Characterised by its strong sense of community,

Wandiligong school offers the opportunity and experience of success for all.

Information Book

2003

Address: 119 School Road

Wandiligong 3744

E-mail Wandiligong.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au

Telephone 03 57551026 Facsimile 03 57551157

Principal : Julie Smith

President: Dr Paul Duff

Parent Rep. Jenny Richardson

PHILOSOPHY

To provide a secure and caring environment, enabling children to skilfully and confidently take their place in a changing world through academic and social fulfilment. Our teachers strive to provide stimulating and challenging education, using exemplary informed and innovative teaching practices…….. A Continuing Tradition.

INDEX

Principal’s Message Page 3

School Profile Page 4

Staff Message Page 5

Communication Page 7

Financial commitments Page 7

School Services Page 8

External Support Services Page 8

Dress Code Page 9

Sample Uniform Order Page 9

Student Code Of Conduct Page 10

Expectations of The Community Page 11

Parents and Friends Code Of Conduct Page 11

For The Preps Page 12

Preparing Your Child For School Page 13

How You Can Help Page 13

Child Health Page 14

Health Exclusion Chart Page 14

School Personnel Page 15

A Continuing Tradition

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Here at Wandiligong we endeavour to provide a secure, warm and caring, family environment. We have an 'Open Door' policy enabling parents to support their child's learning by joining in with class activities or simply visiting when their time permits. We encourage and welcome community participation and as a result we currently have several community members assisting with class programs providing a depth of experience and variety to our curriculum. Class sizes are small and the level of individual attention that your child receives, ensures the development of self-confidence and the achievement of full academic and social potential.

Small schools typically have a very committed parent body that contribute to the smooth running of the school administration and curriculum programs. Wandiligong is no exception and is very fortunate to have a small but dedicated band of parents who assist with fundraising, reading programs, grounds maintenance and formulation of policy. Parental views and opinions are encouraged as a means of focusing on change, and further improvement of curriculum delivery. When you choose to enrol your child at Wandiligong it will also become your school.

Please take the time to familiarise yourself with our facilities and meet the people involved with the school's operation. A list of personnel is included on the back page of this document. We welcome new faces and fresh ideas, so please let us know of your skills and interests and become active members of our school community. We are very proud of our beautiful old building, and hope that you will also share in our community pride and assist with maintaining the grounds in a condition befitting the beauty of this school setting.

We look forward to a long and happy association between our school family and yours.

Julie Smith

Principal

A Continuing Tradition

SCHOOL PROFILE

Wandiligong School has a long tradition of educational excellence. It is situated in the foothills of the Victoria Alps some six kilometers from the township of Bright. The first school opened in 1860 and existed in various accommodations until 1877 when the lower section of the present school building was opened. Four years later the top room was added in order to accommodate the peak enrolment of nearly 300 students. The National Trust Register listed the School building in 1960 as a recorded Building and in 1984 it was upgraded to classified status

A recent upgrade of facilities has seen the addition of an extra classroom, new toilet facilities, a new storage shed and an outdoor classroom shelter for science and art classes. Further planned developments include the conversion of the existing staff room to a library and small group teaching area and a new office and staff room.

The present enrolment stands at 54 with an anticipated prep intake of ten in 2002. The future of the school looks secure as projected enrolments suggest that the population will remain at about this number over the next few years. Kindergarten figures and the subdivision of land in the town indicate that six to ten pupils will enter the school each year.

Policies and programs are based on the belief that each child has the capacity to reach his or her potential. Staff at Wandiligong ensure class programs foster self-esteem, respect for others and responsibility for learning in a safe, caring and challenging environment. The naturally occurring multi age groupings in the school create a family atmosphere in which cooperative learning flourishes. Focus is directed at the special needs of individual children, fostering their strengths and encouraging them to value learning.

The school is currently organised into three classes prep, 1-2 and 3-6. Teachers are assigned to classes but also have responsibility for some specific subject areas ranging across prep – six. Specialist programs are provided in Health and P.E, Science, Technology, L.O.T.E. Arts. In addition the pupils have sessions once per fortnight from the library van (M.A.R.C) and Art /Craft van (M.A.A.C). Children in grade 3-6 have the opportunity to participate in a skiing activities and the whole school also participates in an intensive swimming program and a variety of educational excursions. Wandiligong is an accredited Sunsmart School and Sunsmart practises are taught to all children.

