Parent Handbook 2017 - Koonwarra Village School · Parent Handbook 2017 ... Koonwarra Village School’s logo is a Triskelion. It is a Celtic symbol that, for us represents the

Welcome to Koonwarra Village School

Koonwarra Village School was established in 2011 on a wing and a prayer as well as a healthy dose of

passion, enthusiasm and some serious educational creative thinking and expertise. As one of the

founding families, I have seen KVS grow into an enduring and sustainable model of education for our

region; one that provides opportunities not only for our young people, but for our whole community.

From small beginnings, KVS has grown in organisational maturity with the ability to meet curriculum

requirements in a mindful way that takes into account the whole person in relation to the world we

share. Clear vision, policies and principles are the cornerstone of the ability of our school to respond to

individual, community and educational challenges while acknowledging that our future lies with allowing

our children to flourish in an environment that guides and supports them to be the best person they can

be.

There is plenty of information contained in this handbook; a wonderful resource for our families. There

are lots of ways to be involved in your child's education and in the life of Koonwarra Village School; I

welcome any opportunity to be of assistance to you in your KVS journey.

Alyson Skinner,

KVS Board Chair

November, 2016

Parent Handbook 2017 The parent handbook has been prepared for newly enrolled families with an aim of assisting with the

transition into KVS school life as well as answering commonly asked questions about our school.

Version 1.1 KVS Parent Handbook Page 2 of 26

The School Philosophy outlines the founding principles of Koonwarra Village School (KVS). It does not

deal with the day-to-day expression of these principles, but looks at the beliefs that inform why we do

what we do. Our holistic form of education is inspired by the work of many educational thinkers – past

and present. It is based on the understanding that there is a deeper purpose to life than the role we take

on in our paid employment. The ultimate goal is to set students on the path to self-actualisation – i.e.

uncovering their identity and the meaning and purpose of their lives.

At KVS we believe self-actualisation is best achieved through freedom. Internal freedom - in thought and

expression, within an environment that is free from overbearing authority, excessive rules and

unnecessarily prescriptive courses of study. Such freedoms are provided within the context of a healthy

and functional school community as well as positive engagement with society, and in each individual this

requires a balance between effective self-management and acceptance of responsibility.

There are three key aspects of our school culture that are interwoven with freedom and responsibility

which aim to support students in their journey towards living conscious and meaningful lives. The first of

these is social and emotional intelligence - allowing students to know themselves, have empathy with

others and communicate effectively. The second is autonomy and shared decision-making – regular

opportunities to practice making decisions that affect each individual and the school community. The

third is connection – to nature, people and the rhythms of life – through real-life activities such as

spending times in all forms of nature, learning from a wide range of people – younger and older, and

engaging in celebrations that reflect important events in their lives. Our website has the full

downloadable copy of our School Philosophy.

KVS logo and classroom names

Koonwarra Village School’s logo is a Triskelion. It is a Celtic symbol that, for us represents the

constantly evolving nature of life and the ability to reflect, revisit and refine things.

When our school first opened, there was a natural grouping of younger and older children in to two key

spaces in the school. The younger children (foundation and level 1) were inspired by the beautiful natural

sunlight that comes into their space, so this space became the Sun Room. The older children (levels 2-6)

were inspired by the Triskelion school logo and are known as Triskels. The Triskelion space has three

zones, the Caf, P2 and the Lab.

The Hub is a small meeting room that can be used for small group sessions or as a quiet work space. Our

largest gathering area is the Art Shed that now includes an indoor/outdoor stage.

School Philosophy

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/assets/kvs-philosophy.pdf

https://www.facebook.com/1434866546745719/photos/1434909593408081/


The Guiding Principles inform our work with children at Koonwarra Village School. They have been

developed over time and are closely linked with our School Philosophy. The highlighted words are topics

for which further information is available from the school.

Learning

All human beings are born with an innate desire and ability to learn. Our role is to provide a learning

environment that continues to nurture these qualities and actively promotes a growth mindset within each

child.

It is beneficial for mentors to present new skills and information to groups of children working at similar

skill levels. Mentors take a leadership role at various times during the learning cycle to ensure that the

curriculum is adequately covered.

Providing direct instruction about executive skills is a practical way to empower students to

achieve their goals. Learning contracts allow students to practice these skills on the pathway to

becoming an effective learner.

Learning is most effective when its intention is visible and the activity purposeful. We are influenced by

the research of John Hattie who has written extensively about the effect of this, and other factors that

influence student achievement.

Trust between mentor and student is important to achieving an individual’s learning potential.

Working Together

Relationships are the base from which all else stems. We are mindful of our role in each relationship, in each

moment, and respond to each situation by choosing whether to lead, work alongside or follow the other.

Our school’s behavior management policy is based on connection, empathy and restorative practices.

Effective participation in a community takes practice, trust, a willingness to receive feedback and a balance

between the needs of the individual and the needs of the group.

Guiding Principles


Children are Capable

Children can manage high expectations and thrive on the confidence that our faith in them brings.

You become a good decision maker with practice. At KVS we provide lots of choices and have formal

instruction in critical thinking skills.

We believe that taking risks is an important part of growing and learning. Allowing children to take

physical, social and cognitive risks develops their ability to match their skills to the situation or

environment.

