WARNING, this newsletter is a CFZ (Covid Free Zone). Please refer to recent Compass Alerts for up to date school closure and Covid-19 advice
SCHOOL COUNCIL NEWS
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Hi everyone,
School Council met on Monday May 24th. We were able to meet in person once again, as we did in March. (Still a novelty! And great to be able to discuss face-to-face).
Since our previous meeting in March, new parent councillors have undergone Governance training, and I also had the opportunity to take up training for new SC Presidents, which I found valuable.
On Monday, Council heard from Sue, Ben, Jason and Rozeena about a range of new and ongoing learning initiatives in the classroom, including the Smart Words Program, the Tutor Learning Initiative and the Victorian High Ability Program and others. Sue also shared with us the latest updates on the planned Grade 3-6 camp in Portsea in Term 4 (see below).
From my perspective, the highlight of the meeting was the chance to discuss ideas and plans for strengthening community connections here at AVPS. After the difficulties of 2020 and early 2021, there is a real appetite on Council to support parents, families and community members to get involved at AVPS once again. You can read more about this below.
– Meredith Ross (parent of Anna (U6) and Iona (U2))
SCHOOL COUNCIL ACTIVITIES
CAMP UPDATE
Great News! Following extensive community consultation, some most vigorous behind the scenes negotiations with the camp site manager (thank you Lucy Mackinnon), School Council approval of the funding model and Principal approval of all other finer details, including risk management, the Year 3-6 Portsea Camp will be going ahead in October 2021. Parents/carers of Year 3-6 students will receive a request next week to pay a camp deposit by a certain deadline. As always, families who are Health Care Card Holders OR who are experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to contact the school for assistance. Our strong wish is to avoid non participation in the 2021 camp due to financial hardship.
Here is a summary of the Year 3-6 Portsea Camp details, please save the dates:
VENUE - Portsea Camp, 3704 Point Nepean Road Portsea, Victoria 3944: http://theportseacamp.com.au/
DATE - 13-15 October 2021
TRANSPORT - 57 seat buses
STUDENTS - approx. 140 x Year 3-6 students
STAFF / ADULTS - 13 +
COST - $300-330 -depending on final/confirmed student numbers.
NON REFUNDABLE 10% DEPOSIT - will be collected initially to secure numbers. Noting, the school will be charged 10% in the event of a cancellation.
STUDENT SPONSORSHIP - to be offered to families who are health care card holders, or experiencing severe financial hardship, at a rate to be determined, depending on numbers and funds available.
ANNUAL REPORT COMMUNITY MEETING - INVITATION
Following the endorsement of the AVPS 2020 Annual Report in April, a community meeting will be held on Monday June 21 from 7:00pm in the AVPS Hall to facilitate the following:
Get in quick to avoid disappointment: https://compasstix.com/e/irj6xohx54
PUPIL FREE DAYS
The remaining two School Council approved pupil free days for the 2021 school year, appearing below, were confirmed on Monday 24th May. AVPS delayed the scheduling and approval of these days after taking a 'wait and see' approach to event planning in 2021. Please save these dates on your family calendars, noting alternative arrangements for the care of AVPS students will need to be made by families on these days:
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Improving opportunities for community connections is an important 2021 priority of AVPS. Staff and School Council are working in partnership to improve connections across the school and we are deeply mindful that many of our parents, especially of the younger age group, have not yet had the fortune to experience the full community feel of AVPS due to Covid related restrictions. At the recent meeting, Council discussed and brainstormed a number of ideas and heard about staff plans to increase community connections in the coming weeks and terms. Here is a sample of the plans afoot* to welcome parents and community members back more fully into our school life at AVPS over the coming weeks and terms:
AVPS SCHOOL COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE UPDATE
Playground
AVPS has had to reapply to the Department (DET) to start a new self funded business case application for our planned playground upgrade. For new families, back in 2019 the AVPS community raised close to $40,000 to go towards replacing the existing ‘Big Kids’ playground. Things have been on hold since.
We are pleased to announce that DET has approved the application and it is now sitting with the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) who are now conducting a review of this application. We are hoping this is endorsed soon with the plan of upgrading this playground by the end of this school year.