Wandiligong is part of a wider community that involves a cluster of schools, Bright, Porepunkah and Harrietville. The cluster works together on professional development days combined sports days, excursions, Arts Council Days and sharing of resources.

The school has a tradition of being a community school in that it is seen as part of the community and both parents and other adults consistently provide positive support for the school activities. The relationship among students, parents and teachers is strong and lead to caring and supporting learning environment .The security of the school environment encourages tolerance between the older and younger students resulting in a growth of independence and personal confidence

A Continuing Tradition

OUR STAFF WELCOMES YOU TO OUR SCHOOL

We believe that a school environment should produce happy memories and a positive attitude to a lifetime of learning. Children should feel confident in an environment that has predictable consequences for the choices they make, and disciplinary measures that are relevant to their behaviour.

At Wandiligong we ensure that we cover all eight-curriculum areas as effectively as possible. Currently the school is divided into three classes. Years 3 /4 / 5 & 6 are grouped together into one class; years 1&2 form the second class and the third class consist of the Preps. The infant grade prep have their own class teacher for the majority of their time, ensuring that they develop a sense of identity and belonging at the school. The older classes have a class teacher and a variety of teachers who specializes in teaching Music, Phys Ed, Science and Technology.

We now embrace the principals of learning that are integral to the success of the Early Years Program not only in English but whereever possible across the curriculum. The children are stimulated by the interaction that occurs within the classroom during teacher-guided sessions, and at the learning centres in the 2-hour literacy sessions. Positive interaction in such a variety of learning situations provides for all children regardless of their levels of achievement or learning styles. It is anticipated that this approach will build independence, confidence and further enhance social skills.

Information technology is a focal point for learning in all areas. Wandiligong has a computer ratio of 1 P.C. to 4 children. The use of computers and the internet is now integrated into all curriculum areas and is used as a tool much like a pen to support learning. We timetable IT separately one hour per week to ensure that new skills are taught and practised.

All children are taught to value learning and to strive for the highest standards that they are capable of. Our goal is that all children will reach their full potential particularly in English and Maths by grade 6. They will be encouraged through the appropriate programs in all 8 key learning areas to interact positively with others, to be inquiring and curious, to approach problems with an open mind, and to be appreciative of the world around them. The 8 key learning areas are Maths and English, Language Other Than English (Italian for all grades) Science, Technology, Studies of Society and the Environment, The Arts, (Music, Drama and Visual Arts) and Physical Education/Health.

Group days are organized on a regular basis, where cluster schools get together for sporting activities ensuring wider communication for our children.

An active approach to learning is favoured at Wandiligong, where the children learn by doing and are actively involved in planning their own learning activities. The children are also offered the opportunity to participate in swimming, and skiing activities that incorporate the services of specialist coaches.

We believe that education does not stop at school. We like to think that school and home can work together. Class teachers welcome the opportunity to discuss the ways that you can help your child with home learning.

Anne Koehn Carolyn Serpell Heidi Bull Doug Ferguson Maria Rinaldi

SCHOOL TIMES, ATTENDENCE AND TRAVELLING TO SCHOOL

School commences 09:00

Morning Recess 11:00 – 11:30

Lunchtime 12:30 – 01:30

School Finishes 03: 30 pm

* Prep attendance will be negotiated to cater for individual needs. *

• Children like to arrive early at school but this is not advisable, particularly on cold mornings. It is not necessary for them to be present until 8:45am; school concludes at 3:30pm.

• Late arrival at school does get the child’s day off to a bad start; therefore it is best to be prepared and arrive in enough time to ensure that days program is begun in a calm, orderly manner.

• If your child is absent from school could you please let us know the reason either verbally or by note.

• We would appreciate being notified if parents are going to be late collecting children after school. Most children become upset if their parents do not arrive when expected. Staff are normally at school from 8.15 until 4.30 each day and can assist with such problems when they arise.

