Wauchope Public SchoolAnnual Report

3404

2015

Introduction The 2015 Annual Report is provided to the community of Wauchope Public School as an account of the school’s operations and achievements throughout the year.It provides a detailed account of the progress the school has made to provide high quality educational opportunities for all students, as set out in the school plan. It outlines the findings from self-assessment that reflect the impact of key school strategies for improved learning and the benefit to all students from the expenditure of resources, including equity funding. Mr Cameron Osborne - PrincipalSchool contact details:Wauchope Public School, 2 Waugh Street, Wauchope 2446, NSWWebsite: www.wauchope-p.schools.nsw.edu.auEmail: wauchope-p.school@det.nsw.edu.auPhone: (02) 65852277

Message from the Principal

It is with pleasure that I present the Wauchope Public School (WPS) Annual School Report for 2015.Wauchope Public School has a caring, inviting, inclusive and positive school culture. This culture is made possible due to an experienced, enthusiastic, dedicated staff and an active and committed parent body and community. The school is committed to ongoing improvement in all aspects of student learning with an emphasis on literacy, numeracy and information technology. There is a strong commitment to student welfare, student leadership, creative arts, sport, gifted and talented and special needs students.At the end of Term 3 our student enrolment was 690 students. Our school is an inclusive school that caters for students from a wide range of backgrounds. This year we had 31 classes in operation. We have been fortunate to be able to form two enrichment classes, two literacy/numeracy classes with less than 17 children in each class and three special education classes. We received extra equity funding that has allowed us to enjoy extensive professional development for our teaching staff, run programs such as Speech, Quicksmart, Multilit etc. This year has seen the roll out of approximately 150 iPads that students and staff use. It is certainly an exciting time to be a student at WPS.

This year will see the retirement of Mr Jim Moodie after a long and distinguished career. Mr Moodie has touched the lives of hundreds of children over the years. He has an infectious sense of humour and his classrooms were always filled with laughter. He was always a very supportive staff member who possessed many creative talents. He regularly worked as Stage Manager at the Southern Network Dance Festival and the School Spectacular.Aunty Helen has been our Aboriginal Education Officer for approximately 15 years. Aunty Helen will also be retiring at the end of 2015. She has made a tremendously positive impact on the Indigenous students at WPS. Aunty Helen has worked with many schools in the Bago, Hastings and Kempsey communities. WPS will miss Mr Moodie and Aunty Helen and wish them well for the future.Mrs Annette Bailey has been appointed to Lake Cathie Public School. We welcome Mrs Kate Buczko who was successful at interview for this position and to commence duty at WPS in Term 1 2016. At WPS every child is developed by caring, committed and highly professional staff. Staff implement a rich curriculum which fosters academic, cultural, creative and sporting pursuits and encourages children to achieve their personal best in areas of talent or expertise. I’d like to congratulate the entire WPS staff, both teaching and non-teaching, for their dedication and commitment to the children at our school.Our supportive P&C who work very hard to promote our school, enhance the learning environment for all children and support our staff. Our parent body help us to make school fun. The major fundraiser for 2015 has been the hugely popular Fete raising almost $20,000. The P&C also run the After School Care facility and the very healthy School Canteen.Students have experienced an extensive array of extra-curricular activities organised and provided by our dedicated and committed staff. Our students have had excursions to Canberra, Sydney, Lake Keepit Sport and Recreation Centre, Yarrahappani, The Glasshouse, Timbertown, Billabong Zoo, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Qantas Credit Union Arena and Port Macquarie.

Some 2015 Wauchope Public School outstanding highlights have been: Our girls touch football team competed in the North Coast final. Our boys touch and girls soccer teams both made it deep into the PSSA State knockout competitions. An Under 10s rugby league team qualified to play in Penrith. Four of our athletes were crowned Age Champions at the Hastings/Camden Haven carnival. Seventeen students competed at the North Coast Athletics carnival. Several students were selected in North Coast teams to play at State carnivals in touch football and rugby league.Our Choir performed at the Sydney Opera House at the NSW Public Schools Choral Festival and at the Schools Spectacular at the Qantas Credit Union Arena. Four very talented dance groups performed at the Southern Network Dance Festival and Port Macquarie Eisteddfod. Several students have presented brilliant speeches in various public speaking competitions. Thank you to everyone who has been involved with WPS in 2015 - in particular, the committed and dedicated teachers, the executive, our fantastic office and support staff and our very hard working P&C. It is a huge team effort and I appreciate everyone’s contribution. Cameron OsbornePrincipal

School Captains ReportThis year Wauchope Public School has given us many opportunities and privileges. We have been very honoured to represent and participate in events for our school with pride such as going to Sydney for the Leaders Conference, running all the major assemblies or ceremonies and having the opportunity to represent the school at the Wauchope Anzac Parade/Commemoration. We’ve been fortunate enough to personally meet and talk to Dr David Gillespie and Alison Langdon. This school definitely has a remarkable future ahead, over this year we have seen a significant growth in many areas such as the use and variety of technology across the school. Our year as captains at WPS has been an incredible journey and will stay in our memories forever. As we farewell WPS and move on to high school, we hope that this school shines with the opportunities, excellence and success it offers. Good luck for the years to come. Ebony D and Izaac B

School background

Our vision is to provide an inclusive, welcoming and friendly school, where students receive a dynamic education and are provided with opportunities to foster individual talents and interests.

