St Ambrose Catholic Primary School Pottsville

Parent Information Handbook - 2019

The King said to me. “Let us start!”

They exclaimed, “Let us build!” and with

willing hands they set about the good work. (Nehemiah 2:18)

Message from our Principal

Dear Parents and Caregivers, Welcome to the vibrant learning community of St Ambrose Catholic Primary School, Pottsville. We hope your association with the school will be a happy and rewarding one and we look forward to working with you during the time your family are part of our community. We are deeply committed to our students and to our parish-school community. We act out of shared values and beliefs, and shared and agreed practices and procedures with consistent approaches. The school aims to assist in the development of the full potential of each child within the atmosphere of a caring Christian Community. As a Catholic School the reason for our existence as a separate education system, is to facilitate the faith development of each child. However, this is not done in isolation, or is it something separate and added on to the curriculum; it is that which permeates all aspects of life within our community. Since St Ambrose Catholic Primary School is a Parish School we strive to foster a sense of belonging to the Parish community. This is done firstly through efforts to develop a strong sense of community within the school and through involvement in liturgical celebration in the Parish church either as a school community or as part of the wider Parish community. In this, as in all aspects of school life, we recognise the vital role of you, the parents, for it is your involvement in the life of the parish that will complement what is being done at school. We see the school as working in partnership with you to ensure the best possible education for your child, now and for the future. The staff of St Ambrose Primary School are committed in providing an effective education that endeavours to meet the social, spiritual and academic needs of all students. Brian Laybutt (M Ed, B Ed, Dip Teach, MACE, JP) Principal

School Contact Information

School Name: St Ambrose Primary School

School Address: 1 Charles St. Pottsville 2849 P.O. Box 326 Pottsville 2489

Telephone: 6676 0099

Email sapot@lism.catholic.edu.au

Web Site: http://www.sapotlism.catholic.edu.au

2019 Staffing

Parish Priest: Fr Paul McDonald

LeadershipTeam

Principal: Mr Brian Laybutt Assistant Principal & Leader of Pedagogy: Mr Nic Constable Instructional Leader K-2: Miss Chelsea Fisher Leader of Evangelisation & Catechesis: Mrs Sue Falcke

Positions of Additional Responsibility

Additional Needs Teacher: Mrs Kristi-Lee Beacroft Literacy Leader: Miss Caitlin Martin Leader of Wellbeing & Pastoral Care: Miss Megan Werner STEM Project: Mr Sam Powell Sport Coordinator: Miss Celia Mulder

Classroom Teaching Team

Gold Teal Kindergarten Mrs Maree Spamer Miss Tori Moody Year 1 Mrs Jessica Lock Miss Emma Geraghty Year 2 Mrs Carlie Cain Miss Celia Mulder

Year 3 Mrs Angela McGill & Mrs Abbi Powell Mrs Jessica Wilson

Year 4 Mr Mike Lubans Miss Megan Werner Year 5 Miss Caitlin Martin Miss Grace McMahon Year 6 Mr Sam Powell

Specialist Teachers

Music Speech & Drama Visual Art Mr Robby Cenda Mrs Victoria Purser Mrs Shelley Batson (Sem1)

Mrs Kirby Bressan (Sem 2) Support Staff

Indigenous Support Worker Library Assistant Office Manager Mr Errol McDonald Mrs Victoria Stubbs Mrs Charlotte Pieris

Office Assistant OOHSC Canteen Mrs Anna Ings Little Grommets Mrs Megan Mathews

Student Support Maintenance Learning Support

Mrs Emily Gronholt Mr Peter McConnell Mrs Christelle Scard Mrs Narelle Fisher Mr Jeff Bottle

Music Tutors

Joanne Rohwer Barbara Downes Mark Payne Jake Bryant Paul Robinson

Mission Statement

OMNIA CHRISTUS EST NOBIS

(TO US CHRIST IS ALL)

Vision

Adaptability

EMbracing Catholic faith

CollaBoration

Risk Taking

TechnOlogy

IncluSivity

Excellence

Core Values The purpose of the St Ambrose Catholic Primary School Code of Behaviour is to affirm the rights of all students within the school community to achieve success, feel valued and safe at school. Respect – all people at St Ambrose are treated with respect and dignity. This means we will:

• Respect the rights of other to learn • Respect and care for our own, our peers’ and school property • Cooperate with staff and others in authority • Communicate with others using respectful language • Listen to the opinion of others and appreciate our different ways of knowing and doing

Responsibility – all people at St Ambrose have the responsibility of creating a positive learning and growing community. This means we will:

• Come to school ready to learn, on time and prepared • Participate actively in the schools learning program • Be responsible for all of our actions • Be dressed appropriately for activities • Follow reasonable instructions from adults who are entrusted to care for us • Keep our school free from bullying and harassment • Take pride in our work

Courage – all people at St Ambrose have a responsibility to learn about our world and develop an awareness of ourselves as learners. This means we will:

• Develop dispositions allowing us to take risks as we learn so that we can find new solutions to problems • Persist with challenging work and new learning experiences • Be resilient when learning tasks seem insurmountable • Grow as learners so that we have the ability to learn from our mistakes • Develop confidence in ourselves as learners • Give our very best efforts when showing what we have learnt • Encourage the growth of an inquiry mindset in each student

Parent Handbook Index

Absences from school

Electronic Devices Parent Helpers Sacramental Program

Air Conditioning

Excursions / Camps Parent Involvement School Crest

Animals in School

External assessment Parish - St Anthony’s

School Fees

Anti-Bullying

Extra Curricula Activities Parish School Forum School Hours

Assembly

Fruit Break Pastoral Care School Philosophy

Awards

Grievances Patron Saint School Song

Band

Homework Performances School Prayer

Bus Travel

Integrated Units Personal Development School Retreats

Calendar Kindergarten Peer Support Programme

Prayer Sickness / Accident

Catholic Social Justice Kindergarten Transition Program

Procedural Fairness Social Media - Statement

Change of Details Learning Beliefs Professional Development

Special Events

Child Protection

Library Recycling Specialist Teachers

Clothing Pool Lost Property Release from Face to Face Teaching

Sport

Clubs Medication Relief Teachers Student Photos Community Involvement Middle School Reports Student Representative

Council Contemporary Learning

Money Sacramental Program Suspension & Expulsion

Counsellor

Music School Crest Technology

Curriculum Newsletters School Fees The Child as an Individual

Disabled Access Office Hours School Hours To Know, Worship & Love

Discipline

Our School Motto School Philosophy Tuckshop

Drop Off & Collection of Children

Out Of Hours School Care / Vacation Care

Relief Teachers Tutors

Enrolment Parent Complaint Procedure

Reports Uniform

Year 6 Religion Test

ABSENCES FROM SCHOOL Parents are legally responsible for the regular attendance of their children at school (Section 22 Education Act 1990). Parents and Carers are responsible for: 1. Ensuring that their child attends school regularly 2. Promptly explaining the absences of their child from school 3. Taking measures to resolve attendance issues involving their child St Ambrose Commences at 9am and finishes at 3.15pm. Student attendance will be recorded no later than 9:15am each day by using the electronic roll. If a child is recorded as being absent the school administration staff will send out an automated SMS message to the parent / guardian informing them that the student is absent and request an explanation. You may respond via SMS, call the school office or email the school. This is then recorded on the electronic roll. If a written note is brought in by the student this will be sent to the school office via the class messenger bag so the office can record the information. This note will then be filed by Office Administration. Any student that arrives after the roll is considered to be ‘Late’ and must report to the office so they can be marked on the role appropriately. Failure to follow this procedure and/or bypass the office may result in a student being marked absent on the roll.

Appointments for students during the school day are discouraged. Any student leaving during school hours must be collected by a parent / guardian from the office to be signed out by the Office Administration.

It is required under the Education and Public Instruction Act 1987 that notice be given to the school/teacher explaining a child’s absence from school be supplied by the parent/guardian within 7 days of the occurrence of that sickness, danger or infirmity, or of that misadventure or unforeseen

event.

If a note is not forthcoming an unexplained absence will be recorded. At the end of each term, parents are sent home a note outlining all unexplained absences, again requesting an explanation. Extended Absence If a student is away for an extended period (3 or more days), a telephone call / or notification by the parent/guardian to the school should be made. It is still necessary to supply a note when the child returns. If after 3 days the class teacher has not been informed as to the reason of the “extended leave’, the class teacher needs to inform the school secretary who will then contact the parent / guardian as to determine the reason of the absence.

Granting Leave Holidays taken by students outside of school vacation periods will now be included as absences. If the principal accepts the reason for the absences, the absence will be marked as “L”. If the principal does not believe the absence is in the student’s best interests and does not accept the reason, the absence is unjustified and will be recorded as “A”. If the period of absence is in excess of 50 days, the student may be eligible to enrol in Distance Education. Leave of 10 or more school days will require the completion of an Application for Leave Form. The principal may request a medical certificate in addition to an explanation if the explanation is doubted or the student has a history of unsatisfactory attendance.