TERM DATES AND CURRICULUM DAYS

These days and dates are published in the weekly newsletter allowing several weeks notice to allow for planning of family activities. Curriculum days allow teachers to have pupil free days for professional development, planning and report writing. These are usually planned to coincide with neighbouring schools. Reminders that school concludes early on the last day of each term are also published in the newsletter

TERM DATES 2003

Term 1 28^th January –28^th March Easter April 18^{th -} April

Term 2 23^rd April –29^th June

Term 3 16^th July – 21^st September

Term 4 7^th October – 20 December

TRAVELLING TO SCHOOL

Bus Travellers

This service is available free of charge to students living farther than 4.8km from their nearest school who wish to travel to that school. The bus co-ordinator for this area is Ms Thorpe from Bright College Phone 57551166 and arrangements need to be made with her prior to commencing travel. The children arrive at school at approximately 8.30 am and are collected from school at approximately 3.30pm. Teachers are on duty at school to supervise children on arrival and departure.

Bikes

Some children ride bikes to school. We ask that parents ensure that they wear approved bike helmets and that bikes are in good roadworthy condition. It is a generally agreed statewide policy that children in grades Prep, 1, 2 and 3 do not ride bikes to school unless accompanied by an adult. Bikes are to be walked to the school gate before riding home; no bikes are permitted to be ridden in the school grounds.

Car travellers & Walking

Children who are either walking or being collected from school exit from the two front gates under teacher supervision. PLEASE let us know if your child is to not being collected by a family member. Children have a tendency to make spur of the moment decisions regarding playing at a friend’s house without consulting their parents. This can cause some delays and confusion. We therefore do not allow children to be collected by others without your verbal or written direction.

COMMUNICATION

Communication between home and school is important and at Wandiligong this happens in several ways:

A weekly Newsletter A weekly newsletter will come home to each family. Please check your child’s bag for this and any extra ‘bulletins’ that may be necessary. This is probably the most important means of communication between home and school - so please ask for an extra copy if yours does not arrive home.

Parents Teacher Interviews These will take place twice yearly. You will be notified of dates in advance. You will also receive a written report of your child’s progress in July and December.

Parent Information Nights Information nights are held regularly. The first at the beginning of the year, primarily for ‘new’ parents but also of relevance to others parents, especially in these times of change.

An Open- Door Policy At Wandiligong parents are able to see teachers at any time. A phone call first is best, so that we can be sure of giving you the time you need but if this is not possible then we will make arrangements to accommodate you. Likewise the staff will contact you at any time if we wish to discuss aspects of your child’s progress with you.

School Council School Council is the ‘management’ body of the school and meets monthly. Councillors are elected but any parent or interested person is welcome to attend meetings. The Council has 3 sub-committees – Finance and Management, Building and Grounds and Curriculum. You are welcome to approach the people on these committees if you have an issue to raise.

Parents and Friends This group is responsible for fund-raising for the school and organising many school functions. Meetings should be held monthly, usually the week before School Council. Details of these coming meetings will be published in the newsletter.

Becoming a Classroom Helper Assisting in the classroom provides an opportunity to work closely with the children. Listening to reading, helping with writing or by offering a special skill you have that would benefit our children. This can be a very rewarding experience and one that your child and his/her teacher will certainly appreciate. Classroom helpers need not be restricted to only parents, therefore if you know of a community member who would enjoy this interaction please let us know.

FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS

Levies /Voluntary Contributions

The amount to be charged for voluntary levies is set by school council to supplement the Department of Education grant to schools each year. This money is used to purchase resources and materials that are used by the students in each of the eight key curriculum areas.

Sending money

The most secure method of sending money to school is by cheque in a sealed envelope. However families often prefer to send small amounts along as they are required. In these cases we provide envelopes that have appropriate information printed on the front. This prevents any confusion regarding the purpose and origin of the payment.

E.M.A

The Educational Maintenance Allowance is available via an application by an eligible parent who meets the specified criteria. Information regarding these forms is published at the appropriate time in the newsletter.