‘Excellence, Opportunity and Success.’

Wauchope Public School has an enrolment of 688, including 90 Aboriginal students. We have three special education classes, two literacy/numeracy focus classes, two enrichment classes forming a total of 31 classes. The school is located 20km west of Port Macquarie and is a member of the Bago Community of Schools. As a very proud Public School, we take great pride in our students’ achievements whilst ensuring the values and traditions of our families and the wider Wauchope community remain an important part of our school’s direction. Our purpose is to provide stimulating programs and experiences which increase both functional and quality basic skills; develop resilience and the values required to engage successfully in society. Wauchope Public School has a caring, inviting, inclusive and positive school culture.This culture is made possible due to an experienced, enthusiastic, dedicated staff and an active and committed parent body and community. The school is committed to ongoing improvement in all aspects of student learning with an emphasis on literacy, numeracy and information technology. There is a strong commitment to student welfare, student leadership, creative arts, sport, gifted and talented and special needs students.

Self-assessment and school achievements Self-assessment using the School Excellence Framework This section of the Annual Report outlines the findings from self-assessment using the School Excellence Framework, our school achievements and the next steps to be pursued. The School Excellence Framework supports public schools throughout NSW in the pursuit of excellence by providing a clear description of high quality practice across the three domains of Learning, Teaching and Leading.This year, our staff at Wauchope Public School discussed the School Excellence Framework and its implications for informing, monitoring and validating our journey of excellence. This provides an important overview to ensure our improvement efforts align with these high level expectations. Learning Domain:In 2015, Wauchope Public School’s focus was in three areas of the Learning domain – ‘Curriculum and Learning’, ‘Well-Being’ and ‘Assessment and Reporting’. ‘Curriculum and Learning’: the provision of curriculum has been enhanced by deep understanding of the new syllabus and by learning alliances with other schools and organisations. We have provided a wide range of extra-curricular offerings for student development and integrated technology, library and information services into curriculum delivery.We have worked collegially on providing differentiation of the curriculum to meet the needs of individual students.‘Well-Being’: we have been working consistently on revising our Positive Behaviour for Learning Program. School expectations are being taught explicitly across the school and WPS students are being taught to accept responsibility for their own behaviours.‘Assessment and Reporting’: we have analysed internal and external assessment data to monitor, track and report on student and school performance. The development of new reporting procedures and formats reflects the new NSW curriculum documents and enable us to update parents on the progress of their children.

School vision statement

School context

Teaching Domain:In the domain of Teaching WPS has had a focus on three distinct areas – ‘Collaborative Practice’, ‘Learning & Development’ and ‘Professional Standards’.‘Collaborative Practice’: teachers at WPS have collaboratively created effective teaching and learning programs which all reflect the new NSW syllabus documents. Curriculum, stage and team meetings are used to review the curriculum and to revise teaching and learning programs.‘Learning & Development’: WPS teachers have participated in professional learning which is targeted to school priorities, the professional needs of teachers and is aligned to their performance and development. The school has processes in place to support beginning and early-career teachers, providing them with targeted support in areas of identified need.‘Professional Standards’: teachers are implementing the professional teaching standards and curriculum requirements and are supported to pursue higher-level accreditation. Staff attainment of professional learning goals and teaching requirements are part of the school’s performance and development processes.Leading Domain:Our 2015 priorities in the Leading Domain have been to focus on ‘School Planning, Implementation and Reporting’ and ‘School Resources’.‘School Planning, Implementation and Reporting’: Wauchope Public School’s three-year plan is focused on achieving improvements, is committed to equity and high expectations for each student and is responsive to changing needs. Planning and implementation includes processes for resource allocation, professional learning, performance monitoring and reporting.‘School Resources’: WPS staffing processes ensure that full curriculum implementation and delivery requirements are met. Systematic annual staff performance and development reviews are in place and provide support and direction for all teachers. The entire team at WPS has been successful in leading the initiatives outlined in this report and building the capabilities of staff to create a dynamic school learning culture. Our self-assessment process will further assist the school to refine the strategic priorities in our School Plan leading to further improvements in the delivery of education to our students.

Improve student achievement by engaging every child in a differentiated, challenging curriculum and a wide range of learning opportunities with a focus on developing a love of learning and the capacity to achieve.

To create a meaningful, inclusive and differentiated whole school learning environment that encourages and supports a range of learning styles, fosters curiosity and develops motivated and knowledgeable students.

