Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School

NEWSLETTER

PO Box 40030, Casuarina, NT. 0811 | email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au | Ph. 08 8927 3411 | Fax: 08 8927 9791 1

Principal’s Reflection

Dear Families,

Over the weekend we had a number of our students here at Holy Spirit begin their preparation for

the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Parish community blessed them and their parents on this

journey. The first reading at the weekend was from Leviticus and reminded us to “love our

neighbour as yourself.” What a wonderful reminder as these children start their preparation for the

Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Next Wednesday we will be holding a whole school Ash Wednesday liturgy to acknowledge the beginning of

the Lenten season. Over the coming weeks we prepare ourselves for Easter. It is a time set aside for reflection

on Jesus Christ – his suffering and his sacrifice. Parents are welcome to join us at 11am On Wednesday 1st

March.

We are still looking for five parent helpers to assist with preparing and serving pancakes on Shrove Tuesday,

28th February between 9 and 10:30am. If you are able to assist please contact the front office.

The Holy Spirit School Board meets each month during school time. The 2017 Holy Spirit School Board is made up of the

following members: President – Fr. Joseph Neonbasu, Executive Officer: Simon Duffy, Teacher Representative:

Paula Sellars, Chairperson: Johanna Stieber, Finance Officer: LeeMian Chong, Community of Learners Representative: Adam

Darcey and board members, Jessie Yu, Georgina Makia, and Karen Sullivan. I would like to thank the board for the fantastic

work that they do in guiding and assisting our Holy Spirit school community.

Work place safety is everybody’s responsibility. Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School has a Work Health and Safety team that

meet regularly, if you have any school concerns that you would like to rise with the committee please contact Paula Sellars,

our school’s Work Health Safety Coordinator or myself.

A reminder that the Goal Setting Sessions with your child’s teacher are on either Monday 27th February or Tuesday 28th

February between 3pm and 6pm. The purpose of this meeting is to have time with your child’s teacher to discuss your hopes

and dreams for your child’s achievements during 2017. Booking for these meetings are done online. Parents are asked to go to

the website: www.schoolinterviews.com.au and log on with the code: 7ybru to make their booking. There are more details in

the newsletter on page 5.

We have had a few concerns with toys at school this week. I take this opportunity to remind families that

children’s toys are not allowed at school. If they are bringing them in for a classroom activity, they need to be

handed to the teacher on arrival and collected at the end of the day. Thanks for your co-operation with this.

Our next big school social event is the Harmony Day Dinner held on Friday 24th March from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at school.

This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to gather and celebrate our cultural diversity, as well as watching

performances from our school choirs and dancers.

God bless you all and keep you safe,

Mr. Simon Duffy

Principal

22 February, 2017

Week 4, Term 1

Reflection “When the chief shepherd

appears, you will be given the

unfading crown of glory”

- Peter 5:4

PO Box 40030, Casuarina, NT. 0811 | email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au | Ph. 08 8927 3411 | Fax: 08 8927 9791 2

Congratulations to the following students:

T/1, Rm.8 - Kieron Piper

Benjamin Lemmat

T/1, Rm. 9 - Bill Jaenke

Sienna Ammerlaan

Year 1/2, Rm.4 - Damien Marriner

Year 1/2, Rm.6 - Savannah Coco

Year 3/4, Rm.10 - Deklan O’Donnell

Year 3/4, Rm.12 - Amy Harris

Year 3/4, Rm.13 - Joshua Whear

Year 5/6, Rm.14 - Lily Johnson

Year 5/6, Rm.15 - Ella Johnstone

Year 5/6, Rm.17- Brendan Ammerlaan

Sport Award - Bill Jaenke & Karys Sheridan

The MJR (Making Jesus Real) Award is presented to a person

who puts enthusiasm, energy and happiness into our school

and is a team player.

This week’s MJR Award goes to :

Deacon Brown

GUITAR LESSONS Guitar lessons are available on Thursdays. 1/2 hour lessons.

Solo $25 | Group $20.00 | Contact Garry Jackson

Ph. 89 455 326 or email: garrynoel@iinet.net.au

Enrolment forms available from the front office.

ABSENCES AND LATE STUDENTS Holiday?

If your child/ren are going to be away during the school term

please notify the front office by e-mail, phone, the school app,

or come in and pick up a ‘Notification of Absence’ form.

