Focus on Learning
Wendy Rheinberger (IST) & Judy Allan (AEA)
Inclusion Support News
Cultural Groups at St Joseph's
As we strive to do our best for all the students in our care, last week we welcomed Krystle Lamb from the Opportunity Hub in Tamworth to our school. A former student of St Joseph's herself, Krystle brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm and care for the ongoing education and support of all children - especially those of indigenous background.
Commencing last Wednesday, and continuing every fortnight, Krystle will run a Cultural Activity session with Primary students (Years 3 - 6). The aim of these sessions is to work with the students to embed their culture into daily activities through stories, song and movement. Ms Judy Allan, is our school's Aboriginal Education Assistant/Classroom Assistant, and she will be liaising and working with Krystle to provide meaningful learning opportunities for all students.
Ms Allan will be running Cultural Groups for our Infants children on a separate afternoon each week.
Our indigenous students are also invited to be part of their Cultural Plan (CP). Ms Allan, your child's class teacher and the family work collaboratively to prepare and implement learning plans that suit the individual student's needs through goal setting - both short term and long term in nature. These CPs will be discussed along with other aspects of your child's learning at the 3-way conferences held towards the end of Terms 1 and 3.
Student Support at St Joseph's
At St Joseph's School, our students are at the heart of all we do. There are times when students (and staff!) may require additional support - academically and/or socially/emotionally. We are here to help guide you and work with families to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Your child's teacher is the first port of call should you have any concerns or questions regarding the well being and progress of your young person. All emails for staff are listed on the last section in our newsletter each week. Teachers will respond in a timely manner and we ask that you consider this when reaching out, as they are often on duty at the time of your call/email - which may slightly delay their response.
Mrs Wendy Rheinberger is the Inclusion Support Teacher (IST) at St Joseph's and responsible for coordinating and following up on any referrals for additional assessments (speech pathology, occupational therapy, paediatricians, just to name a few!). The reports provided by these professional are then discussed with the IST/class teacher and families to understand recommendations. Many of the suggested strategies can be easily included in your child's education and support. In the classroom, additional support is given by the IST in consultation with the class teacher. This ensures all students can access their learning effectively and at the appropriate level to support their individual needs.
Centacare Services
We are so fortunate to be able welcome our Centacare School Counsellor, Emma Stilinovic, back to St Joseph's as part of our team once again this year. She is available to support students and staff both in the classroom and on the playground as part of our Living Well, Learning Well focus.
If you would like your child to speak with Emma in a confidential capacity, please touch base with your child's teacher and they will arrange for paperwork to be sent home for signing and returning.
If you have any questions regarding Cultural Plans, counselling or other support services please speak with your child's teacher or contact Wendy Rheinberger (Inclusion Support Teacher).