Learning Studio Roof
We were able to fix most of the water leaks that took place in the Learning Studio (Library/Art/Science space) earlier this year however a section was not repairable. DET have fenced off a section (east side of the building) as a precaution for any slate tiles that may dislodge (unlikely but possible) whilst we are waiting on an outcome on the repairs and planning with DET for the future of the existing roof.
Working Bee
Our team is planning a working Bee in August - more details will be published after our next sub committee meeting. Our focus will be to rejuvenate a garden area (Unit 6 side of Bank St) and build seating for students.
Members of the Buildings and Grounds subcommittee include: Michael Downing (Assistant Principal), Scott Miller (parent of Ludo (U 5)), Richard Moody (parent of Grace - (U 1) and Honor - (U 2)), Ben Kline (Unit 2 -Year 3/4 teacher and AVPS Learning Specialist teacher)
FINANCE COMMITTEE UPDATE
The Finance Committee is a subcommittee of the School Council, whose primary purpose is to oversee the financial activities of the school. Recently it approved the cash budget for 2021, which covers general operating costs (such as classroom tools and equipment), but also additional activities (such as interschool sports and swimming). The Finance Committee also recommends fundraising activities to School Council, which this year includes cupcake stalls, birthday cards, and an art auction. If you have any queries or suggestions, please reach out to any member of the Committee - Treasurer Kate Mohay (parent of Charley (U2) and Locke (U 4)), Nerida Loyd (parent of Ilias (U 2) and Malayeka (U1)) Kylie Moverley (AVPS Business Manager), Rozeena Sen (Unit 6b teacher), Michael Downing (Assistant Principal) and Sue Osborne (Principal).
EDUCATION & POLICY COMMITTEE UPDATE
For the Education & Policy subcommittee, our current focus is to conduct a global assessment of the school’s portfolio of policies and take steps to ensure that all are up to date. There was reduced policy work during 2020 as a result of COVID disruptions but we are creating a policy review work plan for 2021 to include this time period. Members of this committee include: Meredith Ross (parent of Anna (U6) and Iona (U2)), Melinda Morpeth (parent of Harriet (U3) and Beatrix (U2)), Mel Quin (parent of Patrick (U3)) and Jason Simpson (Unit 6b teacher).
OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE (OSHC) COMMITTEE UPDATE
An AVPS School Council OSHC subcommittee has been formed in 2021 to conduct an evaluation of providers for the Outside School Hours Care service at AVPS that is currently being delivered by Camp Australia due to the contract between AVPS and Camp Australia expiring in December 2021. Community users of this service will be invited to provide input into this evaluation in term three 2021. Members of the OSHC subcommittee currently include Sue Osborne (Principal) and Lela Drakulic (parent of Austin (U5)).
Hi everyone,
School Council met on Monday May 24th. We were able to meet in person once again, as we did in March. (Still a novelty! And great to be able to discuss face-to-face).
Since our previous meeting in March, new parent councillors have undergone Governance training, and I also had the opportunity to take up training for new SC Presidents, which I found valuable.
On Monday, Council heard from Sue, Ben, Jason and Rozeena about a range of new and ongoing learning initiatives in the classroom, including the Smart Words Program, the Tutor Learning Initiative and the Victorian High Ability Program and others. Sue also shared with us the latest updates on the planned Grade 3-6 camp in Portsea in Term 4 (see below).
From my perspective, the highlight of the meeting was the chance to discuss ideas and plans for strengthening community connections here at AVPS. After the difficulties of 2020 and early 2021, there is a real appetite on Council to support parents, families and community members to get involved at AVPS once again. You can read more about this below.
– Meredith Ross (parent of Anna (U6) and Iona (U2))
SCHOOL COUNCIL ACTIVITIES
CAMP UPDATE
Great News! Following extensive community consultation, some most vigorous behind the scenes negotiations with the camp site manager (thank you Lucy Mackinnon), School Council approval of the funding model and Principal approval of all other finer details, including risk management, the Year 3-6 Portsea Camp will be going ahead in October 2021. Parents/carers of Year 3-6 students will receive a request next week to pay a camp deposit by a certain deadline. As always, families who are Health Care Card Holders OR who are experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to contact the school for assistance. Our strong wish is to avoid non participation in the 2021 camp due to financial hardship.
