News

Get #FirstDay2021 ready for the new school year

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 16:12:28 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

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 16:32:03 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 11:37:21 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.

School Updates App - be prepared for any emergency

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 15:28:21 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 18:26:59 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 16:31:24 AEDT

Most students start Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division) in Term 1 2020.

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 18:41:38 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 10:53:50 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 23:05:57 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 11:50:10 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 18:36:47 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 11:21:20 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 09:54:49 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 15:32:15 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 18:17:05 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 11:44:37 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 19:43:11 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 12:47:20 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 18:47:09 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 12:22:14 AEDT

Schools are open and no student will be turned away. Parents have been encouraged to keep their children at home if possible.

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 19:53:09 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 21:04:33 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 19:14:55 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 13:48:05 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 17:18:37 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.

School Operational Wednesday 12th November 2019

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:49:36 AEDT

School Closure

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 12:31:09 AEDT

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:31:33 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

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 14:59:51 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 13:41:26 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 11:27:41 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 11:49:45 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 14:15:56 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

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:28:38 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 15:26:59 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 15:15:45 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 15:30:32 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 15:27:15 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 13:48:02 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 15:08:39 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 16:28:55 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.

Our 360 Virtual Tour

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 15:55:41 AEDT

Please click on the icon below to visit our 360 virtual school

Premier highlights the value of public education

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 17:26:39 AEST

The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, with (from left): Education Minister Rob Stokes; State Member for Parramatta, Geoff Lee; Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott; student performers and comperes, and the Principal of Parramatta Public School, Gail Charlier (far right).

Public education can be the springboard to the top job in New South Wales.

That was the message from the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, as she launched Education Weekcelebrations today at Parramatta and Kiama public schools.

"I know that all schools across the state today are highlighting and celebrating what we all value in public education – where someone like me who couldn't speak a word of English when she started school has somehow ended up being the Premier of NSW," she said.

Ms Berejiklian said she had met many possible future leaders during her visit to Parramatta Public School and "couldn't be prouder, as your Premier, to witness the outstanding achievements of all the students across the state".

The dual school launch, linked via a live simulcast, focused on the theme of Education Week, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, which highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the launch was hosted entirely by primary school students and featured student performances from Eastwood Public School violinist Justine Zhang, Bossley Park High School soloist Ezra Loau and dancers from Hoxton Park Public School.

Year 8 students from Kiama High School – Alira Morgan, Jannali Morgan and Olivia Talbott – opened the celebration with an Acknowledgement of Country performed in language.

Keynote speeches were delivered from Kiama by Terara Public School Year 6 student Lucy Boundy, Molly Chapman, a Year 8 student at Dapto High School, and Nowra East Public School instructional leader Vishanti Govender.

Lucy told the launch that education was about opportunity: "Opportunity to learn, opportunity to improve and opportunity to make a difference."

In detailing her early struggles with learning, Molly said a more hands-on approach to study at her high school had a huge impact on her.

"I learn more effectively by seeing and doing things because it gets in my head more easily and pictures are worth a thousand words. Thanks to school, I'm exceeding in almost everything I touch," she said.

Education Minister Rob Stokes highlighted the "incredible legacy" of public schools on society, a role contemporary education and educators would play in the future.

"We are in a period of vast technological, social and economic change, and with that the role of education becomes more important, even bigger, and the challenge for teachers and students becomes more complex," he said.

"We need to provide training in those skills that recognise the future is uncertain and to train and encourage young people not just to be ready for the change that is coming but to be excited by it."

Education Week 2018 - Today's schools creating tomorrow's world

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 17:27:51 AEST

The future of education will be showcased in NSW public schools from August 6 – 10 as students, teachers and parents across the state celebrate Education Week 2018.

Education Week kicks off on Monday, August 6, with a simultaneous launch at Parramatta and Kiama public schools livestreamed on YouTube so all government schools and their communities can join in.

This year's theme, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the Education Week launch will be hosted by primary school students and will feature a dancing robot, student performances and a film highlighting how schools are working with their communities to solve real-world problems.

