Dear ACS families,

Curriculum Day - May 16

A couple of weeks ago all staff participated in a professional learning day at school. These days are few - we have 4 student free days to use so that we can dedicate time to purposeful professional learning. All of which either directly or indirectly helps your children as we learn more about the best ways we as educators can continue to improve.

This time around was a little different in that our focus was looking at ourselves as individuals, as members of a team and the unique and important role each person plays in the organisation as a whole; one that now has around 140 staff members.

The premise for the day was that at ACS, the staff is by far our largest and most valuable resource; quality people who are committed to the school and whom we are equally committed to investing in.

We know that educators are the greatest influence on student learning outcomes. In order to have the most impactful, positive effects on our learners, this is where our attention should lie.

Our guest speaker Cameron Ling walked us through what it takes to be a high performing team and the role each and every individual plays in achieving this. Aside from the footy lingo, when drawing the parallels between a school and football club it was clear to see they are remarkably aligned. We learned all about personal accountability to a common goal and the impact it has when everyone is on the same pathway.

For a large staff, we are extremely fortunate in that much of this work was reinforcing the strong culture we have built over time. Increasing in number each year, it is important we continue to induct people into this positive culture and this was one opportunity to do so as well as for existing staff to take a moment and reflect on all that has been achieved to date.

My big take away is that none of us is as good as all of us, and that through efficiency and empowerment, we know we can continue to achieve continued excellence as a team.

HOUSE ATHLETICS

On Tuesday 14 May the Year 3-12 students went to Landy Field to compete in our House Athletics Carnival. It was a beautiful day, with sun shining on students and staff dressed to impress in house colours. All students competed with maximum excited and should be extremely proud of their efforts.

A huge thank you to parents Andrew Sherry, Harley Bailey, Rosemarie Marsiglio and our Year 8 Oberon students for volunteering and helping make the day run so smoothly!

Students that have qualified for the district event will find out in the next 2-3 weeks. Marc and Arron will pass on the information when they have had the opportunity to sort through all the results. The district event takes place in Term 3.

Congratulations to everyone involved for making the day a huge success!

DIVISON CROSS COUNTRY

Also on Tuesday 14 May, 4 of our students competed in the Division Cross Country event at eastern Gardens. Ziggy Brack, Alfie Rogers and Charlie and Gus Peart represented our school, and all ran amazing races. We are super proud of the effort all four put in. A further congratulations to Ziggy Brack and Charlie Peart who have both qualified to compete at the regional event in June.

Stay well this Winter

Symptoms of influenza (flu) can hit very quickly and may last several weeks. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting the flu.

Keeping our school community well

Parents, carers and students are encouraged to practice prevention measures, including:

· washing and sanitising hands regularly

· avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands

· covering nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing · staying home if unwell and consulting a general practitioner (GP) or Nurse-on-call as required

· staying up to date with flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.

Flu vaccinations

Flu vaccinations can be booked through GPs and pharmacies, many of which can also provide COVID-19 vaccinations. Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over.

Some people are more at risk of complications from flu and are eligible for free vaccination as part of the National Immunisation Program.

COVID-19 booster

The 2024 COVID-19 booster dose is available for everyone aged 18 and above.

Getting your booster dose remains the best way to prevent severe illness or hospitalisation, especially in people aged over 65 and those at higher risk of severe illness.

Children aged between 5 and 17 years who are at risk of severe illness can also receive a 2024 booster dose.

You can get your next dose at your local pharmacy or GP. To find one near you, refer to the vaccine clinic finder.

Find out more

For more information about preventing flu, and immunisation, refer to: · Better Health Channel influenza flu immunisation fact sheet · Getting vaccinated against influenza.

Thanks everyone,

Enjoy the rest of your weekend,

Kathryn

Dates to Remember

June 2024

July 2024

August 2024