Personal Development

Self-actualisation, the realization of one’s potential, is a worthy goal to pursue. KVS Personal Learning

Projects provide extracurricular opportunities for children to explore their talents and discover new

areas of interest.

All people benefit from a high degree of self-awareness. We use a range of programs to develop

children’s Social and Emotional Intelligence.

Personal development is a life-long journey. At KVS we invite all community members to take part in

this journey.

Looking Outwards

We can provide the type of education we value while meeting government requirements for schools.

We choose not to feel overly constrained by our regulatory obligations or by working with a curriculum.

Children are entitled to feel optimistic about their future. When we investigate the world’s significant

environmental and social challenges we do so from a hopeful and solution-focused perspective.

Being open to current research can make us more effective educators. Mentors regularly attend

professional development, visit other schools and share ideas that inspire them.

We have a responsibility to give students the tools to navigate their educational experience after

KVS. Our past students regularly give us feedback and we incorporate that into future programing and

activities.

We have a role as custodians for our natural environment and as creators of a more peaceful world.

Our choices at a personal and community level reflect our commitment to this role.


School governance

Koonwarra Village School is a not-for-profit company and adheres to the regulations defined by the

Australian Charities and Not for Profit Commission and the guidelines and standards defined for schools

by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority.

The KVS Constitution and Board Governance

Charter guide the KVS Board and the

appointment of Board members. There is a

maximum of six Board members who may

serve up to two, three year terms.

Our current Board members are: (L-R) Rebecca

Cooke, Alyson Skinner (chair), Rachel

Carruthers, George Dimitropoulos, Fiona

McKenzie (founding member and board

secretary), Moragh Mackay (absent from

photo) The Board currently meets eight times

each year on the third Friday of each cycle.

The Board’s main function is to provide guidance for the successful operation of the school via the

Schools’ Strategic Plan, budgets and policies. The Strategic Plan is developed with input from various

stakeholders and is guided by the following Vision:

Vision

To generate positive and lasting change in the world.

Mission

We are a school that supports children to be active creators of their lives, amongst a community in which

they feel they belong.

As shown in the Organisational Chart, the Management team of the School are responsible for the day

to day operations and delivery of our teaching and learning program.

Each year we produce an Annual Report which can be found on the website and contains program

highlights, school statistics and a summary of the funding received for the previous calendar year.

School Governance


Koonwarra Village School policies

Our school policies are available for viewing on our website on the Info for Families page and cover a

range of areas. You will find policies for Student Welfare, Mandatory reporting, Bullying & Harassment,

Critical Incidents, Emergency Management Plan, First Aid, Anaphylaxis, Enrolment, School Fees,

Reporting, Internet, Privacy, Off-site & On-site Supervision, Acquisition and a Concerns & Complaints

Policy. Please let us know at [email protected] if you are looking for a policy that has

not been listed on the website. Please ensure you are familiar with our policies. In the event of an

emergency, e.g. bushfire, the school will be following the Emergency Management Plan that involves a

coordinated response directed by the School Coordinator.

Democratic Principles

The programs and teaching in our school support and promote the principles and practice of Australian

democracy, including a commitment to:

• elected government • the rule of law • equal rights for all before the law • freedom of religion • freedom of speech and association • the values of openness and tolerance.

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/info-for-families.html

mailto:[email protected]


Our teachers are known as ‘Mentors’ to reflect the partnership that we consider is involved in a holistic

approach to academic learning and personal development. Students have the opportunity to work with

several Mentors during the week which allows them to experience a variety of relationships. Triskel

students also select a Personal Mentor; a Mentor who the students feel comfortable communicating

with about any aspect of their school life. A Personal Mentor helps the student manage their learning

strategies, sets goals to develop their executive skills and supports them in any social ‘bumps’. We have

five classroom Mentors;

• Sarah Maclean works in Triskelion with children in the Grade 2-6 group and is the Leader of

Teaching & Learning and our official ‘Principal’.

• Sandra Mayne joined our team in 2017 and works in the Sun Room with children in Foundation-

Grade 1.

• Daniel Rosen is a specialist teacher, working across the school in Reading, Shared Inquiry,

Humanities, PE/Health and ICT.

• Marni Speed holds the role of specialist teacher, working across the school in Science and

Nature Journaling and also teaches Reading in Triskelion.

• Brad Kijlstra-Shone is a specialist teacher focused across the whole school in our Kitchen

Garden program.

• Dinah Brownfield teaches Reading, Handwriting and Art in the Sun Room and works in a range

of other support roles across the school.

Fiona McKenzie is the School Coordinator and is responsible for administration activities and facilities

and is assisted by Philippa Lloyd, Jacqui Haysom, Belinda Boase, Shannon Letcher and Sarah Forrest.

The schools main phone number is 5664 2477 and other contact details are:

Administration

Fiona McKenzie

School Coordinator 0409 172 812

Philippa Lloyd

Administration 0407 900 465

Triskelion

Sarah Maclean

Key Mentor

0499 249 063

Sun Room Sandra Mayne

Key Mentor

0402 436 840

KVS Staff


KVS curriculum

Koonwarra Village School uses the Victorian Curriculum as the basis of its academic program. The

school’s Philosophy and Guiding Principles outline the broader framework in which teaching and learning

occurs.