Principal may record up to 10 days in one school year for a student for:

- Misadventure/Unforseen Event - Domestic necessity - Participation in non-school Special Event - Attendance at Funeral - Recognised Religious Festival or Ceremonial Occasion

• Principal & Director can issue an Exemption from Attendance of up to 50 days in a 12 month period.

More than 50 days must go to the Education Minister via Catholic Education Commission • Students participating in Elite Sport or Entertainment Industry for more than 10 consecutive days need

an Exemption from Attendance

Application for Exemption from Attendance at School form is available on the school web page. Unexplained Absences In the event of a student having returned to school after an extended absence, and a written note has not been presented to the school outlining the reason for the absence the school will: 1. Send home a proforma requesting a written note 2. Contact the parent / guardian requesting same 3. At the discretion of the Principal, make contact with the School’s Liaison Officer (CSO) or relevant Child Protection Agencies. If in the case a student has been identified as having a “poor attendance” record the class teacher will notify the Principal who will then contact the parent/guardian. A record of the conversation / reasons will be kept in the students file for future reference.

AIR CONDITIONING All classrooms and the administration area of the school is air conditioned. Primarily air conditioning is to be used within the classrooms to ensure that the students are comfortable and are able to work at an optimum level consequently providing an environment that is conducive to effective student learning.

ANIMALS IN SCHOOL Parents & friends of the school are NOT permitted to bring dogs or their animals into the school unless express permission is sought from the Principal. Consideration must be given to:

• The animal’s welfare • Storage and administration of food • Evacuation procedures • Appropriate licences are in place • Risk Management appraisal

To ensure the compliance with the obligations of the Workplace Health and Safety Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, 2001, when animals are brought to the school for activities such as show and tell, all teachers must ensure that the school's policy and procedures are adhered to. Story Dogs; Dogs coming into the school within the story dogs program have been accredited and have been deemed appropriate in being in and around children. St Ambrose Primary School has an Animal Welfare Officer, Mrs Carlie Cain. Please refer to the school Animals At School Policy and CEC NSW Animal Welfare Certification Guidelines.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Because St Ambrose Primary is a school that values the partnership between parents, children, teachers, priests and parishioners where each person is accepted and takes responsibility to care for each other and to build a strong educational community, bullying will not be tolerated. Our Anti Bullying Policy follows the Catholic Schools Office - Diocese of Lismore guidelines. Further information / assistance is available through: Police Liaison Support Officer Tweed Heads ph. 07 5536 0960 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800

ASSEMBLY MONDAY The Monday morning assembly is held in the school hall. At this assembly, students are informed of upcoming events within the week. Weekly birthdays are announced and general notices are given out by various teachers / students.

FRIDAY Assembly is normally held in the School Hall at 2:20 p.m. each Friday. This will be a wonderful occasion for the whole school community to gather to celebrate its members' achievements. At each assembly a class presents items and awards are given to children who shown significant effort / achievement / improvement in academic, sporting or social areas.

AWARDS “Bee” awards will be issued to students by all staff. The Bee award will be placed in a container located in each students class. At the weekly assembly one name is drawn from each class who will receive a reward. Once this is completed all names will be put into a large container and one students name will be drawn out. This student will receive a special award. At each assembly teachers will hand out two weekly awards- Student of the Week and a Most Improved Award. In Weeks 5 and 10 of each term, each class will issue 4 awards. These will be given to students, who over the last 5 weeks have demonstrated: Respectful behaviours, Responsible behaviours, Courageous dispositions & Educational Excellence in academic pursuits END OF YEAR ANNUAL AWARDS On Presentation Night, usually the Tuesday of the last school week of the year. * Infant Classes – all students receive a completion of Year Level certificate. * Yr 3 - 6 Classes - the medals presented for each class are:

1. Academic Achievement (1 for each year level) 2. Religion Prize (Religious academic achievement) 3. Outstanding Achievement 4. Achievement ‘Consistent Effort’ Awards (1 per class)

All students in in Yrs 3-5 receive a completion of Year Level certificate. Year 6 students receive a Graduation certificate.

BAND The school will have a very comprehensive music program and tuition of musical instruments will be on offer. To compliment this, the school will establish a school band. If in the case not enough students play musical instruments to constitute a school band, small ensemble groups will be established.

BELL TIMES

BUS TRAVEL Free bus travel is available for all children in Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 irrespective of the distance travelled. Free bus travel is also available for children in Years 3-6 if they live beyond a radius of 1.6 kilometres from the school. Private Vehicle Conveyance Subsidy is also available for families who reside more than 1.6 kilometres (walking distance) from the nearest transport pick up point. Application forms can be obtained from the school office. Children need only apply once for a bus subsidy, as bus subsidies are automatically renewed each year. However, if a child changes his/her address, a new subsidy form must be filled in immediately. Some bus companies issues passes. If a bus pass is lost, parents must notify the bus company. The highest standard of conduct is expected of students while travelling on buses. Surfside bus travel is available from as far North as Kingscliff via Casuarina and Cabarita, and local areas such as Sea Breeze, Koala Beach and Black Rocks. Parsons Bus Company run a bus from Murwillumbah through to Burringbar and into Pottsville For details regarding bus timetables go to the Surfside Bus web page and for Parsons Buses contact the company directly or the school.

CALENDAR A school calendar outlining significant dates for the term and year is located on the school Moodle, under the Quicklinks – Calendar tab. This will contain all relevant dates for each term e.g. excursions, carnivals, pupil free days, school holidays, parent forum meetings etc. In addition to the calendar parents are informed of upcoming events via the school calendar printed on the school newsletter each fortnight.

CATHOLIC SOCIAL JUSTICE

St Ambrose actively promotes Catholic Social Justice Programs. These include the advocacy and implementation of the Catholic Mission, CARITAS and Catholic solidarities such as St Vincent de Paul and apostolic works. The school gives witness to this through the establishment of Minnie Vinnies, fundraising for CARITAS, St Vincent de Paul Winter appeal, Christmas appeal etc.

CHANGE OF DETAILS Please NOTIFY the school secretary if there is a CHANGE of ADDRESS, HOME PHONE NUMBER, WORK PHONE NUMBER or EMERGENCY CONTACT so that in case of accidents or any emergency, we can make immediate contact with you. In the event of an accident, when a parent cannot be contacted, the child will be taken to a local medical centre or an ambulance will be called. A member of staff would always accompany the child to hospital. The school must have the student’s current address and contact phone numbers on record at the school.

CHILD PROTECTION * Children are not permitted to leave the school premises unaccompanied, unless they have written

permission from their parents/guardians, or a direct phone call is made to the office by the parent. * When a parent calls to collect children during school time, they must come to the Administration

Office. The children will then be sent for. This includes during recess and lunch breaks. * Parents are not permitted to visit children during recess and lunch breaks. * Under new legislation the school grounds are deemed to be enclosed grounds. This means that any

person on school property without proper authorisation is trespassing and is liable to prosecution. At all times parents must report to the school office before entering the grounds.

Mandatory Reporting The Principal or senior staff delegate will report mandatory reporting matters to Family and Community Services (FACS) and, where necessary, the police. Principals will make a mandatory report via the Child Story Mandatory Reporter Guide. Confirmation of the Mandatory Reporting Guide (MRG) and eReport (if applicable), along with any other documentation, is to be uploaded to the electronic student’s record, under the Welfare Tab, entry type, ‘MRG’ reporting; The Principal is required to ensure that all employees of St Ambrose are aware of their mandatory reporting obligations; The process includes: a. Ensuring employees are informed of the Child Protection policy and procedures at the commencement of each school year at the school’s staff development day; b. Inducting new employees of their obligations and responsibilities and the Child Protection policy and procedures at the commencement of their employment; c. Inducting volunteers of expectations of behaviour with and around students at the school and informing them of their legislative obligations; d. Monitoring the monthly SALT compliance progress reports to ensure all staff are compliant and take appropriate action if not up to date including speaking with the employee and informing them they could face disciplinary action if they do no complete the mandatory training; e. Providing general employees with time allocation and access to computers to complete online SALT training; f. Providing time allocation to Human Services staff at the CSO to conduct refresher child protection training with employees as a minimum once every three years; g. Ensuring high risk employees such as trainees and graduate teachers attend system training on commencement of employment at the beginning of the school year, records to be kept of those attending at the school; h. Principals in Catholic Systemic Schools must publish the Child Protection policy and procedures identifying child protection processes including mandatory reporting within the school and to the parent community. This can be communicated through the Parent/Staff Handbook, via the school newsletter and/or the link to the school’s public website; and i. Keep up to date records to show compliance with above.

