#2 Term 1, 2015

BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGEFAITHFULNESS IN SERVICE

COFFS HARBOUR

BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGEBDC

COFFS HARBOURFAITHFULNESS IN SERVICE

FirmFoundationsBrightFutures 6 February | 2015

| Dynamic • caring • Optimistic

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It was good to see so many parents on our busy Wednesday night at school this week.

Our Year 7 Parents and Carers were present at an information evening where they heard how the Year 7 program operates, as well as hearing all about the Year 7 Camp that happens in Week 4.

In the Branson Centre, we held our Showcase evening, where parents and carers were invited to come and see the many extra activities, clubs, and support groups that operate at BDC. It was wonderful to see so many visitors at the Showcase. The many staff at the various booths were very pleased to be able to discuss their specialties and interests with such an enthusiastic audience. We will certainly offer similar showcases in the future. Special thanks to our P&F for their energy in bringing the showcase together.

Yesterday at the Secondary assembly, we formally inducted our School Captains and Vice Captains. Zoë Burgess and Joel Anderson are our Captains. Naomi Howe and Sam Holland are our Vice Captains. Our College leaders will have a leadership retreat on campus this weekend.

We have had three confirmed cases of Whooping Cough (Pertussis) in the Secondary School this week. I e-mailed all parents and carers earlier in the week, and included some information from NSW Health. More information follows this article. Should your child exhibit any symptoms, please consult your GP urgently. Children with Whooping Cough are usually absent from school for at least a week.

Whooping Cough is a highly contagious bacterial disease. Whilst the vaccine for this disease is effective, its efficacy reduces over time. Boosters are given to teenagers, and adults may also be given a booster. Adults who were vaccinated as children might not be protected and should consult their GP, particularly if they are in close contact with infants.

Year 12 students who are interested in taking a Gap Year to work in a school in the UK, Canada or parts of Asia should see me as soon as possible. I have some contacts at schools in the UK from my time living in Scotland in the 90s. These places go quickly. I can also provide information from Tutors Worldwide, an organisation that places Gap students. Tutors Worldwide has a strict closing date of 9 April for applications.

We have had approval from our insurers to go ahead with the replacement of the shade sails that were destroyed in the December storm. These will be installed as quickly as possible.

Congratulations this week to:

Zoë Burgess (12) who competed in the QLD Triathlon series, which consisted of a 500m ocean swim, with the triathlon the • following day. She won the girls’ ocean swim. In the triathlon (750m ocean swim, 20km ride, 5km run), she placed 6th in the Under 25yrs groupEli White (12) who competed with Tom Stocks (JPC) and placed 1st in the • Championship Schoolboy Double Scull at the Head of the Clarence Saturday 6th DecemberAlanah Beard (12) who has been selected to represent in Touch Football for • Penrith and has three games in Sydney tonight. She will play in the National Touch League on the weekend of the 20th, 21st and 22nd of February in Port MacquarieJoshua Wilson-Douglas (12) who was selected and sponsored by a local Rotary • Club to attend the National Youth Science Forum in Canberra in January. He was inspired by his 10 day experience at ANU, calling it “the best time of my life” and is eager to promote the event with current Year 11 science students. Josh now has the opportunity to join the Next Step Program for aspiring scientists. From March to July this year, he can attend a sequence of three-day events across Australia. These are run in close collaboration with many of Australia’s leading universities, industries and research organisationsSummer Williams (4) who was a player mascot for the Palestinian team in the AFC Asian Cup• Hayden Kelly (12) who has been selected for the Bellingen Braves men’s State League Basketball team• Maddy Gough (10) who attended the NSW State Age swimming carnival in January. She got a silver medal • in the 800m freestyle, a bronze medal in the 400m freestyle and was a finalist in eight eventsthe following students who attended the Country Athletics championships in Newcastle in January:• - Max Iggulden (4) who has qualified to the State Championships in 800m by winning silver in this event. He also won bronze in 400m and 4th place in both 1500m and 70m sprints- Nick Sweeney (4) who won gold in the long jump and has also qualified for State titles- Chelsea Williams (7) who won gold in triple jump and placed 4th in long jump and bronze in the relay. At the Little Athletics Regional Championships Chelsea won silver in triple jump, and 7th in long jump- Summer Williams (4) who won bronze in 800m and 4th in long jump. At the Little Athletics Regional Championships, she won bronze in 800m and 5th in hurdles

From The PrinciPal

Alan BallPrincipal

http://www.bdc.nsw.edu.au


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Whooping Cough (Pertussis) page 1 of 2

What is whooping cough?