The Village School Curriculum is a series of additional programs & elements integrated across all the

features of school life and overviewed on our website. At the heart of our teaching and learning model is a

comprehensive (KVS created)

framework that allows incremental

development of the skills and

attributes to become an Effective

Learner.

Learning Contracts provide a

framework for teaching and learning

at KVS. The intention is to support

children to become independent

learners and effective time

managers.

Contracts include a range of core

numeracy and literacy tasks that can

be undertaken by each child

independently. The Foundation level

contracts are simple in nature and aim to develop children’s awareness of their ability to make choices

which lead to success. As the children’s skills develop, the complexity of the contract increases and they

begin to share the decision making with their mentor about the order and timing of their work tasks

(Guided Contracts). Over time, the level of guidance from the mentor reduces until children are working

with as Autonomous Learners.

Learning Contracts

integrate into a

structured daily

timetable which includes

periods of small group

direct instruction, whole

group activities and

community service

tasks. Sample contracts

and the contract

pathway are on our

website.

Teaching & Learning

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/teaching---learning.html

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/assets/traits-of-an-effective-learner-checklist.pdf

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/assets/traits-of-an-effective-learner-checklist.pdf

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/assets/all-contracts.pdf

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/assets/contract-pathway.pdf

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/assets/contract-pathway.pdf


Camps

Another element of the Village School Curriculum are camps. Being

outdoors and in new environments significantly contributes to

physical and environmental education and enhances many other

curriculum areas. It contributes to personal growth and social

awareness and develops skills for life.

Outdoor activities provide valuable alternative, often non-competitive, avenues for achievement, as well

as opportunities to develop independence and self-reliance. Through successfully facing up to the

challenges which outdoor activities provide, overcoming fears and apprehensions along the way, young

people develop self-confidence, resilience and an understanding of risk.

Active learning and adventure outdoors introduces

young people to the environment in a way which

develops understanding, appreciation, awe, and

respect. Finally, camps also develop deep and rich

relationships between the students and mentors

and are an intentional and critical component in the

KVS curriculum and learning program.

The camp dates are published well in advance, at

the beginning of the school year, and it is expected

that students attend all compulsory camps for their

year level.

A number of the camps are extensions or the culmination of the skills attained during a PLP and are

therefore offered to the students that have the matching skill levels for the camp activities. Children in

level 2 and above that have not stayed independently away from home are invited to participate in a

sleepover challenge at the school as a stepping stone before overnight Camps without parents.

Going off-site

For all pre-planned off-site excursions, KVS Parents will be

advised via email of specific details of the intended

activities, travel arrangements, timing etc, and parental

permission must be received before a child can attend.

The email will include any specific clothing and equipment

requirements as well as advising if snacks, lunch and drink

bottles are required. Please note that for all off-site

excursions, students must wear shoes.

There will also be times, however, when children will have

the opportunity to attend impromptu off-site activities in

the local area e.g. a walk in a nature reserve in Koonwarra, where, due to the relatively immediate nature

of the excursion, it is impractical to request parental permission prior to undertaking the activity. At the

beginning of your child’s enrolment, you will receive a form for impromptu excursions and your

responses in this form will be used to determine the level to which your child(ren) can participate in these


impromptu excursions. Impromptu local excursions may be taken on foot or in our minibus and will

always be supervised by a Mentor.

Copies of the form are available on our website. Nearly all our excursions and Out n Abouts are included

in the school fees. Only very occasionally will there be additional activity costs needing to be passed on.

Homework

KVS does not have compulsory homework for any of the students at KVS. For our grade six students, we

offer an optional homework program for the second semester of the year as an opportunity to practice

completing homework before they go to secondary school. It involves weekly homework tasks for the

last four cycles of the year. The tasks are fairly easy to complete as the priority is the experience of the

organisation and self-discipline that is needed to complete set tasks out of school time. The activities are

sent home each Monday and need to be handed in on Friday morning.

While KVS recommends your child's participation in this program - it is voluntary. Parents will be sent an

invitation to discuss this program with your child. If you confirm you would like your child to participate,

in doing so, you are also agreeing to actively support them in the development of the new work habits.

Reader packs for Sun Roomers

Home reading packs are provided to Sun Room students as the Reading program becomes established

during the year. They will have practiced their readers at school, so the experience is intended to be an

enjoyable relaxed way for them to show you their progress with their reading, rather than being ‘official’

homework. Please be guided by your child when requesting more or less readers, or activities for the

home reading pack. Included in the Reader packs will be some information about the Reading program.

Reader packs need to be returned every Friday morning so they can be re-packed and ready to take

home for the weekend. If you would like more readers, they can be returned on a Monday morning for

re-packing.

Reports and parent/student/mentor interviews

Written reports relating to student academic progress are provided to parents in June and December,

covering all learning areas of the Victorian Curriculum including the capabilities of Self-Directed Learning

and Social and Emotional Learning. These reports are accompanied by a parent/mentor/student

meeting, offered to families. Interviews are not compulsory but may be requested by either parents or

mentors. Usually, all mentors who work with the child will attend the interview.

KVS also participates in The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for

students in Grades 3 & 5.


