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Kurri Kurri & District Pre-school Kindergarten Inc.Cnr Tarro Road & Boundary Street

Spion Kop. N.S.W. 2327Phone: 02 49372110 Fax: 02 49364810

ABN: 18 115 499 102

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.kurripreschool.com

Kurri Kurri Pre-school Handbook Revised 18/8/2017

http://www.kurripreschool.com/

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, COMMUNITY SERVICES309 Charlestown Road,CHARLESTOWN. NSW. 2290Phone: 02 4985 1400Fax: 02 4985 1499www.community.nsw.gov.au

Overall rating

QA1 Educational program & practice Exceeding National Quality Standard(E) QA2 Children’s health and safety Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)QA3 Physical environment Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)QA4 Staffing arrangements Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)QA5 Relationships with children Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)QA6 Collaborative partnerships with families and communities Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)QA7 Leadership and service management Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)

Overall rating Exceeding National Quality Standard (E)

Summary comments

Your service is commended on its achievements in providing quality outcomes for children. In particular, achievements in educational program and practice, staffing arrangements and collaborative partnerships with families and communities to enhance children’s learning demonstrate the commitment to quality by educators at your service. It is recommended that management and educators continue to reflect on current practice to maintain the quality outcomes evident during the assessment and ratings process.The overall rating is Exceeding National Quality Standard (E).


COMMUNITY SERVICES COMPLAINTS COMMISSIONC/- NSW Ombudsman

NSW OMBUDSMANLevel 24, 580 George Street,SYDNEY. NSW. 2000Phone: 02 9286 1000Fax: 02 9283 2911Toll free: (outside Sydney – 1800 451524) Email: [email protected]: www.ombo.nsw.gov.au


1. Handbook This handbook has been compiled in consultation with the children, parents, committee, community & staff and is designed to help families get to know our service.

2. IndexSubject1. Handbook 28. Children’s library2. Index 29. Food & Nutrition3. Acknowledgement 30. Sustainability4. Staff 31. When children are unwell5. Committee 32. Spread of Infection6. Aim 33. Medication7. Philosophy 34. Infectious & contagious diseases8. Program 35. Immunisation9. Pre-school Disability Support Program Funding 36. Accidents & incidents10. Workshops 37. Safety & emergency procedures11. Project Work 38. Volunteers & Students12. Recording Your Child’s Learning 39. Fees13. Communication to families 40. Excursions & Special Events14. Settling New Children 41. Book club15. Positive Guidance of Children’s Behaviour 42. Parent Exchange Meetings16. Routine 43. Transition to school statement17. Session Times 44. Parent/Carer visiting18. Arrival and Departure 45. Collecting natural materials19. Groupings and recyclables20. Children’s lockers and folders 46. Working Bees21. Pets 47. Noticeboard & Newsletters22. Celebrations 48. Parent Library & pamphlets23. Relaxation time 49. Complaints procedure24. Placemats & Children’s Photos 50. Parent participation25. Children’s Requirements 51. Confidentiality & privacy26. Children’s Clothing 52. Working with children checks27. Treasures from home 53. FundraisingAppendix1. NSW Font 8. Visiting Policy2. Complaint Forms 9. Immunisation schedule3. Parent Permission for Specialist Services 10. Sunsmart information4. Medication Permission Form 11. Belonging,Being & Becoming5. Incident/Injury/Illness/Trauma Record 12. Emergency Authorisation to Collect6. Infectious diseases pamphlet 13. Social Story7. Child Asthma Record 14. Transition to School Statement

15. Fathers for School Readiness


3. AcknowledgementKurri Kurri Pre-school staff and management acknowledge the traditional owners of this land and neighbouring tribes, the Awabakal, Darkinjung and Wonnarua people, their language and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our community.The nominated supervisor, educators and co-ordinators are culturally competent and respect multiple cultural ways of knowing, seeing and living, celebrate the benefits of diversity and have the ability to understand and honour differences (Adapted from The Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p.16.)

4. Staff“Nominated supervisors, educators and co- ordinators are deliberate, purposeful and thoughtful in their decisions and actions. Reflective practice is a form of ongoing learning that involves engaging with questions of philosophy, ethics and practice (Adapted from The Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p. 13 and p. 15).”Our staffing arrangements create a safe and predictable environment for children which support the development of warm, respectful relationships. Outcome 1. Children have a strong sense of identity and feel safe, secure and supported as they build secure attachments with one and then more familiar teachers and educators.Our ratios of adults to children are higher than legislation requires. University qualified teachers and T.A.F.E trained educators encourage children’s active engagement in the learning program. Positive relationships among educators and staff contribute to an environment where children feel emotionally safe, secure and happy.


5. CommitteeThe management committee is made up from parents and members of our community who help govern the pre-school. A parent from each family must attend the annual general meeting which is held in MARCH.

The management team is made up of a president, vice-president, secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer and assistant treasurer. The parent body is made up from all parents who accept nomination into this position.Each position on the management team is declared vacant at the annual general meeting where

nominations are taken from the floor and from parents prior to the annual general meeting. These positions are voted on by all financial members.Please note all parents are financial members. The charge for this is $2.00 and is included in your

child’s enrolment fee.The committee meets once a month to make important decisions affecting the running of the pre-

school.Parents who take on a position must comply with the guidelines set down by the Department of Education and Communities and National Law http://www.dec.nsw.gov.au/what-we-offer/regulation-and-accreditation/early-childhood-education-care/ec-extra-newsletter/may-2017/new-approvals-processand the preschool philosophy and constitution. You will need to complete Working With Children Check forms as required by DEC (and provide 100 points I.D) and Police Check.The Director is an ex officio and has no voting rights. Pre-school staff do not have any voting rights.

6. Aim

Kurri Kurri Pre-school provides quality early childhood education and care to all children from our community. It is a play based program which supports and promotes children’s inquiry and learning through intentional experiences. These experiences are interest based, provoking children’s curiosity to question and wonder why. It encourages children to work collaboratively with teachers and educators who can challenge the children’s thinking through sustained conversations and supports ongoing learning. This is intentional teaching where teachers and ‘educators are deliberate, purposeful and thoughtful in their decisions and actions about what happens every day in the preschool program.

