Alternate Staff Development Day (SDD) 2020: All students

Respect, Responsibility, Resilience.

Dear Parents/Carers Alternate Staff Development Day (SDD) 2020: All students come to school on Monday 20 July 2020. Students do not come to school on Monday 17 August 2020.

International Women’s Day (IWD) is dedicated to celebrating women's and girls’ achievements in the social, economic, cultural, and political spheres. The day, collectively founded by women, also brings attention to gender parity and women's rights. While we are thrilled for the achievements

of the Women’s T20 World Cup final, I hope you have had time to think about the extraordinary women and girls in your everyday life, whose actions and words make a difference. Here are a few young women on the world stage whose actions are speaking volumes: I encourage families to talk positively, with one another about the achievements of girls and women in your family. Malala Yousafzai: human rights advocate known for her activism in promoting education for girls. Alexandra Scott: diagnosed with a form of paediatric cancer before her first birthday, when she was four she set up a lemonade stand to raise money for cancer research. She inspired people to do the same raising $1million dollars. Bana Alabed: a Syrian girl who grabbed the world’s attention by her tweets from inside the city of Aleppo in 2016. She continues to advocate for the people of Syria and the conditions in the war-torn country. Capri Everitt: a Canadian girl who at the age of 11 set out to raise money for orphaned and abandoned children. Bindi Irwin: an Australian girl who at the age of 8 launched ‘Bindi the Jungle Girl’ to encourage kids to get interested in animals and wildlife conservation. Greta Thunberg: a 16-year-old Swedish environmental activist, raising world-wide awareness of climate change. Student Representative Council (SRC) Students are happier and participate in their education more effectively when adults listen to their ideas and value their

Term 1 Week 7 11 March 2020

Dates for your Diary Term 1 Week 7 Thursday 12 March Selective High School Test Stage 2 Sydney Zoo Excursion K-2 Assembly – Hall 2:00pm Friday 13 March 2/3W, 2K & 2P EnviroMentors Incursion Summer PSSA, Home Sport and Tennis Scripture and Ethics Week 8 Monday 16 March Kindergarten Gymnastics Tuesday 17 March SRC Training Day – Selected students only Wednesday 18 March Yrs 3-6 SISA Athletics Program Thursday 19 March Harmony Day Friday 20 March Summer PSSA, Home Sport and Tennis Scripture and Ethics Week 9 Monday 23 March Kindergarten Gymnastics SRC Badging Tuesday 24 March Yr 5 Naplan Practice Test Wednesday 25 March Yrs 3-6 SISA Athletics Program Olympiad Thursday 26 March K-2 Assembly – Hall 2:00pm Naplan Practice test Friday 27 March Summer PSSA, Home Sport and Tennis Scripture and Ethics Area Swimming Carnival

OAKHILL DRIVE PUBLIC SCHOOL NEWSLETTER


opinions. Schools also benefit when students are actively involved in the life of the school. An SRC is a formal group of students elected by their peers to represent them. The aims of the SRC are:

• to provide a forum to express their ideas and opinions

• to develop leadership

• to promote improvement in the school

• to promote school spirit

• to encourage ideas of commitment, community service peer leadership by example. Our students are having discussions in their classrooms about the role of the SRC and are considering who may have the aspirations for these positions. Students are asked to nominate themselves. Classes from Year 1 to Year 6 will elect two students to represent them. Students who were SRC representatives in 2019 will not be considered in 2020 only, except for Year 1. This allows for more students to experience this opportunity. The role is offered to students for the year. Students meet every fortnight. Time is dedicated to teaching students the skills of collaboration, communication, organisation, problem solving, leading a meeting and public speaking. As well as this, time is allocated to actually organising an event or activity. In the past our students have developed wish lists for the school’s consideration. These have included; more handball courts, upgrades to bathrooms, funding for our UNICEF sponsor child and other charities. Each SRC member attends the meeting and reports back to their class, the discussion had. They lead class discussion (with the help of the teacher) about the topic and take the opinion of the class back to the meeting. I congratulate the students who have stepped outside of their comfort zone to nominate themselves for the role, knowing that not all nominees will be successful. It takes courage. To launch this program in 2020 the SRC training day will be on Tuesday 17 March 2020. All SRC members will bring home a note for parents to sign. Science and technology is mandatory for all students from Kindergarten to Year 6