Here is a summary of the Year 3-6 Portsea Camp details, please save the dates:
VENUE - Portsea Camp, 3704 Point Nepean Road Portsea, Victoria 3944: http://theportseacamp.com.au/
DATE - 13-15 October 2021
TRANSPORT - 57 seat buses
STUDENTS - approx. 140 x Year 3-6 students
STAFF / ADULTS - 13 +
COST - $300-330 -depending on final/confirmed student numbers.
NON REFUNDABLE 10% DEPOSIT - will be collected initially to secure numbers. Noting, the school will be charged 10% in the event of a cancellation.
STUDENT SPONSORSHIP - to be offered to families who are health care card holders, or experiencing severe financial hardship, at a rate to be determined, depending on numbers and funds available.
ANNUAL REPORT COMMUNITY MEETING - INVITATION
Following the endorsement of the AVPS 2020 Annual Report in April, a community meeting will be held on Monday June 21 from 7:00pm in the AVPS Hall to facilitate the following:
- 2020 Annual Report to be presented and summarised by current AVPS school councillors, outlining achievements of the 2020 school year and plans for current/future improvement.
- Community input into the development of the AVPS eLearning plan and subsequent proposal for student ICT devices for 2022 and beyond.
Get in quick to avoid disappointment: https://compasstix.com/e/irj6xohx54
PUPIL FREE DAYS
The remaining two School Council approved pupil free days for the 2021 school year, appearing below, were confirmed on Monday 24th May. AVPS delayed the scheduling and approval of these days after taking a 'wait and see' approach to event planning in 2021. Please save these dates on your family calendars, noting alternative arrangements for the care of AVPS students will need to be made by families on these days:
- Monday 2nd August - staff professional development day - (week 4 term 3)
- Monday 1st November - report writing day (week 5 term 4- ‘Cup Eve’)
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Improving opportunities for community connections is an important 2021 priority of AVPS. Staff and School Council are working in partnership to improve connections across the school and we are deeply mindful that many of our parents, especially of the younger age group, have not yet had the fortune to experience the full community feel of AVPS due to Covid related restrictions. At the recent meeting, Council discussed and brainstormed a number of ideas and heard about staff plans to increase community connections in the coming weeks and terms. Here is a sample of the plans afoot* to welcome parents and community members back more fully into our school life at AVPS over the coming weeks and terms:
- Parent Reps to be reinstated in the latter part of term 2, with the view to scheduling cupcake stalls, Fresh Fruit Fridays and Special Lunch days.
- Open classroom events in (*tentatively scheduled for Week 9 Term 2) - to be held during the school day to welcome parents/carers inside to see classrooms in action
- Re launch of the classroom helpers program in week 8 term 2 via facilitation of the Parents As Tutors program
- A family curriculum based event in term 3 or 4 - to be held in the evening to cater for parents/carers who are unavailable to visit the school during the days
- Holding outdoor assemblies in term 4, where parents/carers can attend, (noting guidelines to date have prevented this at indoor assemblies)
- Continued use of Class DoJo as a means of connecting parents/carers to the classroom and specialist programs. Staff to share tips and tricks with each other for consistency and improvement purposes.
- Spring Trivia outdoor event
- Identifying ‘event’ champions to reintroduce ‘FUN’raising events. Ideas include: a mini fete, after school stalls, etc (other ideas are welcome)
- Forming links with aged care facilities
AVPS SCHOOL COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE UPDATE
Playground
AVPS has had to reapply to the Department (DET) to start a new self funded business case application for our planned playground upgrade. For new families, back in 2019 the AVPS community raised close to $40,000 to go towards replacing the existing ‘Big Kids’ playground. Things have been on hold since.
We are pleased to announce that DET has approved the application and it is now sitting with the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) who are now conducting a review of this application. We are hoping this is endorsed soon with the plan of upgrading this playground by the end of this school year.
Learning Studio Roof
We were able to fix most of the water leaks that took place in the Learning Studio (Library/Art/Science space) earlier this year however a section was not repairable. DET have fenced off a section (east side of the building) as a precaution for any slate tiles that may dislodge (unlikely but possible) whilst we are waiting on an outcome on the repairs and planning with DET for the future of the existing roof.