7. Philosophy

Teachers, educators and management promote innovative and research based practices that take into account children’s strengths, real needs and expressed wishes. Our practices follow ECA Code of Ethics, the United Nations Convention on Children’s Rights, The Early Years Learning Framework, National Regulations and the National Quality Standards, ECA supporting young children’s rights statement of intent and draw on our knowledge and experience that we continuously develop together with children & families.


Our Educators will; Respect and respond to children’s individual personalities, dispositions for learning,

strengths, abilities and interests. To support children and their families to ensure full participation in the early childhood

program Ensure all children participate fully in the program Together with children, families and the community create stimulating and challenging

learning environments which supports unhurried time to investigate and enjoy every day experiences.

Trust children’s competence and capacity for self-direction and their ability to make decisions about their own learning.

Make curriculum decisions based on the early years planning cycle focusing on ongoing learning and the process of learning, relationships, dispositions, values, children’s rights and social responsibilities. The program will include spontaneous, intentional and explicit teaching while encouraging investigations, problem solving, inquiry, critical and sustained shared thinking.

Approach documentation of children’s learning in ways that value and respect children, the significance of their ideas and multiple ways of learning and expressing learning. Assessment for learning will be visible and transparent for children, families and the community.

Our educators, co-ordinators and staff work collaboratively and affirm, challenge, support and learn from each other to further develop their skills, to improve practice and relationships.

Ensure the rights of the child to be heard having the right to express a view and the right to have the view given due weight and enacted.

Ensure a safe nurturing environment where the child’s sense of agency is respected and encouraged

Support young children’s rights and be clear and credible advocates in campaigning for the rights and wellbeing of young children.

Build their capacity, skills and knowledge to work, think and behave in a way that supports the implementation of children’s rights, including the right to express their views, in everyday practice.

Support young children to understand that educators and teachers have the responsibility to listen to their opinions and act on their wishes, taking into account the child’s best interests.

Use reflexivity and current research to improve our practices and to challenge “known” truths

In relation to families and the community Kurri Kurri Pre-school will:-


Offer flexibility and continuity within our early childhood and care program to ensure children’s families and the communities needs are met

Collaborate respectfully with children, families and community members to provide learningexperiences that will build on or bridge the learning between home, the community and our pre-school.

Develop collaborative relationships with families, educators, children and communities respecting and working with family differences in negotiation with their expectations

Respect the rights of both parents, carers, and significant others and recognise that families are children’s first and most influential teachers.

Encourage and support all parents and families to be active in assessing and valuing their own child’s learning.

Have a management structure which supports gender balance, honours the rights of the child and encourages family and community involvement in decision making process. Review our practices, procedures and policies ensuring above- licensing and accreditation standards while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of

all our children, families, staff and community.

8. Program(Director, teachers, and educators value children’s play. They use a range of strategies to support learning including the design of learning environments that encourage children to explore, solve problems, create and construct (adapted from the Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p.15) Our programs involve and reflect children’s lives while encouraging them to explore, investigate their questions, curiosities and concerns in a meaningful living curriculum.The program is inclusive of the child, their family, community and culture. It identifies the child’s strengths, interests, capabilities and experiences.The Early Years Learning framework informs our practices. See Appendix 11. This document guides

our curriculum decision making and enables each child’s learning in the five outcomes1) Children have a strong sense of identity2) Children are connected with and contribute to their world3) Children have a strong sense of wellbeing4) Children are confident and involved learners5) Children are effective communicators

Critical reflection and evaluation of children’s learning and development both as individuals and in groups is used as a primary source of information for planning.

The staff plan provocations or spontaneous experiences for the children based on the child’s


questions, wonderings, engagement with the materials and/or what they have noticed about the child as they play. This will provoke exploration and challenge your child’s thinking and learning. Each day your child will have the opportunity to explore painting, collage, clay, dough, construction, drawing, dramatic play, music, literacy, numeracy, science, gardening, woodwork, story, imaginative play, yoga etc….

Each room has a written program outlining the activities for the day. While the format for the programs will vary from teacher to teacher the essential information will be included in these. This gives staff an opportunity to brainstorm and analyse the jottings etc… and to explore possibilities for activities for the following day.

There is also a space for families to contribute to our program and you are invited and encouraged to write information on our program contributing to the ongoing education of your child i.e. a family member/friend celebrating a birthday and your child may want to make a card or do a painting etc. Other ways to contribute to our program may be:-

Bring items of interest Share a talent i.e. play sport, musical instrument, cook etc.

To learn more about the Early years learning framework please contact; - www. deewr .gov.au/earlychildhood

9. Pre-school Disability Support Program FundingThe Preschool Disability Support Program (PDSP) supports the inclusion of children with diverse abilities in NSW community preschools.The PDSP is administered by Northcott https://pdsp.northcott.com.au/child-based-funding

10. WorkshopsThe workshops are interest based, designed to extend and challenge the children’s learning. Workshops provide an opportunity to explore a variety of subjects embracing the children’s or teachers interests. These are intentional teaching opportunities. Group projects may emerge from these.

Each child is encouraged to explore their interests. Please support your child to join a group which reflects their interests.

11. Project work

Director, teachers and educators value children’s play. They use a range of strategies to support learning including the design of learning environments that encourage children to explore, solve problems, create and construct (adapted from the Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p.15)


Some interests may develop into a project which may span months or even across years. These give the children and staff an opportunity to explore further the individual child’s / children’s thinking and wonderings. The groups may be fluid with different children entering and leaving the project. The learning is recorded and presented at the end of the project to families and their peers.