A highlight of the week is the Game Changer Challenge, in which 16 teams of students from schools across NSW will compete in a three-day design program, working alongside leading industry professionals to create the school of the future.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today's students were learning at a time of great change.

"From the far west to our metropolitan hubs and everywhere in between, our state's schools will celebrate not only what we've achieved, but the future we are creating," Ms Berejiklian said.

"We are living in a time when the traditional walls of the classroom are opening up to new worlds of learning, paving the way for students to connect and collaborate with their peers regionally and globally."

Education Minister Rob Stokes said there had never been a more exciting time to be involved in schools with technology reshaping the way students learn and billions of dollars being invested in new school infrastructure.

"The NSW Department of Education is continually striving for improvement and innovation so that the young people in our care learn in a world-class education system," Mr Stokes said.

"The NSW Government is supporting that vision through a record $6 billion in funding to build the classrooms and schools of the future."

The Secretary of the Department of Education Mark Scott said ensuring today's students had the skills they would need to "not just survive, but thrive" in the future underpinned the department's evidence-based approach to learning.

"I am incredibly proud of the innovative teaching and learning that is being done across our State's public schools to ensure that every student can perform to their full potential," Mr Scott said.

"We don't know what the future will hold, but we do know that we are focused on equipping today's students with the skills and knowledge they will need to lead fulfilling lives in the future."

New uniform policy for NSW public schools

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 17:28:55 AEST

A new uniform policy has been introduced for NSW public schools, which for the first time include the option for girls to wear shorts and pants.

The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, and the Minister for Education, Rob Stokes, announced the new "clear and concise" policy today at Condell Park Public School in Sydney.

Ms Berejiklian said the "modern makeover" would ensure that uniforms were practical and comfortable for students and affordable for parents.

The new policy says all students should have the opportunity to access the full range of school activities while wearing a school uniform, including physical activities, and girls must have the option to wear shorts and pants.

For more information, read the media release by the Premier and Minister. The new policy and implementation guidelines (PDF 116.83KB) are available on the department's website.

The Department of Education supports the wearing of school uniform to promote a sense of belonging for students and create a positive identity for the school community.

Each public school decides on its school uniform in formal consultation with students, school staff, parents and the school community.

Our 360 Virtual School Tour

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

Please click the icon to visit our 360 virtual school tour.

ICAS Digital Technologies awards

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Congratulations to our ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) award winners. Berowra Public School achieved one Distinction and seven credits.

Jensen G off to National Swimming Championships

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Jensen has continued to astound us with his achievements at NSW PSSA swimming over the past 2 days. He swam in every final of the events he competed, with person bests in each stroke.

Overall, he finished 2nd in 200m medley (missed the gold medal by 0.3 sec), 3rd in 50m backstroke, 4th in 50m freestyle and 9th in 50m butterfly.

He has been selected in the state team to represent NSW at the Nationals in Darwin in September in freestyle, backstroke and individual medley.

Such a privilege for him and Hayley Johnston from Wideview who were selected as flag bearers at the opening ceremony.

Thank you to the school community for their ongoing support.

ICAS Writing Competition Winners

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) Writing Competition 2015

Congratulations to our ICAS English Competition participants. Out of nineteen participants from Berowra Public, we received sixteen awards - 1 High Distinction, 5 Distinctions, 5 Credits, and 5 Merit awards. Congratulations to our award winners.

High Distinction: Jai C

Distinction: Polly V, Matthew C, Ryan J, Eden S, Kai V

Credit: Liam D, Sophia H, Danielle P, Zoe V, Freyja C

Merit: Jude M, Ewan B, Kaitlyn K, Pearl M, Rachel D

Premier's Spelling Bee Regional Final

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

Congratulations to Matthew C, Ryan J, Caitlin C and Jai C, our regional finalists in the NSW Premier's Spelling Bee. They competed on Thursday 17th September against 90 other regional finalists at Cherrybrook Public School. All of our students made us very proud.