In science and technology, students explore the natural and made worlds. They learn to apply scientific and technological skills, knowledge and understanding across a broad range of contexts. From the early years, students are encouraged to explore, wonder, question and design. They learn to plan and execute experiments, using the scientific processes, to assist them when answering questions relating to their current topics. They record and analyse their results, work individually and in small groups reflect and process their information to achieve deeper understanding. Some popular units at Oakhill Drive have been chemical reactions, electricity, Earth and Space and Living Things. During technology

lessons the students use the working technologically processes to guide the design process. Students explore a task set, including internet research, investigation and surveys to identify the key criteria that will be required. They work creatively to generate ideas and produce a design that will successfully meet the set criteria and then begin to produce their designs. Some of our recent achievements include; coding projects which have been designed and implemented by our Stage 2 and Stage 3 students; our Stage 1 boats made from recycled materials (seaworthy enough to carry a small toy across a river!), and our exciting new sandpit area, designed by last year's Stage 2 students. During this process they are frequently assessing, modifying and reflecting on their work to enable them to produce a high-quality finished product. Science and technology provide a way of inquiring about the world around us. It explores evidence and investigates ways to discover, develop and produce solutions to real world problems. The inquiry and skill-based nature of science and technology opens doors to ideas and discoveries and we strongly encourage and equip our students with these skills to be the problem solvers of the future. At ODPS students are taught science and technology by dedicated teachers; 3-6 students for two hours per week and K-2 students, one hour per week. Evacuation Drill Each year, schools are required to have emergency evacuation drills to ensure all children, staff and visitors are aware of procedures in the unlikely event of an emergency. At ODPS we have clearly defined procedures which we will be practising with all students during drills throughout the year.



First Aid Students who identify themselves or are identified by others as requiring first aid are generally assessed by a teacher and (where needed) sent to sick bay, where they are supported by our administration staff. All staff at ODPS have first aid and emergency care training. None of us are qualified doctors or nurses. We assess the injury as per our training and then plan for professional care to be provided to our students. This may be informing the parent who will take the child

home for observation or to their GP. In some cases, it may mean we will call an ambulance. The Department of Education has very strict procedures in place regarding the administration of medicines. We are limited to what we can administer to students outside of asthma and anaphylaxis medication. Throughout the year your child’s medical needs may require updating. Our office staff will contact you about this. We respectfully ask that all forms sent home are returned promptly, allowing us to provide the best possible up to date care for your child. Where you know that

your child’s circumstances have changed it is important that you advise the school as soon as possible. Betty Ploeg Principal Wellbeing – LEARN IT, LIVE IT, TEACH IT! Quality Relationships and Wellbeing

SCHOOLTV SPECIAL REPORT: Coronavirus - a guide for parents Read now on SchoolTV! In this Special Report relating to the Coronavirus epidemic, parents and caregivers will be given some key strategies on how best to approach a conversation on this topic to ensure the wellbeing of their child. Coronavirus is an evolving international health concern. Around the world, people are being affected in many ways. Individuals of all ages from numerous nationalities are being diagnosed with the virus –– it doesn’t discriminate. Although children are considered at lower risk of infection, they are not immune to the multitude of news reports regularly seen or heard in the media. This epidemic is a cause for great concern to parents, but it is also very worrying to young people. Many are wondering how best to discuss this epidemic in a way that will be reassuring to kids without making them feel more worried than what they may be already. Parents should not avoid such a discussion with their kids. Not talking about something can often make them worry more. Although most children will have already heard about the coronavirus, it is important for parents and care-givers to take this opportunity to convey the facts about it and set the emotional tone. This may help kids feel more informed and reassured. Involving them and encouraging self-efficacy can also give them a sense of control and purpose. In this Special Report, parents and caregivers will be provided with some guidelines on how best to approach this topic whilst still ensuring the wellbeing of their child. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help. Here is the link to your special report https://oakhilldr-p.schools.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-coronavirus

https://oakhilldr-p.schools.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-coronavirus