KVS calendar

Koonwarra Village School operates on a slightly different timetable to other schools. We have eight, six-

week cycles (five weeks of school followed by a one-week cycle break). In the middle of the year we have

a two-week cycle break. (Two cycles are roughly the same as one conventional school term.) We have

found this allows students and mentors to be refreshed

and fully engaged for the cycle without experiencing a

slump as the term progresses. Foundation students

have a rest day on Wednesday for the first two-cycles.

Our website has our school calendar for the year. It

includes the student free days for planning, report

writing and professional development. Please note the

days for parent / student / mentor interviews in the

middle and end of the year and the many camp dates

for Triskel students.

Our school hours

Our school hours are 8.45am until 3.15pm. Students are welcome to be dropped unaccompanied

anytime from 8.30am. Some students find a little extra time before morning meeting helpful to connect

with other students and prepare for the day ahead. Whilst there are Mentors on-site from about 8am,

the time in the morning is used for class preparation and they are not able to actively supervise students

until 8.30am. Please ensure your child is collected by 3.30pm and we ask that you phone the school as

soon as possible if you will be running late.

The gong

KVS does not have a bell. Independent learning and responsibility is encouraged together with the

opportunity to experience work ‘flow’. KVS utilises a Gong to signal when to come together for morning

meeting, class sessions or to leave school grounds for Out and Abouts.

Morning meeting

Every KVS day begins with a student-run Morning Meeting. The Morning Meeting is an important

gathering where the whole school meets in the Art Shed to prepare for the day ahead. We use this time

to greet each other, for all children to have the opportunity to share anything important or significant

that has occurred and to make any announcements. Starting the day together creates a routine and

allows all children to connect, contribute and feel valued. It also provides an opportunity for children to

participate and model inclusive and respectful engagement with children leading the meeting. Morning

meeting commences around 8.45am and can vary in duration from 5-15 minutes depending on the level

KVS Daily Routines

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/enrolment.html


of contribution. We ask that all students join the circle during the meeting and you are welcome to join

the circle with your child.

Clothing

Children are free to wear clothing of their choice. We are lucky at KVS to have a setting with lots of

outdoor space that encourages exploring, climbing and connection with nature. We encourage children

to wear clothes that they can get dirty and move freely in and layers to help with the often changing

weather conditions. To ensure your children are prepared and able to participate in all the school

activities we recommend that students have a change of clothes, sun hat, raincoat and sports

shoes/runners in their school locker to save having to remember to bring them from home each week.

All members of the KVS community are free to be without shoes except when out of school grounds or

working in the kitchen or garden. Children are regularly taking shoes off for comfort and it can slow

down their participation in activities if they are not yet able to tie

their own shoes. Please only have lace-up or buckled shoes when

your child is able to manage them independently. On hot days,

avoid shoes that need socks, as so many of them end up in lost

property

A spare set of clothes is also required before wet or messy play.

Before rain or mud play, children will be asked to check if they

have spare clothes. Gumboots are a great addition in the

cooler/wetter months for outside, however they are not

appropriate inside footwear and children to have other shoes to

put on for inside the classroom.

On hot days, children love to cool off under the sprinkler!

For excursions or when participating in a PLP, please ensure your child has appropriate clothing and their

own equipment for the activity and weather conditions e.g. sun hat in hot weather, raincoat on rainy

days. This ensures they can participate fully but also ensures they do not impact the participation level

for other members of the community. If a student is not dressed for the conditions, it can result in an

activity needing to be cut short as the whole group may need to return earlier than planned. For this

reason, in some instances, a student will not be able to participate in the excursion or activity if they do

not have appropriate clothing or equipment.

Labelling of clothes is also required to assist in identifying and returning items to their owner. In the

bathroom block near the Sun Room there is spare underwear if an accident occurs. Please wash and

return these to the school if your child has needed to use these.

Lost property

All items of clothing that aren’t labelled are placed in a tub on the main deck. Please check this regularly.

At the end of each cycle these items are displayed in the hope they find their way home. Any items that

are not claimed, are then donated to the local charity shop.


Starting school

Having the right resources for the school year at KVS is fortunately quite straight forward. We provide all

the stationery and resources for children. They just need to have the items described in the clothing

section of the handbook. For our Foundation and Level 1 students they all get their own personalised

stainless steel cup for water and Triskel students get to select their preferred design for a Stainless steel

drink bottle.

A helpful routine for mornings for newer students is to put things into their locker on arrival and then

they are free to play until the gong goes for morning meeting. Parents and siblings are welcome to stay

for morning meeting. For some of the new Foundation students, in the early weeks, it can be good to

have a plan with the Sun Room Mentors about when feels like the best time to leave.

Our kitchen is open to all at the school and parents are welcome to grab a cuppa or join us for morning

tea/lunch if you are at the school.

Toys

Children are welcome to bring toys or items from home as it encourages creative play and can be a

source of comfort to assist with the transition into school. Please encourage your child to consider how

much personal storage space they have in their locker when deciding what to bring in and when to bring

items home. We actively promote an environment which includes non-violent play, so toy weapons are

to be left at home.

We also ask that electronic devices are not brought to school. If you have a specific arrangement for

phone contact for after school activities, the phone can be left with the child’s mentor for the day.

