Visiting Teachers Roles and Responsibilities

Introduction to Narmbool

Narmbool meaning possum fat (Kidney) was named by the indigenous people (Wathaurong Clan) with reference to its rich fertility and abundance of wildlife / biodiversity.

Narmbool was first settled by white Europeans in 1839 (Buninyong 1st established inland town in 1938)

Narmbool is a 2000 hectare property carrying approximately 12 000 Merino (Wool) and Crossbred (Prime Lambs for eating). The current farm manager Peter Rooney has been with Narmbool since 1980 and is a major contributor to the functioning of the farm as a business as well as protecting the environment.

The property is also home to remnant flora and fauna including the wedge tail eagle (3 nests located on the property), an isolated population of Yarra Gums (Eucalyptus yarraensis) at Tea Tree Gully Bush Camp, the elusive platypus found in Williamson Creek, koalas, frogs kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas.

NARMBOOL STAFFCamp Manager: Mick and JillMick and Jill manage the Narmbool camp site and are here to ensure that your stay is an enjoyable one!

EDUCATION OFFICERSMathew DowlerJanelle Spierings

Our Education Officers are all trained and VIT registered teachersNarmbool Education Officers are responsible for the safe delivery of the camp's outdoor education program, coordination of the program and to liaise with teachers to ensure all school needs are met throughout the visit. It is the responsibility of the school to organise and facilitate evening activities.

VISITING TEACHERS ROLES AND REPONSIBILITIESCamp Leaders RoleAs Camp Organiser you are responsible for:Planning and preparing the campThe general welfare of the studentsStudent behaviour during campEnd of camp clean up / maintaining camp cleanlinessLiaising with the Camp Manager on camp matters

PLEASE NOTE: Parent helpers should have no instructional or disciplinary responsibility. Camp School Managers RoleThe Camp School Manager is responsible for general duties (including camp bookings, programs, requisitions, health and safety awareness, liason with other camps, community relations and domestic duties (including administration and maintenance, supervision of camp school staff) and the following specific duties:Supervision of arrival and dispersal of groupsEnsuring satisfactory discipline and standards of behaviourEnsuring each group leaves the camp school in good conditionProviding principals and Group Leaders with all the necessary information regarding the Camp School.Being familiar with and giving assistance with natural and social sciences pertaining to the area.Present programs in accordance with the school's requirements. Ensuring DET policy compliance.

• You are a vital component of your camp’s success. Coming to camp may not be a holiday for you, but it is definitely a worthwhile experience for both staff and students. Involve yourself in activities, it’s important for you to have fun too!

• Teachers/camp leaders are encouraged to work closely with Narmbool staff. A strong team approach provides supportive, nurturing environments throughout the camp ensuring camp outcomes are achieved.

• Teachers/adult supervisors are responsible for student’s behaviour, wellbeing and first aid at all times and will accompany students on all activities, including activities that are led by Narmbool staff.

• Teacher / adult supervisors are encourage to be involved in passive camp activities. As per Department of Education guidelines, Narmbool requests a teacher/student ratio of 1:10 for camping programs.

• Schools will need to make sure their child protection responsibilities are fulfilled in relation to non-teaching adults attending camp.

• We try to minimize the workload on visiting staff members, however there are some things that must be done to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students visiting Narmbool.

• On your arrival we will provide you with a briefing on what exactly is required. You have the final say on any program areas involving your students. Should you wish to end an activity early or cancel it completely, we are more than happy to make alternative arrangements.

• Visiting teachers will be responsible for student behaviour and discipline during camp. Please ensure regular night checks are made in the dormitories. Students will need their rest to make the most out of their camp.

• Narmbool Camp Managers are on call and available during emergencies outside general camp hours. An after hours emergency contact number will be provided.

• Visiting teachers will need to dispense any medication required by students from their school.

• Should visiting teachers need to leave camp, please notify Steven Faull in advance.

Please ensure all staff and students have the following before departing school :

Broad rimmed hat