Whooping cough can be a life threatening infection in babies. Whooping cough in babies can lead to apnoea (pauses in normal breathing), pneumonia, feeding problems and weight loss, seizures, brain damage and, in some cases, death. Older children and adults can get whooping cough too and pass it on to babies.

What are the symptoms?• Whooping cough usually begins like a cold with a blocked or runny nose, tiredness, mild fever and

a cough.

• The cough gets worse and severe bouts of uncontrollable coughing can develop. Coughing bouts can be followed by vomiting, choking or taking a big gasping breath which causes a "whooping" sound. The cough can last for many weeks and can be worse at night.

• Some newborns may not cough at all but they can stop breathing and turn blue. Some babies have difficulties feeding and can choke or gag.

• Older children and adults may just have a cough that lasts for many weeks. They may not have the whoop.

How is it spread?• Whooping cough is spread when an infectious person coughs bacteria into the air which can be

inhaled by people nearby. If they are not treated early, people with whooping cough are infectious in the first three weeks of their illness.

• Whooping cough spreads easily through families, childcare centres and at school.

Who is at risk?• Anyone can get whooping cough. People living in the same household as someone with whooping

cough are especially at risk.

• Immunisation reduces the risk of infection but immunity fades over time. You can still get whooping cough even if you've been immunised.

How is it prevented?

Whooping cough vaccines provide good protection from infection but immunity fades which means that boosters are needed.

Immunisation for babies• Babies need to be immunised at 2 months, 4 months and 6 months. The first dose can be given as

early as 6 weeks of age.

• Getting your baby vaccinated on time gives them some protection when they are most at risk of severe illness.

• If your baby's vaccines are overdue, see your GP now to catch up.

Communicable Diseases Factsheet Whooping cough affects people of all ages. It can be especially serious for babies. Vaccination reduces the risk of infection. Whooping Cough

(Pertussis)Last updated: 1 July 2012



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Whooping Cough (Pertussis) page 2 of 2

Immunisation for older children• A whooping cough booster is needed at 4 years of age.

• Check if your child has been vaccinated. Look at their Blue Book, speak to your GP or ring the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809.

• A second whooping cough booster is given in high school through the NSW School –based Vaccination Program.

Immunisation for adultsA booster for adults is recommended for:

• Women who are planning a pregnancy, pregnant (third trimester) or post-delivery. These women should discuss their vaccination needs with their doctor as soon as possible.

• Other adult household members, grandparents and carers of infants under 12 months of age.

• Adults working with young children, especially health care and child care workers.

• New mothers in NSW are eligible for free whooping cough vaccine in the public maternity unit after the birth of their children.

If you are a close contact of someone with whooping cough:• If you have been exposed to someone with whooping cough early in their illness while they are

infectious, watch out for symptoms and see your doctor if you get a new cough.

• Some babies and some pregnant women need antibiotics to prevent whooping cough infection if they have had significant contact with an infectious person.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor may ask about your symptoms and whether there you've had any contact with whooping cough. If your doctor thinks you have whooping cough, a swab from the back of the nose or throat can confirm the diagnosis.

How is it treated?• Some babies may need treatment in hospital or in intensive care.

• Antibiotics are used to treat whooping cough in the early stages and can help prevent spreading whooping cough to others. People who are not treated early with the right antibiotics can spread the infection in the first 3 weeks of their illness. After 5 days of antibiotics, you are normally no longer infectious.

• The cough often continues for many weeks, despite antibiotics.

What is the public health response?

Doctors and laboratories must confidentially notify cases of pertussis to the local Public Health Unit. Public Health Unit staff can advise on the best way to stop further spread.

Infectious children are restricted from going to pre-school and school. Unimmunised contacts may be excluded from child care unless they take the special antibiotics.