All St Ambrose employees have significant obligations as mandatory reporters, for the safety, welfare

and well-being of children and young people; II. The process includes: a. An employee must complete online SALT child protection, discrimination, bullying and harassment training annually; b. Verify and agree that they have read and understood the Child Protection Policy and Procedures via an electronic authentication process when they log in to their computer or device; c. Report any concerns regarding the safety, welfare or well-being of a child or young person to their Principal. If there is an immediate danger to the child or young person and the Principal or next most senior member of staff is not contactable they should speak to Human Services at the CSO; d. Employees are not required to, and must not, undertake any investigation of the matter; e. Employees must not inform the parents or caregivers that a report to Family and Community Services (FACs) has been made; f. Employees are required to deal with the matter confidentially and only disclose it to the persons referred above or as required to comply with mandatory reporting obligations. Failure to maintain confidentiality will not only be a breach of this policy but could expose the employee to potential civil proceedings for defamation; and g. If the allegation involves the principal, the employee is required to report to Human Services at the Catholic Schools Office. Risk of Harm refers to current concerns that exist for the safety, welfare or wellbeing of the child or young person because of:

• The child’s or young person’s basic physical or psychological needs are not being met or are at risk of not being met

• The parents/caregivers have not arranged for the child or young person to receive necessary medical care

• The child or young person has been, or is at risk of being, physically or sexually abused or ill-treated • The child or young person is living in a household where there have been incidents of domestic

violence • That the child or young person has suffered or is at risk of suffering serious psychological harm. •

What are reasonable grounds for notification? • When a student speaks about being abused or assaulted • When someone else informs a member of staff that he or she suspects abuse • Where a child tells a member of staff that they know someone who has been sexually abused • When a member of staff observes a particular child’s behaviour, physical appearance, condition or

behaviour. In NSW, mandatory reporting is regulated by the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 (the Care Act). Who are mandatory reporters? Mandatory reporters are people who deliver the following services, wholly or partly, to children as part of their paid or professional work:

• Health care (e.g. registered medical practitioners, specialists, general practice nurses, midwives, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, dentists and other allied health professionals working in sole practice or in public or private health practices)

• Welfare (e.g. psychologists, social workers, caseworkers and youth workers) • Education (e.g. teachers, counsellors, principals) • Children’s services (e.g. child care workers, family day carers and home-based carers) • Residential services (e.g. refuge workers) • Law enforcement (e.g. police)

Visit: www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.auhttp://www.keepthemsafe.nsw.gov.au/

CLASS ROLLS

Electronic rolls through SchoolworX are used within the school. Rolls are marked first thing each morning i.e. before 9.10a.m. A student arriving to class after the roll has been marked will be entered as late.

CLOTHING POOL If and when you have school uniforms that no longer fit your child, please donate them to the clothing pool. This provides a service to parents in need. Lost Property Lost property is placed in the two containers outside the school Hall. Students nad parents are encouraged to check these containers if items of clothing have been lost. All items handed in as lost property will be kept as lost property for 3 weeks ONLY. If unmarked or unclaimed, all clothing will be placed in the clothing pool for re-sale or given to St Vincent de Paul. All articles of clothing should be clearly labelled with the child’s name.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT St Ambrose will be actively involved within the school community. Students will participate in ANZAC DAY & Remembrance Day ceremonies. In addition to this, St Ambrose school community provides support to organisations such as Dune Care, Clean Up Australia, National Tree Planting Day, St Vincent De Paul Society and similar.

CONTEMPORARY LEARNING

A contemporary learning approach is personalised, responding to the learning needs, interests and experiences of each student. Contemporary learning is different to the way many parents of today’s students were taught. It offers teachers and students many more options than the old textbook driven approach to teaching. Contemporary learning aims to empower students with the knowledge, skills and capacities to respond creatively to the challenges of their world.

Learners thrive in environments that are safe, supportive and secure. Flexible and intentionally developed learning environments encourage innovation and inquiry and help create a sense of belonging and purpose that strengthens the learning culture. These environments are stimulating and appropriately resourced. They promote high expectations and respect diversity and difference, facilitating learning for all students. Adaptive learning environments have no conventional boundaries because, being ICT rich, they are connected to the world beyond the classroom. In 2012 the Catholic Schools Office launched the Contemporary Learning Framework (CLF). This framework was the culmination of two years of research, consultation and refinement. The Contemporary Learning Framework (CLF) is an exciting development for all teachers and schools in the Diocese of Lismore. For the first time we have a jointly constructed and unifying statement of beliefs about learning in our Diocese. The Contemporary Learning Framework is a diocesan response to the challenge to clearly articulate what we value as our educative purpose, our agreed pedagogy. The CLF neatly expresses what we value and believe about learning. The statement guides, challenges and supports the notion of powerful learning. It will help us shape the appropriate curriculum to serve our educative purpose for our current and future context the context of the learning in the emerging Knowledge Era. For further information on the CLF refer to:

http://www.lism.catholic.edu.au/education/contemporary-learning/

COUNSELLING

The school does have a Pastoral Support person. The role of this person is to work with teachers & students who are experiencing difficulty – socially, emotionally and provide support and advice. The Pastoral Support teacher will convene meetings to discuss students’ progress and support the teacher. The Principal will, if necessary will contact the Additional Needs Support Teacher if specialised support is required. A decision regarding the course of action will then be determined by all members of the convened meeting. After appropriate consultation parents will be contacted. If it is deemed by appropriate by the Principal, Pastoral Support teacher, Class teacher and Parent that professional counselling is required the school has one of three options:

1. Advise that counselling can be accessed by obtaining a referral through a local GP. 2. Contact Tweed Family Centre and seek assistance (07 55248711) or Pottsville Neighbourhood Centre

(02 6676 4555) 3. School engages the services of a qualified registered counsellor (who meets the CSO criteria and

requirements). The school’s qualified registered counsellor contracted by the school is Mrs Kellie Knovak.

COURTESY

Respect must be modelled and taught to the students, it is not something innate. Children need instruction in how to greet strangers or visitors to the school and how to give or take messages and speak to teachers.

The staff of St Ambrose encourage ALL STUDENTS to respond to questions using full sentences.

Pupils are to be encouraged to be as neat and tidy as possible at all times. School uniform should be worn with respect and pride. Attention to clean hands, fingernails, shoes and hair is to be encouraged by all parents / carers.

CURRICULUM NSW has joined with the Australian Government and all other states and territories in a joint endeavour to develop and implement an Australian curriculum. The new syllabuses include the Australian curriculum and retain many of the features familiar to NSW teachers. Schools in NSW implement the Australian curriculum through new syllabuses. NESA provides notification and information about changes to NSW syllabuses as they are approved by the NSW Minister for Education. At St Ambrose, we follow the various curricula authorised by NESA. This includes the Australian Curriculum. Catholic Schools within the Diocese of Lismore are participating in extensive extensive professional development so as to ensure that the transition from the old to the new syllabus is successful. In 2014 the new English and Science syllabus documents were implemented throughout all Diocese of Lismore primary schools and in 2015 the new Mathematics was introduced. In 2016, both the History and Geogrpahy syllabuses were implemented.

Religious Education Religious Education is the “raison d’etre” of our Catholic Schools. Students are exposed to the Good News that the Kingdom of God is among us. A syllabus document “To Know, Love and Worship” is used across all NSW Catholic Primary Schools and forms the basis of the content taught. This ensures a consistency across all Catholic Schools. While Religious Education stands alone as a Key Learning Area (KLA)., it is implicit in all other K.L.A.s. Religious Education involves students examining Scripture in the light of their own life experience and being encouraged to make decisions after reflection on what Scripture and their own experience suggests to them.

DIARIES An electronic diary is available through the use of our subscription to Seesaw: The Learning Journal. Seesaw not only provides each student with a digital portfolio tracking progress and achievement, a new feature to the app provides a means for electronic communication between staff, students and parents/caregivers. Seesaw Family can be downloaded free of charge as an iOS application from the App Store© (Apple Inc.), as an Android application from the Google Play Store© (Google) or in any web browser from the Seesaw website https://web.seesaw.me Seesaw can be utilised to send notices, sign homework and other non-urgent communication to staff, students and parents/caregivers, maintaining personal privacy.

* Confidential information should always be communicated in face-to-face meetings and parents must send all messages pertaining to student movements (OSHC attendance, student pick up alterations) through the School Office Manager or Office Assistant.

DISABLED ACCESS The school conforms with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 in terms of the school’s buildings and premises. All levels of the school have disabled access including two disabled toilet blocks and a lift.

DISCIPLINE At St Ambrose when we speak of discipline, we are referring to the means of bringing the children to practise self control. We are aiming to lead the children to regulate their conduct according to Christian ideals, values and standards. At St Ambrose we see our own example of respecting the children and building up their self-esteem as a means of bringing them to respect themselves and others. We believe that if we take a positive approach to discipline, such as praising, rewarding achievements, encouraging effort, collaboration, exhortation and expressions of disappointment in failure, then we will bring about the achievement of self control. We believe that children like to be regulated and that they are secure in knowing what is expected of them. For this reason school and classroom regulations are made known to the children and consistently enforced. In this way children learn to own their own behaviour and are able to accept the consequences of it. For a detailed explanation of the school Behaviour Management Program, please refer to the school moodle

Suspension & Exclusion St Ambrose Primary School has a Suspension and Exclusion Policy, crafted with the direction of the guidelines of the Catholic Schools Office – Diocese of Lismore. The policy can be viewed using the hyperlink above and you may request a hardcopy of the policy for perusal. Restraint of a child Staff have a duty of care to every child at the school and therefore may be required to restrain a child for the child’s own safety, for the safety of another child or adult or for self protection. In cases where a teacher or supervising adult is required to undertake reasonable action, the following steps will occur.

