Principal's Message

Dear Parents/Carers,

 

END OF TERM 3

What a busy Term we just had. Four school camps, sporting, social and academic events plus great classroom programs ensured that there was never a dull moment. 

I hope everyone takes the opportunity to rest up over the next two weeks. If you are lucky enough to get away somewhere I hope you have a wonderful and safe time but if you’re at home I hope you all have a restful break. Term 4 commences on Monday 2nd October.

 

FOOTY BREAKFAST- FRIDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER

This week we were very excited to have our famous footy breakfast back to complete the term. We sold over 320 Egg and Bacon rolls which was a great result. We must thank all of our volunteers from staff and the parent body. This fantastic event would not have been able to take place without everyone’s support. We also thank our local businesses for supporting our breakfast. I would like to make special mention to Baker’s Delight in Norfolk Plaza for their continued support of our school and for donating the bread and rolls. Also to King Cole Direct Fruit Supply for their donation of fruit.

SWIMMING PROGRAM- TERM 4

Our swimming program commences the first day back in Term 4. All swimming ability forms and consent and payment if required on Compass must be completed before any child is able to participate. It is a vital skill for our students to learn and we don’t want any missing out. If you are unsure about any aspects of the swimming program please contact the school. 

Staff are also looking for parent helpers to ensure that the program proceeds safely if you can assist please contact your child's teacher. 

Please also have a read of the below, there's some great information about water safety.

 

HATS –TERM 4

As part of our sunsmart policy hats are required at school in Term’s 1 and 4. Students and staff will be required to wear hats in Term 4 when outside. If your child requires a new hat please contact the school office.

 

CHILD SAFE STANDARDS

Each week we will reference the Child Safe standards. There are 11 in all. 

Child Safe Standard 2

In complying with Child Safe Standard 2 Warrnambool Primary School ensures:

2.1    The organisation makes a public commitment to child safety.

2.2    A child safe culture is championed and modelled at all levels of the organisation from the top down and bottom up.

2.3    Governance arrangements facilitate implementation of the Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy at all levels.

2.4    A Code of Conduct provides guidelines for staff and volunteers on expected behavioural standards and responsibilities.

2.5    Risk management strategies focus on preventing, identifying and mitigating risks to children and young people.

2.6    Staff and volunteers understand their obligations on information sharing and record keeping.

 

Child Safe Standard 3

In complying with Child Safe Standard 3 Warrnambool Primary School ensures:

3.1    Children and young people are informed about all of their rights, including to safety, information and participation.

3.2    The importance of friendships is recognised and support from peers is encouraged, to help children and young people feel safe and be less isolated.

3.3    Where relevant to the setting or context, children and young people are offered access to sexual abuse prevention programs and to relevant related information in an age-appropriate way.

3.4    Staff and volunteers are attuned to signs of harm and facilitate child-friendly ways for children and young people to express their views, participate in decision-making and raise their concerns.

3.5    Organisations have strategies in place to develop a culture that facilitates participation and is responsive to the input of children and young people.

3.6    Organisations provide opportunities for children and young people to participate and are responsive to their contributions, thereby strengthening confidence and engagement.

Ref: https://ccyp.vic.gov.au/

 

STUDENTS RIDING ON THE FOOTPATH

Warrnambool City Council policy states that Children aged 12 and under are permitted to cycle on the footpath and that any adult accompanying them is also permitted to cycle on the footpath. They also provides the following advice:

Before going on a ride ensure that your child can:

  • Steer the bike.
  • Use the brakes.
  • Understand simple instructions like “STOP".
  • Understand that they must obey your instructions at all times.

Remember - Cycle behind your children and don’t be afraid to use your voice. Before cycling, instruct the children to stop on the path before any intersection.

Instruct the children not to approach an intersection without an adult. Show them how to use the STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, THINK technique before crossing the road.

Instruct the children to listen and STOP for cars coming out of driveways.

Older children

Cycling skills vary from child to child. Once they have mastered cycling on the path and understand and have the skills to obey the road rules you may feel confident that they can cycle unassisted on the paths or you may teach them how to cycle on road in quiet streets.

Remember

The children should use the STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, THINK technique before crossing intersections.

Go through the cycling tips on this page before they set out.

https://www.warrnambool.vic.gov.au/roads-and-road-safety

At the end of a busy school day it becomes incredibly busy in Jamieson Street on the road and footpaths, so we ask that all riders exercise extreme caution during this time. Parents collecting students must be aware that students from our school and other schools may be riding through at that time. When it is incredibly busy, it may be advisable for students to dismount on occasions.

 

Have a wonderful and safe school holidays!

 

Peter Lee

Principal