Food program

The KVS food program involves lunches five days per week, classroom snacks

and fruit and vegetables all week. On Fridays, morning tea is provided for the

whole community, including playgroup. Children are

welcome to bring their own morning tea Monday-Thursday,

or rely on classroom snacks. The Kitchen is staffed by a KVS

Kitchen Coordinator four days each week and Parent

volunteers one day per week. In 2017 the volunteer day is a

Wednesday and we also occasionally call out for kitchen

helpers for community events. Our Food Program relies on

our kitchen volunteers and just prior to a new cycle we put a call out for volunteers to

nominate their preferred days.

A menu is planned each cycle utilising seasonal organic produce. Families are welcome to provide their

own meals however this does not result in a reduction in fees. When families are providing snacks or their

own meals we encourage food that is good for bodies and minds. As an environmentally sustainable

school, without playground rubbish bins, we ask that any food items that come to school have minimal

wrapping.


All food provided is vegetarian and organic, and children are free to serve themselves from the selection

available. Gluten and dairy free options are always available

Children’s birthdays

At KVS we like to celebrate birthdays as a group, with creativity, reflection and

fun. Each year students will have special time to make a creative birthday gift for

themselves (an example was a bee wax candle and candle holder) which they then

display to rest of the school when we get together at the end of the day to sing

‘happy birthday’ and play a whole school game. Birthday children also enjoy a

special treat for morning tea, and in 2016 this was a bag of organic popcorn.

Birthday celebrations occur once per Cycle for the birthdays during that period.

School photos

School photos are taken mid Spring each year and are provided at

the end of the year on a USB stick. The cost of the photos is

included in the school fees. The photos will include whole school,

younger and older years group shots as well as individual, friends

and sibling shots in the children’s favourite locations around the

school. The photos are lovely natural photos that capture the

essence of the Village School energy.

Adventurous play

We want KVS students to feel confident when navigating the world around them. We help children to

develop a healthy understanding of appropriate risk-taking by providing opportunities for adventurous

play to 'test and challenge’ themselves. We want them to learn how different choices keep them more,

or less, safe. We believe children learn to handle and judge risks through regular exposure to low and

medium level challenges. We also believe that with these experiences they will be less inclined to take

big and less thought-through risks in a moment of excitement. As an example, children are free to climb

trees but are not allowed to use chairs, ladders or other children to help them get into trees that are too

big for them to climb independently. If they can get up, they can get down☺

Wheels

Children are welcome to bring in scooters, bikes, roller blades/skates or

skateboards to school. The asphalt is a very popular spot at morning tea

and lunchtimes to try out new skills on wheels. Wheels have always

been a big part of play at KVS and children learn numerous important

skills; honing their balance, increasing their spatial awareness,

developing coordination and sharpening their reflexes. On any given

day, the children are cooperating, negotiating, sharing, teaching,

learning and being very, very active. We have an area under the pine trees for bikes and scooters to be

stored when not in use, however they are not locked away. Children are required to wear a helmet when

riding bikes, roller skates/blades or skateboards and doing ‘tricks’ on a scooter (i.e. when the wheels


leave the ground). With our playgroup families joining us for morning tea on a Friday, we ask students to

wait until lunchtime before the use of the bigger items, like bikes, on the asphalt.

Non-violence

At KVS we believe we can have a role as creators of a more peaceful world. It is important to us that

everyone demonstrates positive communication through mindful use of words, vocal tone, body

language and actions within the school community. Our social and emotional program supports the

development and practice of these skills in the children, and mentors attend both in-house and external

professional development seminars to support their modeling of these skills.

At KVS we do not allow the use of toy weapons in play or use computer programs with violence. We do

not show movies, read stories or discuss news events with gratuitous violence, destruction or harm, or

allow children to wear clothing that communicates a violent message. We also ask that families minimize

their children’s exposure to violence in television programs, computer games, song lyrics, films and

stories as they can desensitize children to violence and make it difficult for them to accept a non-violence

policy at school.

There may be times when students initiate conversations or choose to include violent themes in their

written or creative work. Mentors will monitor the context and appropriateness of their expression and

either request the student to modify their choice of words or images and/or speak with parents if they

feel concerned.

Outside supervision

At KVS we do not have a staff room or rostered yard duty. At morning tea and lunch there is always one

or more Mentors outside and available to assist children. We are alert to the needs of the children during

class and at break times. We enjoy working and relaxing in our grounds together as equal members of

our community. We respect children’s personal and social space. We teach children to know which

playground issues need adult intervention and those they are capable of resolving themselves or with the

help of a peer.

During class-time, when children have completed their tasks they are free to be outdoors but within the

class-time boundaries defined for their room. For the Sun Room this includes the grass area at the front

of the school and the deck. For Triskels, this includes the grass area at the front of the school and across

the asphalt to the pine trees.

Parliament

At KVS, School Parliament is a regular forum where children and mentors discuss issues that relate to life

at KVS including school rules, social issues, ideas for Personal Learning Projects and items like the lunch

menu. Decisions are made on the basis of discussion and consensus. The intention of this forum is to

encourage children to become active participants in the development of the school program and culture

and to provide opportunities to practice speaking in front of a group, listening to the ideas of others and

identifying solutions to group needs.


In order to allow the children to feel comfortable to express themselves, in what can sometimes be

personal and difficult discussions, we only allow mentors and students to be present at Parliament. If you

have any questions about Parliament please ask any of the Mentors.