• The minimum restraint required to achieve a safe environment shall be used. • The teacher who exercised physical restraint will notify the principal immediately with a verbal account

of the incident and names of any witnesses. • The teacher’s verbal report will be followed up with a detailed written report, to be filed with the

Principal. • Parents/Guardians shall be notified of the circumstances A.S.A.P. by the principal or delegated person. • Any such incident will be dealt with according to the school’s Behaviour Management Program.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

POLICY STATEMENT

Staffs in schools of the Lismore Diocese are prohibited from using corporal punishment as a means of punishment or correction of students.

St Ambrose Primary school does not condone the use of corporal punishment as a form of behavioural

modification in the home situation Corporal punishment is defined as the application of physical force in order to punish or correct a

student but does not include the application of force only because of action taken to prevent personal injury to, or damage to or the destruction of property of, any person, including the student.

DROP OFF & COLLECTION OF CHILDREN School zones St Ambrose has a designated child “Kiss & Drop” zone outside the school. As it is a drop off - pick up zone, the driver is not permitted to move more than 3 metres from their car.

Under no circumstances is the driver to leave their car and enter the school. St Ambrose endeavours to provide a safe environment for all those associated with the school. To ensure this the operation of a number of school zones has been introduced. These include: Kiss & Drop zone This is in operation from 8a.m. to 9.30a.m. and 3.00p.m. to 4.00p.m. Vehicles can stop in this area for a maximum of 3 minutes, but the driver is NOT move more than 3m from the car. The driver can only leave their car for the purpose of opening the boot, opening the door and of course giving your child a “kiss”, NOT for walking into the school. For “Kiss and Drop” the vehicle stops within the designated area and the student leaves the car and then walks along the path to the school entrance. For “Pick Ups” the student will walk to the vehicle, under teacher supervision, and board the vehicle. Bus stop This is operational from 8am to 9.30a.m. and from 3.00p.m. to 4.30p.m. Only School Buses can stop within this area within these times. Other vehicles are NOT permitted to stop within this area during these times. Speed limits Within the car park area the speed limit is 10km - Walking Pace!! Charles St has a speed limit of 40km No stopping A "No Stopping" sign means no stopping, at any time, not even to quickly drop someone off. Disabled parking

The school has a designated disabled parking spot. If you are the holder of an Australian Disability Parking Permit as given by the RMS, you must show your Mobility Parking Scheme permit at the same time to be able to take advantage of this parking space. Pedestrian crossings The school has two designated crossing zones. Drivers must slow down and stop before the stop line when a pedestrian is on the crossing or waiting to cross – and remain stopped until all pedestrians are off the crossing. Parking at St Ambrose Parents who are collecting their children after school are requested to park in the school car park. If the car park is full parents can park on the grassed area next to the car park.

To ensure a safe environment please observe these rules and drive safely!!

ELECTRONIC DEVICES Refer to Digital Device Policy for elaboration, guidelines for use and user agreements. Note: Students in Yr 3 and above can bring their own personal iPad to school

ENROLMENT

A Catholic School is one in which Christian attitudes and values take precedence over all else. St Ambrose Primary School, then, is a Catholic community made up of pupils, parents, priest, principal and teachers, centred around the person of Christ. In considering enrolments of students to St Ambrose School, the following has to be taken into consideration:

• Students enrolling in Kindergarten must turn 5 on or before the 31st July.

• It is assumed that parents who enrol their children at St Ambrose Primary are fully aware of, accept and support the standards expected by the school and that they also recognise the need for co-operation between school and home in maintaining those standards. This is important in all areas, especially that of discipline, and even more so, in the implementation of the Religious Education program. It is unrealistic to expect the formation and development of Christian values to be a matter of school concern only and it would be unreasonable to enrol students from homes whose values do not complement those of the school.

• School enrolment is dependent on the availability of appropriate classrooms, space and resources.

• In accordance with our philosophy, preference will be given to children of Catholic parents of the St

Anthony’s Parish. (Copy of child's Baptismal Certificate to be presented with enrolment application).

• Parents should understand and be supportive of the Catholic school and the means it takes to fulfil its purpose.

• Keeping in mind the specific mission of the school, consideration will be given to children of non-

Catholic families on application. (Please refer to the enrolment criteria as published inside the front cover of the school Enrolment Application Form).

• Non-Catholic parents should have an interest in religious values and understand the importance of the

acquisition of those values by their children.

• Non-Catholic pupils are expected to take part as fully as possible in the formal Religious Education and Liturgical Programme of the school.

• It is essential that there be an interview with the Principal when enrolling a student.

• In choosing a Catholic education for their child, parents must be prepared to meet the financial

commitment involved in that decision.

Enrolment at St Ambrose Catholic Primary School, Pottsville does not necessarily guarantee future enrolment at a Catholic Secondary School including St Joseph’s Banora Point or Mt St Patrick College. Application to a

Catholic Secondary School should be made when the student is in Year 6. Conditions of enrolment Through accepting enrolment for your child at St Ambrose Primary School, we invite you to acknowledge your role in supporting the ideals and principles of Catholic Education and the policies and procedures of St Ambrose Primary School and the Catholic Schools Office of Lismore. This support should be demonstrated by: 1. Positively assisting your child to live a Christian life.

• Living by Gospel Values • Participating in faith celebrations of the Catholic Community, in particular the Eucharist • Participating in the school and parish Religious Education programs, including preparation for the

sacraments of Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation. 2. Being active partners in the education of your child.

• Participating in parent/teacher meetings and interviews • Encouraging and supporting your child’s learning • Supporting your child’s participation in all school activities including excursions and sports program

3. Being an active participant in the parish School community.

• Assisting the school community by participation in social and fundraising activities and other school projects

• Participating in school community groups, e.g. Parent Forum

4. Meeting your financial commitments to the school and Parish of Kingscliff.

5. Observing the procedures and policies that are in place within St Ambrose Catholic Primary School..

If you have any concerns regarding any of the above commitments, please discuss them with the Principal or Parish Priest prior to accepting the enrolment offer.

EXCURSIONS/CAMPS

At St Ambrose School, we recognise school outings to be beneficial to the academic, physical, social, emotional and spiritual development of the children. These outings include performances, visits, sporting trips, picnics and excursions (both major and minor). SET CAMPS (dates can be located on the school calendar)

Yr 4 Camp Goodenough : 3 days, 2 nights Yr 5 Lake Ainsworth : 3 days, 2 nights Yr 6 Sydney-Canberra : 3 days, 2 nights

EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT All students in Years 3 & 5 take part in the NAPLAN Tests in May. Students in Year 6 sit the Religious Education. Students will also be given the opportunity to take part in the University of NSW Maths and English Competitions. Kindergarten students will participate in an educational “screener” named BEST START. This screener is

administered within the first week of kindergarten. The purpose of the screener is to ascertain the level of proficiency each child has achieved in the areas of literacy and numeracy prior to commencing school. This information is then used by teachers to assist in developing appropriate teaching programs and if necessary to initiate intervention programs. In addition to this the school has introduced diagnostic testing from Yr 1 – 6. Each student will sit for a number of tests throughout the year. These tests will enable the school to gather an overall picture of student performance which will assist in future planning and programming, thereby addressing the needs of students.

EXTRA CURRICULA ACTIVITIES It is the intention of the school to offer a number of extra curricula activities. These will include:

• Drama Classes • Music Programmes • School Band • Out of Hours School Care • Lunchtime Clubs (Chess, library, guitar, etc.) • Sporting teams

FRUIT BREAK To assist the children to be able to maintain their levels of concentration in class, they are encouraged to bring fruit to eat, halfway through the first session of learning (9.55am)

GRIEVANCES

Parent and Caregiver Concerns and Complaints The school adheres to and endorses the Policy & Procedures as outlined by the Catholic Schools Office, Lismore

Refer to Parent and Caregiver Concerns and Complaints Policy

HOMEWORK Homework bridges the gap between learning at school and learning at home. It reinforces work done in class. It helps develop skills such as research and time management. Homework helps establish the habits of study, concentration and self discipline. Homework should provide an opportunity to consolidate concepts learn at school as well providing challenges and stimulus to students requiring extension. Homework should be appropriate to each child’s age and ability, take into account students’ other commitments, such as sport and home responsibilities and ensure that students who do not have easy access to technology are not disadvantaged.

1. Practise Exercises. These help students remember and practise newly acquired skills such as memorising mathematical tables, practising spelling words, writing essays and reading for pleasure.

2. Preparatory Homework: This requires students to source and read background information to prepare

them for future lessons on a specific subject – such as reading an article on the water cycle.

3. Extension Assignments. This encourages students to pursue knowledge individually and imaginatively. Assignments may include writing a book review, researching local news or retrieving items from the internet

Homework will consist of:

• Spelling • Reading • Mathematics Component • Religious Education Component • Physical Activity checklist • Social Responsibility component • Personal Interest component

In the case of a specific homework request e.g. preparing a debate v/ speech other homework can be waved for that week. Homework should be given on a contractual basis and be issued every week except for the first and last week of each term.

