Students arriving to school early

Families are reminded that students should not be arriving to school prior to 8.30am. Students are unsupervised until this time. An increasing number of students have been arriving to school well before 8.30am. Families should seek care arrangements so that their children can be supervised until 8.30am. The school has onsite before and after school care provided by YMCA. Further information, including contact details for YMCA, are available on our website, to organise enrolment for your children if care is unavailable until 8.30am.

Teachers will be following up with families individually about how we can support you to get your child to school from 8.30am for regular early attenders.

Night lights

The school experienced issues with the timer and external lights last week and part of this week. Electricians attempted to fix the issue several times over that period and each attempt was unsuccessful. This was of high concern, as it left large portions of the school in darkness which was very unsafe. Understandably there were many community concerns about this. I have been assured by the electricians that the latest attempt has been successful in resolving the issue. I thank everyone accessing the school at early and late times for their patience.

Parking bottom carpark

We had advice from contractors that work would begin on Monday June 5 on the area between G Block and the hall. This area will be receiving an upgrade. The contractors have requested that 5 of the carpark spaces be left available so that they can access the area easily. The school has requested that parents not use the bottom carpark to drop off to YMCA while this happens, as staff will need those spots to park. Families will need to park on the street during this time. I understand that this is not convenient option, but it will only be for a short period while the construction takes place. Please contact the school if you have any concerns about the parking situation.

Unfortunately, the work did not begin on Monday as expected. The new expected start date is Tuesday June 13.

Antibullying plan

Annually, all NSW Public Schools are required to update their Anti-bullying plans, detailing their strategies to be implemented to reduce bullying behaviours. Our LPS Anti-bullying plan has been updated and is now available on the school website.

Bullying is defined by the following:

It involves a misuse of power in a relationship

It is intentional, ongoing and repeated

It involves behaviours that can cause harm.

A single incident or a disagreement with a friend is not bullying. These are upsetting situations, but they are not bullying.

More information about anti-bullying can be found on the NSW Department of Education website.

Uniform

It is important that students wear uniform to school. It supports with establishing self-confidence and a sense of connection with other students. It also develops pride in achievements at school. We are in the process of reviewing our school uniform, however, while this is being undertaken, students are still required to wear school uniform.

There are times, when it is cooler, that uniforms are unable to be worn because they have been unable to be washed. This should be a rare occurrence. There are several students who are consistently not in school uniform. I urge parents to put processes in place at home, encouraging your children to wear uniform to school. If your children are not responsive to this and you need help, please contact your child’s teacher. If you require support with purchasing uniforms, please contact the school.

I have also been notified by the uniform shop that uniform pricing will rise next term. If you require uniform, it would be beneficial to purchase now before the prices go up next term. You can find out more information about uniform from the school website.

This is our last newsletter before the Winter Holiday break. I wish all families a safe and relaxing break. I look forward to seeing you all back for Term 3.

Attendance at School