Leaving?

If your child is leaving the school please notify the office by

completing a ‘Termination of Enrolment’ form which can be

found at the front office.

Late?

If your child arrives to school after the first bell (8:10am), please

send them to the front office to be signed in. If they are not

signed in they will be recorded as an unexplained absence.

Sick?

If your child is sick please notify the front office by e-mail,

phone or the school app. Your child’s absence will only be rec-

orded as a notified absence if you advise the school on the day

of absence or provide a medical certificate.

OSHC BOOKINGS,CANCELLATIONS, CHARGES & CHANGES

Cancellations or bookings must be made in writing at least 24

hours in advance for a normal rate of $25 to apply and for

cancellations not to be charged (Before 2:30pm for ASC and

before 7am for BSC the day prior of

booking or required booking).

Bookings made less than 24 hours in

advance will be charged $35 per child.

The Change of Bookings Form can be obtained from the front

office and from the OSHC building. All bookings and

cancellations must be in writing and made through the front

office. Email accepted, please email:

admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au

A $50 late fee (plus $1 per minute) per child will apply if your

child is collected after 5:30pm.

Students who have not been collected by 2:45pm will be sent

to OSHC to ensure supervision. Once a child is signed in at

OSHC the casual rate will be charged.

SPARE UNIFORM The front office has a shortage of spare clothes. If you have a

child in Transition - Year 2, we ask that you send them to school

with a change of uniform in their school bag in case of

accidents that occur from time to time.

OSHC FORMS, 2017

Bookings from 2016 are not carried over, as of the 13th of

February if your child has attended OSHC and has not submitted

a 2017 OSHC form to the office, you will be charged the casual

rate until a form has been submitted.

VACATION CARE Vacation Care forms are now available from the front office and

OSHC Building. To secure your child's place please return them

to the front office by Friday the 31st of March.

Forms received after the submission date will incur an additional fee of $50 per child.

Happy Birthday to the

following Students who

celebrate their birthday in

week 4:

Neve Krongold

Sofia Commons-Fidge

Brandon Seiler

Benjamin Lemmat

Joanne Barranda

Leo Nguyen

LOOKING THROUGH THE WINDOW TR/Year 1, Rm. 8 with Mrs. Emma Marshall.

In Room 8 we have been making new friends, learning the rules

of Holy Spirit and learning how to work in group rotations. We

have spent time getting to know our Year 3/4 buddies.

PO Box 40030, Casuarina, NT. 0811 | email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au | Ph. 08 8927 3411 | Fax: 08 8927 9791 3

PARENT HELPERS NEEDED On Shrove Tuesday ( Pancake Tuesday) 28th February we are

looking for 10 parent helpers from 9 – 10.30am to assist with

preparing pancakes and serving them to students. If you are able

to assist please contact the office.

UNIFORM NEWS... The old purple polo shirts are no longer part of the school

uniform. Uniform shirts are available from the office, $35.

TERM DATES

Semester One, 2017

Term 1 Wed. 1 February -Fri. 7 April

Term break Mon. 10 April- Fri. 14 April

Term 2 Tues. 18 April - Fri. 23 June

Semester break Mon. 26 June – Fri. 21 July

Semester Two, 2017

Term 3 Tues. 25 July – Fri. 29 September

Term break Mon. 2 Oct – Fri. 6 Oct

Term 4 Mon. 9 Oct – Thurs. 14 Dec

TERM DATES 2017 SCHOOL FEES - 2017 Families are advised the following school fees for 2017 apply.

These fees have been recommended by the CEC

Finance, Facilities & Resources Committee and endorsed by the

Bishop. If the level of increase creates any hardship for you

please make an appointment with the Principal to discuss the

circumstances.

1st Child $292.25 + levies = $457.25 per term $292.25 + $75 + $60 + $30 = $257.25 2nd Child $263.03+ levies = $428.03 per term

$428.03 + $457.25 - $60 = $825.28 per term – total of 2

3rd Child $233.80 + levies = $372.00 per term $398.80 + $825.28 - $60 = $1164.08 per term – total of 3

4th Child levies only = $165.00 term $165.00 + $1164.08 - $60 = $1269.08 per term – total of 4

Levies

$75.00 Books & Services (per child/per term)

$30.00 Excursion (per child/per term)

$60.00 Operational (per family/per term)

$60.00 B&S extra for Years 5 & 6 (per child/per year)

If you would like to pay your account through internet banking

please see the school account details below:

National Australia Bank

Account Name: Holy Spirit School

BSB No. 085933

Account No. 398951673

Ref: (Child's First Initial) . (Last Name) FEES/COL/OSHC

Example: J Smith FEES

Please contact the Finance Officer as soon as possible if there

are any difficulties meeting payment commitments.