Identify - Protect – Prevent

NSW Health whooping cough campaignhttp://www.health.nsw.gov.au/PublicHealth/Infectious/whoopingcough/index.asp

For further information please call your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 or visit the New South Wales Health website www.health.nsw.gov.au



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From The head oF secondaryThe secondary school has become very busy, very quickly this week. Thank you to the Year 7 parents who attended the information evening on Wednesday. The evening was designed to support parents as their children venture into a secondary setting and in particular the way Bishop Druitt College organises their learning.

We also had a very successful Parents and Friends evening on Wednesday to showcase the wonderful things that happen here at Bishop Druitt College. There is certainly no reason for any student to say there is nothing to do or nothing for them to become involved with. Our staff are very generous with their time and energy in running these activities and clubs for students.

The PDHPE faculty has run an OSSA (Ocean, Surf, Safety Awareness) intensive day with Year 10 and 8 this week. This is a vital program run for our students given our location near the beach and the leisure activities many of our students and families are involved in. While our PDHPE faculty organise and run this day many other teachers have also been involved in these successful days.

At assembly this week we formally inducted our School Captains for 2015, Joel Anderson and Zoe Burgess and our Vice Captains Sam Holland and Naomi Howe. Congratulations to these new leaders. The student leadership team will have an intensive program at the college this weekend with Year 12 Coordinator Paul Driscoll, Assistant Ben Andrews and Acting Director of Pastoral Care Sue O’Connor to enhance their leadership skills and support their organisation for 2015.

On a more mundane note, we have altered the rules for hats at school for secondary students. Students are required to wear their college broad brim hat during recess and lunch when they are not under hard shelter such as verandahs. We would ask parents to support us in educating students about the harmful effect of sun exposure and to encourage safe habits even though they are not fashionable.

secondary school

DATE SAVERBaptism and Confirmation Information Evening6.00pm Thursday 26th February 2015 in the Chapel (everyone welcome)

Rev David MorganAssistant Chaplain

view The currenT ediTion oF The norTh coasT anglican newsPaPer

Why should I stop doing something that gives me pleasure and enjoyment?

This was a question that was asked by a student in primary chapel this week during a discussion on the Season of Lent, and the discipline of forgoing something or some practice as a way refocussing during the Lenten period between Ash Wednesday and Easter.

That candid question raises an issue that many of us might fleetingly ask ourselves in the silence of our mind before it quickly disappears into the ether. Why should I forgo pleasure and self-satisfaction? What difference will it make?

Whatever, if anything we decide to ‘give-up’ in our daily routine will always be replaced by something else, that’s the nature of life. I think that the replacing bit is really the important part. If we are motivated to discipline ourselves to experience a deeper understanding of self, Creator and relationship we will always have to let something go so that space is provided contemplation and meditation. Wisdom comes to us in the writings of the ancient Church Father Saint Benedict (480-547). In the Rules of Saint Benedict monks are reminded of the self-discipline required for their vocation, “The life of a monk ought to be a continuous lent.” That would test us! However Benedict, ever the realist says,

“Since few, however, have the strength for this, we urge the entire community during these days of Lent to keep its manner of life most pure and to wash away in this holy season the negligence’s of other times. This we can do in a fitting manner by refusing to indulge evil habits and by devoting ourselves to prayer with tears, to reading, to compunction of heart and self-denial. During these days, therefore, we will add to the usual measure of our service something by way of private prayer and abstinence from food or drink, so that each of us will have something above the assigned measure to offer God of his own will with the joy of the Holy Spirit. In other words, let each one deny himself some food, drink, sleep, needless talking and idle jesting, and look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing.”

Why give up some of the things that fill our desires? Maybe the long-term benefits will outweigh the short term ‘loss’. As few have the strength to live a continuous Lent, realistically we know that we will never find many ‘perfect monks’ in any community. However if we embrace the discipline of prayer and contemplation more fully during the season of Lent, self-awareness might blossom.

Lent is not about sacrifice; it is about self-discipline. This is a time when we resolve to discipline ourselves, to make ourselves do things in the spiritual life which we ordinarily don’t do. It’s not about giving up… rather taking up.

Blessings,

chaPlain’s chaT


http://www.graftondiocese.org.au/#!diocesan-newspaper/c22ad

http://www.graftondiocese.org.au/#!diocesan-newspaper/c22ad


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science news

learning and Teaching

We have our annual swimming carnival on Tuesday at the Coffs Memorial pool. This is always a fantastic day for students, staff and parents. To help with our organisation please do not drop students at the pool except those participating in the 200IM event. All students should come to school as normal and will then be transported to the pool. At the end of the day all students will return to school and travel home as normal.