Sun protection

Families have different preferences for sun strategies and our

enrolment forms capture this preference. To assist with supporting

sun protection, we have a hat rack on the main deck that is a good

visual reminder and easy storage spot for Sun Hats as well as a Sun

Screen dispenser with the Cancer Council Kids SPF50+ sunscreen.

Foundation students will be given guidance and support from a

Mentor in learning to adopt their families preferred sun strategy.

As the students become more independent, Mentors support children to anticipate

what they need and to notice when they need it, however we don’t enforce the

wearing of hats and sunscreen. A general reminder is given to the whole group at

Morning Meeting to be prepared with their ‘sun strategies’ if the weather is going to be

hot and then Mentors follow-up with suggestions as required, e.g. ‘You’re looking hot, do you need a hat

/ drink / time in the shade?’

KVS respects that families may choose from a range of sun protection strategies, and KVS Mentors will

support these, but not enforce them with children. Mentors will, however, instruct a child to move into

the shade if they are at risk of being burnt from sun exposure. On sunny days, scheduled outdoor

activities will be held in shady areas, but students are expected to come to school with an effective sun

strategy as there will be times when this is not possible.

First aid

KVS Mentors all have first-aid qualifications and are trained in CPR and the use of Epi-pens.

If students become ill at school, parents (or if not available, emergency contacts) will be contacted and

requested to collect the child. Children have access to ice-packs and band-aids and are encouraged to

support each other with these for minor hurts. Where the injury is greater, the child will be assessed by a

mentor and either provided with first aid at school, taken to the emergency department at Leongatha

Hospital or an ambulance will be called.

If a student has received first-aid at school, parents will be made aware via text for minor

injuries/illnesses and by phone call for serious injuries and be advised of the circumstances of the

accident and the first aid response. Sometimes a child will have a big emotional reaction to a minor injury

and parents will be advised of this as well.

Students with known medical conditions are required to have a Medical Management Plan detailing a

description of the condition, symptoms of deterioration of the condition, usual medical treatment to be

administered at school, medical treatment if the condition deteriorates and any side effects of the

medication.

The Medical Management Plan will also include the name, address and phone number of the child’s

medical practitioner and emergency contacts.


Copies of the Medical Management Plan will be kept in the student’s file in the office and in the first aid

area. Please ensure the medical information is up-to-date always. Medication Management Plans are

requested as part of the enrolment of your child if there are any medical conditions. A copy of the form is

available on the school website.

If medication needs to be administered during school time, it must be given to the student’s Key Mentor

who will organise for it to be stored in either:

• the First Aid Cupboard, or

• Refrigerator

The Medication Consent Form and Medication Management Plan must be completed before any

prescription medication is distributed. Paracetamol or any other non-prescription medication will not be

distributed to students without written direction and or verbal consent of parent / guardian.

Contagious illnesses

As part of your childs’ enrolment form, you are required to provide details of your child’s immunisation

status. The Immunisation history statement can be obtained in the following ways:

• Online - through MyGov once an account has been created

• Medicare Express Plus App - once a MyGov account has been created

• Over the counter - at a Medicare Service Centre

• Phone – call Australian Childhood Immunisation Register on 1800 653 809

It is a requirement that parents notify the school if their child is diagnosed with a contagious illness. The

school will then notify all parents who may have come into contact with that child.

Please do not send your child to school when they are ill.

Head lice

Head lice does occur at all schools from time to time. Here are some hints to help get on top and stay on

top of it.

Lice do not jump, there needs to be head to head contact for lice to crawl over to another head, so

having hair tied back can help, but it is also important to be vigilant with

regular checks and combing. Regular combing with a metal comb, even if

you have not noticed your child itching, will allow you to catch a few tiny

ones early and make it much easier to avoid a more major outbreak.

The metal Lice Breaker comb, has proved very effective as it also gets eggs

out when used dampened, on dry hair. It is available from most pharmacies.

If your child gets lice, we recommend an initial treatment, then keep

combing with conditioner every 2-3 days until you find no lice. Then again in

another week.

If your child is very itchy, it is likely that the lice have multiplied and it will take regular and frequent

attention to be rid of the cycle. One treatment and comb through is not enough.


You can make your own treatment by putting 5 drops of Eucalyptus oil and 10 of tea tree oil into about

200ml of normal conditioner. It won't kill the lice, but it will help stun them whilst you comb them out.

Please let your child’s Mentor know if your child has head lice. This allows us to notify parents that there

has been a case of headlice so we can all quickly get on top of it to avoid it spreading.

Transport to and from school

Parents need to arrange for their children to be transported to and from school as KVS is not on a public

school bus route. We share a Community Directory at the beginning of the school year which includes

the contact details of all KVS parents which can be helpful when making shared transport arrangements.

When the KVS bus is not in use for camps and excursions, it is available to be used on a cost neutral basis

(small charge to cover fuel and administration time) by families on routes where a volunteer driver and

fairly full bus can be organised. At the beginning of each school year the school seeks out parents that

are willing to act as a carpool/bus coordinator for the region that is interested in using the school bus. We

then work with carpool/bus coordinators to finalise the allocation of the school bus and to collate the

regular pick-up arrangements for all students. This allows Mentors to field queries from children and help

point them in the right direction at the end of the day.