Working Bee
Our team is planning a working Bee in August - more details will be published after our next sub committee meeting. Our focus will be to rejuvenate a garden area (Unit 6 side of Bank St) and build seating for students.
Members of the Buildings and Grounds subcommittee include: Michael Downing (Assistant Principal), Scott Miller (parent of Ludo (U 5)), Richard Moody (parent of Grace - (U 1) and Honor - (U 2)), Ben Kline (Unit 2 -Year 3/4 teacher and AVPS Learning Specialist teacher)
FINANCE COMMITTEE UPDATE
The Finance Committee is a subcommittee of the School Council, whose primary purpose is to oversee the financial activities of the school. Recently it approved the cash budget for 2021, which covers general operating costs (such as classroom tools and equipment), but also additional activities (such as interschool sports and swimming). The Finance Committee also recommends fundraising activities to School Council, which this year includes cupcake stalls, birthday cards, and an art auction. If you have any queries or suggestions, please reach out to any member of the Committee - Treasurer Kate Mohay (parent of Charley (U2) and Locke (U 4)), Nerida Loyd (parent of Ilias (U 2) and Malayeka (U1)) Kylie Moverley (AVPS Business Manager), Rozeena Sen (Unit 6b teacher), Michael Downing (Assistant Principal) and Sue Osborne (Principal).
EDUCATION & POLICY COMMITTEE UPDATE
For the Education & Policy subcommittee, our current focus is to conduct a global assessment of the school’s portfolio of policies and take steps to ensure that all are up to date. There was reduced policy work during 2020 as a result of COVID disruptions but we are creating a policy review work plan for 2021 to include this time period. Members of this committee include: Meredith Ross (parent of Anna (U6) and Iona (U2)), Melinda Morpeth (parent of Harriet (U3) and Beatrix (U2)), Mel Quin (parent of Patrick (U3)) and Jason Simpson (Unit 6b teacher).
OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE (OSHC) COMMITTEE UPDATE
An AVPS School Council OSHC subcommittee has been formed in 2021 to conduct an evaluation of providers for the Outside School Hours Care service at AVPS that is currently being delivered by Camp Australia due to the contract between AVPS and Camp Australia expiring in December 2021. Community users of this service will be invited to provide input into this evaluation in term three 2021. Members of the OSHC subcommittee currently include Sue Osborne (Principal) and Lela Drakulic (parent of Austin (U5)).
RECENT HAPPENINGS @ AVPS ..... enjoy our slideshow
FROM THE PRINCIPAL TEAM
STUDENT VOICE TEAM (SVT) 2021
Our Student Voice Team (years 4-6) for 2021 was presented with badges at a recent assembly. Ellen Waters is the teacher leader of the group. Below are a few things the SVT have been working on recently.
Our Student Voice Team (years 4-6) for 2021 was presented with badges at a recent assembly. Ellen Waters is the teacher leader of the group. Below are a few things the SVT have been working on recently.
Little Library - the SVT were instrumental in reopening our outdoor library. A big thank you to Jo who listened to our students, and whilst following DET guidelines (see below), reopened our Little Library last week.
“Schools should consider the necessity of using shared equipment at this time. Such items may include shared computers, class sets of teaching and learning materials, and musical instruments. If used, strict hand hygiene should be followed before and after use. Risk can be further minimised with users wiping down items where appropriate, for example using a disinfectant/detergent wipe or cloth.” DET Operations Guidelines May 25 2021)
Play POD - Due to the above reference from the Operations Guidelines, we have liaised with the SVT and whilst acknowledging the great value of the Play POD, have deemed it as higher risk than the little library and it is not absolutely 'necessary' at this point. It will therefore remain closed until further notice.
Shared equipment / eg footballs - These may be bought to and from school at the time of publishing the newsletter. Again this may change as deemed necessary. We are minimising risks by reminding student about wiping down shared equipment and washing hands regularly.
Implementing Lunchtime Clubs - students are currently being interviewed by SVT members to ascertain interest. We anticipate several lunchtime clubs will start early next term.
RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS
Implementation of this DET mandated Program has started at AVPS. Teachers have recently begun planning and for the second half of this term are implementing activities from the first of eight key learning areas - ‘Emotional Literacy.’ In term 3 our topic is ‘Personal Strengths.’ Our Scope and Sequence for this program is two years. An online whole school forum for parents to attend, ask questions and find out more, is planned for term 3. An invitation for community participation will be shared in due course.
