Principal's Report

Dear EHPS Community,

‘ThinkUKnow’ Parent Forum

I would like to extend my thanks to each of you who attended our ‘ThinkUKnow’ Parent Forum on online safety on Monday 18 November. Your participation is crucial in helping us build a safer and more supportive environment for our children both at school and at home. As the digital world continues to evolve, so too do the challenges our young people face when navigating it. Your commitment to understanding these challenges is vital, and together, we can ensure our children are prepared to use technology responsibly and safely.

The Dangers of the Digital World

As discussed at the forum, the internet offers many benefits, but it also presents significant risks. From cyberbullying to exposure to inappropriate content, online predators, and privacy violations, there are numerous dangers that can negatively impact our children’s well-being. As technology becomes an even more integral part of daily life, the potential for harm increases, making it more important than ever for parents to stay informed and vigilant.

The dangers of the digital world are not always immediately obvious, and children may not always be aware of the risks they face online. That’s why it’s crucial that parents not only monitor their children’s online activities but also engage in open conversations about the potential dangers and teach them how to make safe, smart choices.

The Role of Parents in Ensuring Online Safety

Your involvement is key to helping children navigate the complexities of the internet safely. Research shows that children who have open communication with their parents about online safety are less likely to fall victim to online risks. Here are some ways parents can help:

Talk Regularly About Online Safety
Open, honest discussions about internet safety should be ongoing. Talk to your children about the importance of protecting their personal information, being careful with what they share online, and knowing how to identify suspicious or inappropriate behaviour. Encourage them to come to you if they feel uncomfortable or encounter something troubling.
Set Clear Boundaries and Guidelines
Establish clear rules for screen time, social media use, and the types of content that are acceptable. Discuss appropriate online behaviour and ensure they understand the importance of treating others with respect in both the real world and the digital world.
Use Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools
Take advantage of the parental control features available on devices, social media platforms, and apps. These tools can help you manage your child’s screen time, limit access to harmful content, and monitor their online activities. However, while these tools are helpful, they should not replace open communication.
Encourage Safe Social Media Practices
Ensure that your child understands the risks associated with social media, including oversharing, cyberbullying, and interacting with strangers. Remind them to use strong privacy settings and avoid sharing personal information that could make them vulnerable.
Teach Digital Etiquette and Respect
Encourage your child to treat others with kindness and respect online. Cyberbullying is a growing concern, and children must learn that their actions in the digital space can have real-world consequences. Teach them the importance of empathy and the impact of their words.
Be Aware of Online Games and Apps
Many online games and apps allow for communication with others, and some can expose children to harmful content or interactions. Make sure to review the games and apps your child uses, paying attention to their ratings, features, and any potential risks they may pose. Be aware of in-game purchases or interactions with strangers that could lead to dangerous situations.

Best Practices for Cyber Safety

We recommend the following best practices to help keep your children safe online:

Educate about Phishing and Scams: Teach your child to recognize suspicious links, emails, or pop-ups that may be attempts to steal personal information or install harmful software. Always remind them not to click on anything that seems untrustworthy.
Create a Family Internet Safety Agreement: Sit down as a family and create an agreement outlining how everyone will use the internet safely. This can include guidelines about which sites are acceptable, how much screen time is allowed, and how to behave online.
Regularly Review Devices and Apps: Set aside time to periodically check the apps and websites your child is using. Regular device checks will help you stay informed about their digital habits and can help you identify any red flags early on.
Be a Role Model: Children often learn by example. Make sure you’re demonstrating safe and responsible online behaviour by practicing good digital habits yourself. Show them the importance of setting strong passwords, respecting others’ privacy, and being cautious about sharing personal information.

A Commitment to Partnership

We understand that no one is more invested in your child’s safety than you are. The internet is constantly changing, and so too are the risks that accompany it. But with your vigilance, open communication, and proactive approach, we can work together to help your children enjoy the digital world safely.

Thank you once again for attending the forum and for your ongoing commitment to your child's cybersafety. We look forward to continuing this important conversation and supporting you in any way we can as we help our children grow up safely in a connected world.

Congratulations Bu Gladys

I am pleased to announce that our Indonesian teacher, Gladys Wangke, has been awarded a prestigious NAILA (National Australia Indonesia Language Awards) - AII Language Teaching Award, which recognises excellence in Indonesian language teaching. This significant achievement highlights Gladys' dedication, passion, and outstanding contributions to fostering a deep understanding of the Indonesian language and culture within our school community. The award will be formally presented to Gladys at an upcoming ceremony in Canberra in December. Please join me in congratulating Bu Gladys on this well-deserved recognition of her exceptional work in language education.

Transition & Preparation for 2025

At this time of year, the school is conducting many different activities to prepare children for their transition to their classes for 2025 or their induction into the school. Students have participated in transition sessions, at the next year level, over the past few weeks, and students who will commence at Essex Heights next year in Years 1 to 6 will have their orientation next Monday, and Prep 2025 students have their Orientation Day next Friday, 6 December.