Car parking

We have a number of parking areas at the school. Our staff all park at the side of the Multi-Purpose

Space (under the pine trees). Families with very young children tend to use the space behind the Art

Shed/Hub as it is away from the road. This is also where the bus picks up and drops off from. Parking and

drop-off/pick-up along the fence line at the front of the school is available for everyone else. Our goal is

to not have any parking on the roadside kerb edge as it causes issues with visibility when pulling back

onto the road.


Staying informed

We have a number of ways of communicating and staying in touch at KVS. At the time of enrolment, we

collect a form that includes communication preferences for each family.

Using photos of the children

At the time of enrolment, we seek your permission to use photos of your children for either internal

purposes (e.g. student work, noticeboards, newsletters) or externally (press releases, website) or on

social media. Please ensure you have completed a Photo permission form for each child in your family.

These are available to download on the website. Email [email protected] if you need

to return a form or check or change your preferences.

Weekly email of important dates

During the weekend prior to the start of each week we send out an email with the key activities occurring

in the next fortnight, including times, locations and any clothing or special requirements. You will

automatically be added to this list when your child begins their enrolment, however if you aren’t

receiving these emails, please let us know.

Cycle newsletter

At the end of each Cycle, we share news on what has been happening

during that Cycle as well as information about key dates and activities or

events coming up. Copies of the newsletter are placed on our website,

emailed to families and displayed on our external noticeboard (near the

kitchen). Printed copies are also available on the noticeboard inside the

door of the Sun Room or on request.

We include only school-related activities in the newsletter.

Facebook

We have a public Facebook page on which we post photos and news that will be of interest to the

broader community. We also have a private Facebook group for currently enrolled families, staff and

board members in the KVS community to share school-related information, photos and discussion. The

posts in the group page are only visible to members of this closed group. Anyone can ‘Like’ our public

page, but we need to add you to the group page. Please let us know at

[email protected] if you would like to be added.

Communication




Parent meetings first Friday of cycle

A face to face catch-up occurs on the first Friday of each Cycle from 2pm until 3.15pm. All parents are

welcome. The purpose of the meetings is an informal opportunity to chat with the School Coordinator

about school life over a cuppa and to answer any questions or concerns. Information sessions, hosted by

Mentors, about topics of interest or about KVS school life are included throughout the year. Please let us

know if there is a topic you would like included in these sessions.

Learning updates

Just prior to the start of each Cycle, the Mentors email families to overview the key learning activities for

the upcoming Cycle as well as any planned Out and About activities or information/familiarisation

sessions coming up.

Sun Room presentations

Throughout the year there will also be

opportunities for Sun Room students to

present their work to their families.

This may take the form of a play or

presentation or a walkthrough of their

Portfolio.

Triskelion presentation days

In the last week of Cycle 4 and Cycle 8, Triskel students have a Presentation to families. These sessions

enable parents to gain a more hands-on experience of the learning activities that their child(ren) have

participated in throughout the semester. There will be mentor-prepared information which will assist

parents to link their child(ren)’s work samples to the

curriculum levels that are included in the report. Mentors

will also be available to explain how different methods of

assessment are used to determine a child’s progress in

different learning areas.

Community directory

We publish a community directory to all currently enrolled families that includes phone/email and suburb

for each family at the beginning of the school year. We get your permission before including your name

on this list.


Tiqbiz

We use the Tiqbiz app for some of our school-home communication. It is a great medium for general

reminders, news and is also another location for the school newsletter. It is available for all mobile

devices. The benefit of using an app is that we can send push notifications (like a text message) directly

to your device. It doesn’t replace our regular communication channels, just an extra way of keeping in

touch, particularly with last minute reminders. Once you’ve downloaded the app, search for Koonwarra

Village School and use the following passwords to sign-up to the groups that relate to your family:

• Playgroup – juststarting

• Sun Room – youngerones

• Triskelion – olderones

Please let us know if you need assistance with getting set up.

Absences

We understand that at times children will need time away from school to recover from illness, have

additional rest and recuperation or attend appointments and family activities. Please be aware that by

law all students aged 6-17 years are expected to attend the school in which they are enrolled, during

normal school hours every day of each term, unless there is an approved exemption from school

attendance, or the student has only a partial enrolment in a school for particular activities.

We ask that you let your child’s mentor know as soon as you become aware that your child will not be

attending school – if this is on the weekend or in the evenings please send an email. During normal

school hours, by phone or text. This can assist classroom and kitchen planning as well as allow accurate

attendance information to be recorded.

Mondays are a day that set up the rest of the week. Where ever possible, we ask that you avoid taking

Mondays as an R&R day. When children have their contracts and know the tasks in front of them for the

week, there is often things they can do at home which will enable both a home day and a smooth return

to class. If children are unwell, there is no expectation that they will complete schoolwork at home.

If children have been away from Monday - Thursday, it is difficult to accommodate an effective day on

Friday. There is no new work introduced on Friday as it is a day of finishing off and meeting with

Mentors.

When you have a query or concern

Mentors and school staff are around before and after school to keep in touch with families. Please

arrange appointments with teaching staff for the afternoon times between 3.15pm-5pm if you wish to

have a longer (i.e. greater than 5 minute) discussion about your child as mentors often have other

meetings scheduled and/or other parents wanting to chat with them. The mornings are a busy time for

mentors and there is generally not sufficient time to have a discussion about child-related matters before

Mentors are required to attend Morning Meeting.