Implementation of this DET mandated Program has started at AVPS. Teachers have recently begun planning and for the second half of this term are implementing activities from the first of eight key learning areas - ‘Emotional Literacy.’ In term 3 our topic is ‘Personal Strengths.’ Our Scope and Sequence for this program is two years. An online whole school forum for parents to attend, ask questions and find out more, is planned for term 3. An invitation for community participation will be shared in due course.
Background information about RR - Respectful Relationships in schools is about tackling family violence.
The Government has invested $42 million over four years to roll out a holistic approach to Respectful Relationships across schools and early childhood services. This approach will support the delivery of respectful relationships education, through the new Victorian Curriculum across all year levels.
The unacceptably high rates of family violence, in particular violence against women and their children, are well documented. We know that cultural change is necessary and that education setting can play an integral role in this. Evidence shows that schools and early childhood services can play a powerful role in changing this story for future generations.
Evidence presented to the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence was clear that school-based prevention is effective to reduce the incidence of family violence. Recommendations handed down by the Royal Commission as part of their report reflect the evidence that school-based efforts are required as a long-term prevention strategy. The Royal Commission into Family Violence specifically recommended the Victorian Government mandate Respectful Relationships into schools and do this using a best practice whole of school approach that was developed and piloted by Our Watch in 19 Victorian schools in 2015-16.
A good education is about more than simply getting good marks. It is about becoming a member of society and succeeding in life – knowing how to build respectful relationships is key to achieving this. The Respectful Relationships program compliments other initiatives including the recent inclusion of Respectful Relationships in the revised Victorian Curriculum, Berry St Trauma Informed Practice, Child Safe Standards, Be You/Mental Health Promotion, Anti-bullying programs, Safe Schools, School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) and will assist schools in achieving their goals from their Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) through the FISO framework.
Whole of school approach
Research in the area of health and wellbeing programs across a range of areas highlights the need for a whole school approach to respectful relationships. Efforts are needed at multiple levels in order to achieve positive and sustained cultural change. A whole school approach means providing students with broad exposure to key messages across the curriculum, policies and practices of the school. The Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships learning materials have been designed for teachers in primary and secondary schools to develop students’ social, emotional and positive relationship skills
DET Links to Curriculum https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/capabilities/personal/Pages/respectfulrel.aspx
The Government has invested $42 million over four years to roll out a holistic approach to Respectful Relationships across schools and early childhood services. This approach will support the delivery of respectful relationships education, through the new Victorian Curriculum across all year levels.
The unacceptably high rates of family violence, in particular violence against women and their children, are well documented. We know that cultural change is necessary and that education setting can play an integral role in this. Evidence shows that schools and early childhood services can play a powerful role in changing this story for future generations.
Evidence presented to the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence was clear that school-based prevention is effective to reduce the incidence of family violence. Recommendations handed down by the Royal Commission as part of their report reflect the evidence that school-based efforts are required as a long-term prevention strategy. The Royal Commission into Family Violence specifically recommended the Victorian Government mandate Respectful Relationships into schools and do this using a best practice whole of school approach that was developed and piloted by Our Watch in 19 Victorian schools in 2015-16.
A good education is about more than simply getting good marks. It is about becoming a member of society and succeeding in life – knowing how to build respectful relationships is key to achieving this. The Respectful Relationships program compliments other initiatives including the recent inclusion of Respectful Relationships in the revised Victorian Curriculum, Berry St Trauma Informed Practice, Child Safe Standards, Be You/Mental Health Promotion, Anti-bullying programs, Safe Schools, School Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) and will assist schools in achieving their goals from their Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) through the FISO framework.
