmore and Cooper Butler - The 100m - Won by Sam Ashmore

Lana Snedden - Finishing the 800m

Isabella O'Brien - Kindergarten

Cianna Butler, Ellen Truscott and Riley Kiskarpati

Walk To School Safely - Healthy Breakfast

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:11 AEST

On Friday the 19th of May Awaba Public School hosted a healthy breakfast to coincide with Walk To School Safely Day. Students and families donated a variety of healthy, low sugar items to share together. The parents and staff worked hard to prepare and serve a delicious breakfast. There were some amazing fruit creations, including a banana arrangement depicting dolphins jumping and a watermelon monster! We are still eating the fruit that was sent in at break time and the kids absolutely love it! Thank you all.

Newcastle Cross Country

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:05 AEST

On Saturday the 20th of May Awaba Public School hosted the Newcastle Cross Country. Thank you to our wonderful P&C for organising a BBQ and cake stall for the competitors. The weather held and a great day was had by all.

Harmony Day

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:00 AEST

On the 21st of March 2017 we celebrated the diverse culture of our school by participating in activities which promote awareness and understanding. Thank you to Mrs Boyce for organising three activities in which the students rotated through across a couple of hours. They investigated the cultures represented within our school and made postcards using greetings in other languages. Students researched what was important to them and their personal culture to design and make a personal flag. Students took part in researching the national dishes of the cultures represented within our school and tried their hand at Vietnamese rice paper rolls. A great and informative day was had by all.

Awaba ANZAC Ceremony

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:55 AEST

Our year 5 students presented a very respectful ceremony to mark 2017 ANZAC day. Thank you to Mr Gray for directing the students.

Awaba Now And Then

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

Awaba Now and Then (docx 160 KB)

Awaba Public School 125 Year Anniversary

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:56 AEST

The celebration on Sunday the 1st of May was a great success with as many as 200 braving the rain! We had the old and the new time capsules on display for past students to peruse. The old capsule had a couple of newspapers of the day (1991), children's stories, a cassette of popular music and a book called "The Bark Hut" written by Doug Saxton about the history of the school. The new capsule will hold art work, USBs with videos and student's stories, a dollar coin from 2016, a mobile phone, pictures of the school and a mini iPod.

Three MPs here to help celebrate - Ms Jodie Harrison (Charlestown), Mr Joel Fitzgibbon (Hunter) and Mr Greg Piper (State member for Lake Mac). Mr Piper delivered a letter from the Education Minister, Mr Piccoli. Mr Bill Smith an Aboriginal elder, opened with a smoking ceremony and a wonderful acknowledgement of land owners.

Many past students, teachers and principals also attended. Our oldest living student managed to attend after a month in hospital. Her name is Sadie Williams and she is 98. She's never missed an event.

Letter From The Minister (pdf 415 KB)

Parent Feedback

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:05 AEST

Each year schools are required to seek the opinions of parents, students and teachers about the school.

Their responses are presented below.

The school sought the opinions of parents through the Parent Satisfaction Survey. Results related to our targets are presented below:

N.B. answer options were: not at all, a little bit, somewhat, quite a bit and a tremendous amount.

• 100% of parents reported that they thought their children enjoyed being at school "quite a bit" or higher.

• 80% thought that lessons were "quite motivating" or higher for their child, while 20% thought that the lessons were "somewhat motivating".

• 100% of parents recorded the highest option of "extremely well" regarding staff creating a school environment that helps children learn.

• Parents agreed that the school values diversity with 90% recording "quite a bit" or higher, while 10% thought "somewhat".

• Survey results indicated that parents believe their child feels a sense of belonging with 30% recording "quite a bit" and 70% recording the highest option of "a tremendous amount".

In summary parents opinions were extremely positive regarding their child's welfare and the school environment in which they learn. Parental input is highly valued and used as a source of staff discussion and school planning.

Grandparent's Day

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:00 AEST

The students of Awaba Public School enjoyed a visit from many grandparents on the 21st of August. Grannys and Poppys that couldn't be with us received a phone call. Students wrote questions they wanted to ask their grandparents about their life. Then they interviewed them. Students served a wonderful morning tea in the sun on our deck.The stories will be collated and published into book all about our grandparents. Pictures to follow. Thank you

Senior Class Music Video

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:07 AEST

For the school's end of year concert, the senior class decided to create their own music video using the music and theme from the band Mumford and Son's song Hopeless Wanderer. This is what they created.

You tube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNWXgjSIs0s

2015 Awaba Spelling Bee

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:56 AEST

On Tuesday, the 29th of July we had had the 2015 Awaba Spelling Bee. Congratulations to our new champions.
Junior champ - Riley
Senior champ - Kate

Later this term, Riley, Kate, Jackson, and Arielle or Jared will be attending the Regional Spelling Bee at Coal Point Public School.

Worm Farm Council Workshop

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:11 AEST

Lake Macquarie City Council sent out an education officer named Simon the work with the students in all years today. The topic, WORM FARMING. The students were hands on today, up close and personal with the gooey creatures.

Awaba Advertises in the Lake's Mail

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:20:55 AEST

Lake macquarie Council Environment Awards

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:02 AEST

Today, Wednesday the 23rd of October, Mrs Walters, Mrs Maher and two students, Luke Snedden and Jackson Bunn attended the awards ceremony. Our school won an award for Innovation. Part of the award consisted of a $200 voucher and $60 worth of Bunnings vouchers. Mrs Walters has ideas of creating a fruit tree garden adjacent to the library.

We are very proud to have won the award and the staff and students have been recognised for the green processes we have in place at our school. The students often use their own time in ensuring that our environmental plan runs smoothly. Congratulations Awaba!

Toronto Tidy Towns

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

certificate (pdf 889 KB)Toronto Tidy Towns nominated our school in the Keep Australia Beautiful Sustainability Awards. Mrs Walters, our librarian and resident greenie, and Miss Tiplady met with a group who came to judge our school. They were very interested in our mulching efforts, our three bin waste management system and our many areas that attract native birds. A special mention goes to Bernie Craggs, our talented General Assistant, who maintains the grounds and keeps them in amazing shape! Our school has also been entered in the Lake Macquarie Environmental Awards. The winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Council Chambers on Wednesday the 23rd of October. Good luck Awaba!

Luke's trip to Tasmania

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:03 AEST

Congratulations to Luke Young, year 6, who attended the National Cross Country event in Launceston last weekend. He placed eighth in the cross country on an extremely wet track. He was part of a team that was awarded a silver medal and also part of the winning relay team, attaining a gold medal! What a wonderful success. Luke was lucky enough to have his entire family with him for support. What a great father's day!

Spelling Bee

Mon, 21 May 2018 03:21:10 AEST

Awaba staged the school event a couple of weeks ago. All students watched on as children from years 3-6 competed against each other to spell some quite challenging words. The students were given three chances in a row to make mistakes before being out of the competition. Many words were never heard before. Congratulations to Cai Miranda and Kate Austin who won the junior competition and Dylan Austin, who took out the seniors. These students are now invited to represent our school at Coal Point P.S. on Monday the 9th of September. Good luck!