The children have participated in two research projects one being the bathroom project and the other children as global citizens, which was presented to the early childhood community at the

Senta Taft Hendry museum in 2014 : http://www.newcastle.edu.au/research-and-innovation/centre/education- arts/ciegun/research/multiple-worlds-in-a-preschool-childrens-place-making-in-a-globalising-world

12. Recording your child’s learning(Director,teachers , and educators are deliberate, purposeful and thoughtful in their decisions and actions. Reflective practice is a form of ongoing learning that involves engaging with questions of philosophy, ethics and practice (Adapted from The Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p. 13 and p. 15).

We have a responsibility to create ongoing records of the children’s learning to ensure we make learning visible for the children, their families and the community. We recognise each child as an individual and therefore their diaries and records of learning reflect each child’s diversity. Each child’s diary will be unique and relevant to your child. Children are involved in the process of recording their own learning through drawings, photos and recordings of their discussions. Parents are encouraged to access their child’s diaries at any time but are asked to respect the privacy of others. These are located in your child’s classroom. Staff respect the rights of each child seeking permission before photographing children or before adding work samples into their diaries.Learning stories and documentations are created for all to share and form the cycle of learning.

13. Communication to families


(Educators recognise that families are children’s first and most influential teachers (The Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p.12).

We endeavour to keep families informed about their child’s day/week. This may be through our daily program book, digital photo frames, computer slideshows and displays.

14. Settling new children

Director, teachers and educators who give priority to nurturing relationships and providing children with consistent emotional support can assist children to develop the skills and understandings they need to interact positively with others (Adapted from the Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p.12).Many parents worry about how they andtheir child will react when it comes time to say goodbye Despite lots of preparation some children will still find separation difficult. Don’t be in a hurry to leave. If you feel you need to stay then please feel free to do that. When you are ready to say goodbye, seek the assistance of a staff member to support you and your child. Be assured staff will support and comfort your child. If your child has a comfort toy or blanket, please inform us - we want to minimise stress on you and your child. This may continue for some weeks so be patient as staff continue to build secure attachments with your child. Please ring the pre-school if you are worried.

15. Positive guidance of children’s behaviour

(Over time the variety and complexity of ways in which children connect and participate with others increases … they develop understandings that their actions or responses affect how others feel or experience belonging. (Early Years Learning Framework, 2009, p.25)

Each child’s behaviour, interactions and relationships are guided using strategies which preserve the dignity and rights of every child.These may include;1) Supporting children to make informed decisions about their behaviours2) Promote children’s sense of belonging connectedness and wellbeing3) Mediate and assist children to negotiate their rights in relation to the rights of others4) Motivate and encourage children to succeed when they are faced with challenges

Staff will support children to develop self-regulatory behaviours by remaining close to the child both physically and emotionally. Staff will develop strong relationships built on trust and respect.


If your child has told you they have a worry or concern, please let us know. This way we can work with your child to resolve this.

16. RoutineWe believe children are capable and resourceful and can make decisions about their day. Each room is autonomous and the routines followed will reflect the needs and interests of the children with in the group. Indoor/outdoor play runs simultaneously, ensuring a program which meets the needs of all the children. Teachers plan opportunities for intentional teaching and work with children individually, in large and small groups, to build knowledge and to deepen understanding.

17. Session times

Children’s Hours Monday - Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm

Staff hours

Monday - Friday 8.00am – 4.30pm

Preparation and planning times are essential in ensuring best outcomes for our children. Staff must have uninterrupted access to this time before the children arrive in the morning.

This time is to reflect on the day, plan and prepare for the following day. We do appreciate your support with this.

Therefore it is essential that families are punctual and collect their children on time.

A late fee will be incurred if children are picked up late at the rate of $10.00 per 15minutes. If your child is left after hours the procedure for contacting parents/carer is as follows:

Step 1- attempt to contact parents /carer/guardianStep2- attempt to phone contact person on enrolment formStep 3 – if both of these attempts were unsuccessful and parents haven’t collected the child, then the Department of families and communities (DOCS) will be contacted.

Start Strong funding provides 15 hours of pre-school education per week. If your child attends 3 days and you require care from 8.30 – 4.00, an additional cost is charged.

Ie. 8.30-9.00 $5.00; 3.00 – 3.30 $5.00; 3.30 – 4.00 $5.00

18. Arrival and Departure Policy


(Children have a right to be protected from the possible or potential hazards and dangers posed by products, plants, objects, animals and people in the immediate and wider environment) –

Children must be accompanied by an authorised adult (adult meaning person 18 years or over and a person who is listed on the child's authorised persons list attached to their enrolment form) when they are being delivered and collected from pre-school. Please ensure both parents are listed on the authorised to collect form.

Children must be signed in by an authorised adult on the daily sign on sheet located outside the classroom. Children may have their own sign on sheets where they can practice writing their names. (This is part of our literacy program and supports the Early Years learning Framework, Outcome 5 - Children are effective communicators when they begin to understand key literacy concepts like concepts of print.)

At the end of each day staff must check their classroom and outdoor environment to ensure every child has been collected and signed out. Two staff will then sign off on this sheet.

ONLY AUTHORISED PEOPLE WILL BE PERMITTEED TO COLLECT YOUR CHILD e.g. people you havenominated on your child’s enrolment form.

Please ensure you have nominated at least three (3) local people as authorised to collect your child on your enrolment form. Local meaning Kurri, Weston, Pelaw Main, Heddon Greta, Stanford Merthyr, Sawyers Gully.

The person collecting your child must have identification to enable us to verify them. This may be a driver’s license or pension card. Children will not be able to leave unless this procedure is followed. If in the event an unauthorised person arrives to collect your child they will remain with staff and you will be contacted via phone.

If you ring requesting your child be collected by a person not identified as an authorised person we will return your call either contacting you on your home/ work or mobile phones to ensure you were the one making this call to confirm your instructions and we will complete the Emergency Authorisation to Collect Children Form. (Appendix 12)

Please inform staff if:-a. Some-one different is collecting your child (by a signed letter/fax or personal

introduction)


b. Custody /access arrangements have changedc. Your address/phone number has changed

Please hold your children’s hands before they leave the pre-school gate. Do not allow any unaccompanied children to leave the grounds.