Whole of school approach
Research in the area of health and wellbeing programs across a range of areas highlights the need for a whole school approach to respectful relationships. Efforts are needed at multiple levels in order to achieve positive and sustained cultural change. A whole school approach means providing students with broad exposure to key messages across the curriculum, policies and practices of the school. The Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships learning materials have been designed for teachers in primary and secondary schools to develop students’ social, emotional and positive relationship skills
DET Links to Curriculum https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/capabilities/personal/Pages/respectfulrel.aspx
REPORTS & PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS
Reports - published on Compass on Thursday 24th June. Your child’s progress and achievement at Ascot Vale Primary School will be assessed using a 5 point scale ‘Well Above Standard’ to ‘Well Below Standard’. These ratings have a specific meaning that is consistent in all Victorian schools. It is also essential to refer to the written comments on progress and achievement, to get a clear picture of your child’s progress against the standards. We have introduced a new comment box this semester about your child’s social and emotional development - separated from progress and achievement in the key learning areas. We wish to emphasise that while the reports should provide a very clear picture of your child’s learning progress, they are not the only indicator.
Interviews - We will also continue to have mid-year Parent Teacher Interviews, as well as mid-semester reports (March and September). Details and invitations to the interviews will be communicated directly to you via Compass in the coming weeks.
Added to this, regular contact with classroom teachers, that involves the ongoing sharing of information should and will continue to be strengthened. Please contact your child’s classroom teacher at any time to arrange a mutually suitable time to discuss the progress of your child. Appointments are necessary.
ATTENDANCE - specifically punctuality
Reports - published on Compass on Thursday 24th June. Your child’s progress and achievement at Ascot Vale Primary School will be assessed using a 5 point scale ‘Well Above Standard’ to ‘Well Below Standard’. These ratings have a specific meaning that is consistent in all Victorian schools. It is also essential to refer to the written comments on progress and achievement, to get a clear picture of your child’s progress against the standards. We have introduced a new comment box this semester about your child’s social and emotional development - separated from progress and achievement in the key learning areas. We wish to emphasise that while the reports should provide a very clear picture of your child’s learning progress, they are not the only indicator.
Interviews - We will also continue to have mid-year Parent Teacher Interviews, as well as mid-semester reports (March and September). Details and invitations to the interviews will be communicated directly to you via Compass in the coming weeks.
Added to this, regular contact with classroom teachers, that involves the ongoing sharing of information should and will continue to be strengthened. Please contact your child’s classroom teacher at any time to arrange a mutually suitable time to discuss the progress of your child. Appointments are necessary.
ATTENDANCE - specifically punctuality
Over the past few weeks, Michael has communicated with you via COMPASS, some attendance data and tips to ensure all students that are well, attend school. In this week’s newsletter we would like to share with you some data focusing on punctuality - specifically the number of students late to school. Whilst we are talking about data, it needs to be clarified that our overall school attendance data is quite good compared to similar schools and across the state in general. Attendance is not a targeted improvement focus. That said, we think it's important to remind parents that it is important that students attend school regularly, and to be on time.
Our punctuality data though is a concern. The impact that regularly being late to school has on students (eg patterns for the future, missing key learning, disruptions to learning) and teachers (disruptions to morning session) is profound. We would like this data to improve to minimise impact on the classroom, students and staff.
Our punctuality data though is a concern. The impact that regularly being late to school has on students (eg patterns for the future, missing key learning, disruptions to learning) and teachers (disruptions to morning session) is profound. We would like this data to improve to minimise impact on the classroom, students and staff.
Total number of days of student absences per week AVPS 2021
*short week / 4 days counted
. |
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Week 1 |
- |
35 |
Week 2 |
30 |
53 |
Week 3 |
34 |
56 |
Week 4 |
42 |
37 * |
Week 5 |
45 |
44 |
Week 6 |
55 |
. |
Week 7 |
41 * |
. |
Week 8 |
47 |
. |
Week 9 |
45 |
. |
Week 10 |
51 * |
. |
Kind Regards and stay well
Sue Osborne & Michael Downing
AVPS Principal Team
Sue Osborne & Michael Downing
AVPS Principal Team
CHILD SAFETY NEWS
I would like to draw your attention to the updated AVPS Child Safe Safety Standards. These standards are mandated by the Federal Govt. to be implemented in all schools. Please refer to the AVPS Child Safety webpage (click link) that contains links to the 7 AVPS Child Safe Standards.
Staff are currently focusing on Standard 7:
“staff are equipped with the knowledge, skills & awareness to keep children safe through education & training”
Staff recently spent a Professional Learning meeting discussing healthy & safe relationships, which will become embedded in the curriculum after training has been completed. AVPS has a staff Wellbeing team which is dedicated to the care of students.