Payment for Excursions and extra Curricula Activities

Due to budget constraints we ask that families pay either prior to or on the day for excursions and extra curricula activities. Should families experience difficulties paying for these expenses they are asked to discuss the problems with the Principal. There are some avenues open to schools to assist families who are in serious financial difficulties.

SCHOOL SERVICES

Book club

Each month a pamphlet will arrive home with a selection of books available for you to purchase. The school makes a small profit out of these sales but you are under no obligation to use this service.

Skiing

All skiing activities are conducted at Mt. Buffalo and parent helpers are necessary.

The frequency and duration of these activities is governed by the snow season i.e. Weather Conditions and availability of snow.

Transition

Transitions from kinder to prep and grade 6 to year 7 are priority issues. We address these in many and varied ways, providing opportunities for experience and interaction in these new environments. Details of these are provided at information evenings.

School Bank

Bank accounts for your child may be opened at the commonwealth Bank. Details will be available early in the year.

Excursions

A school excursion is an essential part of the curriculum and is planned to complement classroom activities. A notice will be sent home informing you of all details. You will be required to fill out a permission slip and return it to school before the excursion. On most occasions a cost will be involved but we try to keep it a minimum. If finances are tight the school may arrange a subsidy if you contact us.

Swimming

A swimming program is run in Term 1, 2 and 4, for all children from P-6, at a minimum cost to you. The program is held at the Bright Sport and Leisure Centre and we have the services of Vic Sim, an experienced instructor, to teach our children. Details are sent home at the start of each term.

Music

Private piano tuition with Jill Chalwell is available through the school. Times and fees are announced at the beginning of each term.

Hot Lunches

During third term the children are able to bring along food suitable for heating in an oven. The teachers ensure that this food is then heated and returned to the children at lunchtime

EXTERNAL SUPPORT SERVICES

There is a range of services that can be accessed by schools to support families and student who are experiencing difficulties.

• Educational Assessment
• Psychological Assessment
• Dental Service
• Speech Therapy
• Immunisation advice
• School Nursing service
• Social worker

DRESS CODE

• There is a uniform available for our children, which is strongly encouraged but not compulsory.
• The uniform consists of a blue and white checked school dress for girls, blue shorts and blue shirt for boys for summer; navy windcheater, pale blue skivvy with navy track pants or tartan slacks for winter.
• At all times correct footwear is essential - either sturdy sandals for hot weather or strong shoes suitable for daily Phys Ed at other times.
• We require the children to be neatly; cleanly dressed in clothing that is suitable for the various activities they participate in at school. We do not approve of skimpy clothing singlets, and clothing printed with provocative slogans.
• Wearing of hats is compulsory at all times in summer according to our SunSmart policy. Clothing such as T-shirts, windcheaters and hats may have our school logo printed on them at Jackaroo Blue in Bright.
• School uniforms can be ordered from School Wear by completing the form illustrated below which you can collect from the office. Each child will be issued with a sun hat that is kept at school.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

The code of conduct for students at the Wandiligong Primary School has been formulated within and is consistent with the Department of Education guidelines and regulations.

The code of conduct is based upon the following principals:

· all children have the right to feel safe and secure

· all children have the right to work and play without interference

· all children should be encouraged to be polite courteous and well mannered

· all children will be encouraged to exhibit pride in their school

· teachers should expect to be able to teach in an atmosphere of order and cooperation

· parents have the obligation to support the school in its efforts to maintain a productive teaching and learning environment

· principal and staff have an obligation to implement the code of conduct fairly, reasonably and consistently

SCHOOL RULES

There are five basic school rules

1. Move and play in a sensible and responsible manner creating a safe environment for all children

2. Care for yourself, others and property

3. Be cooperative and considerate resolving problems calmly, sensibly and fairly

4. Respect others through your speech and manners

5. Work as well as you can and allow others to do the same

Individual teachers have their own set of specific class rules that comply with all school policy and charter guidelines

OUR APPROACH TO DISCIPLINE

At Wandiligong we consider that a positive approach to behaviour fosters a school climate within which personal responsibility and self-discipline will be developed. We are committed to the following strategies:

· Giving positive reinforcement to improve self-esteem, for example student of the week

· Acknowledging student achievements in the newsletter and at assemblies

· Encouraging friendship, sharing, tolerance, and compassion amongst all children.