In Strategic Direction 1 – Engaging Student Learning: Stage groups have worked together to develop effective teaching and learning plans based on the new BOSTES syllabi outcomes. Assessment opportunities have been identified and are being continually refined according to teacher reflection.An iPad committee was established and a set of iPads for each stage within the school (ES1/Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3) has been purchased. Teaching staff were surveyed to determine professional learning needs related to iPad knowledge and use. Staff Development Day focusing on iPads and classroom use, including experimenting with various apps to support student learning. The iPad committee in consultation with the school staff has purchased apps appropriate to stage needs. Teaching and support staff are experimenting with iPad use within the classroom to enhance student engagement.Teaching staff update Literacy and Numeracy continuum data each semester and use this as a tool to group students according to individual need in Literacy and Numeracy. Differentiated class groupings are evident across the school (Enrichment classes and Literacy/Numeracy classes).

Strategic Direction 1 - Engaging Student Learning

Purpose

Overall summary of progress

Progress towards achieving improvement measures Resources

Improvement Measure Progress Achieved this year. Funds Expended

Whole school curriculum planning, programming and supervision processes established.

All teaching staff regularly reflect on teaching and learning programs making informed changes.

All teaching staff regularly update continuum data and begin to use this data together with other assessments to plan Teaching and Learning programs to cater for student needs.

$5,800.00

15 days release.

Comprehensive assessment framework informs teaching and learning programs.

Levels of student engagement have increased through participation in ICT (iPad).

Teachers becoming more familiar with the use of iPads.

Teachers experimenting with iPad use for student learning and engagement

$5320.00 –Coff’s Harbour Computing

$17,888.00 – Computer Coordinator

Differentiated teaching and learning programs reflect student needs.

Evidence based decisions are made in stage teams to reflect on Literacy and Numeracy continuum and additional assessment data to identify future directions.

$1,170.00 –3 days release

• Teacher professional learning focused on catering for different learning styles through differentiated classroom pedagogy.

• Continue to develop and refine teaching and learning programs according to school wide need (e.g. composite classes). Backward design method.

• Assessment for learning, Assessment as Learning and Assessment of Learning.

• Refine school wide assessment procedures. Teaching staff are to be involved in professional learning focused on point of need assessment to effectively drive the teaching and learning cycle.

Strategic Direction 1 – Engaging Student Learning - 2016

Strategic Direction 2 – Teacher Professional Learning and Teacher Quality

Improve teacher quality through systematic and collegial professional learning. Enhancing the capacity of all staff to create and deliver quality, innovative and engaging teaching and learning programs.

To ensure the delivery of quality teaching and learning programs, underpinned by a rigorous understanding of current pedagogy.

In terms of our Strategic Direction 2 – Teacher Professional Learning and Teacher Quality, our progress so far is evident through the development and completion of units of work in the areas of English, Mathematics and Science based on the new syllabus.Scope and Sequences have been developed in line with the new syllabuses for English, Mathematics, Science and Technology, History and Geography.We have re-established the Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) committee and collegiality across the school has been enhanced through our professional learning model. The Aboriginal Committee goes from strength to strength with the addition of another indigenous staff member and increased community participation.Regular BOSTES accreditation meetings have been held throughout 2015. Staff members from BAGO community of schools have also attended. Wauchope PS staff members have completed their accreditation. We are currently working towards systems and processes to assist future staff undertaking the accreditation process.The executive, in consultation with WPS teaching staff, created a trial model for lesson observation which is ready for implementation in 2016. All stakeholders have participated in the development of a proforma for the Observation component of the Performance and Development Framework, as per their individual goals. Teaching staff were released to work with supervisors in the development of individual performance goals which were evaluated in Term 4.

Progress towards achieving improvement measures Resources

Improvement Measure Progress Achieved this year. Funds Expended

Successful navigation through the teacher accreditation process is evident across the school.

Progress towards a School-wide process for managing and supporting teacher accreditation.

$1,692 –

Teacher release –

4 days

PDF: Wauchope PS Observation model established, appropriate to our large school population.

Development of a WPS Model for Observation.

Development of a WPS Observation Proforma.

$5076 –

Executive Release –

3 days.

Quality Teaching and Learning programs are evident and reflect thorough syllabus knowledge.

Completed units of work collated for new curriculum areas – English, Mathematics and Science and Technology.

Resources available for units in appropriate KLAs.

$108,000 –

AP release

$11,650.00 –

AP Higher Duties

Effective collegial teams lead staff and are actively focused on school future directions.

Grade representatives finalise curriculum plans for each grade.

BOSTES team in place with regular meetings occurring.

Teacher release –

$40,598 – Tm 1

$38,061 – Tm 3

$22,842 – Tm 4

Overall summary of progress

Purpose

• Professional development of curriculum leaders (up-skilling teachers in each KLA who will then train all staff).

• Assessment tasks refined/Cross Stage units completed/Cross Grade units written.

• Support systems and structures to be put in place for teachers working towards Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher career stages.

• Revisit & refine Classroom Observation Proforma at Curriculum and Stage meeting discussions. Review of amended process in line with staff feedback

Improve student welfare programs through a variety of targeted, supportive systems which are built around Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL). All programs include a focus on whole school, group or individual strategies.