Rock and Roll Dance Lessons

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

Berowra Musica

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:21 AEDT

Berowra School Band performed, as part of the combined bands, at the Berowra Musica on Friday, 11th September. The performance was of a very high standard and Mrs Bower was fortunate to be invited to enjoy this entertainment.

Congratulations to all of our musicians and to the children who were brave enough to perform a solo or in a trio. Zac G (6K), Cameron R-E (6B), Taffy M-H (6K) and Renee B (6B) were outstanding in both their solo and their trio performances.

Congratulations to all band members, Mr Howick and a big thank you to the band members' parents who helped wit h setting and pac king up

International Competitions and Assessment for Schools (ICAS) Award Winners

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Congratulations to our ICAS Writing award winners;

High Distinction: Matthew C

Distinction: Ryan J, Laura S

Credit: Freyja C, Kai V, Eden S, Polly V

Merit: Zoe V, Jai C, Cameron R, Edward R

Congratulations to our ICAS Spelling award winners;

High Distinction: Matthew C

Distinction: Freyja C, India H, Ryan J, Molly H, Polly V, Jai C

Credit: Anna O, Eden S, Mikayla S, Zoe V, Caitlan C

Merit: Kamden H

Berowra PS Colour Run

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:21 AEDT

Berowra Public School held its own school ColorRun, inspired the annual event held across Australia. The charity event raised funds for juvenile diabetes.

The students were excited about the event leading up to the day and thanks to the hard work of the teachers and Year 6 students who made the coloured powder, they were not disappointed. Students from K-6 participated in the throwing activities, obstacle course and run around the school. Whilst doing so, they were covered in bright colours and managed to cover some teachers as well.

For more photos from the event, visit the Gallery.

Berowra School Focus- Respect: Be Polite

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:21 AEDT

For the first half of Term 3, students at Berowra Public School are focusing on the PBeL School expectations- Responsibility: Own Your Actions.

Students are learning about social skills- ways of behaving politely towards other people.

Focuses for students K-6 include:

Being a good listener
Finding things in common with others
Being a good winner and loser
Playing fairly
Choosing appropriate words and tone

Some of the lessons are based on the ideas and activities in the BounceBack Wellbeing and Resilience Program by Pearson. The scope and sequence and content/delivery of the lessons have then been tailored to fit the needs of the students at Berowra Public School in accordance with PBeL (Positive Behaviour for Engaging Learners) school-wide expectations. For more information about PBeL, or how to assist your children at home, see additional website pages under 'Caring for students' or contact Berowra Public School.

Berowra School Focus- Responsibility: Own Your Actions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:21 AEDT

For the second half of Term 2, students at Berowra Public School are focusing on the PBeL expectation- Responsibility: Own Your Actions.

Students are being taught about identifying, managing and controlling their own pleasant emotions (such as happy, proud, grateful) and unpleasant emotions (such as upset, angry, worried).

Some focuses for students K-6 are:

Emotions are useful to you, even the unpleasant ones
It is very important to correctly recognise and name your own feelings
You can change a bad mood into a good mood if you try
You can be the boss of your feelings
Being the boss of your feelings (managing your emotions) is not the same as not having any
You need to ask 'Did they really mean it?' when you feel hurt or angry
Find a safe way to express your feelings without hurting anyone

The lessons are based on the ideas and activities in the BounceBack Wellbeing and Resilience Program by Pearson. The scope and sequence and content/delivery of the lessons have then been tailored to fit the needs of the students at Berowra Public School in accordance with PBeL (Positive Behaviour for Engaging Learners) school-wide expectations. For more information about PBeL, or how to assist your children at home, see additional website pages under 'Caring for students' or contact Berowra Public School.

Community Rewards Campaign

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Don't forget we are competing to win our share of the $16000 in cash from this campaign. Just remember to place your dockets into one of the envelopes and tick Berowra Public School.

Let's keep going and keep us in the front.