AuSTRAlIAn BRAIn BEE ChAllEngE YEAR 10We are inviting entries from Year 10 students for the 2015 Brain Bee Challenge. This is a free competition for high school students in Year 10 to learn about the brain and its functions, learn about neuroscience research, find out about careers in neuroscience and to dispel misconceptions about neurological and mental illnesses.

Round 1 is a multiple-choice test taken under test conditions during Brain Awareness Week (16th-20th March). There are 35 questions on neuroscience, based on material included in “Neuroscience: Science of the Brain, published by the British Neuroscience Association”. The science faculty will provide entrants with digital access to this booklet. It will be a bit like doing your Learners Test for your Drivers Licence.

More information about the competition can be found here:http://worldseries.educationperfect.com/brain-bee-challenge-about.html

Any students wanting to enter should email Ms Siwinski or write their names on the form outside the Science staffroom before the end of Week 3 (Friday 13th Feb).

nATIonAl YouTh SCIEnCE FoRum YEAR 11Joshua Wilson-Douglas, Year 12, was selected and sponsored by a local Rotary Club to attend the National Youth Science Forum in Canberra in January, a 10 day event at ANU that he found very inspiring. Josh will write about his experiences in the next newsletter and is very happy to talk with any Year 11 Science students who are interested in entering this year. Applications will start in early April. Josh worked on the Science Activities stall at Showcase this week providing great information to many parents.

It with great enthusiasm that I have taken on the role of Director of Learning and Teaching at Bishop Druitt College in 2015. It is wonderful to work with a staff of innovative professionals who clearly have as a priority the desire to make their classrooms interesting, challenging, relevant and accessible to all students.

An area of education that I am particularly passionate about is Formative Assessment. When teachers are able to know immediately what students have understood or are struggling to understand it can enable them to ensure that no one is left behind or that students who require a challenge are being offered that opportunity.

With the focus in Learning and Teaching at BDC this year being on Formative Assessment many of the strategies promoted by experts in the field are being integrated into our classrooms. Some subject areas are introducing the use of Red, Orange and Green cards so that teachers are able to instantly gauge the learning in the classroom. Other teachers are adopting a policy of no hands up so that all students are engaged in the lesson, not just those who choose to participate. Technology such as Google Classrooms can also be utilised to provide and access feedback. We hope to have our students develop the skills to reflect on their own work, give feedback to their peers as well as gain the traditional teacher support and suggestions to move learning forward.

Part of my role is also to work with students in creating a pattern of study that will cater to their interests, challenge them academically and prepare them for the post school pathways that they wish to pursue. The beginning of the year provides a brief window of opportunity for Year 9 and 11 students to change their electives and Year 12 students to move to fewer units of study. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you wish to discuss any of these important decisions.

Sue Siwinskihead of Science

Kathleen CollinDirector of learning and Teaching

Carmel SpryAssistant Principal (head of Secondary)

Thank you to all the parents who attended Information Evening on Tuesday night. It was lovely to catch up with new parents as well as hear about some of the great holidays had over the Christmas break. If you were not able to make it and you would like an information booklet, please email your child’s class teacher.

We are well underway with Multi-Sensory learning in classes Kindy to Year 2. Most of the junior teachers have now received intensive initial training and have each been allocated a student to work with as they complete their training over the year. Combined planning has ensured that all classes are well resourced and students are working well, I just love to wander into classrooms and observe the

From The head oF Primary

Primary school


http://worldseries.educationperfect.com/brain-bee-challenge-about.html


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Karin LisleAssistant Principal (head of Primary)

great learning going on.

Senior Primary teachers have been analysing results of the Dibels Next assessments of students in literacy and developing targeted intervention for students in their classes. We were lucky to have a consultant, Ian Thompson, help us to read the results in finer detail and evaluate the specific intervention required.

Clubs for the term have been finalised and will begin next week. Sports clubs are now trialling for specific teams over lunch times. We have had a lot of interest in our three gardening clubs, so if you are interested in coming to help, you will be made most welcome. Just let your child’s teacher know and you will be given the details.