Purpose

To develop a culture where all students are immersed in a productive and positive learning environment, where students feel valued, safe and are provided with opportunities to experience on-going success.

Overall summary of progress

In Strategic Direction 3 – Dynamic and Innovative Student Welfare programs: We have continued our focus on Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) across our school to support our wellbeing approaches and learning culture. The PBL committee, including regional support staff (Christine Gamsby) conducted and evaluated a School Assessment Survey (SAS) and School Evaluation Tool (SET) with all school staff to determine the PBL Action Plan. Staff are being up-skilled through Universal and Reboot Training. As a result we are identifying student and school needs through the analysis of data.Students at our school from Kindergarten to Year 6, inclusive of Special Needs are offered a variety of extra-curricular activities. PSSA sporting records, sport and cultural participation rolls, school newsletters and teacher anecdotal records reflect student participation and achievement. Success is evident through student representation at PSSA, cultural competitions and increased attendance at extra-curricular programs. Analysis and evaluation of data have been used to continue providing support for students in Stage 2 and Stage 3 Literacy and Numeracy, Gifted and Talented classes and three Special Education classes. This has resulted in improved student outcomes, high student engagement and a reduction in inappropriate behaviours.

Strategic Direction 2 – Teacher Professional Learning and Teacher Quality - 2016

Strategic Direction 3 – Dynamic and Innovative Student Well-Being Programs - 2016

Progress towards achieving improvement measures Resources

Improvement Measure Progress Achieved this year. Funds Expended

Classroom and playground data reflects success of Positive Behaviour for Learning practices.

Conducted and evaluated School Assessment Survey (SAS) and School Evaluation Tool (SET) to determine future directions.

840 – SET (x2)$2,000 – Reboot Coffs

Identified need to create behaviour data system that better reflects both positive and negative incidents.

$840 – Teacher release x 2

Student participation is evident in extra-curricular activities. Anecdotal records reflect student participation.

$2,300 - Student Assistance ProgramBurnside Aboriginal Grant

Data determines programs and wellbeing practices.

Data used to determine class placement.Success of placement evidenced by engagement, improvement in learning and reduction in inappropriate behaviour.

$200,000 – Literacy and Numeracy classes.

Strategic Direction 3 - Dynamic and Innovative Student Welfare Programs - 2016

• PBL Committee –

Collect and evaluate student data from playground and non-classroom settings (Sentral) Summarise data – to identify strengths and areas requiring a focus. Continue teaching school wide expectations and define consequences.

• Support classes:

Staff up-skilled in the familiarisation and/or development of Personalised Learning and Support Plans, Behaviour Plans and Healthcare Plans. Teachers write and implement new student plans with parent consultation.

• Regular Aboriginal Committee meetings /AEO assist with Kindergarten transition / re- assess extra-curricular opportunities for all students, e.g. camp, sport, Swimming Scheme / AEO assist with KinderStart and High School Transition.

Key initiatives and other school focus areas

Key initiatives Impact achieved this year Resources

Aboriginal background funding

Strategic Direction 3Our Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO) has supported our indigenous students and has been actively involved in the following programs:Norta Norta – inclass tuition provided for students below benchmark in NAPLAN.Rainbow Serpent Club - 20 families accessed this service in 2015Homework Centre averaged 20-25 students who used this opportunity.All students have an individual learning plan (ILP) and are making progress across the Literacy and Numeracy Continuums. Cultural significance is included in all ILPs and is at the forefront of every school event.

$61,587 – AEO

$10,985 – Norta Norta

English language proficiency funding

Strategic Direction 2Additional School Learning Support Officer allocation has allowed us to assist students with the provision of in-class support.

$1,454 - SLSO

Socio-economic funding

Strategic Direction 3Students across the school have benefitted from the opportunity to participate in additional Literacy and Numeracy support through MultiLit and QuickSmart.An additional Assistant Principal (AP) position has enabled us to coordinate whole school training and development programs which have enhanced teacher understandings of the new curriculum documents.

$130,651 – Equity

$62,805 - MultiLit, Quick Smart and Homework Centre

$101,501 – ReleaseTeacher training

$108,000 – AP Release

Low level adjustment for disability funding

Strategic Direction 3Students from Years 3-6 requiring adjustments and additional learning support were catered for with the successful formation of our two Literacy / Numeracy classes. These class structures have enabled students to access more individualised learning programs and to strengthen their basic skills.

$18,339 – SLSOs

(plus two Literacy / Numeracy classes)

Support for beginning teachers

Strategic Direction 2Beginning teacher support in 2015 included intensive curriculum training and a series of mentoring sessions provided by experienced staff. Portions of this funding will carry over to the 2016 school year for additional training and support.

$2359 – ECT 8 days Aboriginal funding$1612 – Beginning teacher funding

Mandatory and optional reporting requirements

Student informationIt is a requirement that the reporting of information for all students be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.