19. GroupingsEach family has different needs for the education and care of their pre-schoolers. To reflect this we offer a flexible delivery. That is:

Mon/Tues 8.30am – 4.00pmThurs/Friday 8.30am – 4.00pmMon/Tues/Wed 9.00am - 3.00pm (additional hours at extra cost)Wed/Thurs/Friday 9.00am – 3.00pm (additional hours at extra cost)Wednesday (3 year old group – 9.00am – 3.00pm (no additional hours available)ie. born 1.8.2014-31.7.2015)

As part of the National Early Childhood reforms pre-schools must ensure families of 4year olds have access to 15 hours of early childhood education. We strongly support families’ right to choose how they access this. Ie. Children born before 31.7.2014

Class sizes are 25 in each room with one university trained teacher and two trained educators trained by a registered training company for example TAFE.

20. Children’s lockers and foldersEach child has a locker symbol allocated to them. This symbol identifies where the child will hang their cup, towel and washer and where they will store their bag.Each child has a coloured plastic folder (with your child’s

locker symbol) stored in the wire rack located outside of each classroom door. Staff will place notes, children’s work, lost property. Please check these daily.

21. PetsThe pre-school provides opportunities for the children to care for a variety of pets. Animals such


Please note our preschool environment is designed to be aesthetically pleasing and inviting spaces where children want to play. At the end of the day please

assist us by returning any toys which your toddler may have used while waiting for pre-school to finish. This

would be greatly appreciated.

as fish, rabbits, guinea pigs, bird’s hermit crabs, chickens maybe included in our program. This will vary depending on the interests of children. Families are asked to take the pets for the weekend where they can record the family’s experiences in a journal to share with their peers. The children’s digital cameras will also be lent to enable the family to record their visit and include these in the book.Rockstar & Spot Butterfly are our guinea pigs. Our hens lay lots of eggs which the children enjoy collecting for our cooking experiences.

22. CelebrationsSpecial events such as birthdays will be celebrated with the children. This will involve:-

a. A group of children preparing small birthday cakes to celebrate the day for their friend (gluten free cake mixes are available if required. Approval for the cake mixes will be sought from every family at orientation .Please check the ingredients carefully.

b. Talking to the child about his/her birthdayc. Singing Happy Birthdayd. Giving a pre-school memento.

Other celebrations which will be observed are Harmony Day, Mother’s and Father’s Day, Easter and Christmas. The provisions i.e. (craft materials) will support children who wish to participate. There will be discussions about these events but may not be appropriate for all children to partake.If you do not wish your child to have the opportunity to participate in these events please let your child’s teacher know. Please note the materials provided are open ended so children can use them how they see fit.Cultural celebrations are important to families and our pre-school. Please share your family’s cultural celebrations with us.

23. Relaxation Time

No child will be forced to relax though it is important children learn this valuable skill. Please discuss this with your child’s teacher.

Relaxation time happens throughout the year, according to your child’s needs. To assist your child we will share relaxation time stories (helping to establish bed time routines for home). Play relaxation music, and generally provide a calm restful environment. We emphasise that this is a relaxation time and no child has to sleep. No child will be made to rest against his / her wishes.

Staff will consult with families about their child’s individual needs and be sensitive to different values and parenting beliefs, cultural or otherwise, associated with sleep and rest.

Children have different sleep, rest and relaxation needs. Children of the same age can have different


sleep patterns, which the director, teachers and educators need to consider within the service. As per Standard 2.1 (element 2.1.2) of the National Quality Standard, each child’s comfort must be provided for and there must be appropriate opportunities to meet each child’s sleep, rest and relaxation needs.

Please discuss alternative activities that can be provided for children who do not need or want to relax.

24. Placemats and children’s photos

A key element of the Early Years Learning Framework is belonging, being and becoming. To help your child feel like they belong in our pre-school we ask that you prepare a photo page which we can use as a placemat. Include photos of your child, mum, dad, siblings and any significant people in your child’s life. You can include pets and any of their favourite things. Please add your child’s address so we can assist them learning this too! Coloured handprints will be included on these indicating if your child has an allergy. Red handprints signify this. Otherwise children can choose. These will be done at pre-school on your child’s orientation day. Your child’s name will be written on the placemat in correct N.S.W font. This will assist you in modelling the correct font when writing your child’s name. Appendix 1

Please bring along a 6x4 photo of your child for the top of their lockers. Both will be laminated and returned to you at the end of your child’s pre-school year.

25. Children’s Requirements Checklist

a) one normal hand towel with tape loop in the middle of a long side


b) washer - usual face washer size with tape loop on one corner

c) an unbreakable cup with handle

d) school bag to be taken daily with name clearly marked (no clips on backpacks)

e) small pillow and case

f) library bag with drawstring 30cm x 40cm

g) small drawstring bag 30cm x 30cm for morning tea marked with child's name and “morning tea”

h) lunch bag with drawstring 30cm x 40cm

i) water bottle with name clearly marked

j) hat for outdoor play (sunsafe approved – width of brim 6cm)

Please note it is desirable to have pillowcase, morning tea bag, lunch bag and library bag in the same fabric.

ALL ITEMS TO BE CLEARLY MARKED WITH CHILD'S NAME. Check these regularly

Please note bag sets are available to purchase from the office. These include a library, lunch and morning tea bag. All in matching fabric.


Please putyour child’s name on everything

26. Children’s ClothingOur early childhood education is play based. For children to participate fully in this they need to be comfortable. You can help by sending your child in comfortable clothes. The environment both indoors and out is designed to develop the whole child. We encourage children to remove their shoes so they can feel grass, rocks, sand etc…Staff will also go barefoot with the children. (Staff conduct environment & playground checks each day.)Protective clothing is provided for different activities e.g. painting, clay finger paint and water play. If your child happens to spill paint on his/her clothes, always soak the article in cold water before washing. Please don’t send your child in good clothes.Our pre-school has a "no hat play in the shade" policy. Sunscreen should be applied before coming

to pre-school. Children should wear clothes which cover and protect shoulders neck and back.Please provide a hat – label with children’s name.