Congratulations to Callum Wicken in Year 5 who suggested the winning entry to our canteen competition. We are now calling our canteen “The Snack Shack.” There are already new items on the menu and we are working towards more healthy choices in the future. Of course, the canteen could not provide so much without canteen helpers so please get in touch with Ben Pike, our canteen manager at [email protected]

I hope some of you managed to get to the Showcase evening on Wednesday, what an impressive number of displays! The P & F worked very hard on the night with delicious finger food for more than 200 people who attended. If you couldn’t make it this year, this is something to ensure attendance ta next year.

Next week are the Junior and Senior Primary swimming carnivals. If you have not received a note via email please check your junk mail or let us know your change of email address. Please ensure your children are well prepared with sunscreen and hats. If you would like to attend either event, you are most welcome.

If you have any concerns would just like to chat about what is happening in the Primary School, please give me a ring or email me for a time, I always welcome a time to speak to our parents.

Art Work by Amelie Howard 1H

A long time ago there was a wizard and a knight and there was a castle and a troll. The troll was mean. One day the knight challenged the troll to a battle. The troll said OK. So the troll and the knight battled.By Oliver Bond 1H

A long time ago a witch and a penguin were riding on a broomstick to the desert then they landed. Then a kangaroo jumped on the witch and the witch died. By Caroline Mostert 1H

Once upon a time there was a wizard that had limited magic and he had an archenemy that was a wizard that had unlimited magic. The wizard with unlimited magic asked the wizard with limited magic to a magic battle. While he was getting ready he realised he could train. He was really bad but he got better until he became the best he could be. By William White 1H

wriTers oF The week


mailto:[email protected]


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Asha Eagles 3L - Job Application

Our ensembles program resumed this week and is as follows:

MondayPrimary guitar ensemble (12:45pm – 1:25pm in PPS)Superstrings (1:30pm – 2:15pm in M1)

TuesdaySymphony Orchestra (8:00am – 8.45am in M1)Monsoon – Jazz Ensemble (1:35pm – 2:15pm in M1)

WednesdaySenior String Consort (8:00am – 8.45am in M1)

ThursdayPrimary Training Band (8:00am – 8.45am in M1)Senior Concert Band (1:40pm – 2:15pm in M1)

FridayPrimary Performance Band (8:00am – 8.45am in M1)Middle School Band (1:30pm – 2:10pm in M1)Senior guitar ensemble (1:30pm – 2:10pm in M2)

(I am still looking at an alternative time for the Secondary Choir to meet.)

If you play an instrument and would like to be involved in this fun and rewarding program, please see me in the Music block.

musical noTesensembles



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Age Group Training Competition Period Under 7, 8 Monday 3.15 – 4.30

BDC CHJRU - Friday Night Non-Competitive Term 2 and 3

Under 10 Monday 3.15 – 4.45 BDC

CHJRU - Friday Night Competitive Term 2 and 3

Under 12 Monday 3.15 – 4.45 BDC

CHJRU - Friday Night Premiership TAS Rugby Carnival Trinity Grammar Invitational Coffs Coast Challenge

Term 2 and 3 17-19 April June June 29 – July 1

Under 14 Coffs Snappers BDC Rugby

Thursday 4.30 – 6.00 Rugby Park

Mid North Coast Rugby Premiership Coffs Coast Challenge Coast to Country Cup

29 March – 31 October 29 June – 1 July 30 July Regional Knockout and Final

Under 16 Coffs Snappers BDC Rugby

Tuesday and Thursday 6.00 – 7.30 Rugby Park

Mid North Coast Rugby Premiership Coast to Country Cup

April to October 4 June Regional Knockout 15 September Final

Contacts Shane Oxley [email protected]

Dale Condonhead of music K-12

Thank you to all those parents and carers who so enthusiastically attended the Showcase evening on Wednesday night. There was plenty of interest shown in the goings-on of the music department at BDC and we were fortunate enough to have signed on some new Friends of Music (FoM). We are always looking for more FoM, so if you would like to join please see Mr Hodges, Ms Ray or myself in music.

A FINAL reminder to senior music students that we are going to the Glasshouse at Port Macquarie on Wednesday 11th February. We are attending the Bravissimo performance of exemplary HSC musical work from the 2014 year. Music students have been given permission notes regarding this terrific excursion, which are now overdue. Payment must be made via TryBooking on the BDC website by 11pm TONIGHT.