Parent Learning at Oakhill Drive Public School We highly value our parents and carers supporting their child/ren’s learning and wellbeing. In order to facilitate parents’ knowledge on how we teach learning and wellbeing at ODPS, we have planned a variety of workshops throughout the year. These session topics will include mathematics, understanding our Semester reports, restorative practices and we have also invited Dr Michael Carr-Gregg to support your learning on wellbeing. A calendar of workshops is being prepared and will be distributed when available. Many parents/carers attended our workshop on helping in classrooms and supporting their children develop reading skills. For parents/carers who were unable to attend this session, we have made details available online so that you are able to assist in classrooms. The link from this workshop in the school newsletter from Week 5 does not seem to be working; however, you can access these documents via the Skoolbag app under ‘Classroom Volunteer Workshop’. Success Criteria As part of Visible Learning, students develop a clear understanding of what they need to be able to show, do or understand in every lesson – this is known as the success criteria (or WILF – What I’m Looking For’). When I visited 4A today, students were analysing narrative samples to diagnose what made an effective piece of writing. They determined that in order to entertain a reader, a narrative should have descriptive writing (such as adjectives and adverbs) and creative language features (including similes and metaphors). In addition, punctuation, spelling, grammar and handwriting are also important expectations for every piece of writing. These photos show students working with their ‘learning partner’ to identify and evaluate language features. Classroom discussion allows students time to think and articulate their learning which has a significant positive impact both socially (relationships) and academically. Next week, 4A students will use this success criteria to provide feedback on their own writing and then make improvements to make it ‘even better’. School Banking Please see information below about the Commonwealth School Banking program. School Banking is a fun, interactive and engaging way for young Australians to learn about money and develop good savings habits. Children who deposit money into their Youthsaver account through School Banking earn Dollarmites tokens, which they can save up and redeem for rewards. School banking also contributes to fundraising for the school P&C. To get involved in the School Banking program, students need a Commonwealth Bank Youthsaver account. You can open an account for your child in one of two ways: 1. Online: Visit commbank.com.au/schoolbanking and click on the link to open a Youthsaver account. 2. In branch: Visit a Commonwealth Bank branch with identification for yourself and your child, like a driver’s licence and birth certificate.



School Banking day is Tuesday. Bankbooks need to be handed in to the teacher at 9:00am for collection. If you would like to know more about School Banking, please ask for a 2020 School Banking program information pack from the school office or visit www.commbank.com.au/schoolbanking

Julie Torney Deputy Principal Sustainability News The K-2 Week 6 Trash Free Tuesday winner was 1D with 57%. Fantastic! The K-2 Week 7 Trash Free Tuesday winner was 1R with 50%. Great work! The 3-6 Week 6 and 7 Trash Free Tuesday winner was 2/3W with 75% then 73%. Excellent effort!

A reminder that parents are welcome to bring in recycling from home such as aluminium cans, plastic bottles (like soft drink or water bottles) and poppers (no straws please) to put in our black recycling tubs on the playground, to contribute to our Return & Earn funds. Please note, we cannot accept any glass or alcohol packaging. The Eco Club are responsible for sorting return and earn containers each week, as well as participating in various sustainability projects around the school. It is a great way to help our school and community become more sustainable. All students in Years 2-6 are encouraged to come along to our weekly meetings.

Sustainability Committee Miss Perger SRC Training Day SRC Training Day will be held for those who have been selected to represent their class on Tuesday 17 March. SRC representatives can wear mufti on that day. Lunch will be provided, however SRC reps will need to bring their own recess and drink bottle. Rebecca Cameron and Silvia Samaan SRC Coordinators Sydney Kings Visit ODPS

Two weeks ago, we had the Sydney Kings players attend ODPS in pouring rain and provide a clinic to our basketball teams. We were very lucky to have Daniel Kickert – centre, Shaun Bruce – guard, Lucas Walker – forward, Jordan Hunter – centre and Hunter Madden - guard, take a break from their busy training schedule for the NBL Finals, to give us some pointers on how to improve our basketball skills. All ODPS basketballers were presented with a Kmart Game Time singlet and then were taken through

dribbling, ball handling and shooting drills to improve their overall basketball ability. To finish off the session the Kings players presented our students with a variety of Sydney Kings merchandise during a player signing and questioning session.

http://www.commbank.com.au/schoolbanking



It was a very memorable visit for many of our students who are passionate Sydney Kings supporters. We look forward to the summer PSSA basketball season being a successful one after this visit.

Mr Wicks PSSA Basketball Coach

Beecroft Zone Swimming Carnival On Thursday 5 March, 21 students represented Oakhill Drive Public School at the Beecroft Zone Swimming Carnival held at Sydney Olympic Park. All students competed to the best of their ability and many improved their time from the school carnival. Our students showed great sportsmanship as they supported each other and recognised their achievements. Special congratulations to Emma C 1st in 50m Butterfly, 3rd in 50m Freestyle, 3rd in 50m Backstroke and 4th in 200m Medley. Emma will now compete at the Sydney North Area Carnival on Friday 27 March.

Special congratulations go to Eric Z who will also be attending Sydney North Area Carnival for 11 years 50m Breaststroke, 11 years 50m Butterfly and 200m Senior Medley. Congratulations to Bella Z who will be attending the Sydney North Area Carnival for 8 Year Girls 50m Freestyle.