We are a SunSmart centre. See Appendix 10.

Your child needs to bring a complete change of clothing each day to be left in school bag.Hats, t-shirts,jumpers and hoodies with the pre-school logo are available.

Cost is $12.00 for t-shirts, $15.00 for hats/jumpers and hoodies.

ALL BELONGINGS AND CLOTHES SHOULD BE CLEARLY MARKED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME


27. Treasures from homeIt is important children feel connected to pre-school and home . While we don’t encourage children to bring their toys to pre-school there are times when children will want to share their toys with peers. Some children may have comfort toys or similar and these are able to come to pre-school with your child. Please inform staff of this so toys can be placed on piano.

28. Children’s LibraryWe have a comprehensive supply of library books which is available to the children

to borrow. The children need to have a library bag to protect our books and each child has a borrowing page. Please encourage your child to participate in this.

Library is available every day and can be completed by staff or parents. Inside books you may find some cue cards which will help you to talk to your child about the story. Reading to your child helps with literacy development and it is never too early to begin reading to your child.

We also have books journals magazines etc… for parents to borrow too!!! Please ask if you are interested in a particular topic and we don’t have it on display.

We encourage each child to have a town library card. These are free from Kurri Kurri Public Library.


29. Food and NutritionIt is the policy of the pre-school that children will be supported and encouraged to eat a balanced diet. A healthy diet includes food from each of the key groups Children have access to food throughout the day. We have a flexible morning tea where the children can access this when they are hungry. We all have lunch together.The staff will encourage children to eat the more nutritious foods provided in their lunch such as sandwiches, fruit, cheese and yoghurt, before eating any less nutritious foodsWe also discourage the provision of highly processed snack foods high in fat, salt and sugar and low in essential nutrients in children’s lunches. Examples of these foods include lollies, chocolates, sweet biscuits, muesli bars, breakfast bars, fruit filled bars, chips, oven-baked crackers and corn chips.Food is stored in the refrigerator until it is served at safe temperature i.e. below 5 OC .Children and staff are encouraged to drink water throughout the day and this is readily available in each classroom. We ask that families only provide water only in children’s drink bottles.Pre-school staff are aware of children with food allergies, food intolerances and special diets and consults with families to develop individual management plans. Please inform staff if your child has a food intolerance i.e. peanut allergy, milk etc… This should also be noted on your enrolment form.We do cook with the children as part of our program. It may be recipes suggested by the children, dishes from other cultures or foods grown from our own garden. Families will be informed when this is happening so you can approve the ingredients prior to the experience.

We are an allergy aware centre.


30. SustainabilityWe encourage families to reduce the amount of pre-packaged foods they send to pre-school. We are supporting children to use sustainable practices through reducing, reusing or recycling.

Plastic containers will be washed and used in craft, food scraps are separated for compost, worm farm and chicken food, but some materials are waste and can’t be recycled. A representative from Hunter Resource Recovery will talk with the children annually to help them to understand this important issue.

31. When children are unwell Important When your child is in the early stages of a cold or has an upset stomach, it is best to keep him/her at home. This is in fairness to other children and adults at the pre-school as well as to your own child who will be happier at home until he/she is feeling well again. Unwell children will be sent home.

If children are ill enough to be on antibiotics THEY ARE NOT PERMITTED to attend pre-school for the first day of that medication or for24 hours after an injection has been given to ensure no allergic reaction.

If your child has had symptoms of gastric or vomiting we ask that they are free from any symptoms for 24 hours before returning to preschool. This will assist us in the prevention of spreading the infection/virus.

32. Spread of infection ImportantStaff are aware of how easily infections are spread throughout the pre-school Precautions taken are:- Tissues are available and children are encouraged to blow their nose and place tissues straight in the bin and

wash their hands. Staff must wash hands after wiping children's noses. Children are to wash hands after toileting, before morning tea and lunch. After handling pets Children provide individual hand towels to wipe hands Children and adults requested to cover mouth when they cough Pet cages are cleaned regularly Garbage is covered and emptied daily

33. Medication ImportantThis centre is an asthma friendly children’s service.Staff may only administer medicine which has been prescribed by a doctor. All medication must have a prescription label with the child's name on it, and it must be currently in date. Medication needs must be completed on a Medication Form (one available at back of this book) and presented to a staff member on arrival. Staff will complete this form when the medication has been administered and signed by two staff members

A Child Asthma Record Form and an Anaphylaxis Medical Management Action Plan are also available at the back of this book, to be completed if your child suffers from these conditions.


To ensure the well-being of our children, the centre has implemented a policy whereby children requiring prescribed medication must have been taking this for 24 hours before attending pre- school. This is to allow children to be monitored closely for any allergic reaction. Please discuss any concerns with your child’s teacher.Please give medications to staff for safe storage- DO NOT LEAVE MEDICATION IN CHILDREN’S BAGS.

34. Infectious and contagious diseases Important

If a child becomes unwell with a childhood illness, the pre-school is unable to accept your child for the duration of the illness/disease. It is parent's responsibility to inform the director if their child has contracted an infectious disease. Refer to the Department of Health Infectious Disease Pamphlet attached.

The Director and staff can refuse admittance to any child showing symptoms of a heavy cold or other infectious diseases to protect all the children and staff. Staff will use gloves and treat all body fluids as contaminated.

The law requires that we do not discriminate on the basis of a person's HIV Antibody status and staff must practice confidentiality.

The Health Department require us to notify them of outbreaks of certain infectious diseases. Families will be notified before contacting the Health Dept. as they require names and addresses of the children involved.

PLEASE NOTE:

HEAD LICE: The preschool will refuse admittance to any child who is showing signs & symptoms of head lice infections unless head lice management is ongoing. They cannot return to preschool unless treatment is ongoing.