Community of Learners (fees subject to change)

One Child $370 per week $90 per day

Child Care Benefits (CCB) apply

After School Care (fees subject to change)

One Child $125 per week $25 per day

Child Care Benefits (CCB) apply

Before School Care (fees subject to change)

Child Care Benefits (CCB) apply

One Child $10 per morning (includes breakfast)

PUZZLE MASTER #4 Puzzle Instructions:

This week is the 4th week of the school’s series of puzzles for

our students to solve (adults in the home can join in).

1. Solve the puzzle

2. Put it in the puzzle response box at the front office and;

3. One lucky winner will be drawn out and announced at

Wednesday’s end of day assembly.

A special canteen voucher for recess will be

given to the lucky winner.

Have fun - closing date for Puzzle No. 4 is

Tuesday, 28th of February.

Puzzle #4:

What are the next three numbers in this series:

4, 8, 12, 16, ___, ___, ___

Full Name: _________________________

Year Level and Rm.: ___________________

Answer:______________________________________

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HATS It is compulsory for students to wear their school hat during PE

lessons. If your child does not have a school hat they will not be

able to participate in the lesson.

SNAPPY SIX Name: Miya Millington

Favourite Colour: Magenta

Favourite Food: Japanese food

Favourite Book: One Upon a Slime

by Andy Griffths

Favourite Sport: Dancing

What do you like best about Holy Spirit School?

The friendly students and staff

School Vice Captain

SNAPPY SIX Name: Brandon Kurnoth

Favourite Colour: Green

Favourite Food: Carrot

Favourite Book: Albert Einstein and his Inflatable

Universe by Mike Goldsmith

Favourite Sport: Rugby

What do you like best about Holy Spirit School?

The books

School Vice Captain

SPORTS VOUCHER Sport vouchers have been distributed.

If your child has not received one please visit

www.sportvoucher.nt.gov.au or call 1800 817 860 to request a

new or replacement voucher for your child.

BACK TO SCHOOL VOUCHER

Have you used your child’s “Back to school” voucher?

It is worth $150 and can be used against the Book and Service

Levy or uniforms. Valid till the end of Term 1. Available at the

Front Office.

PO Box 40030, Casuarina, NT. 0811 | email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au | Ph. 08 8927 3411 | Fax: 08 8927 9791 4

UNIFORM Students are expected to wear full school uniform each day. A

signed note from parents must be sent to school if a student is

out of uniform. Students out of uniform will be issued with a

note to parents advising breach of uniform - the note is request-

ed to be signed and then returned.

Purple polo shirt $35

Black Shorts or Skorts - plain black $30

Dress $45

Hats - Black school hat $15

Black shoes or sandshoes - must be plain black with black laces

Socks - white or black

Sandals - black or brown

Jewellery

A wrist watch may be worn and a thin gold or silver chain with

a cross but no other form of jewellery is acceptable. Students

who have pierced ears may wear one pair of ‘sleepers’ or ‘studs’

only.

Hair

Needs to be neat and tidy at all times. Hair is not to be hanging

in the face of students, if longer than students shoulders needs to

be tied back. Purple or black ribbons are acceptable.

Nail Polish is not to be worn at school.

Hats are a compulsory uniform item.

The old bucket hats and heavy purple polo shirts are no

longer school uniform.