To compliment the teaching of Religious Education within the school, a text titled ‘To Know, Worship and Love’ will be sent home with the students. Specific activities will be outlined by the teachers and parents are encouraged to use and work with this text. Homework is issued on a Tuesday and should be returned to the class teacher on Monday. This enables the students the weekend to complete their homework. At St Ambrose, we encourage the use of Homework Grids (see below for an example).

Please refer to School Homework Policy on school Moodle for further detail.

KINDER PEER SUPPORT The Senior students will be involved in assisting the kinder children as they settle into their first week of school. The buddies help during morning play in the classroom, recess and lunch time during the transition to school period. The senior school students may be involved in classroom activities such as maths/computer time. This peer mentoring programme aims to build relations between students within our school community.

KINDERGARTEN TRANSITION PROGRAM

The smooth transition of students from Pre – School to Kindergarten is an essential element to a successful start to school life. At St Ambrose the following structures will be implemented to ensure that this occurs. This includes:

• A detailed interview and process with parents and child • Principal visiting pre – schools to observe and discuss students progress to date • Pre – school teachers completing a prescribed checklist formulated from the Early Years Framework • School Orientation Days • Kindergarten teachers visiting ALL pre – schools • Follow up to parent interviews if required

• Best Start Assessment Program. The Best Start Kindergarten Assessment helps teachers identify the literacy and numeracy knowledge and skills that each child brings to school as they enter Kindergarten, to inform the development of quality teaching and learning programs.

Importantly, St Ambrose Primary school will employ a contemporary approach to teaching Kindergarten students whereby it values and incorporates ‘directed play activities: as part of the day to day teaching program. Directed Play Activities promote student collaboration, cooperation, activities are student focused, language and social interaction are targeted and learning is individualised. This approach which is founded on the Early Learning Years Framework underpins the teaching and learning process implemented by pre-schools and will therefore ensure that students starting Kindergarten are therefore familiar with the classroom set up, tasks and routines. The familiarity that the students will have developed with their teacher, the school and importantly the learning

process will ensure a smooth transition.

LEARNING BELIEFS ENVIRONMENT. How do children best learn? We believe children learn best when the Environment is; • accepting. • collaborative learning style. • a place where learning is enjoyable. • positive both in class and in the playground. • where there are good role models. • faith based. • reflective of Christian values. • physically conducive to learning by having sufficient light, heat and quite times. CHILD CENTRED LEARNING We believe children learn best when the child is; • actively participating. • learning by “doing”. • reflecting on their experiences. • able to respect self and others (self esteem). • able to observe self discipline. • able to see a purpose for learning. • able to show personal responsibility. • involved in deciding learning outcomes. • having their individual needs catered for. TEACHING STRATEGIES We believe children learn best when teachers employ strategies which; • integrate the curriculum.

• teach secular curriculum in a Christian context. • encourage and reinforce. • use teamwork between pupils, parents, teachers, parish priest, parish and wider community. • encourage the development of both self and external motivation. • inspire. • recognize the hidden curriculum – Gospel Values. • make provision of various strategies for different learning styles –

• visual • auditory • kinaesthetic.

• have meaningful content. • have a balance of talking - listening teaching - learning. • reward good effort. • have regard for partnership.

LIBRARY- RESOURCE CENTRE

Students will have the opportunity to visit the library every week with their class. In addition to this the library will be accessible to all students at lunch time. Students can take books from the book box supplied and read them outside. In addition to this students may enter the library and work / read quietly - at lunch times library is a “silent” zone. Students can access books via our e-Library link available through our school web page. Please encourage your children to read their books, take proper care of them and return them on the due date.

LOST PROPERTY

All articles of clothing and personal belongings should be clearly and permanently marked with the child's name. Lost property is kept for 3 weeks and can be located in the Lost Property boxes, on the wall near the hall. If unclaimed, it is sent sold through the Second Hand Clothing Pool or donated to St Vincent de Paul.

MEDICATION

Please refer to the St Ambrose Primary School Medication Policy for further elaboration. ANAPHYLAXIS St Ambrose promotes the safety and well-being of all our students. Many of you will know someone who is affected by anaphylaxis, a life threatening allergic reaction. Our school does its best to be an allergy aware school. Staff have had training in severe allergy management and we have implemented lots of strategies to help keep students at risk of anaphylaxis as safe as we can. We now have 4 students who live with the risk of anaphylaxis to foods. Whilst these children are being taught to care for themselves at an age appropriate level, we ask that you help us educate your child on the importance of not sharing food with others, washing hands after eating and calling out to an adult if they think

their friend with allergies is sick. With increased awareness and understanding of anaphylaxis, you will be able to help protect those around you. A food allergy is an immune system response to a normally harmless food protein that the body believes is harmful. When the individual eats food containing that protein, the immune system releases massive amounts of chemicals, triggering symptoms that can affect a person’s breathing, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and/or heart. Anaphylaxis is the most sever form of allergic reaction and is potentially life-threatening. It must be treated as a medical emergence, requiring immediate treatment and urgent medical attention. Symptoms of food allergy can include: Mild to moderate symptoms Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) - Hives or welts - Difficult/noisy breathing - Swelling of the lips, face, eyes - Swelling of tongue - Abdominal pain and vomiting - Swelling/tightness in throat - Tingling in the mouth - Difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice - Wheeze or persistent cough - Loss of consciousness and/or collapse - Pale and floppy (young children) All medication will ONLY be administered by the Administration Staff as follows: RITALIN/DEXAMPHETAMINE – Parents must provide a letter from the doctor stating why the drug needs to be taken at school, the dosage and time to be taken, as well as a letter from you, the parent, giving the school’s Office Administration permission to administer the medication. Details of this are recorded in a register and kept locked in the office. ASPIRIN – This will not be administered unless prescribed by a Doctor. Procedure is as per Ritalin/Dexamphetamine. PRESCRIBED MEDICINES – Parents must provide the school with a letter giving our office staff permission to administer the medication, together with the sticker/label from the chemist stating the dosage and time it is to be given OR a letter from you requesting the medication be administered by the Office Administrator, with the time medication is to be given and the dosage and must be stated that these are instructions as per the chemist label. Details of this are recorded in a register and kept locked in the office. PAIN KILLERS/COUGH MIXTURES – brought in from home should be brought to the office for safe keeping. They are not to be left in the child’s bag. The drug will not be administered by the Secretary unless they are accompanied by a letter from the parent requesting that it be administered, stating the dosage and the time it is to be given. Details of this are recorded in a register. PANADOL ELIXER – (School Supply) From time to time children complain of having a headache or temperature. The situation is assessed by the child’s teacher and, if necessary, the child is sent to the office for further assessment. Parents are contacted by phone to discuss the situation. If parents cannot be contacted, suitable medication is given to the child where permission has been granted by a parent having previously signed the appropriate permission slip. The child is then given a proforma to take home, detailing the time and dosage administered.

MONEY Money, including school fees, should be given to your child’s teacher. All monies should be placed in a sealed envelope, clearly labelled with: child’s name, class, the amount enclosed and purpose of payment. Please make sure coins can’t fall out of the envelope. All money should be sent via your child’s class.

MUSIC In addition to the school having a specialised Music teacher, St Ambrose engages the service of specialist music tutors: Through our Music Tutors our students are provided with opportunities for private tuition for the following instruments: Flute Clarinet Saxophone Bass Guitar Guitar Violin Trumpet Trombone Drums Keyboard Singing An instrument hire program is available.

NEWSLETTER The school Newsletter is forwarded to all parents electronically. A Newsletter will be published fortnightly, and issued on a Friday. This is an important means of communication between the school, home and family. Copies of the newsletter are available on:

1. The school app - Skoolbag 2. The school website 3. Hardcopy available in the office

OFFICE HOURS

Office Hours are 8.30am to 3.30pm As no money is kept on the premises overnight, it would be appreciated if any fees, accounts etc., could be paid early in the day to allow time for banking.

Telephone: 6676 0099

Email: sapot@lism.catholic.edu.au

Website: http://www.sapotlism.catholic.edu.au

OUR SCHOOL MOTTO

At St Ambrose Primary School, Pottsville we take our school motto from the words of St Ambrose himself. He taught: "Omnia Christus Est Nobis! If you have a wound to heal, he is the doctor; if you are parched by fever, he is the spring; if you are oppressed by injustice, he is justice; if you are in need of help, he is strength; if you

fear death, he is life; if you desire Heaven, he is the way; if you are in the darkness, he is light. Taste and see how good is the Lord: blessed is the man who hopes in him!" Omnia Christus Est Nobis speaks to a Magis (greater) approach to life – to consider that our imprint on this world is far greater and deeper than any of us could ever possibly fathom. Our actions in this world, if guided by a love of and devotion to Christ enrich the lived experiences of all people around us.

OUT OF HOURS SCHOOL CARE / VACATION CARE Out of Hours School Care is conducted by “Little Grommets” at the school Monday – Friday from 6.00a.m. to 8.30a.m and from 3.20 – 6.30 p.m. Students are collected from the COLA outside the school hall at 3:15. Vacation Care is also available in each school holiday period. Details regarding Little Grommets can be accessed on the Skoolbag App.