Please find below a leaderboard update for the Community Rewards campaign:

These points can be found here: http://berowravillage.com.au/about.html

Hat Parade

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Hat Parade

Wednesday 9^th April

12:00 start

Morning tea will be on sale for visitors:

Tea, Coffee and hot cross buns

Don't forget to be working on your hat and /or baskets

Parents: Please bring a folding picnic chair and a sun hat (as the parade will be outside if fine).

Pre-schoolers might like to wear an Easter hat too!

Special visit from the Easter Bunny

Parents: Please provide an alternative if you don't want your child to receive Easter eggs from the bunny.

It's a mufti day!

Don't forget to wear your bunny ears….

Celebrating Senior Citizens Week at Berowra Public

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Tuesday 18th March

To celebrate Senior Citizen's Week and to show just how much we appreciate the senior people in our lives, Berowra Public School invited grandparents, elderly neighbours and friends to join students for morning tea and to share in a story reading or telling.

Children wrote invitations for visitors to bring their picnic rugs, some morning tea and some good books and stories to share.

Relieving Principal

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

I have pleasure in announcing that the relieving principal position at Berowra Public School has been filled by Mrs Di Bower. Mrs Bower is currently principal of Cowan Public School. Mrs Bower is an experienced principal, and she is looking forward very much to working with the school community.

Mrs Bower will take up the position on the first day back of Term 3.

An IWB in Every Room

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:20 AEDT

At the P&C Meeting on 15th June, it was decided to allocate $26000 towards Interactive Whiteboards. With an extra allocation from school funds, this will allow us to buy five more IWBs. Once they are installed, we will have an IWB in every classroom.

This is a major milestone for the school. The first IWB was installed in the Library in June 2009. At that time the school community set a target to have an IWB in every classroom in three years. Given that each whiteboard costs about $7000 (including associated electrical and structural work), this was a major commitment.

Since that time a mixture of school and community funds have been used to buy and install ten IWBs. This final donation will enable us to achieve our three year target one year ahead of schedule. The total expenditure will total about $100 000, a large sum, but a small price to pay for the obvious educational benefits that will result.

I am really excited and heartened by this major school achievement. Thank you again to the leaders of our parent groups, Karen, Simon, Jodi, Carolyn and Sarah.

Kinder 2012 Information Sessions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

At our Kindergarten Information Sessions you will hear about the programs Berowra Public School has to offer, how we cater for individual differences and how we provide a balanced education for all students.

Download the poster here: Information Session poster (docx, 876 KB)

You will also hear about our student welfare policy, our buddy system and positive steps to providing a happy and safe learning environment for your child.

This is the first part of our extensive Kindergarten Orientation Program during which we welcome you and your child to Berowra Public School and help to make the transition a happy and positive experience.

We will be holding our Kindergarten Information Sessions for parents interested in enrolling their children at Berowra PS in 2012 at the following times.

· Thursday May 19, 10:00 am

· Thursday May 19, 2:00 pm

· Monday, May 23, 7:00 pm

School Council AGM

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

The School Council AGM will be on Wednesday 16 March at 6:30pm (before the P&C meeting).

It is your chance to nominate yourself or another willing parent. It would be great to get some new members along so go grab a nomination form from the Office. We meet for one hour before each P&C meeting. We don't raise money or have a budget but are an ideas based group and a link between Principal, teachers, parents, school and wider community.

In 2011 we will be assisting with policies nominated by the School for review. We provide parent feedback and a parent point of view. Last year the Welfare policy was our focus and launched to the school community.

We also assisted by giving early feedback on the school website and this year we need to assist in trialling new parts of the site and building the School Council page. We are also looking at how to extend the online payment options available to parents.

Our 2011 agenda also includes finding out where BPS currently sits on the RTA list for the installation of flashing lights for our school zone and we are planning a family fun event for Term 2 to celebrate International Day for Families.

Please bring friends and ideas.

Hope to see you there.

Regards

Monique Brunello

President

Social Networking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

Information has been added to the Caring for Students section about issues associated with social networking sites. It can be found here.