Term 1 Calendar, 2017 Week Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Assembly

Week 4 February 6th Sunday Ordinary Time

20

21

22

23

24

Room 4

Week 5 February 2nd Sunday Lent

27

Parent/Teacher Goal Setting 3—6pm

28

Parent/Teacher Goal Setting 3-6pm

1

Ash Wednesday

2

3

Room 14, 15 & 17

Week 6 March 1st Sunday Lent

6

7

8

9

10

Room 10

Week 7 March 2nd Sunday Lent

13

14

15

16

BOARD MEETING

17

Room 6

Week 8 March 3rd Sunday Lent

20

21

22

23

24

Harmony Day Dinner @ 5:30pm (courtyard)

Room 12

Week 9 March 4th Sunday Lent

27

28

29

30

Reconciliation, 6pm

31

Mini Vinnies

Week 10 April 5th Sunday Lent

3

4

5

6

7 REWARD AFTERNOON Mr. Duffy, Mrs. Sellars

and Student Leadership

HOLY SPIRIT PARISH SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME DATES 2017

Reconciliation

Sunday 19th February – 1st Lesson and Commitment Ceremony at

9.30am Mass

Sunday 12th March – 2nd Lesson after 9.30am Mass

Sunday 26 March – Practice and Retreat after Mass until Lunch time

Reconciliation Ceremony – Thursday 30th March at 6pm

Confirmation

Sunday 7th May – 1st Lesson and Commitment Ceremony at 9.30am

Mass

Sunday 28th June – 2nd Lesson after 9.30am Mass

Thursday 15th June – Retreat and visit from Bishop at 3-5.45pm

Confirmation Ceremony - Sunday 18th June at 9.30am

First Holy Communion

Sunday 13th August - 1st Lesson and Commitment Ceremony at

9.30am Mass

Sunday 27th August – 2nd Lesson after 9.30am Mass

Sunday 10th September - Practice and Retreat after Mass until Lunch

time

First Holy Communion Ceremony – Sunday 17th September at

9.30am Mass

For more information please see Father Joseph (Parish Priest) or Mrs

Emma Marshall (REC - Holy Spirit

Catholic Primary School).

PO Box 40030, Casuarina, NT. 0811 | email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au | Ph. 08 8927 3411 | Fax: 08 8927 9791 5

NEWSLETTER DISTRIBUTION If you would like to receive the newsletter by e-mail please

contact the front office with your preferred e-mail address.

You can also access the newsletter through the School App. and

on our website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au

If you are receiving and do not require a hard copy of the

newsletter because you access it through e-mail and/or the

school app please notify the office.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR SUPPORT POLICY – UPDATE

Dear Parents/Carers,

A focus for our school in 2016 was to update our Positive Be-

haviour Support Policy and Agreed Practices with support from

staff, students and members of our School Board.

To ensure all members of Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School

are informed and updated, information will be provided through

our weekly newsletter explaining policy and procedures in

place. While updating this, our Vision and Mission Statement

was used to ensure an accurate reflection of our school commu-

nity. A copy of this statement is provided below.

We encourage you to take the time each week to discuss this as

a family. Please do not hesitate in speaking with classroom

teachers or members of school leadership for clarification as

required.

Kind Regards,

Paula Sellars

Deputy Principal

Holy Spirit Vision and Mission Statement

Holy Spirit Catholic community is inspired by the gift of the

Catholic story and tradition, encouraging all members to live, to

love and to grow in Christ.

Holy Spirit Catholic School is committed to developing the

fundamental value of each person. Through sharing and living

the Catholic story and tradition, we foster learning that enables

students, families, school and community to engage in a collab-

orative partnership for a life-long journey of education.

Our students learn in an atmosphere which integrates Gospel

values with their life and learning. They are valued as

unique individuals working to achieve their potential - spirit-

ually, academically and socially.

Our teachers are committed to providing a quality Catholic

education based on Gospel values in partnership with the

parish and parents/carers. Their priority is to support stu-

dents achieving their potential.

Positive Behaviour Update 4:

Reflection Sheet

There may be occasions during learning time, in the play-

ground, Homework Centre (HWC) or Out School Hours Care

(OSHC) that your child may be asked to complete a Reflection

Sheet. This is an opportunity for your child to have some quiet

time to record in their words what has occurred.

The Reflection Sheet has three main questions:

What happened?

What would have been a better choice? Who have you

upset?

What can I do now to make things right?

A record of this is kept on file at school, and depending on na-

ture of incident, may be sent home for parent/carers signature as

well as acknowledgement of receipt.

This reflection sheet may be used where a student is sent to

their Buddy Class for a short break or where the behaviour ex-

hibited does not support our Positive Behaviour Support Policy

and Agreed Practices.