PARENT HELPERS Parent helpers are valued and always welcome at St Ambrose Primary School. Opportunities to be involved in the school will include Reading, Computers, Art, Sporting Carnivals, Lunch Time clubs, Library, Canteen Gardening etc. A Working With Children Check is a prerequisite for anyone in child-related work, including volunteers. For further information refer to the Working With Children Fact sheet located on our web page or go to: http://www.kids.nsw.gov.au/Working-with-children Also the school comes under the “Inclosed Lands Protection Act (1901).” This Act creates the offence of Criminal Trespass. It is therefore important that parents visiting the school should first report to the office, sign in and collect a ‘Visitor’ badge which must be worn while in the classroom or on the playground. Again, when leaving the school, the badge should be returned to the office and the visitor sign out.

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT As educators, we recognize the parents' right and ultimate responsibility for the education of their children. This school moves to assist them in every way possible in this education. At St Ambrose, we believe the education of each child is greatly enhanced by forming a close partnership and maximum co-operation of all involved. Thus, we endeavour to foster a meaningful and helpful liaison with parents by providing many points of contact between the school and home. During the course of the year you will have the opportunity to meet with teachers at Parent Information Evenings and Parent / Teacher / student interviews. During the course of this year special information evenings will be provided to explain various school policies, curriculum and other programmes operating in the school.

Parents who have enrolled their children at St Ambrose will be invited to comment on draft policies & procedures as they are developed throughout the year. In addition to this parents will also be invited

to be a part of various advisory committees throughout the year At any stage during the year, parents are very welcome to make an appointment, to discuss the progress of the school or to answer questions / queries that you may have. Children are able to do their best when there is mutual trust and co-operation between parents and teachers. Thus, your attendance at parent / teacher meetings and your participation in parent organizations and school socials and activities, are positive ways of showing your interest in your child's education. Parent involvement also goes beyond the classroom. Other school community activities will include:

• Class Dinners • Father / Son Camp • School Bush Dance • Family Picnics • Carols Evening • Grandparents Day • Open Days

PARISH

St Ambrose Primary School is one of two Catholic Schools within the St Anthony’s Parish. Please visit the St Anthony’s Parish website for further information about our parish community.

PARISH SCHOOL FORUM

The Parish School Forum provides a structure to enable parents, teachers, students, school leaders and parish members to meet their ecclesial and educational responsibilities for partnership and community. The Parish School Forum is the guiding body, the directional body. It is concerned with ensuring all school community members are recognised and valued for their contributions. The Parish School Forum is the umbrella organisation for all the helping groups e.g., fundraising, social, class parent helper, grounds, library to name a few. These groups or teams provide a network to disseminate and exchange information within the school community. Parent Forum meet twice a term with meeting details posted on our school calendar. Each person’s contribution will make a difference and therefore our community will be a better place because of “your giving.”

PATRON SAINT - ST AMBROSE

The man who best incarnated fourth-century Christianity in all its aspects, a Christianity which was by then well on the way to taking over the world, was indisputably St Ambrose, the great Bishop of Milan. Emperor Theodosius was to say, after a dramatic conflict in which both men had been opposed to

each other: “Of all those whom I have known, Ambrose alone really deserves to be called a bishop.” Ambrose was the living model and perfect expression of that Christian élite which, attached by all its fibres to the bases of the existing civilisation, but transforming them by virtue of a new intention, alone knew how to assume the responsibilities of the age and take an option on the future. He lived in an age of great uncertainty and led a Church that was just developing its structures and order. Ambrose was to be Bishop of Milan for twenty-four years, until his death; bishop in the fullest sense of the word, fulfilling his function in a manner that allows him no equal. Certainly no man of his age possessed so many of the qualities needed to assume the difficult episcopal functions, made more difficult in his case by the fact that had to exercise them in the imperial capital, alongside rulers eager to encroach on his preserves. Everything about him, therefore, marks Ambrose as an eminently representative figure of early Christianity in a period of great transition in the years when the Roman Empire was about to collapse. Please visit this short video for further insight into our school patron – St Ambrose.

PASTORAL CARE BELIEF STATEMENT Pastoral Care is the school's expression of genuine concern for all members of the school community. Pastoral Care is the way in which the school responds to the various needs of the children, parents and staff. The Pastoral Care network invites all to develop to their full potential and provides the means for all to share their gifts and talents. In this caring atmosphere, everyone is accepted and empathetic relationships are nurtured and strengthened. Pastoral Care is love in action and, as such, underpins the school's policies and curriculum statements, procedures and organisational structures. It brings the school's vision to life in a practical and tangible manner.

PERFORMANCES Performances by visiting groups or local schools or institutions are planned as part of each class’s curriculum. It is important that children be exposed to this form of education. These will be limited to three each year. Parents will be notified in advance of any such visiting performance. Costs for these performances are covered in the annual school fees.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

As stated in the school philosophy, we aim to develop the whole person. Again, while we realize it is the parents' responsibility to educate their children in Personal Development including the matters of sexuality, the school moves to assist them with special programmes. In this area we follow the Guidelines of Personal Development and Christian Values produced by the N.S.W. Catholic Education Commission. Within these guidelines, the School has implemented a programme called "Fully Alive" which offers parents the opportunity to be more fully involved. ‘Fully Alive’ is a family life education programme that communicates healthy Christian attitudes and knowledge about sexuality and personal relationships. This programme has a family handbook which will be sent home to parents when the sexuality component of the programme is being taught in class. This handbook outlines the aims, objectives and contents of the course. Parents are then able to discuss with their children in the various topics and answer their children's

questions. In this way, lines of communication are opened between parent and child. The full programme is in the school library and can be borrowed by parents. All aspects contained in this programme are covered at least incidentally, in other areas of the curriculum - with the exception of sexuality. A variety of texts and videos are used in the process and parents are advised when particular programmes are being presented. Various books and videos are available for borrowing by parents.

PRAYER

Parish schools are places of prayer and reflection. As such :

● Class begins with appropriate prayer and scripture ● All classes have a designated sacred space. This is used as a focus area for prayer, reflection and

class meditation ● School assemblies incorporate our school prayer ● Staff prayer is held each Wednesday morning ● Parent Meetings commence with a prayer ● Formal prayer is an integral part of catechesis

PROCEDURAL FAIRNESS - Discipline Procedures Procedural fairness includes the right to be heard, the right to be treated without bias, the right to be informed of complaints being made and to be provided with an opportunity to respond to them and the right to information regarding the status of the complaint. In matters relating to suspension, it is important that all involved are accorded procedural fairness.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING (TEACHERS) Teachers, like all professionals, need to continue their development and understanding of the learning process and appropriate content as determined by the CEO and NSW Board of Studies. Whilst all teachers spend many hours engaged in planning and professional development, there are areas which are planned for whole staff in-service. This takes place most weeks at staff and grade meetings. Teachers are also released from class, to participate in professional development related to aspects of children’s learning. Students do not attend school on Staff Development Days. Parents will be given at least three (3) weeks notice prior to these days, the first of which being day one (1) of the new school year.

RECYCLING

St Ambrose has been designed with the Environment in mind. Therefore the school will practise responsible recycling. Students are instructed to use different coloured bins when discarding rubbish. Whilst the collection

of rubbish will be negotiated with waste management companies and the council during the course of this year, St Ambrose will be essentially a rubbish free school. NUDE FOOD Students will be asked to take all lunch / morning tea food wrappings home with them. Compost bins

will be available for specific food scraps.

RELEASE FROM FACE TO FACE TEACHING (RFF) All full time Primary Teachers in Catholic Schools were granted in 2010, 120 minutes per week release from face to face teaching. This time is taken by classroom teachers during specialist lessons.

RELIEF TEACHERS On occasions your child’s teacher may be unable to take the class. The teacher may be ill or perhaps be required to attend a professional development course. On such occasions, a known and qualified replacement teacher will be employed to teach the students. The relief teacher will normally follow the teaching learning program, which has been planned by the class teacher. All relief teachers must be screened in accordance with the Child Protection Legislation.

REPORTING

Term 1 Parent/Teacher Overview nights are arranged to give all parents the opportunity to be informed of the learning outcomes and also to make an appointment to talk to the teacher about their child and their specific needs for the year. End Of Term 1 – Student Led Learning Conferences: Towards the end of Term 1, Student/ Parent/Teacher interviews are made available to all families. The primary purpose of the interview is to discuss the students progress to date and how they have settled into class and talk to parents regarding any concerns / areas for development. For parents, an early interview can draw the teachers attention to any concerns they may have and set clear directions for student learning. It also ensures that clear communication channels are established early in the year. End of Term 2 – Mid Year Reports. Reports are issued to all students that clearly inform parents/caregivers of the student’s performance to date. End of Term 3 – Student Led Learning Conferences. Three way Parent / Student /Teacher Interviews are made available to all families. The primary purpose of the interview is to discuss student performance to date and reflect on the Mid Year Report. In Term 4 a written report outlining key aspects of each child’s development will be sent home. Reports issued to parents follow the standards and requirements as described on the BOS ARC website i.e. Plain English reports to parents at least twice per year for subjects studied using grades A-E defined against specific learning standards

If a teacher is concerned about your child’s progress at any time during the year, you will be invited to come and discuss the concern. Likewise, you are welcome to meet with your child’s teacher at any time, but an appointment is essential and should be arranged by seeing the teacher personally or by telephoning the school office. The class teacher will always be the first person to see if you have a classroom concern. The teacher will always be available to listen to your concerns and act on them accordingly. Class teachers are not available for interviews at assembly, during class time or whilst they are on playground duty as they have a duty of care to their students, with pastoral and legal implications.