As our planning and preparation for the 2025 school year continues, it is essential that we know if children are leaving EHPS. As has been requested in recent issues of Contact, if your child is leaving EHPS and not returning in 2025, it is essential that you advise me in writing as soon as possible to the school email address (essex.heights.ps@education.vic.gov.au) with the following details:

Child’s name and 2024 class
Date of last day at EHPS (e.g. last day of Term 4 and 2024 school year is Friday 20 December)
Name of the school your child is enrolled at
Commencement date at new school (e.g. Term 1 & 2025 school year commence on 28 January)
The reason for leaving EHPS
New contact details, e.g. address, phone number, email

If your child will be absent or is finishing school before the end of this term and school year (Friday 20 December), please notify the school so that we can plan for any final assessments and end of year planning/activities for your child.

Also remember that it is a requirement of the Department of Education student attendance guidelines that parents/carers must request my permission to be absent during school term for:

Family holiday.
Cultural observance.
Bereavement (such as a death of a family member, attendance at a funeral and/or related mourning activities).
Leisure or social activities.
School refusal.
Other – special event or participation in elite sporting event/training.

Therefore, if your child will be absent from school for any of the above reasons, including finishing school before the end of Term 4, please write an email to the EHPS email address – essex.heights.ps@education.vic.gov.au – for my attention with the details and explanation of your child’s absence and requesting permission to be absent.

Upon receipt of my reply, enter an attendance note in Compass for the period of absence under the relevant category, and email the classroom teacher.

Hats – Terms 1 & 4

Consistent with our SunSmart School Policy we expect our students to wear a hat in Terms 1 and 4 to protect against UV and the sun. This is a reasonable position and I would ask that you assist us in this area. Whilst caps might be popular, they usually give little protection, particularly for the ears.

Please note that for your child’s safety and protection, students not wearing a proper sun smart hat will not be allowed to play in the yard and will have to spend recess and lunchtime in the shade being supervised by a member of staff.

Sometimes hats are misplaced, so if your child says that they have lost their hat, check the four lost property boxes located around the school. If your child does not have a hat that protects their neck and ears, that is either broad brimmed, legionnaire style or bucket, I strongly urge you to purchase an approved Essex Heights hat from our uniform supplier, Spartan School World in Essex Road (corner of Surrey Road), Mount Waverley.

The importance of checking with Classroom Teachers before bringing food to school

I remind all parents and caregivers to check with the classroom teacher before bringing any unexpected food to school. While it’s always lovely to celebrate special occasions or bring treats for students, it’s essential to consider the safety and well-being of all children, particularly when it comes to food allergies and dietary restrictions.

Allergies and Health Concerns

Many students have severe allergies to common foods such as peanuts, dairy, or gluten. Even trace amounts of certain allergens can trigger a serious, life-threatening reaction. By consulting with the teacher beforehand, you help ensure that any food brought to the classroom is safe for everyone. Teachers can also alert parents to any known allergies in the class and offer guidance on suitable alternatives.

Inclusive and Safe Celebrations

Whether it's a birthday, a reward for achievements, or a party, food should be a positive experience for all students. If you’re planning to send food as a gift or reward, please keep in mind that some students may have dietary restrictions or preferences due to health, religious reasons, or family choices. Teachers can help facilitate celebrations in ways that include all students, such as by offering non-food alternatives like stickers, small toys, or other thoughtful gifts.

Exploring Non-Food Alternatives

In light of safety concerns, many families are choosing to bring non-food items to celebrate special occasions or reward achievements. Options like craft kits, books, or small toys are excellent alternatives that avoid the risk of triggering allergies and are enjoyed by all students. If you’d like to provide a gift or reward, consider these thoughtful non-food options, which can be just as meaningful without the risk.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping make our school a safe, inclusive, and fun environment for every student. Please reach out to your child's teacher to discuss any upcoming celebrations or food-related plans, so we can work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

School Saving Bonus (SSB)

The code to access the School Saving Bonus was recently sent to families. The school has received a few queries regarding how the $400 SSB can be used.

For the latest information, please refer to the School Savings Bonus page in this newsletter and continue to read Compass notifications related to SSB as they are published.

The school will continue to update all families with information as soon as we receive it.

Volunteering at end of term

Past students often finish their school year earlier in Term 4 and offer to come back and help out at EHPS. We always love to see our former students, however, we do not always have suitable roles for them. There will also be some conditions associated with this volunteer role e.g. students must sign in/out, cannot leave the school grounds, they will be working with a particular teacher(s), and mobile phones will not be permitted.

If your child is considering offering to help at the end of term, they must put their request in writing (email to essex.heights.ps@education.vic.gov.au) so it can be determined if there is a useful role for them. We will not be able to place students who arrive at school without prior consent.

End of year preparation

With only a few weeks of term and this school year remaining, please note the following, especially if your child is finishing the year before the last day of term on Friday 20 December (see my earlier request that you keep us informed if this is the case for your child):

Liaise with the classroom teacher regarding collection of all personal belongings.
Return borrowed EHPS library books to the Library.
School uniform - consider donation of school uniform items no longer required to the Parents & Friends Club to sell at the next secondhand uniform sale. The final donation day for this year is on Friday 13 December from 3pm to 3.30pm; as this is managed by parent volunteers, please only bring your donations or arrange for your donation to be delivered if you cannot at the specified time only.
Financial matters finalised a minimum of one week prior to child’s last day, e.g. payment of outstanding charges, refund request. Contact our Business Manager, Barbara McCann.

Welcome

We welcome the following student and their family to the EHPS community:

Jiayan (Cherry) G (34N)

Looking forward to seeing you at the end of year picnic.

Kindest regards,

George Perini

Principal