Where students are required to complete Reflection Sheet at

HWC/OSHC, they will be given time to sit with supervisors in a

quiet space as provided by centre. Procedures following this

remain the same for students during recess/lunch or learning

time during school hours.

We encourage parent/carers to make contact with staff to clarify

or discuss as required. Copies of all policies and procedures are

available to all parents/carers upon request.

Next week – Positive Behaviour Support Agreed Practices

PARENT /TEACHER GOAL SETTING SESSIONS

Parent/Teacher interviews will be held between 3pm – 6pm on

Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th of February. You can now book

interviews at times that suit YOUR FAMILY BEST.

Go to www.schoolinterviews.com.au and follow these simple

instructions.

Enter THIS school event code: 7ybru

Then follow these 3 simple steps:

When you click finish, your interview timetable will be emailed to

you automatically - check your junk mail folder if you do not re-

ceive your email immediately. You can return to

www.schoolinterviews.com.au at any time, and change your inter-

views - until bookings close.

BOOKINGS CLOSE MONDAY 27th OF FEBRUARY AT 9AM

For parents that don’t have access to the internet at home, at work, at

a friend’s house or on their phones, please contact the front office.

Parents may send a note to school with the approximate times they

require, or phone the school on 89 273 411. Interviews are strictly

10mins and spaces are limited. If you require more time, please con-

tact your teacher directly to make alternative arrangements.

Parents can change their interview bookings, any time prior to the

closing date, by re-visiting the www.schoolinterviews.com.au web-

site, and using the event code. Remember to use the same name and

email address, you used when you made your original booking. Par-

ents wishing to change their interview times after the closing date,

should contact the school directly on: 89 273 411

PROJECT COMPASSION BOXES Project Compassion Boxes have

been distributed .

Please return them by the end of Term 1.

PO Box 40030, Casuarina, NT. 0811 | email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au | Ph. 08 8927 3411 | Fax: 08 8927 9791 6

Community Notices

Did you know Caritas Australia has created a free reflective Lent Calendar app

for your Apple, Android and web devices?

Use the calendar to deepen your

spirituality this Lent and learn about Caritas Australia's work in five countries

across the globe. Explore Project Compassion, meet inspiring people and

reflect on the Lenten period through daily readings, prayers and social justice ac-

tions.

A children’s version is available online al-so; reflect together as a class, whole

school, family and parish! View or download at

www.caritas.org.au/

projectcompassion/lent-calendar

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Homework Policy Ratified by School Board June, 2016

Homework Policy Parents, students and teachers were surveyed about expectations for Homework. There was a strong expectation that Homework be a compulsory component of life at Holy Spirit School. The Homework Policy was addressed and revised through School Board meetings. The purpose of Homework is:

To provide opportunities for parents, students and the school to work together in partnership in relation to children’s learning.

To encourage students and their parents/carer to share and enjoy learning experiences.

To practise or consolidate basic skills and knowledge, especially in Literacy and Numeracy.

To encourage students to develop the responsibility, confidence and self-discipline to undertake study habits independently.

To ensure consistency across the school.

To use homework that is appropriate as an opportunity to raise achievement standards.

To develop appropriate levels of independence in student commensurate with their stage of development.

What does homework look like? Generally homework will include a revision of work being undertaken in class, including spelling/sight words/reading and some numeracy work. This may vary from time to time and in the older years may include project work, revision and further reading. Homework is an opportunity for our learners to:

Make connections

Set goals

Monitor success against given criteria

Implement strategies that help them to move forward with their learning

Consolidate their learning Expectations:

Teachers: Teachers can help students establish a routine of regular, independent study by:

• Setting homework on a regular basis; homework will be provided every Monday to be handed in on the Friday of the same week. Individual teachers may provide homework on a Friday to enable completion schedule to include a weekend;

• Clearly communicating the purpose, benefits and expectations of all homework; • Checking homework regularly and providing timely and useful feedback; • Using homework that is varied, challenging and directly related to class work and appropriate to

students’ learning needs; • Explicitly teaching strategies to develop organisational and time-management skills and providing

opportunities to practice these strategies through homework; • Giving consideration to other academic and personal development activities (school based or other)

that students could be engaged in when setting homework; and • Discussing with parents and caregivers any developing problems concerning their child’s homework

and suggesting strategies to assist with their homework.