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM Currently the Sacraments are administered as follows: Confirmation - Year 2. Reconciliation - Year 2. Eucharist - Year 3. These programmes are Parish/Family based with school support. Parents are asked to attend parent information meetings during each Sacramental programme. Each grade throughout the school, studies the sacrament in the same period before it is administered.

School Crest

The triangular shape represents the Trinity with a hint of a mitre for St. Ambrose. It also picks up on the triangular architectural feature of the front of the Church of Sts. Mary and Ambrose. The Church is the first building people will come to as they approach the school, which is located behind the Church. The predominant symbol of the Cross is self-evident and is located central in the logo because it fits so well with the motto. The open book represents the scriptures and the fact that St. Ambrose was a scholar and an eloquent preacher of the Word. It is also a symbol of learning or education. The candle represents the light of Christ and the fact that St. Ambrose is the Patron Saint of candlemakers. The motto “Omnia Christus Est Nobis” (De Virginitate 16,99) “To Us Christ Is All” is a quote from St. Ambrose. In his General Audience on 24th October 2007, Pope Benedict XVI said St. Ambrose never tired of saying “Omnia Christus Est Nobis”. Having the quote in Latin is a recognition of tradition in the Church and provides an opportunity to teach the meaning of this beautiful and important quote from our Patron Saint. The colours have been carefully chosen. Purple is a recognised colour used by several organisations in Pottsville and is generally regarded as “Pottsville’s colour”. Green (or teal) represents new life as a result of Christ’s death for us on the Cross. It is also a predominant colour in the countryside around Pottsville with the bush and green pastures. Gold is a colour associated with St. Ambrose because of the bees, the bee hive, honey (his words were golden and sweet like honey) and because he is the Patron Saint of candle-makers

(beeswax candles being golden in colour). All colours used are also “liturgical colours” and, as such, are rich in meaning. The emblem is simple, yet rich in meaning and provides a wonderful opportunity to teach and reflect on the Catholic message it conveys together with its strong link to St. Ambrose as Patron. While containing the essential elements, the logo is contemporary in design and as such it is in harmony with the schools contemporary design and the Catholic Schools Office focus on “contemporary learning”.

SCHOOL FEES

School Fees at St Ambrose Primary School are paid through details provided by our Office Manager. Please visit the school fees section on our school website for detailed & current information.

SCHOOL HOURS School hours are from 8:55am to 3:05pm. Supervision of the children begins in the morning at 8:30am and ceases in the afternoon at 3:45pm. Children present at school outside of these hours may be at risk as no supervision is available. Teachers will bring students to the front office where parents will be notified of supervision times. Repeated instances of students at school outside supervision hours will be dealt with by the Principal.

SCHOOL LEARNING STRUCTURE

Morning session will consist of 2 hrs class time LUNCH

Middle Session will consist of 2 hrs class time RECESS

Afternoon Session will consist of 1 hr class time

NOTE: Students are required to spend 5hrs per day face to face teaching

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

St Ambrose Primary School is essentially a community of faith, based on belief in God and the Christian way of Life. The Christian spirit and values take precedence over all other values and permeates through all areas of learning in the life of the school, determining the whole atmosphere of the school. In St Ambrose Primary School, the religious atmosphere depends on the presence of a committed Catholic staff and on the faith and values of staff, parents and students. This faith community strengthens and expresses itself in worship and prayer. It works in various ways to make the students aware of the total human family of mankind.

St Ambrose Primary School helps students to grow as individuals with unique capabilities, to develop their natural virtues and to grow towards self-discipline. It fosters genuine relationships among students, staff and others associated with the school. It encourages co-operation and controlled freedom that allows students to develop a sense of social responsibility, as well as their own personal identity. St Ambrose Primary School cultivates the intellectual values and promotes in its students integrity, respect for truth and openness to reality. It aims to give its students a mastery of the basic subjects and skills across the seven Key Learning Areas, whilst guiding individuals towards their own levels of achievement. The decisive role of the parents in education and desirability of a high correlation between the values of home and school is recognised. Hence, there are education programmes designed to aid the family and to involve parents at an appropriate level in the policy making and management of the school. The staff continually re-evaluates the school's structures and processes and also its relationships with parents, the community and Catholic Education at large, so that there is consonance between the Christian values it espouses and its actual practice.

SCHOOL RETREATS

A comprehensive retreat formation for all staff is implemented. This reflection program compliments the Diocesan PROCLAIM initiative in providing Faith formation for staff. In addition to staff, students are provided with numerous retreat opportunities. These include those integrated within the Parish Sacramental programs and leadership retreats.

SCHOOL PRAYER

Dear Lord, Thank you for the gift of our friends. Help us to make our school a happy, peaceful place. Help us to smile at people and accept each other as we are. Help us to co-operate, work hard and include others in our games. Help us to be Responsible, Respectful and Courageous today and all days Omnia Christus Est Nobis - To us Christ is all! St Ambrose - Pray for us. Amen!

SICKNESS/ACCIDENT

In the case of sickness or accident at school, parents will be notified. It will be school policy that if your child is sent to Sick Bay that parents will be notified by phone as to the reason and condition of the child.

It is important that we have an alternative contact number for emergencies. If there is a change to phone numbers or arrangements, the school should be notified immediately.

STATEMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA A statement regarding the inappropriate use of Social Media was issued by the Catholic Schools Office in July 2013 and is now included on the Enrolment Application form issued to all families within the Diocese of Lismore. As a result of this statement St Ambrose Primary School has adopted the statement as a policy within the school. The Policy Statement is as follows:

Families enrolled at St Ambrose Primary School are not to communicate, or engage in social media activity, including, but not limited to Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, YouTube, Linkedin, Wikipedia or

Second Life, and to appropriately supervise our children to ensure they do not communicate or engage in the above described social media which in any manner whatsoever is negative of the

school, its administration, its teachers, the Catholic Schools Office, Parish Priest or his advisors, or The Trustees of the Roman Catholic Church for the Diocese of Lismore, or bring any, or part, or all the

above into disrepute. In the event that this condition of the agreement is breached in any manner whatsoever, it shall be regarded as an essential term and condition and, at the sole discretion of the school, or the other

parties mentioned above, children may be suspended or expelled from the school. As a school, St Ambrose Primary School has adopted this statement as policy within the school.

SPECIAL EVENTS A number of special events will be conducted throughout the school year. These include: Kindergarten Parent Welcome BBQ: Our first big event of the year, we warmly welcome all Kindergarten parents to St Ambrose and invite each family to join together for a BBQ before the Kindergarten Parent Information Session. ST AMBROSE HAS GOT TALENT: This annual event allows students to perform at a school assembly. Students perform displaying a variety of talents, including dance, singing, playing instruments, verse speaking, comedy and much more. This is a great afternoon and one the students (parents) really look forward to!!! GRANDPARENT & FRIENDS DAY: Grandparents, Aunties, Uncles, Neighbours and anyone who would like to visit our school are welcome. This is a very well supported event and it enables visitors to our school to visit classrooms, engage in 21st century learning, enjoy a morning tea and be entertained by our students. BUSH DANCE: An annual event whereby families are invited to attend an evening of bush dancing within the school grounds. A great family night!

CHRISTMAS CAROLS: The school and Pottsville Parish community will come together at the end of the year and join in with our Nativity Play and Christmas Carols (led by the students). OPEN DAY: An opportunity for the general community to visit the school and observe classrooms and school facilities first hand. All welcome! SCHOOL DISCO: These will be held during the course of the year and provide the students with a great social experience. MOVIE NIGHT: A popular movie will be shown in our school hall and families are encouraged to bring a chair / blanket and enjoy the show. In addition to the above the school will conducts , Mums Night Out, Book Week Parade, Easter Parade, participation within local events such as ANZAC and Remembrance Day ceremonies.

St Ambrose strives to engage all families and make everyone feel welcome.