Student enrolment profile

Student attendance profile

Class sizes

Workforce composition

Position NumberPrincipal 1Deputy Principal 1Assistant Principals 5Classroom Teachers 21Special Education 3Priority School Funding 1.3Teacher of Reading Recovery

0.63

Learning and Support Teachers

1.5

Teacher Librarian 1.2Release from Face to Face

3.822

School Counsellor 1School Administrative & Support Staff

8.262

Other positions 1.1Total 49.814

The Australian Education Regulation, 2014 requires schools to report on Aboriginal composition of their workforce.Our school has six permanent Indigenous members of staff – four teachers, an Aboriginal Education Officer and a School Administration Officer. At certain times during the year, the school also engages Aboriginal tutors who provide targeted support for Literacy and Numeracy programs. Our current Aboriginal Education Officer will be retiring in Term 1, 2016 after 16 years of service at Wauchope Public school.Teacher qualifications All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.

Qualifications % of staffUndergraduate degree or diploma

88

Postgraduate degree 12

Professional learning and teacher accreditation Significant of professional learning was undertaken by the teaching staff at Wauchope Public School in 2015. Teachers on each grade have been released for intensive training around the new syllabus documents.

Financial informationFinancial summary This summary covers funds for operating costs and does not involve expenditure areas such as permanent salaries, building and major maintenance. A full copy of the school’s 2015 financial statement is tabled at the annual general meeting of the Parents and / Citizen Association groups. Further details concerning the statement can be obtained by contacting the school.

Date of financial summary 30/11/2015Income $Balance brought forward 1,016,565.51Global funds 431,824.87Tied funds 602,915.69School & community sources 197,314.78Interest 23,000.05Trust receipts 28,439.63Canteen 0.00Total income 2,300,060.53 ExpenditureTeaching & learning Key learning areas 52,448.48 Excursions 102,230.77 Extracurricular dissections 67,222.97Library 10,422.66Training & development 2,000.77Tied funds 794,938.34Casual relief teachers 184,360.99Administration & office 88,991.02School-operated canteen 0.00Utilities 69,692.79Maintenance 39,458.34Trust accounts 27,038.75Capital programs 30,899.51Total expenditure 1,469,705.39Balance carried forward 830,355.14

School performanceNAPLAN In the National Assessment Program, the results across the Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 literacy and numeracy assessments are reported on a scale from Band 1 to Band 10. The achievement scale represents increasing levels of skills and understandings demonstrated in these assessments.

The My School website provides detailed information and data for national literacy and numeracy testing. Click on the link My School and insert the school name in the Find a school and select GO to access the school data.NAPLAN - Literacy

NAPLAN - Numeracy

Parent/caregiver, student, teacher satisfaction In 2015, Wauchope Public School sought the opinions of parents, students and teachers about the school. A summary of the responses is presented below: The teachers at WPS feel that they are working in a collaborative and collegial environment which provides the students with a variety of learning opportunities.The large majority of parents feel that the school has very clear expectations and welcomes parental involvement. They believe that the teachers at WPS work together to support the students.The students enjoy being involved in the learning opportunities provided at WPS and are proud that the school has such a good reputation.

Policy requirements Aboriginal education

Wauchope Public School supports the NSW Department of Education’s commitment to improving the educational outcomes and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students so that they can excel in every aspect of their education. 15% of the students enrolled at WPS in 2015 identified as being either Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. WPS aims to increase the knowledge and understanding of all students and members of staff in the histories, cultures and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by working collaboratively with Aboriginal families and the wider Birpai community.The Aboriginal Education Team met regularly throughout 2015 with members of the team representing WPS at the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) meetings each term. Year 3 teacher, Mrs Lee A Rock attended the local AECG’s ‘Connecting to Country’ workshop in 2015.Georgie D was the Aboriginal Ambassador for 2015, a role that she fulfilled with enthusiasm and pride. She played a major part in many formal school assemblies and at the NAIDOC flag raising ceremony by giving the Acknowledgement of Country in Gathang, the language of the Birpai people. Georgie was awarded a North Coast AECG award for Student Leadership this year and has since been nominated for the prestigious Nanga Mai awards. Another senior student, Jye C in Year 5, received an AECG North Coast award for Creative and Performing Arts for his success in designing the cover of the school magazine and for writing the winning poem in the Patrick White Young Indigenous Writers Competition. Jye has also been voted as Aboriginal Ambassador for the student body for 2016.A total of 20 students submitted entries to the Patrick White Young Indigenous Writers Competition which is co-ordinated by the Aboriginal Education Council. Several students were awarded Encouragement Certificates and gift vouchers. Students in 1/2WM and 2HL were thrilled to each win the Group Short Story sections of the competition for their grade.

The Rainbow Serpent Early Learning Group continued to meet each Tuesday morning at the Wauchope Neighbourhood Centre with an average of 10 children enjoying friendship and a sense of belonging whilst sharing stories, craft activities, music and play around a common theme each week. Mrs Cindy Dignum co-ordinated this and Aunty Helen, Miss Shalisha Scott or Miss Stephanie Ostler have been leading this group of parents before-school aged children.