· Requiring children to accept some responsibility for their actions

· Providing adequate supervision in the school grounds, making special efforts to observe, assist and involve children with problems.

· Developing a whole staff approach to the resolution of problems occurring both in and out of class

· Being consistent and fair in applying logical consequences

· Encouraging understanding and awareness of the school rules

SANCTIONS

Breaches of school rules will incur some penalty or action. Those penalties or actions will be a logical consequence of the misbehaviour.

Serious and continued breaches of school rules may lead to suspension /expulsion procedures in line with Department of Education guidelines.

OUR EXPECTATIONS OF OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY MEMBERS

Wandiligong Primary School relies on close liaison with community members to:

· Support school rules, codes of practice, programs and decisions made by the school administration

· Assist with advice and support for it’s educational and other programs

· Encourage children, by example to have a positive and interested attitude to their school and their own learning

· Supervising homework with particular emphasis on reading most nights

· Accepting the school’s on going invitation to actively seek information about a child’s learning

· Participating where possible with working bees and grounds maintenance

· Supporting fundraising activities and special activities for children

Wandiligong School will keep the community informed of its achievements and activities through:

· Regular school newsletter

· Holding regular council meetings and advertising agenda prior to each meeting

· Communication through media releases to local media, businesses and other organisations

· Encourage an open door approach to the community and establishing clear points of contact with the school.

· Holding open days and parent information sessions

Wandiligong Primary School

· Seeks and includes community responses in the evaluation of school goals and programs including parent surveys

· Informally and formally (if necessary) seeking parent satisfaction for early resolution of emerging problems

The rights and confidentiality of all members of the school community including students, parents and staff shall be ensured at all times

PARENTS’ CLUB CODE OF PRACTICE

The Wandiligong Primary School Parents Club is a formal representative body of the school community and operates under the following code of practice

· To be aware of changes involved with educational and accountability issues.

· To work towards the charter goals and priorities in cooperation with School Council and staff by working to achieve a level of resourcing necessary to run effective programs.

· To be representative of the views of all parents when planning and documenting activities, encouraging the active participation of all parents in fundraising and social activities.

· To provide an opportunity for discussion and expressions of views relating to planned activities and expenditure.

· To welcome new parents to the school encouraging participation of these families in school activities

FOR THE PREPS

Information for parents of children starting School

Wandi Wombat…………………our special school mascot and friend.

(A very important part of our prep language stimulus program )

Enrollment

You will need official proof of age (e.g.: birth certificate) and an immunization certificate issued by the Shire when you come to enrol your child

You will be asked to complete a Confidential Pupil Information sheet which includes such things as address, emergency contacts, custody and access details, health problems - things that we need to know for the welfare of your child.

We urge you to come up to the school and do these things before your child’s first day.

This will allow your child to see his/her new school and become familiar with this new environment. And help to make the very important ‘Big Day’ a happy and positive experience.

PREPARING YOUR CHILD FOR SCHOOL

It is helpful if your child can:

• Identify his/her own clothes and other belongings. Please label everything that can possibly be labelled. Lost property is a problem even at our little school.
• Put on his/her shoes. Tying laces is difficult for most Preps but there are other styles of footwear available that have alternative fastenings. Sturdy footwear is essential at all times at school. Phys. Ed. and playgrounds are hard on little feet.
• Repeat his/her full name, address and phone number and recognize own name when written.
• Have a handkerchief and know how to use it.
• Use the toilet unassisted, including pressing the button and wiping him/her self properly. If you suspect that there may be an ‘accident’ at school, pop a spare pair of undies in your child’s school bag and please, tell us.
• Manage to eat lunch unassisted. Preps do not eat as much as we think at first. A small amount of interesting, nutritious food is recommended for morning playtime and lunch. Fruit juice and water are the preferred drinks. Bottles and cans are not advisable because they do present health hazards. Lunch is supervised and children are encouraged to take uneaten food home.
• Adequate sleep is essential for all school children. They cannot concentrate if they are tired. Attendance in first term is adjusted for Preps to suit individual needs.
• Please tell your child’s teacher about anything that may affect your child during school hours - health problems, behaviour patterns, in fact, any special need your child has. This will, of course, be treated in the strictest confidence.
• Also please tell the teacher immediately if your child is unhappy at school. Sometimes teachers may not be aware if something is wrong and we will always be available if you are concerned. Problems do occur but they are usually minor and easily dealt with. Remember if you or your child are worried then it is important to talk to us, as we are here to help.