Andrew Fuller Presentation

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:20 AEDT

We are offering parents the opportunity to attend a presentation by renowned clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller. This will be on the evening of Monday 2nd May, the day of the Term 2 School Development Day, at Hornsby Heights Public School.

Tickets are now available from the school office.

Here are some more details.

MAXIMISING LEARNING AND BUILDING RESILIENCE IN YOUR CHILD

Andrew Fuller has recently been described as an ‘interesting mixture of Billy Connolly, Tim Winton and Frasier Crane' and as someone who 'puts the heart back into psychology'. As a clinical psychologist, Andrew Fuller works with many schools and communities in Australia and internationally, specialising in the wellbeing of young people and their families. He is a Fellow of the Department of Psychiatry and the Department of Learning and Educational Development at the University of Melbourne.

His presentation will involve Maximising learning for your child and Building Resilience in Children. He is an outstanding speaker and this is an event not to be missed.

Andrew will be presenting this parent evening at:

Hornsby Heights PS
6:30 to 8:00pm.
Monday, 2^nd May
Cost is $10.00 per adult

Meet the Teacher Evening

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

To help strengthen the partnership between home and school, and to give you an early opportunity to meet your child's teacher and hear first-hand what is planned for the coming year, we are having our Meet the Teacher evening next Monday, 21 February.

Details of times and venues follow. The sessions are staggered to allow parents with children in more than one Stage to attend all relevant sessions.

Stage	Time	Venue
Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten)	5:30 – 6:00	classrooms
Stage 1 (Year 1 and Year 2)	6:00 – 6:30	classrooms
Stage 2 (Year 3 and Year 4)	6:30 – 7:00	Combined: 3P / 4G classrooms
Stage 3 (Year 5 and Year 6)	7:00 – 7:30	Combined: Library

Please note that this evening gives a general overview of the class program. If you have specific concerns about your child's progress, or have other information of which you feel the teacher should be aware, please make an appointment for an individual meeting at a later date. We look forward to meeting you next Monday, and working with you over the coming year.

Let's be Maroon for a Day!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

On Thursday 17th February, we are going to be ‘Maroon for a Day' to raise money for flood relief for Queensland schools. This is an event organised by the Department of Education and Training to coordinate fund-raising efforts by schools across the state. The day will be a mufti day, during which students are asked to wear something maroon.

Term 2 School Development Day

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

The School Development Day for Term 2 will be held on Monday 2nd May. This is the Monday of Week 2.

It has been moved to allow our staff to attend a conference at Hornsby North Public School with teachers from the other Hornsby network schools, run by renowned clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller. Andrew works with many schools and communities in Australia and overseas specialising in brain function and the wellbeing of young people.

Dates for the start of Term 2 are:

Tuesday 26^th April - Public Holiday
Wednesday 27^th April - all students return to school
Monday 2^nd May - School Development Day (no students)

Ethics classes

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Last year a number of parents expressed interest in the possibility of the school offering classes on philosophical ethics as an alternative for students who do not attend Scripture. After changes to legislation last year, ethics classes taught and managed by volunteers may be offered to Year 5 and 6 students this year.

To assist school planning and to determine the level of interest among parents, please complete a preliminary registration of your child online at: www.primaryethics.com.au, if:

Your child will not be attending Special Religious Education and
You would like your child to attend an ethics class, if available.

Please note that students not attending either Special Religious Education or Philosophical Ethics classes will continue to be provided with supervised activities by a teacher.

If you would like to know more about the philosophical ethics course, volunteering or other arrangements, please visit www.primaryethics.com.au.

Stage 1 at Taronga Zoo

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

On Tuesday 26th October, Stage 1 went to Taronga Zoo. We had perfect weather for a great excursion. We learnt all about minibeasts and the habitats of various other animals.

Keep Our Kids Cyber-safe

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:23 AEDT

A new cyber-safety website provides parents and teachers with easy-to-understand information about how to create safe online environments for children, and understand new technologies and the safety risks that the online environment can present to children.