35. Immunisation ImportantPrior to enrolling in child care proof of a child’s vaccination status must be provided (Immunisation History Statement – available online at: www.humanservices.gov.au or through your local Medicare office). This means that child care centres must have documented evidence that children are up to date with their vaccinations, or that they are on a recognised catch-up schedule, or that they have a medical contraindication to vaccination, before enrolling a child.Please noteOn 12 April 2015, the Prime Minister, the Hon Tony Abbott MP and the Minister for Social Services, the Hon Scott Morrison MP, jointly announced that the Australian Government is reinforcing the importance of immunisation and protecting public health by strengthening the immunisation requirements for children. On 1 January 2016, conscientious objection will be removed as an exemption category from meeting the immunisation requirements for Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate (subject to the passage of legislation). This means that unless children are vaccinated, parents will no longer be eligible for Government child care fee assistance. Children can still be exempted on medical grounds.

Unvaccinated children may be excluded in the event of an outbreak of a vaccine preventable disease for their own protection. Fees will still be required during their absence.


To ensure children’s safety and wellbeing after immunisations, the centre’s immunisation policy excludes children from attending for a full 24 hour period after the injection.Please inform staff of changes to their child’s immunisation status. We will need a copy of the updated

immunisation record for our files.Please refer to Appendix 9 for Immunisation schedule.

36. Accidents and incidentsAll members of staff hold a current First Aid Certificate and will administer minor First Aid in the event of an accident.

If as a result of an accident the director or responsible person feels that medical attention is necessary, parents will immediately be phoned. If after every attempt to contact the parent or contact person has failed the Director will act in the child’s best interest seeking medical attention. Staff will continue to attempt to contact parents/carers.

An accident report form will be completed by member of staff attending the child. See Appendix 5. A copy will be given to the parent/carer if requested. The original must be signed by parent/carer All serious accidents/incidents requiring or if deemed to require medical intervention:The director or certified supervisor must notify the Department of Education and Communities within 24 hours

Incidents: All incidents i.e. acts of aggression will be recorded and reported to the parent. Parents of children who are victims will also receive a copy of the incident notification. The original must be signed and returned to the centre which will be kept on record.Staff will follow up with a call or inquiry the following day.We have a zero tolerance of aggression.

37. Safety and emergency proceduresOur pre-school is enclosed with a safety fence with a child proof lock. DO NOT ALLOW UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN OUT OF THE GATE. Pre-school gate should be shut securely. Parents are responsible for their own child once collected from the classroom teacher. Please park carefully and according to signs. Staff check the grounds and equipment regularly. No broken equipment is used.DOUBLE GATE: DO NOT HOLD BOTH GATES OPEN AT ONCE.Two people must be present at all times when back gate is open.Staff ratios as set down by the National Quality Standards AND MUST BE observed at all times i.e. 1 adult to 10 children 1:10

Safety rules are consistently reinforced by staff i.e. No running indoors or on verandahs, appropriate use of equipment, bikes on bike track.

Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are installed and checked regularly in accordance with regulations. Staff are trained in the use of fire extinguishers.

Pre-school policy states that due to personal safety and environmental pollution, SMOKING IS NOT PERMITTED in the centre, in the grounds, or within or outside the perimeter fence. Ie. on footpath. Fire drills and evacuation procedures are practiced with all children four times a year. These are recorded.


Classroom 2Classroom 2Classroom 2 Classroom 2

FIRE/EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES:1. The person discovering the fire shall raise the alarm using the bell, located in each room, without panicking the children.2. Director or certified supervisor or person-in-charge will notify the Fire Brigade on 000 giving the name and address of the Centre and the nearest cross street.3. Teacher shall collect the sign on book, then check all areas for children or staff and endeavour to close windows and doors to contain fire. Office staff must bring mobile phone and contact list for all children4. Other staff will organise a quiet and orderly evacuation of all children by the nearest safest exit, to the emergency assembly point at the sandpit.5. Teachers and staff will then check off the names of the evacuated children against the sign on book and ensure that all staff & visitors are present. Parents & visitors must sign in on the visitors sign on sheet.6. A designated person wearing a safety vest shall meet the Fire Brigade Captain and inform him of any missing children or staff, the location of the fire and any relevant information.7. NO ONE SHALL RE-ENTER THE BUILDING UNTIL ADVISED BY THE FIRE BRIGADE

CAPTAIN OR SENIOR FIRE BRIGADE OFFICER.8. Should main exits be blocked by fire, smash a window from the inside and pass the children outside. Wrap child(ren) in blanket(s) before passing any flames.9. Should it only be a small fire with no danger to operator, the nearest person should use the fire extinguisher to put it out AFTER alerting others.

WCL A U ND Kitchen 2Ry

Classroom 2 Classroom1

Children’s Bathroom

Craft prep

Kitchen 1

Lunch roomStoreroom 1

Meeting room Store 2Locker room art studio

wc

Office

Verandah

Key: Fire exits


38. Volunteers and studentsVolunteer workers, T.A.F.E., University and High School students will be present at the pre-school at various times throughout the year.

No volunteer or student will be left in sole care of children. Volunteers must complete the Working With Children Check form as required by the Department of Education and Communities. Please refer to www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au for further details.

39. FeesPre-school fees paid by parents are used for payment of:- wages, phone, electricity, administration costs, insurance, consumables and educational equipment, maintenance etc.

An enrolment fee is paid when the child is enrolled and is non-refundable. The enrolment fee comprises of administration costs, parent membership fee and GST. Fees are paid for the days your child is booked into the centre based on the current rate as set each year by the management committee.

A security bond equivalent to 2 weeks fees is also paid when the child is enrolled which is refundable if two weeks’ notice is given if you are withdrawing the child. A further 2 weeks fees will be payable in advance on your child’s first day of attendance. There will be no fees due for the final 4 weeks of your child’s attendance at pre-school (last 4 weeks of Term 4).