For the first time WPS held an additional Kindergarten Orientation visit for the Aboriginal children who start Kindergarten in 2016. The Port Macquarie Centacare group collaborated with WPS staff to offer this experience to students and their families. Current Aboriginal Kindergarten students who had siblings attending the visit assisted Kindergarten teacher Mrs Julie Best to help give the pre-schoolers a taste of ‘big school’.

The Homework Centre operated on Wednesday afternoons throughout Terms 2 and 3 again this year. The students were provided with afternoon tea and transport home by bus. There were usually about 20 students in attendance. Mrs Karen O’Reilly, Mrs Paige Donovan, Miss Shalisha Scott and Mrs Julie Best provided supervision. This is a very popular activity with Aboriginal students. It is also a wonderful opportunity for students from Years 3 to 6 to work together in a very supportive environment.

Every student in the school cut out a hand in a colour of either the Australian, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander flags and then ‘planted’ their hand into the grass of the Frangipani Garden to acknowledge and celebrate Reconciliation Week this year. WPS was able to bring all students together for this project which was symbolic of the message of Reconciliation.NAIDOC week was celebrated at the beginning of Term 3. Senior Aboriginal students led an outstanding Flag Raising Ceremony to start the week as well as hosting the NAIDOC assembly. A highlight of the assembly was popular guest, school parent Ms Samantha Wright, speaking on the 2015 theme of NAIDOC, ‘We all stand on sacred ground’. WPS was pleased to welcome members of the local community who attended the assembly as special guests and enjoyed morning tea afterwards. During the week students had the opportunity to participate in a variety of cultural activities which included dance, the study of artefacts, painting and workshops in Gathang language. We appreciated the support of the many community members who contributed towards the success of the week.

At the end of the year the school community met to formally say ‘Thank you and Goodbye’ to Aunty Helen Archibald-Simmons who retired after working at WPS as the Aboriginal Educational Officer for 16 years. Aunty Helen has touched the lives of many students, families and staff both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal during her time at the school and will be very sadly missed. Aunty Helen also won an AECG Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to educational achievement by an Aboriginal staff member’ and she has also been nominated for the Nanga Mia awards. A special assembly was held to acknowledge Aunty Helen with songs, dance, artworks, heartfelt messages and presentations. There was an ‘on stage’ interview with the School Principal which gave Aunty Helen the opportunity to share a little of her personal story, including some of her experiences during her time at WPS. The highlight of the morning was at the conclusion of the assembly when Aunty Helen walked through a pathway of children, which included students from Wauchope High School, staff, parents and community members to cut the ribbon opening the revamped and improved Aunty Helen’s Bush Tucker Garden. It was a very emotional time with Aunty Helen leaving WPS students with her message to ‘Reach for the Stars’.

Multicultural Education and Anti-racism Teaching staff have been involved in extensive professional learning around the new History syllabus with a focus on developing awareness and understanding of other cultures. This understanding and awareness is also incorporated into many other KLAs (Key Learning Areas) especially English with our History units having a clear literacy focus. As we do not have a large number of students at WPS who come from a variety of cultural backgrounds, staff ensure that their teaching practices are culturally inclusive. We have a staff member who is trained as an ARCO if there is a need for advice or support in anti-racism or discrimination.One of our Japanese/Australian students was placed in the 5/6 enrichment class in 2015. Another student from the Philippines who started Kindergarten in 2014 received an award at our 2015 Annual Presentation Day. Students from other cultures are very much a part of our school and will continue to excel in 2016.

Special Education Our school is an inclusive school that caters for students with a wide range of needs and disabilities.

This year we formed a new special education class catering for students with a moderate intellectual disability and/or an autism diagnosis. An Assistant Principal Special Education was appointed to supervise our three Special Education classes. Students in our Special Education classes have a confirmed disability and are offered a place in a Support Class following a placement panel process. We currently have 20 students officially placed in a Support Class with an additional 5 students on the eligibility list and seeking a formal placement. Special Education staff provide high quality data driven educational programs based on Board of Studies Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES). The school has a curriculum focus incorporating the Australian Curriculum and all students have a Personalised Learning and Support Plan, (PL & SP) which has been developed in collaboration with parents and carers.

Creative ArtsWauchope Public School provides a wide selection of ‘creative and cultural’ opportunities for all students. Most of the activities are run as extra-curricular programs (during school hours) and often require additional time, energy and commitment out of school hours, on the part of students, parents and teachers. We are fortunate to have a school community which recognises and supports this important aspect of children’s education and personal growth.Year 6 student Jye C was recognised with an Aboriginal Education Award for Performing/ Creative and Visual Arts acknowledging his contributions in many creative activities from Kindergarten to Year 6.

Music

The Concert Band and Instrumental Program provided instruction to students in Years 2 to 6 in a variety of traditional instruments and voice. In addition a specialised ‘guitar group’ allowed a group of students to develop practical skills and form a guitar ensemble.With group tutorials and rehearsals on a weekly basis, students in both groups were prepared for various performances including school functions, eisteddfods and music camps under the guidance of Mrs Ann Hamilton and Mr Ben Harding.All students developed their practical skills and a growth in confidence in both playing and performing to audiences. Many Year 6 students attained a competency level which enabled them to progress directly into secondary school bands.