PO Box 40030, CASUARINA, NT 0811| Phone (08) 89273411 | Fax (08) 89279971| ABN: 49 758 636 720 Email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au | Website: www.holyspiritnt.catholic.edu.au

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Homework Policy Ratified by School Board June, 2016

Students: Students can take responsibility for their own learning by:

• Accepting responsibility for the completion of homework tasks; • Following up on comments made by teachers; • Seeking assistance when difficulties arise; and • Developing an understanding of the value that homework can bring to their learning outcomes.

(Please note that these expectations will vary dependent on age of student)

Parents: Parents and caregivers can help their children by:

• Reading to them, talking with them and involving them in tasks at home including shopping, playing games and physical activity;

• Helping them to complete tasks by discussing key questions or directing them to resources; • Encouraging them to organise their time and take responsibility for their learning; • Encouraging them to read and to take an interest in and discuss current local, national and

international events; • Helping them to balance the amount of time spent completing homework, watching television,

playing computer games, playing sport and engaging in other recreational activities; and • Contacting the relevant teacher to discuss any concerns about the nature of homework and their

children’s approach to the homework. Homework appropriate to particular phases of learning The following is to operate as a guide in determining the amount of set homework that students might be expected to undertake.

Year Level Expectations per day Requirements

Transition 15 minutes (this includes 10 minutes reading practice)

• Daily reading to, with, and by parents/caregivers or other family members

• Linking concepts with familiar activities such as shopping, preparation of food, local environment and family outings

• Conversations about what is happening at school

Year 1 15 minutes (this includes 10 minutes reading practice)

Year 2 20 minutes ( this includes 10 minutes of reading practice)

Year 3/4 25 minutes (this includes 15 minutes of reading practice)

• Reading, spelling, numeracy and cross curricula activities.

• Preparation for oral presentations • Opportunities to write for

meaningful purposes

Years 5/6 30 minutes (this includes 15 minutes of reading practice)

Please note that these are recommended times only. For families who request additional homework this policy includes a range of web-based learning activities that can be accessed in addition to that provided. Visits to the local library will also provide additional resources to access in learning activities. Although homework is mandated for all students, teachers will not be implementing consequences for homework not completed. Teachers cannot influence what occurs in the home environment. It is the responsibility of the parent (with their child) to ensure homework is completed. Students who complete homework will receive feedback on their efforts. Families will be advised if homework is not completed and it is requested that family sign this communication and return to school. Where homework interferes with harmony within the family, families are asked to discuss the content of the homework with their child’s teacher.

Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Homework Policy Ratified by School Board June, 2016

Homework when students are absent from school due to holidays: Parents/Carers often request homework for children when they are absent due to holidays. Our policy recommends that homework out of context and without explicit teaching and feedback is not effective. During holidays children benefit best by:

Reading each day – literature/books/resources provided by family that suit students needs

Basic maths skills – important that this is revisited while on holiday – students are to be provided opportunities where this can be revisited and consolidated

Keeping a diary or writing emails, letters recording events and activities each day.

Keeping a journal (written, digital) documenting reflections of their experiences.

Recording budget items such as the cost of fares/petrol/accommodation/food and completing activities around making comparisons, justifying choices and selecting options.

Collecting brochures for additional reading.

Classroom teachers will not provide additional homework for parents/carers where family holiday occurs during school terms. Any homework undertaken during family holiday time is to be overseen by parents/carers.

Evaluation:

This policy will be reviewed as part of the school’s three year cycle – June 2019

Educational Assessment Australia Educational Assessment Australia PO Box 8020 Alexandria NSW 1435 Australia T: +61 2 8344 1010 F: +61 2 8344 1030 E: info@eaa.unsw.edu.au W: www.eaa.unsw.edu.au Educational Assessment Australia is an education group of UNSW Global Pty Limited, a not-for-profit provider of education, training and advisory services and a wholly owned enterprise of the University of New South Wales. UNSW Global Pty Limited ABN 62 086 418 582