Fee relief is available to families on a pension, low income, culturally and linguistically diverse background, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent or hold a health care card. - a fee relief subsidy form is filled in on day child is enrolled at pre-school. Please inform the Director immediately if your financial situation changes.

Child Care Benefit for Registered Care:Kurri Kurri Pre-school is classed as “Registered Care”. You may be entitled to claim child care

benefit for registered care if you are working, studying or training at some time during the week when the care is provided. You receive your Child Care Benefit entitlement by way of direct credit to your nominated account after you lodge a claim and receipts for child care already provided and paid for. Your claim must be lodged within the twelve months following the care being provided.Claim forms are available on the internet: www.centrelink.gov.au, then type “claim for child care benefit for registered care forms” in the search box, then follow links.

Fees can be paid by direct deposit via internet banking. Please see below for banking details.

Beyond BankBSB: 325 185Account No: 38610094 Account Name: Kurri PreschoolDescription: Fees/please insert your child’s name


Once fees have been processed, a receipt will be sent out by email.

We also accept credit and debit card payments in the office.

If parents find it more convenient, they may pay for longer periods.

In the first week of attendance the equivalent of three weeks fees will be due for payment. There will be no fees due for the final four weeks of your child's attendance at pre-school (last four weeks of Term 4).

If fees should lapse for a period of two weeks a reminder note will be sent home.

Fees must be brought up to date immediately or your child's position may be terminated. In the event of fees not being paid, this service has the right to follow through the outstanding fees with a debt collection agency.

If at any time problems arise concerning payment of fees, please discuss this with the director or office staff. This will be treated confidentially.

CENTREPAYFees can also be paid via Centrepay through Centrelink, which is a fee free bill paying service available if you receive a Centrelink payment. Fees will be deducted directly from your Centrelink payment and forwarded directly through to Kurri Preschool. Please see Kurri Preschool office or Centrelink for the forms to arrange this.

Two weeks’ notice must be given of intention to withdraw your child. The two weeks fees in advance will automatically be deducted from any outstanding fees or for payment of fees for that two week period and security bond returned.

If your child is absent from pre-school for any reason - illness, holiday, hospitalisation, contagious disease etc., full fees must be paid.

Additional FeesAn annual Craft Fee of $44.00 (includes GST) is included in your 4 weeks bond.

40. Excursions and special eventsOur program may include excursions. These will be conducted in accordance with our excursion policy and in line with the national quality standards.Parents/carers/grandparents will receive notification of

these via email and hard copy. A copy will be placed outside on the children’s sign on sheet to alert you of this event. Please complete form and return to pre-school by the due date. If at any time you don’t receive these notices please advise the office.


41. Book ClubParents/carers/grandparents are offered access to SCHOLASTIC BOOK CLUB.

The books offered are usually competitively priced and the pre-school gains valuable bonus points towards the purchase of new books.

Orders and money are placed in the box marked "BOOK CLUB".

42. Parent exchange meetingWe welcome any opportunity to speak to you about your child. This can be done informally and at drop off and collection by phone or by appointment. Other opportunities for us to meet and exchange information about what your child has been doing at pre-school are our parent teacher exchange meetings. These will be conducted at regular intervals. A note will be sent home via email (or hard copy if you elect) for you to indicate your preference for time and date. Dates for this will be on our website.Individual Educational planning meeting will be conducted during this time.

43. Transition to School Statement

The NSW Transition to School Statement is a practical and simple tool designed to make it easier for information to be shared between families, early childhood services and schools. It summarises the child's strengths, identifies their interests and approaches to learning, and suggests ways these can be supported. Traditionally transition to school has been a mothers role. Research shows that fathers participation in school readiness positively effects the outcomes for children settling into a formal school environment. See link below for further information and also included in appendix.

http://www.himh.org.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/3008/06-Fathers-for-Readiness.pdf

44. Parent/Carer/Guardian VisitingMums/dads/carers/grandparents are welcome to visit the centre at any time. Parent/carer visiting is a great way for you see first-hand what goes on at pre-school . A calendar is outside each classroom in the sign on area for you to allocate your day for visiting. This will be a great way for you to experience pre-school!!!!You may even want to share your skills or talents with us. This starts in Term 2. Children really enjoy having mums/dads/carers in for a day. Mums/dads/carers must complete the visitor/parent agreement in the back of the handbook and return it to pre-school on the child’s first day i.e. orientation. Mums/dads/carers must complete this form. Appendix 8


http://www.himh.org.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/3008/06-Fathers-for-Readiness.pdf

45. Collecting natural materials and recyclablesWe are constantly searching for new and exciting materials which we can use in our daily activities. Please check all cupboards, work stores etc. Bring it in, you will be surprised what we can do with it! Special requests for specific craft items appear in newsletters.

46. Working beesFrom time to time we find it necessary to run working bees to assist in keeping the maintenance cost low. Notes will be sent home advising the dates. We would also appreciate mums or dads helping us with our gardening. You may like to adopt a garden and plan to develop this with the children.If you have specific skills in building metal work etc.. please let us know as often we have toys which

need repairing and you may be able to help.

47. Notice Board and NewslettersNotices and information of interest will be placed on the sign on areas and in children’s folders. Please read notices.

Information and flyers will be available regularly notifying of important events, classroom happenings, items of interest etc. Please read carefully. These will be available by email, text message or on our website. (www.kurripreschool.com) or hard copy if requested. Texts will be sent to remind parents/carers/guardians of any upcoming events.

48. Parent library and pamphletsA parent library is available where parents can borrow books of interest. This is located on the verandah. Please record the books details in the parent library borrowing folder located in this area.The pamphlets are located on a stand on the verandah. Please help yourself.Staff also have a file of contact numbers for various support groups and community services, please ask if we can help you with any of these.