SPECIALIST TEACHERS & PROGRAMS Reading Intervention Program (STAR AND LLI) The Reading Intervention Program is operational within St Ambrose. The program will be an effective early intervention program designed to reduce the number of students with literacy difficulties. Students on the program have, in addition to classroom instruction, daily individual teaching which aims to bring them to average levels of achievement for their class in a specific time frame. Additional Needs Program An Additional Needs Teacher, Mrs Kristi-Lee Beacroft, works throughout the school with students who have been identified as having specific learning difficulties. The class teacher, Additional Needs Teacher, Literacy Support Teachers and Teacher Aides will work together to provide an individual education program. The Additional Needs Aides work with the students in the classroom or in a withdrawal classroom in small groups or individually. The programs aim to meet the needs of the students with learning difficulties in order that they reach their full potential. Reading Program Reading is a central focus within the school. Students follow the reading recovery conventions of acquiring literacy skills. With such a comprehensive program teachers are able to specifically target the acquisition of reading skills and can monitor the progress of each child. Parent helpers are always welcome to assist in classes. Library The Library at St Ambrose will be a learning centre within the school. The library is designed to assist the student’s learning across the entire curriculum with a particular emphasis on Information Skills. Book borrowing will occur each week. Parents are welcome to make contact with our Library Coordinator (Mrs Victoria Stubbs), if you can help in any way. Technology

All classrooms have Interactive Short throw data projectors and Apple T.V.’s. Students will have access to iPads tablets which will be available for classroom use. All classrooms will have wireless facility. The technology within the school is maintained by a Technology Officer, Mr Brett Andrews, employed within the school. St Ambrose has a VIDEO CONFERENCING unit. St Ambrose is an “Apple” school. Enrichment and Extension Program The school actively participates in an Extension & Enrichment program that involves students from neighbouring Catholic Primary Schools. This program involves workshops in areas such as Mathematics, Drama, Technology, Art, Writing and Science. In addition to this the school participates in an inter-school public speaking competition. Art The school has a specialised Art Teacher, Mrs Kirby Bressan. Lessons are conducted for all students in their classrooms as part of the Release from Face to Face (RFF) requirements. Music A specialist music program, provided by specialist Music teacher, Mr Robby Cenda, extends to students from Kindergarten to Year 6. Each class receives a weekly music lesson which covers the five concepts of music. These concepts are duration, pitch, dynamics, tone colour and structure, which are presented through many activities. Listening, performing and organizing sound or creating sounds, are the key points for assessment. Speech and Drama A specialist teacher, Mrs Victoria Purser, conducts weekly class lessons. Class lessons promote confidence, articulation of speech and an opportunity for students to express themselves within a range of mediums. Band Students who learn a musical instrument are encouraged to join our school band.

SPORT

Sport is considered an integral part of the PDHPE syllabus. Children will not be excused from Sport without a written note from a Parent/Guardian, unless the child falls ill during the day. Where a child is to miss more than three weeks sport, a medical certificate should be supplied. The Sport Uniform should be worn on Sports Day. Sports days vary from term to term according to the availability of facilities and parents are advised accordingly. COLOUR OF SPORTING HOUSES

• TEAL • GOLD • PURPLE

WHITE SPORTS UNIFORM

Throughout the year students have the opportunity to participate in school carnivals and represent the school at various levels. The school conducts annual athletics, cross country and swimming carnivals. From these carnivals students are selected to represent the school at a Zone level. If successful they compete to join the Polding team which enables them to continue onto State representation. In addition to school carnivals other inter school sporting opportunities are available in all sports.

STUDENT PHOTOS

Student & Class photos An appropriate photo company has been engaged by the school to take student and class photos this occur once a year. The date of these photos is listed on the school calendar and notification will be made through the school newsletter. Media & Promotional Photos When signing the enrolment form at St Ambrose Primary School you have given permission for the school to use your child’s photo within various promotional / advertising / technology formats. This may include photos on our school web page, moodle page, various local papers, advertising materials etc. If parents do not want their child’s photo to be used within these formats they should fill out the appropriate withdrawal of permission forms and /or meet with the school Principal.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL A student council will be formed each year to encourage and develop responsibility and leadership. The council shall consist of one class representative from each primary class, under the leadership of the two school captains and vice captains who will co-chair meetings with assistance. SRC representatives are elected for two terms (Term 1 & 2) and in Terms 3 & 4 new leaders are elected. Meetings are held weekly, where possible. Areas of concern will include care of school children, safety in the playground, school rules, assistance to teachers, hospitality to visitors, inter-school events, sports, the Christian character of the school, school assemblies.

SUSPENSION & EXPULSION For detailed information about this element of our Student Behaviour Management Program, please refer to School Suspension and Exclusion Policy, located in Policies section of school Moodle.

TECHNOLOGY The school will have some significant items of technology. These include:

• Interactive Data Projectors in every classroom • Bank of iPads in every classroom • A digital library accessible by all students ubiquitously • Digital Cameras • Go Pro’s

• All classes have wireless access • Video Conferencing Unit • Apple TV’s

These resources are used by teachers to not only enhance student learning but to ensure that contemporary teaching strategies are employed. Students are exposed to and create powerpoints, wikis, blogs, access google drive, create multi media presentations and use interactive mediums such as study ladder and scootle. Students have the capacity to log onto the school web page which will also provide a wide range of technological resources that students can safely access. St Ambrose details our expectations of students as they sustainably use technology at school. Protocols can be found in our Digital Devices Policy and Anti Bullying Policy. Mr Andrew Burgess (eLearning Manager – Catholic Schools Office) provides workshops for students and parents at Digital Citizenship presentations at St Ambrose annually.

THE CHILD AS AN INDIVIDUAL Educators are continually turning their attention to individual achievement. They are increasingly concerned that children should achieve to the best of their ability, regardless of what that ability may be. This is a fact that teachers and parents must accept, just as we accept individual differences in physique and sporting ability among children of the same age. If we can do this, then the school and the home can work together to help children to do their best, by giving many opportunities to be successful and by rewarding good effort.

TO KNOW, WORSHIP AND LOVE The goal for which we strive is that being educated in our parish schools the children will mature in their understanding and practice of the faith of the Catholic Church in the areas of Knowledge, Worship and Christian living. (To Know, Worship and Love) To Know, Worship and Love books are a resource that are used K-6. These books are used within the classroom and are sent home to support the teaching and learning process.

CANTEEN

The school Canteen is opened two days a week - Tuesday and Thursdays. The canteen menu can be seen on the school moodle page. Mrs Victoria Stubbs is the canteen coordinator. Volunteers are encouraged to assist in the Library. The school canteen will follow the principles of providing a healthy, nutritious canteen menu in line with the Australian Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents. The guiding principles of the canteen will be obtained through the following web site: http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/studentsupport/studentwellbeing/schoolcanteen/

TUTORS The Primary School offers tutoring in instrumental Music, Singing and Speech & Drama. To access private tutoring, parents contact the tutors directly. Contact phone numbers for Tutors are available through the school.Students can receive tutoring either before, during or after school. This arrangement is made through the individual tutor. As is the arrangement regarding individual or group lessons. All tutors employed within the school have complied with the requirements under the Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012.

UNIFORM Please ensure that students abide by the school policy regarding shoes. Black shoes only with school day uniform. Shoes should not have labels, coloured markings etc — school shoes are simply black - I trust your support in this matter. Please be mindful that the St Ambrose School Uniform policy is non-negotiable. Parents are asked to positively encourage the correct wearing of uniform at all times. All children are expected to be neat in appearance whilst at school. It is expected that students will wear the full school uniform each day (please label all uniform items clearly). Teachers will inform parents of sports days at the commencement of each term. Sports uniform should on ly be worn for sports days or for special sporting events (carnivals, DanceFever etc ).

HATS Our school has a "No hat - No play" rule as part of our SunSmart Policy. Students are only permitted to wear a school hat through the day and classes do not have hats for borrowing. St Ambrose hats are ONLY sold at the school.

JEWELLERY Wearing of jewellery should be kept to a minimum for both safety and security reasons. Thus, the following ONLY is acceptable.

* watch * signet ring * studs or sleepers – one pair in lower ear lobe only (for girls) * chain with crucifix or religious medal * bangle (for girls) Plastic, leather, ceramic etc. necklaces and chains are not permitted. Hair ribbons and ties should be in school colours (Teal, Gold, Purple) or plain Black only.

HAIR Hair should be neat and tidy and appropriately cut. Extremes in style, cut or colour are unacceptable. This will be at the discretion of the Principal. Girls who have shoulder length or long hair must have it tied back at all times with a ribbon or band. LABELLING BELONGINGS School clothing can be expensive and is easily lost or misplaced. To avoid this situation, parents are requested to mark all removable items of uniform with the child’s name and class. A periodic check at home will ensure that the labelling is legible. Lost property is located in large baskets fixed to the wall next to the stairwell closest to the Hall.

UNWELL CHILDREN We advise parents to keep unwell children at home. Whilst we will do everything that we can to ease a child's suffering/pain, our facilities for caring for the sick are minimal. Guidelines issued by the N.S.W. Department of Health have been drawn up on the premise that children who have been ill with an infectious disease, will not return to school until they have fully recovered.

WEBSITE The school has a website whereby information pertaining to the school and classes can be obtained.

Public access is available to newsletters, parent handbook, enrolment details, school based policies and a general overview. Students who have a password can access the school intranet which will have class links. These links enable students to access relevant web pages and class appropriate sites. In addition to photos of recent events and specific school information can be obtained. The web page address is: http://www.sapotlism.catholic.edu.au

YEAR 6 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION TEST

Each year, students in Year 6 sit for a Religious Education Assessment. This assessment is conducted not only across all Yr 6 classes within the Lismore Diocese, but many Diocese across Australia e.g. Sydney, Melbourne.

Items for this Family Handbook

This information book is for you, the members of our St Ambrose School Community. If there is something missing from the publication that you think would be helpful, please notify the Principal.