2017 International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) Dear Parent, The University of New South Wales is offering your child an opportunity to participate in the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS). ICAS assessments have taken place annually in schools for over thirty years and in twenty countries. Educational Assessment Australia (EAA), who design and deliver the assessments, is the not-for-profit arm of the University of New South Wales. ICAS:

is an annual skills development assessment program in key areas of learning for students in Years 2–12; assessments are available in Digital Technologies, English, Mathematics, Science, Spelling and Writing

gathers performance information through a 30–60 minute supervised in-school test

provides a continuous, independent and comprehensive record of a student’s performance, and maps their development over the full period of primary and secondary schooling

enables the progress of each student to be mapped in each skill against their previous performance, demonstrating personal improvement no matter the starting point

uses fellow students’ results as a reference point; results are mapped against all students sitting at the same year level in Australia

provides an excellent preparation for national testing

enables students at all levels of ability to participate; ICAS contains questions designed to specifically explore the abilities of students of all standards – this includes those of both lower and higher levels of achievement

medals are awarded to the top students per state in each subject and year level (when sufficiently meritorious and the test was sat on the official sitting date)

achievement certificates are awarded to all students at a range of levels: 1. High Distinction to the top 1% of students 2. Distinction to the next 10% of students 3. Credit to the next 25% of students 4. Merit to the next 10% of students 5. Participation to all other students

results are available to parents and students online; these online reports and analyses remain available indefinitely. ICAS reports indicate which questions were answered correctly, compare student performance to that of the other students tested and are highly suitable for inclusion in a student’s portfolio for future tertiary entrance or job opportunities

entries are administered through the school, so teachers can also access the information To enrol your child in ICAS, please complete the registration form overleaf and return it, with your entry fees, to your school by Friday 24

th March, 2017.

For more information about ICAS go to www.eaa.unsw.edu.au, contact Customer Service on (02) 8344 1010 or send an email to info@eaa.unsw.edu.au Your child can also prepare for ICAS using Practice Online. Practice Online tests are available for English, Mathematics and Science. Find out more about Practice Online at www.eaa.unsw.edu.au/practice-online Yours sincerely Dr Sofia Kesidou Simon Duffy

Group Executive Principal Educational Assessment Australia Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School

2017 International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS)

(Year 3-6 only)

Registration Form Please return this form to school

I give permission for my child of

Child’s name Class to participate in the following 2017 International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS):

Please select the subjects you would like your child to enter:

Subject/Paper School Years

Official Sitting Date Entry Fee, incl. GST Please

Tick Fee

Enclosed

Digital Technologies*

3–10 Tuesday 23 May 2017 $10

Science 3–12 Tuesday 30 May 2017

$10

Writing 3–12 12–16 June 2017**

$20

Spelling 3–7 Wednesday 14 June 2017

$15

English 3–12 Tuesday 1 August 2017

$10

Mathematics 3–12 Tuesday 15 August 2017

$10

Total

Students should sit on the official sitting date for each subject to be eligible for UNSW medals. However, your school may choose to sit at another time to fit in with other school activities and routines. * Previously known as Computer Skills. ** Students may sit Writing anytime in the week beginning Monday 12 June. However, all students in your school should sit on the same day.

Please find enclosed ____________________total entry fee.

Name of Parent/Guardian Date ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature of Parent/Guardian

Please return with payment by: Friday 24

th March 2017

Signed: Date:

Signed: Date:

Parent/Guardian:

Parent/Guardian:

HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL

OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE – VACATION CARE BOOKING FORM

Welcome to Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Vacation Care. We aim to provide a safe, fun and stimulating environment where children can enjoy their holidays.

PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM BY Friday Week 9, 31st of March, 2017 TO CONFIRM YOUR CHILD’S PLACE Forms received after the submission date will incur an additional fee of $50 per child.

Please note: the final programme will be confirmed once we have final attendance numbers. Please make sure you check the board during Vacation Care for any important notices or changes to the programme.

The Holy Spirit Vacation Care Programme The programmed activities include a variety of excursions, special theme days, arts/crafts, cooking, sports and indoor/outdoor games. Please understand that booked outings and scheduled activities may be cancelled or substituted for reasons beyond our control. Session Times The programme will be open from 7:00am – 5:30pm, 10th of April to the 13th of April, 2017. It is the responsibility of parents / care givers to ensure that their children are signed in and out daily. Bookings To enrol your child please complete and return the booking form. The programme is a registered care provider for the Child Care Cash rebate scheme. To ensure a place for your child and to assist with staffing please book your child in by Friday the 31st of March, 2017. Late submissions will need to be approved by the coordinator, particularly on days we are attending excursions. . Cost Vacation Care is currently charged at a daily rate of $65 per day per child, and a full time rate of $260 per child per week. All accounts must be paid up-to-date prior to attending. A $50 late fee (plus $1 per minute) per child will apply if your child is collected after 5:30pm. Forms received after the submission date will incur an additional fee of $50 per child. Cancellations Any cancellations for Vacation Care must be in writing at least 2 (two) days prior to the scheduled registered day your child/children has been booked into and handed to the finance/admin office; otherwise full fees will be charged (as rosters and budgets are worked out according to bookings).