49. Complaints procedureThe centre staff and management encourage service users to utilise their right to complain. Complaints can be verbal or written and given to any members of staff or committee with complaints being handled confidentially. Any complainant can expect a response, either verbal or written. If the complaint is not handled satisfactorily please take the complaint to the Director, or our nominated complaints contact person, being President of Management Committee, who will endeavour to deal with the complaint satisfactorily. If the complaint cannot be resolved internally, parents/carers can contact our NSW Ombudsman. (see page 3 for contact details). All complaints will be recorded in a complaints register recording the nature of the complaint, time, date and a response and follow up action to be taken. A complaints form is attached in Appendix 2. Further information, please refer to Policy Book.Complainants may be asked to sign the complaint form to acknowledge the outcome.


50. Parent participation in managementHistoryThis pre-school is built on crown land. The grounds used by Kurri Bowling Club. A group of residents formed a steering committee to lobby the Whitlam government for funding to build this pre-school . They were funded dollar for dollar. To cut costs parents cut their own timbers and milled these to build classroom 1 and half of the bathroom. Kurri Kurri Pre-school was opened in 1972 and was one of 22 in NSW. In 1975 and due to high demand a second room was added.We need your help to ensure we remain viable. Your child is enrolled in a non-profit community organisation run by mums, dads/carers and dependent upon you to continue to function. Copies of the constitution under which the pre-school is governed are available upon request from the office. If your workplace offers donations to not for profit organisations please see the Director .

MeetingsManagement Committee Meetings are held once a month. All mums,dads,carers are invited to attend. By attending these meetings you will always be kept informed. The Management Committee consists of the President, Secretary, Treasurer, six other members (of whom at least half must be parent members). The Director is an ex officio having no voting rights.

All mums ,dads ,carers/guardians are expected to attend the Annual General Meeting held in March.Office bearers are elected by members of the organisation. All parents are eligible to become members on payment of parent membership fee (included in enrolment fee). Office bearers are the representatives of the parents and act on their behalf.

Committee duties include: chairing meetings handling correspondence, taking minutes overseeing preparation of monthly treasurers reports /budgets Liaise with Director with regard to decisions and plans for operation of the centre. WH&S obligations Regulatory obligations

A nominated representative from the incorporated body has access to all developmental records - an individual nominated by the Management.

51. Confidentiality and privacyAll information pertaining to the centre must be kept confidential at all times and management and staff are not permitted to discuss preschool business with unauthorised persons.

In regard to children and their families:All information relating to a child must remain confidential and private and made available only to the following persons:

a. Public Officer (nominated by License)b. Director of the service


c. A member of staff of the service authorised to access records i.e. Child’s teacherd. An authorised officere. A parent of the child.f. If a parent requests relevant information exchanged between specialist services and

professionals working with the child. Form must be signed giving this permission see Appendix 3.

Records relating to the children and their families must be kept in a safe and secure area. No telephone numbers or addresses of children are to be given out unless authorised by parent.All electronic information is stored on our own server and is only available to authorized people and staff.

LIMITED CONFIDENTIALITY

In the event of suspected abuse, sexual, physical, emotional, domestic violence etc… disclosure from child/parent/carer, staff must notify the Department of Families and Community Services. Refer to Child Protection Policy in our policy book. This is to be revised annually and in line with the current protection act.

52. Working with Children CheckAll staff and committee have undergone screening for the Working With Children Check. Any volunteers and students must complete a new working with children check, form available at: www.kidsguardian.nsw.gov.au

53. FundraisingMoney from fundraising events helps to purchase new and extra equipment for the children to use. Without this money we could not operate. Fundraising events are held throughout the year and really need the support of every mum,dad,carer to be as successful as possible.

As part of our healthy eating program, all fundraising will be in line with current nutrition policy.

We have a fundraising committee. To become involved please see the director.Fundraising meetings are held at the pre-school. Notices will be sent home with the children to remind parents of the proposed meeting dates.Please if you have any ideas to assist us in raising funds outside the pre-school community please discuss this with the nominated supervisor.

Social functions and fundraising money should be placed in an envelope labelled with name and contents and placed in the FUNDRAISING BOX near the office.

We need and appreciate your support.


Volunteers at the Bunnings BBQ 2017


References in APA format (6th Ed.)

Cancer Council VIC. SunSmart.

Council of Australian Governments. (2008). National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education. Canberra: Australian Government.

Council of Australian Governments. (2009). National Quality Standard for Early Childhood Education and Care and School Age Care. Canberra: Australian Government.

Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. (2008). Educators’ Guide to the Early Years Learning Framework. Canberra: Australian Government.

Department of Health and Ageing (2009). Get Up & Grow: Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Early Childhood - Directors/Coordinators Book. Canberra: Australian Government.

Early Childhood Australia Inc (2006). Early Childhood Australia’s code of ethics. Canberra: Early Childhood Australia Inc

Kurri Kurri and District Pre-school and Kindergarten. (TBA). Code of Conduct. Kurri Kurri: Kurri Kurri and District Pre-school and Kindergarten.

Kurri Kurri and District Pre-school and Kindergarten. (2011). Philosophy. Kurri Kurri: Kurri Kurri and District Pre-school and Kindergarten.

Macquarie University. (2006). Early Childhood Road Safety Education Program: Kids and traffic. Sydney: Macquarie University.

NSW Government. (1993). Disability Services Act 1993. Sydney: NSW Government.

NSW Health. (2008). The Munch and Move Resource Manual. Sydney: NSW Government. NSW

Health. (2009). Good for Kids Good for Life: I move, we move - The Guide. Sydney: NSWGovernment

NSW Legislation. (2011). Children (Education And Care Services) National Law (NSW) 2010.Sydney: NSW Government.

NSW Legislation. (2011) Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000. Sydney: NSW Government.

NSW Premier and Cabinet (2011) Keep them safe. Sydney: NSW Government


Prepared in consultation with children, their families, management and staff Date: August, 2017

To be revised in August 2018 in consultation with children, their families, management and staff

Management representative:

Name: Kim Snedden, President

Staff representative:

Name: Jannelle Gallagher, Director

Date: 18th August, 2017


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