This exciting camp will take place on the weekend of 21st and 22nd March. Again this year we will be undergoing intensive workshops at the Coffs Coast Beach School from 9am on Saturday morning, culminating in a concert for parents and carers at approximately 1pm on Sunday afternoon. Permission notes for this important event will be issued in the next week or so, and we would ask that these be returned promptly so that we can finalise numbers with the Centre. It is expected that all members of Superstrings, Primary Performance Band and the Primary Guitar Ensemble will attend.

I would like to thank all our students for a really good start to the musical year. It promises to be a challenging but very rewarding year, culminating in the Symphony Orchestra’s tour to Japan in December. Many thanks also, to all our parents, carers and FoM for your continued support.

bdc showcase

bravissimo 2015

Primary music camP

swimming

baskeTball

rugby

Thank you to all those parents who emailed changes for the upcoming swimming carnivals, this helped immensely in getting entries correct. No more changes can now be made.

Parents are welcome to attend the carnivals and support their children, please be aware that you will need to pay the pool for a spectator entry.

Basketball registration forms and information are now on the college website. If your child is interested in playing in a BDC team please fill in a form and return it to Mrs Hilton ASAP. Please use the link above to take you to the Basketball page.

Age groups are Yr 1/2 – Funball and can be mixed teams, Yrs 3/4, Yrs 5/6, Yrs 7/8 and Yrs 9/10 boys and girls teams.

The next CHBA competitions start on Friday 13th February for secondary and Saturday 14th February for primary.

We are now taking names of students interested in playing rugby in 2015. Teams are U8, U10 and U12, older students are now asked to play in local clubs, SC Marlins, CH Snappers, Baba’s or Dorrigo. Please email names to Mrs Hilton if you would like more information on playing rugby for BDC.

Please follow the link below to the college website to access sporting information for 2015. http://www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/sport

sPorT & ouTdoor educaTion


http://www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/sport


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uPcoming evenTs

cis nominaTions

Tuesday Feb 9 – Secondary Swimming CarnivalWednesday 10 Feb – Senior Primary Swimming CarnivalFriday 13 Feb – Junior Primary Swimming Carnival

Thursday 12 Feb – Early Bird All Schools Triathlon entries dueMonday 17 Feb – Primary Tennis (Yrs 5/6 only)Friday Feb 20 – Primary Boys and Girls Basketball

Beth HiltonSport Administrator and outdoor Education Coordinator K-12

local club sPorTs

bcu coFFs Tri: 7-8 march 2015

ouTdoor educaTion

Local clubs are having sign on days for the upcoming seasons. Please contact your local club to find out dates.

Come and enjoy a swim in our beautiful harbour, a ride on closed roads and a run or walk around the picturesque jetty foreshores in the BCU Coffs Tri on 7th and 8th March. Open to all ages and abilities, it is a fun weekend of events where everyone receives a t-shirt, visor and finisher’s medal just for taking part. Visit www.villagesports.com.au for more information and to enter.

Year 7 camp is fast approaching. The coordinators and tutors are looking forward to spending time outside of the classroom with the Year 7 students and getting to know them better.

Please remember to place the ‘For the Fridge’ page up so you are aware of bus times. It is important that the students are at the pick up points on time so we can arrive at camp and start the activities. Just as important is to ensure you are at the drop off points to greet your children on their return, as we need to be back at BDC in time for afternoon buses.

imPorTanT daTes and evenTs

college communiTy

More on the College Calendar

10 Feb11 Feb13 Feb17-20 Feb

Secondary Swimming CarnivalSenior Primary Swimming CarnivalJunior Primary Swimming CarnivalYear 7 Camp


http://www.villagesports.com.au

http://www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/college-calendar


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PrivaTe vehicle conveyance subsidyPVC Subsidy is available for eligible school students, who are residents of NSW, where there is no public transport available for all or part of the journey. PVC Subsidy is paid on a daily basis between home and the transport pick up point/school. PVC Subsidy may also be available on medical or safety grounds. A special return journey must be made each morning and afternoon.