As a guide about who it is best to direct your query or concern to, please see the table below:


About What / Issue Who to Contact How

Classroom activities, classroom curriculum, friendship issues,

Out and About / camps Your child’s Mentor

By email, phone, or in person.

Appointments should be made for in-person contact to ensure there

is sufficient time and a quiet location available to discuss the

matter.

Appointments with teaching staff are available between

3.15pm-5pm, Monday-Friday

Complex student issues, student welfare, school curriculum

Leader of Teaching and Learning (Sarah Maclean)

Staff members, school policy, school management, fees,

enrolment & general matters

School Coordinator (Fiona McKenzie)


-

- Celebrating Birthdays

o We celebrate birthdays each cycle and

FAMP

Family Camp (FAMP) is an integral part of the Koonwarra Village School program and is a helpful way to establish community connections. All students are expected to attend.

Based at a Caravan Park, it is a two-night family camp held at the end of Cycle One which parents and siblings are welcome and encouraged to attend. We understand that work or other commitments may prevent all family members from being there for the whole time, so it is fine to come and go as you need during the day, and just join us for dinner and evening activities. A FAMP info pack is sent out early in Cycle One.

Mid-winter gathering

A favourite on the calendar is the

mid-winter gathering. It is an

opportunity to get together in the

heart of winter around a fire to

enjoy student performances as

well as a delicious shared meal. There is something quite magical

for the children to spend an evening at the school with the whole

community and fairylights!

Graduation

We wrap the school year up with another whole community

gathering to give a rousing send off to our graduating students as

well as celebrating the contributions of all our school community.

Graduation includes performances from the students, a beautiful

dinner together as well as a graduation ceremony for our Level

Sixers that are heading to high school.

Community Gatherings


How to get involved

When parents, caregivers and extended family members become involved in school life it has benefits for children, families and the school. Benefits for children include a greater connection to school and learning, while parents’ contributions of ideas, time and energy create a vibrant community and a thriving school that is more than the sum of its parts.

We invite parents to become involved in the KVS learning community as well as in social activities and the practical functioning of the school. Below is a range of ways in which parents can get involved.

Opportunities to Engage in the Learning Community:

• Offer your skills or suggest a topic for a Personal Learning Project (PLPs are electives)

• Utilise your networks to propose and create opportunities for children to go Out and About to

interesting places

• Be a helper at a Mentor-led PLP

• Make a time to chat with your child’s Mentors after school

• Visit the classrooms before or after school to look at the wall displays

• Ask your child to show you their contract and explain the associated activities

• Help out at an art or PE class

• Be a customer at Kitchen Garden plant stalls

• Be an expert helper in the Nature Journaling program

• Volunteer in the kitchen or garden or help with watering gardens during the long Summer break

• Assist with reading in the Sun Room

• Attend Parent meetings on the first Friday of each cycle. Topics have included policies, cyber-

safety presentations, engaged learner presentations, and reading to students.

• Come to Beach Day, our last day of the school year together, held at the beach behind Rainbow

Park in Inverloch.

• School improvement projects, e.g, building a fernery

• Helping with Fundraisers like the Open Garden Day at Cluanie in Koonwarra

Opportunities for social connection:

• Bring younger siblings to the KVS play group

• Attend student performances held throughout the year

• Attend parent information meetings (first Friday of each cycle, 2.00 – 3.15pm)

• Come along to whole school gathering - FAMP, Mid-Winter gathering, Graduation

We are committed to developing a wide range of opportunities that match the skills and interests of our

parents. We are open to suggestions if you have ideas that aren’t mentioned above. Talk with a Mentor

or email [email protected].

Parent Involvement

http://koonwarravillageschool.org/teaching---learning.html



How KVS is funded

Like other Australian independent schools, KVS receives government funding in addition to tuition fees

from parents.

KVS School Fees

KVS fees in 2017 are $3657 per child per year ($914.25 per term). The School fees includes all snacks

throughout the day, lunch, most excursions, camps & learning materials.

Fees are invoiced quarterly, two weeks prior to the beginning of each term. Fees need to be paid in full

prior to the commencement of each term unless a payment plan has been arranged with the School

Coordinator.

Our preferred method of payment is by EFT, quoting your child’s name. Our bank details are:

BSB: 313140

A/C #: 12052504

Allowances

There are some allowances that families may be eligible for:

• The Student Travel Conveyance Allowance paid quarterly by the State Government, is a form

of financial assistance for parents/carers in-lieu of a government provided bus service. The

applications and payments are submitted and received by schools and they are passed on to

parents to offset the cost of transporting children to and from school. They can also be credited

against your fees quarterly (with your written permission) or you can be issued with a cheque. An

application form will be provided to you or can be requested from a staff member. Families must

live more than 4.8kms away from the school to be eligible.

• The Camps, Sports and Excursion Fund is a form of financial assistance for families with a

healthcare card. Application forms, available from the school, should be completed and lodged

with the school by 3 March 2017.

Fees and allowances

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/principals/spag/safety/Pages/conveyance.aspx

http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/health/Pages/csef.aspx


Documents

Parent Handbook 2017 - Koonwarra Village School · Parent Handbook 2017 ... Koonwarra Village School’s logo is a Triskelion. It is a Celtic symbol that, for us represents the