Lunch The School will provide afternoon Tea most of the days except cooking day when we provide lunch. Parents will need to provide morning tea and lunch. Please DO NOT bring eggs and nuts to school. Excursion Days Children will need to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time. Children are not to bring money with them to Vacation Care, particularly on excursion days. Movies The movies the children may watch during Vacation Care will be rated G/PG. Please see the co-ordinator if you wish to see the title of the movie. Let the coordinator know if you do not want your child/ren to attend. Session times for the movies will be advised closer to the day. Clothing Please ensure all items of clothing are named. Please provide your child with a bucket hat, sunscreen and appropriate footwear. On WATER PLAY and swimming days children need to bring bathers, rash vest and a towel. Please note: Thongs are only allowed walking to and from the pool. ALL clothing MUST be clearly labelled with your child/ren’s name. Any clothing left unclaimed at the end of the programme will be donated to charity. We advise all parents that children are not allowed to bring valuables/toys to Vacation Care. Whilst all care is taken, we cannot be responsible for any loss or damage

I/We have read the above and agree to the terms and conditions. I/We give consent for participation in all scheduled activities, including excursions, on the days which I/We have enrolled my child/children. I/We agree that Holy Spirit Vacation Care staff is free and clear of all responsibilities for any accidents and loss of property during participation

in activities. I/We give permission in event of emergency to obtain such medical assistance as required and agree to meet any medical expenses attached;

this includes travel by private vehicle/ambulance if required. I/We give permission for my child/children to walk supervised to and from excursions on the days my child is booked in Vacation Care. I/We give permission for my child/children to travel by bus to and from excursions on the days my child is booked in Vacation Care. I/We give permission for my child/children to be transported by private vehicle should the need arise. By signing this form I/We am confirming that I/We I have informed the OSHC of any additional needs that my child may have. I/we acknowledge and agree that I/we will be responsible and I/we will reimburse the School for all costs and expenses incurred by the school

in recovering or seeking to recover all amounts payable to the School in relation to the student whether such amounts are payable under the Schedule of Fees or otherwise

VACATION CARE PROGRAMMEWEEK

VACATION CARE BOOKING

FAMILY NAME:WEEK

1

No. Children

10-Apr-17 11-Apr-17 12-Apr-17 13-Apr-17 14-Apr-17

MONDAY

PUBLIC HOLIDAYName of

Children:

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

TALENT SHOW PUBLIC HOLIDAY1

THURSDAY FRIDAY

13-Apr-1712-Apr-17 14-Apr-1710-Apr-17

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY

DRESS UP

COMPETITION

11-Apr-17

MONDAY TUESDAY

LIBRARY EXCURSION

FULL VACATION CARE PROGRAMME AND EXCURSION PERMISSION FORMS AVAILABLE AT THE OSHC BUILDING

OSHC Vacation Care Easter Holiday Program 2017

Activity

Monday April 10

Tuesday April 11

Wednesday April 12

Thursday Friday

Morning

Bike/ Scooter

Hockey Frisbee Golf

Bike/ Scooter

Casuarina Library Excursion

Lunch at Hog’s Breath

Bike/ Scooter Magic Workshop

Dress Up day Competition

Bike/ Scooter

Animal rock Creation Face painting

PUBLIC HOLIDAY

Afternoon

Soccer Game Obstacle Course

Prizes and Awards

Prizes and Awards

Science Experiments

Prizes and Awards

Afternoon tea Menu Fresh Fruit Crackers and Dips

Fresh Fruit and Ice Cream Yogurt

Fresh fruit and Rice Crackers with Jam and Cheese spread

Fresh Fruit and Chocolate Muffins

Children MUST bring their own helmets, scooters and bike. Parents will provide morning tea and lunch every day. Please ensure NOT to bring any NUTS or EGSS to Vacation Care.