Who is eligible? To be eligible for PVC Subsidy students must be:4 years, 6 months of age or older: and1. enrolled at a registered day school: and2. residing more than 1.6 kilometers walking distance from the nearest transport pick up point3. an infant student; ie attending kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 classes. Infants students are exempt from the distance criteria; 4. anda resident of New South Wales5. be eligible for free government education. Students who are not eligible for free government education are not eligible for 6. subsidised travel.

What other conditions must be met to be paid PVC Subsidy?

A special return journey must be made each morning and afternoon.• No payment is made when students drive or ride their own vehicle to school.• Motorcycles are paid at half the approved rate.• Payments will only commence from the semester the application is received.• Transport NSW reserves the right to withdraw PVC Subsidy payments if investigation shows the student to be ineligible. Any • subsidy paid as a consequence of false or misleading information will be required to be repaid.

Parents can now apply for the PVC Subsidy online. Please visit this link: https://appln.transport.nsw.gov.au/stms-parent/application/download, to download the application form or call 1800 010 123.

Please come to the Front Office to collect a brochure.

ParenTs and FriendsShoWCASE 2015Pictured are your Parents and Friends executive team, at the end of the Showcase event on Wednesday. Our first Showcase expo-style event was a success, thanks to the generous contribution of BDC teachers and staff, who gave up their evening to show us some of the many amazing, but sometimes unrecognised school programs. More than 180 parents attended during the two hours of the Showcase and we hope learned more about their child’s school. We welcome your suggestions of how to improve on this event for next year.

ouR BIg AnnounCEmEnTWe also made an exciting announcement, made possible by the 13 parents, almost all not active P&F members, who have volunteered to become our first Year Parent Volunteers. They have agreed to host at least one social event each year for the parents and carers of their year group. New families to the year group will be able to contact them for advice. Also, if a family in the year group faces a crisis such as critical illness or worse, they will rally troops to support this family to pick up children after school, or similar.

We already have volunteers for years K-11 (and two for Year 6) and seek more willing to share this rewarding work with the support of the P&F. Several added their names to our list on Wednesday night and more were dobbed in by friends and these will be contacted. To make this possible, the school will soon send forms home with children for families to opt-in to be listed on a class contact list, provided to families in that class and the Year Parent volunteers. Those who remember these lists from past years will know how useful they are when hosting birthday parties, or settling disputes as to whether it is mufti day today or not.Please contact Claire on the below numbers for more information.

PAREnTSJoin us for quick, informative and friendly Parents and Friends Association meetings. Don’t worry, you won’t be given a job - all committee positions are already filled! Our focus is on building our school community and fundraising is only a small part of what we do.

We meet on the third Monday of each month (varies between daytime and night-time) for a one-hour meeting with refreshments and socialising after. Find out what is happening at your child’s school, as heads of primary, secondary and our principal Alan Ball, report each month.

CAn’T mAKE mEETIngS?Contact us to join an email list of people we keep informed about P&F, or find us under “Our Community” on the school website for links to information and our Facebook page.

nExT mEETIng: 6pm, monday 16 February in the Roger Oates Centre.

ConTACT uSPresident: Claire Simmonds 0415 495 010 [email protected]&F email: [email protected]


https://appln.transport.nsw.gov.au/stms-parent/application/download




COFFS HARBOUR





Issue # 2

www.bdc.nsw.edu.auC

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Come ’n’ Try Day: 4pm Sunday 8 Feb — only $5 ea

6 wk training program starts Sunday 15 Feb in shallow end at Coffs Harbour War Memori-al Olympic Pool, Coff St: 4-5pm Sundays

Contact: Claire on 0415 495 010 or visit Coffs Harbour Water Polo Club at: www.chwp.com.au

FLIPPABALL Flippaball is a non-contact, fun, water polo game for primary school kids (girls and boys) in standing water

6 wk program

Cost $70 inc. rego, all games & pool entry

Classes Tuesday and Thursday school terms Phone: PCYC on 6651 9961

Join PCYC - first 2 lessons FREE

Learn how to defend yourself and fall safely while having fun in both recreational and competitive judo. Judo is a martial art and Olympic sport, ideal for males and females. Meaning ‘the gentle way’ in Japanese, judo has a strong emphasis on safety.

Improve: flexibility balance posture co-ordination

Build: confidence self esteem discipline self control


#2 Term 1, 2015

Documents

Transcript of #2 Term 1, 2015