HOW CAN I HELP?

Here are a few hints that may help with your child’s transition from home to school:

• Help children feel good about themselves and learn to appreciate their individuality. Praise gently and sincerely, when it is deserved. Recognize efforts to help, no matter how small (or effective!) they are.
• Promote school as a good place to be and demonstrate this by spending time here even if it’s only an hour or weekend tending to the garden.
• Encourage children to write and draw without trying to instruct. Give value to either efforts by ‘reading’ them or displaying them.
• Try to use Maths in everyday life - e.g. counting the cutlery, using money, ordering things e.g. longest, biggest, shortest smallest. Sharing thing e.g. ‘take 6 each’ or ‘we will cut the apple into ¼’s.
• Take time to talk to your child - hold conversations with him/her. Value opinions, listen to ideas. Good talkers are often good readers and writers

PROGRESS

Progress is highly individual and readiness for learning may vary over a span of several years in young children. Do not worry if your child appears to be ‘behind’ some of his/her classmates. Your concerns are very easily transferred to the child who may respond by becoming tense and uncooperative and may develop a negative attitude towards school and his/her ability.

Value each step as it occurs. Teachers very quickly identify and respond to learning problems and can provide the necessary measures to assist the child. A word with the teacher, if you are concerned with your child’s progress, is much better than unnecessarily worrying.

CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH PROGRAM

· The child and Family Health program offers all Victorian children a health assessment in their first year at school.

· School nurses deliver the program. It gives parents/guardians, teachers and nurses an opportunity to work together for the well-being and educational progress of children.

· In order to carry out a health assessment, the nurses need to know information that only parents of guardians have about their child.

· Prior to the school nurse’s visit parents will receive a School Entrant Health Questionnaire that will assist them to provide this information. Parents are encouraged to consult the school nurse at the time of her visit to their school to discuss any concerns they may have.

· All information is confidential.

· The health assessment is not intended to replace your normal source of health care.

• The school nurse is also available to see children from other grades that may be of concern to parents or teachers.
• For further information please contact your School Principal or child’s teacher

HEALTH MATTERS

All parents must produce an Immunisation Certificate as a prerequisite for acceptance of the child at school Certificates are available for the Alpine Shire Offices. A Statutory Declaration is required ion the absence of a certificate

Head Lice is an ongoing problem. We ask that parents are diligent in the detection and treatment of this problem. We realise that this problem can be embarrassing however most families have had to deal with this problem at some stage during their child’s school years. Please notify the office if your child has been infected so that we can alert other parents to check their children more thoroughly. This action then prevents the problem from becoming wide spread and the possible reinfection of your child

Dental Health Services are for school age children. The cost is $25.00 per child with a ceiling of $100 for each family. The service utilizes the services of dentists, dental therapists and dental nurses. Fissure sealants, topical fluoride applications and extractions are some of the procedures provided by this service.

CURRENT SCHOOL PERSONNEL 2002

Principal - Julie Smith Smith.Julie.JC@edumail.vic.gov.au

Class Teacher - Anne Koehn Koehn.Anne.E@edumail.vic.gov.au

Class Teacher – Carolyn Serpell Serpell.Carolyn.CM@edumail.vic.gov.au

Class Teacher – Heidi Bull Bull.Heidi.H@edumail.vic.gov.au

Clerical Assistant -Marilyn Patterson Patterson.Mariyn.I@edumail.vic.gov.au

Information Technology – Doug Ferguson

Italian Teacher - Maria Rinaldi

MAAC Van – Sandra Moore

MARC – Julian Collins

Council President- Dr Paul Duff

Reading Recovery –Julie Smith

Parents and Friends- Jenny Richardson