Emma C, Hannah P, Junhee S and Amelia R received a ribbon for overall 3rd place in the Senior Girls Relay. Eric Z, Angus W, Samuel G and Alex C also received a ribbon for 3rd place in the Senior Boys Relay. I would like to thank Mr Wicks for his role as an Official and all the parents who supported the students on the day of the carnival and came to cheer on Oakhill Drive PS. It was a great day for all. Alison Barnett Team Manager

Notes Due

Stage 3 Narrabeen Camp – Medical and Code of Conduct Thursday 12 March

PSSA Winter Trial Preferences – Yrs 4-6 Thursday 19 March

Premier’s Reading Challenge Friday 27 March



PSSA Sport

PSSA Sport – 13 March

Sport Venue

Touch Football (Boys and Girls) Bernie Mullane

Cricket Fred Caterson

Basketball (Boys and Girls) Fred Caterson

T-Ball & Softball Castle Glen

Winter PSSA Trials All Year 4-6 students can choose to trial for Winter PSSA. A note seeking preferences has been sent home and needs to be returned to class teachers. Students can choose to nominate 2 of the winter sport options. Only students who return this note will be allowed to attend the Winter PSSA trials on Friday 27 March in Week 9. The Winter PSSA sports are: Junior and Senior Netball, Newcombe Ball, Soccer (Boys and Girls) and AFL. Home Sport is an option that can be chosen. Refer to the note for more information.

Skoolbag App and PSSA It is important that if your child is in PSSA (Summer or Winter) that you select PSSA as an option for Skoolbag notifications. When cancellations of games, change of fields or change to training sessions occur a Skoolbag message is sent out. At times, our school is not informed of these changes within school hours or at short notice so the students are not informed through an announcement. When training is cancelled your child does not need to be at school early or bring in specific sport equipment. Janelle Lord ODPS Sports Coordinator Canteen News Thank you to our volunteers. Next week’s roster is: Well, we have had a great return to canteen this year with a few new parents (including a Dad) joining us as volunteers. Canteen is a great way to meet new people, have fund and most importantly provide our children with good food options. We are always looking for more help so if you are keen to give it a try just pop your head in and say “hello”. Harmony Day Special

Healthy Orange Jelly 60c

Orange Fruit Cups 60c

Sweet Potato Wedges (recess only) $1

Peach Smoothies $1

Helen, Liz and Jenny Canteen Managers

Mon 16/3 Dana, Laura

Tues 17/3 Jieun

Wed 18/3 Caroline, Anna

Thurs 19/3 Jo, Carolyn, Clare

Fri 20/3 Varsha, Carol



Uniform Shop

The uniform shop will be completing stocktake on the Wednesday 25 March and transferring all

summer stock out of the shop to bring in the winter stock. Winter uniforms can be purchased online

from Flexischools commencing Thursday 26 March and the Uniform Shop on Thursday 2 April

and Thursday 9 April. A note will be coming home separately with details regarding the switch to winter uniform together with a price list/order form.

I encourage you to order your uniforms on Flexischools if at all possible to avoid the long lines at the

Uniform Shop. As most kindergarten children will need winter uniforms, the shop is likely to be very busy for the first two weeks of winter uniform sales. Remember there is no problem to swap sizes or return items (within 21 days of purchase) if the tag is still on the uniform. TERM 1 – 2020 – SHOP HOURS

➢ Thursday 19 March – 8:30am to 9:30am ➢ Stocktake 25 March (Winter Uniform) ➢ Thursday 26 March – Flexischools Orders (Shop Closed – winter uniform orders) ➢ Thursday 2 April – 8:30am to 9:30am (winter uniform sales) ➢ Thursday 9 April – 8:30am to 9:30am (winter uniform sales)

FLEXISCHOOLS ORDERS CAN BE MADE AT ANYTIME AND WILL BE DELIVERED TO YOUR CHILD’S CLASSROOM ON THURSDAY. Georgina Brown Uniform Shop Coordinator Community News DISCLAIMER We sincerely thank our advertisers for their support of our school. While Oakhill Drive Public School is selective in the advertisements it runs, parents are advised to use their own discretion in supporting these services.





1-5 Oakhill Drive, Castle Hill 2154 T: 9634 1033

E: [email protected]

SCHOOL SECURITY If you see trespassers in the school out of hours please call school security.

1300 880 021 (24 hours)

Supervision of Students Our teachers supervise children at the following times in the playground: 8:30am-9:00am - Before school 10:55am-11:20am - Recess 1:10pm-2:00pm - Lunch 3:00pm-3:30pm - Bus children only No child should be at school before 8:30am No child should remain playing on site without parent supervision in the afternoon.

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Documents

Alternate Staff Development Day (SDD) 2020: All students