The Choir of 36 students (10 boys and 26 girls) was selected after auditioning with more than 120 students from Years 5 and 6. The choir went on to successfully audition for a place in the NSW Festival of Choral Music (FOCM) at the Opera House and the NSW Schools

Spectacular at QANTAS Credit Union Arena. Prepared and trained by Mrs Fiona Brassey and managed by Mrs Cindy Dignum both these performances allowed students to participate in Sydney at State-level events. In addition the choir performed throughout the year at numerous school and community events.

All students from K to 6 were involved in Music Count Us In, a musical event on an international scale. As part of our school Music program Mrs Fiona Brassey arranged for every student to learn the song ‘Gold’ and at a whole-school assembly WPS students joined with over three quarters of a million other students (from both high schools and primary schools) throughout Australasia to sing the same song at the same time. This was a very exciting event for everyone especially a very proud Mrs Brassey.

Dance120 students from Kinder to Year 6 had the opportunity to be involved in formal dance groups, in addition to another 50 to 60 Year 3-6 students who participated in non-performance ‘dance-for-fun’ extra-curricular groups run by Mrs Cowan, Mrs Rock and Mrs Daly.

The four dance groups (managed by Mrs Cindy Dignum) entertained audiences performing out of school at community events, the Southern Network Dance Festival (at Kempsey), Port Macquarie Eisteddfod and numerous events at school which included assemblies, Fete and Kinder Orientation Day.The ‘Kinder Honey Bunches’ nurtured by Mrs Lisa Barnett delighted audiences with their ‘cuteness’ and enthusiasm. They were awarded a Highly Commended in the ‘infants’ section at the Port Eisteddfod.’

The Year 1/2 ‘Cheerleaders’ led by Mrs Lisa Falk and assisted by Mrs Kelly Cowan demonstrated both dance and gymnastic skill in their routine. They were delighted to be awarded 3rd place in the ‘infants’ section at the Port Macquarie Eisteddfod.The Year 3/4 ‘Uptown Funk’ trained by Mrs Lee-a Rock and assisted by Mrs Katrina Daly delivered a lively and colourful interpretation of a popular song. They were awarded a Highly Commended in the ‘primary’ section at the Port Macquarie Eisteddfod.The Year 5/6 ’Sun Goes Down’ devised by Mrs Julia Storm showcased the dance skills of the senior students, in an interpretative and artistic routine. They were awarded a Highly Commended in the ‘primary’ section at the Port Eisteddfod.

As a part of Indigenous Cultural celebrations, instructor Steve Donovan provided boys from Years 1 to 6 the opportunity to explore traditional, break and hip hop dance and create and perform routines for the entire school at a special assembly.

Public Speaking and Drama

The Stage Public Speaking Competition offered an extensive program for students from Years 2 to 6 and was organised by Mrs Vicki Wagg-Muir Years 3-6 and Mrs Erin Weatherby Year 2 to allow all students to prepare and deliver speeches. Initially at class-level then two students from each class competed at grade-level and in finals judged by independent adjudicator, Mr Elliott Leighton from Wauchope High School. Winners for 2015 were Year 3 Hailey R “Getting out of Homework”, Year 4 Ellie R “Dancing”, Year 5 Mikaela R “How to hide your most hated vegetable Brussels Sprouts” and Year 6 Ebony D “Off Duty”.

The Year 2 finalists were Mikayla H and Max C (2HL), Max P and Leeanna T (1/2WM), Tiana D and Shayla C (2HJ) and Bonnie C and Bella H (2MG). Tiana D was named the eventual Year 2 winner.Students from 5/6WH under the direction of Mrs Wendy Henry, attended the Hastings Region Play Day Event at the Glasshouse. Students had attended a drama workshop earlier in the semester and were trained in some performance skills. The class then had to create a topic, develop a script and rehearse it to perform on the stage. They watched other schools perform and performed themselves on the big stage. The class represented the school with pride and confidence and was recognised by the coordinator for their exceptional work developing their presentation.

The Maths Olympiad was held once a month over a period of five months. All students from 5/6 WH under the guidance of their teacher Ms Wendy Henry completed set tasks and activities and were commended and recognised for their high level of achievement in this challenging activity.

Schools Out Radio, a radio program on local radio 2WayFM which is aired twice each week from 6pm to 8pm provided regular opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience. With support from Mrs Cindy Dignum and Mrs Jude Stephens over 60 students from K-6 were involved in preparing and presenting live radio through this excellent program. A number of students were also able to experiment with un-prepared (ad-lib) material and demonstrated outstanding public speaking/presentation skills.In the final term of 2015 a number of interested students participated in Debating Workshops at WPS which were co-ordinated by Mrs Annette Bailey, Mrs Jordan Shields and Mr Humphries. From the enthusiastic interactions and thoughtful contributions of participants it is clear that teams will be involved in some lively debates in 2016.