The website provides interactive training and information on key topics, including

the digital channels kids commonly use
how to stay in control of your child's cyber activity
how to report inappropriate content
advice on cyberbullying.

The website also offers a number of free resources which can be downloaded from the site, including fact sheets, posters and videos.

Visit the ThinkUKnow website for more information.

Berowra at State Drama Festival

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:20 AEDT

Our Junior Drama Group has been selected to perform their play 'Year of the Tiger' at the State Drama Festival, to be held at the Everest Theatre in the Seymour Centre on October 28. The matinee performance is on at 11:00a.m., and the evening performance at 7:30. This is a great privilege, and is testament to not only the talent of our students, but also the dedication of our Drama Co-ordinator Mrs Jennie Smith.

Teddy Bears at Muogamarra

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

One of this District's best assets is Muogamarra Nature Reserve and in late winter and early spring it is particularly beautiful. Kindergarten children from Berowra Public School have been on their annual Teddy Bears Picnic to study the basic needs of living things and learn about our dependence on the natural environment. This wonderful programme is run by the Gibberagong Enviromental Education Centre and the children enjoyed a very special and interesting day packed with games and information.

Regrettably the teddies absconded with the lunches and students had to use their senses, observe the bush and look for clues. Eventually they were re-united with their hungry owners and enjoyed a picnic among the stunning wildflowers and trees.

Shop and Save

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

It was the most anticipated excursion of the year. Take a bus full of noisy, excited and enthusiastic Berowra-ites, arm them with credit cards and send them on a 12 hour shopping spree, and you have the makings of a wonderful day. Most importantly, $1500 was raised for the school.

Many thanks to all who enjoyed the "Shop and Save" trip. It was a magnificent fund raiser for the school and was characterised by great enjoyment and many bargains. Particular thanks must go to Bronwyn Mills for her organisation and all those beautiful extras that made the day one of the highlights of our school's calendar.

Fitting Out the Hall

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

A big thank you to parent Cindy Hatch who arranged for the school to receive a Belonging Small Grant from AAMI. The money we received ($600) has been used to buy a cover for our new piano, and to put a very professional looking school crest on the new hall lectern. Thank you to Cindy, and to AAMI.

Thanks from Jemma

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

To the students and teachers of Berowra Public School

The previous weekend I completed the World Vision 40 Hour Famine. I was part of a group of youths from the Berowra Baptist Church who completed this fundraiser.

All the money that was raised is going to the children around the world who don‘t have the food and technology that we in Australia are privileged to have.

As a result of Berowra students wonderful generosity, you contributed $152.65 which will go a long way in helping others who are not so fortunate.

Thank you

Jemma W 6A

Welcome Dads

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

The Fathers' Day Breakfast was a tremendous example of the strength of our school community. Jointly organised by the P&C and the staff, the breakfast gave Dads who, due to work commitments, cannot always be at the school for special events an opportunity to come and visit the school and share some special moments with their kids.

Bledisloe Cup visits the school

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:21 AEDT

Last Friday we were very lucky to host the Bledisloe Cup, the symbol of Rugby Union supremacy between Australia and New Zealand. Of course the cup is currently held by New Zealand, but it is in Australia 'on tour' for two weeks. After a talk about the cup and its history, there were many photo opportunities. Thank you to Steve Frost, who is the 'guardian' of the cup during its Australian visit.

Soccer Champions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:24 AEDT

Berowra now has two champion soccer teams. The Girls Soccer team won 4-1 against Warawee. and the Junior Boys Soccer team won 2-0 against Turramurra.

Gold for Tara

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Congratulations to Tara, who represented New South Wales at the National Cross Country Carnival in Brisbane recently. Not only did she come ninth, an amazing achievement at national level, she received a gold medal as part of the winning New South Wales team. Fantastic!

It's Academic- It's Fantastic!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 01:29:22 AEDT

Our It's Academic team performed very well in the semi-finals, but didn't quite manage to make it further! We are all very proud of the fifteen team members and two reserves.