Visual ArtsCo-ordinated by Mr Mitchell Nicholson, with contributions from every class (K to 6) and special extra-curricular groups, WPS once again participated in the Wauchope Show. Presenting 3D and recycled craft combined with traditional works of art in a huge variety of media, many individual and class/group first, second and third place awards were won.

The Senior Art Group and 3/4MN (both guided by Mr Nicholson) were involved in the community art project, ‘Frugal Forest’. This involved ‘art making’ using salvaged and recycled materials as well as art appreciation of both artworks and the materials being used. The two groups participated in a term long science unit linked to the project, participated in workshops at school and also travelled to the Glasshouse (Port Macquarie) to be involved in art making/appreciation.The Senior Art group entered an ‘abstract art’ competition which was organised in conjunction with Catholic Care for the Aged. Bethany C and Ashley K were successful, and their artworks are to be hung in the foyer of Mount Carmel and Mary Knoll aged care facilities.The Senior Art group also participated in an Aboriginal Reconciliation competition earlier this year. Finalists were, Morrow T, Dean C, Leah C, Jorgie L, Mikaela R, Anna H, Alyssa M and Ashley K.Harley B was awarded a Highly Commended certificate for a “Say No to Bullying” poster competition run by ‘Interrelate’.

As a part of a DEC Arts Unit initiative to broaden the value and experience derived from Schools Spectacular, WPS participated in two new and exciting ‘cultural’ programs. The World’s Biggest Classroom is an exhibition program that displays the work of public school students in public venues in Sydney and promotes the unique outcomes our schools and their local communities have achieved. The magnificent artwork created by Mrs. Julie Best’s (2014) Kindergarten class was submitted in the category of ‘Global Connection and Working Together’. The school will receive the poster created by The Arts Unit to display our school’s contribution, early in 2016.The Spec Connect Program provided rural and regional schools already participating as performers in the Schools Spectacular to be paired and ‘connected’ with urban schools who were also participating. WPS was connected with Cherrybrook PS (Northwest Sydney) and was involved with many live video conferences and rehearsals, sharing through ‘PowerPoint’ presentations, face to face meetings and a combined performance/presentation at a special ‘Spec Connect’ event during Spec Week in Sydney.

Sport

At WPS we provide an extensive range of sporting opportunities. The school community is highly supportive of our endeavours and proud of our achievements. Parents spend many hours transporting students to facilitate the students’ involvement in both team and individual pursuits while teachers attend local PSSA meetings and spend many lunchtimes training the many teams who participate in State PSSA and other competitions throughout the year.School teams participated in the State PSSA Knockout competitions in boys’ and girls’ touch football, rugby league, tennis, girls’ and boys’ soccer, netball and boys’ and girls’ cricket.

Highlights in 2015 included:

Our 2014 WPS boys touch football team 2014 was announced as the Wauchope Rotary Junior Team of the Year.Our girls touch team coached by Mrs Sharon Gowan made it all the way to the North Coast finals in the PSSA knockout competition. Four of our students were awarded age champions at the district Hastings/Camden Haven Athletics Carnival; Ryan B 11 Year Boy, Caden B tied for Junior Boy, Shyleeah O-L tied for Junior Girl and Stella T was Senior Girl Champion.

Individual students trialled for District then Lower North Coast and North Coast team selection in twelve different sports with a number of students making it through to Lower North Coast teams in girls hockey, rugby league, AFL, rugby union, girls soccer and touch. Four students were selected in the Lower North Coast Swimming team and six in the Lower North Coast Cross Country team. 16 students were selected in the Lower North Coast Athletics team with three going on to State.

There were also some outstanding individual achievements.

Ryan B, Kaal W and Eli T represented North Coast at State Athletics in Homebush with Kaal going on to represent NSW at the Nationals in Canberra in the para athlete section. He was 2nd in discus, 4th in 200m and shot put and 6th in 100m. Tallis A was selected in the Under 11’s North Coast rugby league team and he played at the State carnival at Tamworth. Tom F was selected in the Lower North Coast rugby union team.Stella T was selected in the North Coast girls touch football team and played at the State carnival at Parramatta. Izaac B and Lachlan W represented North Coast at the State touch football carnival in Coffs Harbour.The WPS Under 10’s rugby league team represented Hastings Camden Haven area at the All Schools Gala Day at Penrith.

As well as our representative success, all our Stage 2 and 3 students participated in three major school carnivals - swimming, athletics and cross country while K-2 students had a modified cross country and athletics carnival.

Students in Stage 2 and 3 also had the opportunity to participate in:

Ian Schubert 7’s Rugby League Gala Day - two U12’s teams attended. Legends Rugby League Shield (13 -a-side) - U10’s team went to SydneyMilo Cricket Clinics, Jump Rope for Heart, NSW AFL Clinics.

NSW Cricket held workshops at school for Early Stage 1, Stage 1 and Stage 2 throughout 2015.

Water safety program at Wauchope Pool for Sport during Terms 1 and 4. The annual two week intensive learn-to-swim program was conducted in Term 4 for Years 2 to 6.