Margaret Blair Gannon - AVPS Child Safety Officer
I would like to draw your attention to the updated AVPS Child Safe Safety Standards. These standards are mandated by the Federal Govt. to be implemented in all schools. Please refer to the AVPS Child Safety webpage (click link) that contains links to the 7 AVPS Child Safe Standards.
Staff are currently focusing on Standard 7:
“staff are equipped with the knowledge, skills & awareness to keep children safe through education & training”
Staff recently spent a Professional Learning meeting discussing healthy & safe relationships, which will become embedded in the curriculum after training has been completed. AVPS has a staff Wellbeing team which is dedicated to the care of students.
Margaret Blair Gannon - AVPS Child Safety Officer
GETTING TO KNOW TWO OF OUR NEW TEACHERS
Anne- Louise Farren - Tutor
|
Ian Simmonds - Tutor
|
What is your favourite colour? Too many! But my favourite way to say yellow is in Italian - Giallo! What is your favourite food? My mother-in-law's homemade Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. What is your favourite book? The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. What do you do for fun? I love to see local bands perform. Recently, I had a lot of fun watching my 17-year-old son, Frank, play drums with his band at a venue in Sydney Rd. Frank started playing drums in the MVIMP program at MPW Primary School - big shout out to Anthony! Tell me how you first got involved with teaching/tutoring. A friend told me about the Tutor in School Program. It's a wonderful initiative by the Victorian State Government to help students with their learning after the very unusual year we all had in 2020. Has anything surprised you about AVPS? Witnessing all the work teachers do! What are you looking forward to being a tutor at AVPS? Supporting all the wonderful teaching and learning in the classrooms I visit. What might we be surprised to know about you? I love the Beatles and my dog's name is Ringo. If you weren’t teaching what would you be doing? Either volunteering at the Heide Museum of Modern Art or making my way around Lake Como in a giallo convertible. |
What is your favourite colour? My favourite colour is red. Although being a massive Melbourne Storm fan, I sometimes say it's purple. What is your favourite food? It has to be pizza. It’s so versatile and caters for a range of flavours through multiple toppings. What is your favourite book? My favourite book as a child was Lord of the Rings and is one of the only books that I’ve read multiple times. As an adult I’ve been an avid reader and try to read everyday. I read everything from non-fiction to fiction. A couple of authors that have stood out lately for me are Jane Harper (The Dry, The Survivors, Force of Nature and The Lost Man) and Sally Rooney (Normal People, Conversations with Friends). What do you do for fun? I’ve recently had my first child and so most of my time is taken up chasing my toddler around the house trying to make sure he doesn’t hurt himself. When I do get a few moments to myself, I like to run, play piano, play video games, watch sport and cook new recipes. Has anything surprised you about AVPS? I’ve really loved how at home everyone has made me feel since I’ve arrived. Starting any new job can be a very stressful time but I haven’t experienced that here. Tell me how you first got involved with teaching. Well, firstly teaching is my second career. I spent the first 20 years of my working life in the financial services industry in a variety of roles. However, I’ve always wanted to teach and just needed to find the motivation to retrain. Sadly, in 2012 my favourite childhood primary school teacher passed away in a coach accident in France that made global news. This provided me with the impetus to start working towards completing my Masters of Teaching and working as a Primary School Teacher. What has surprised you most about working as a teacher/tutor? The difference I can make to one child’s life and also the number of child’s lives I can affect through my role as primary school teacher over my career. I also feel I learn as much from my students as they do from me. What might we be surprised to know about you? I’ve completed three Melbourne Marathons to date and I dream about becoming a Melbourne Marathon Spartan and completing 10. I also eat the same thing for breakfast every morning. If you weren’t teaching what would you be doing? I’d love to be a pro-video gamer or a video game tester (I was briefly on a voluntary basis). Failing that, my partner has asked me multiple times to be her practice manager (she is a doctor) which I’ve so far resisted. |
Lost Property
Thank you to Maria Scarpaci (Education Support Staff Member) for managing AVPS Lost Property.
Please visit the AVPS Lost Property Storage area located indoors, between units 2 and 3 to be reunited with the following items and more.
Thank you to Maria Scarpaci (Education Support Staff Member) for managing AVPS Lost Property.
Please visit the AVPS Lost Property Storage area located indoors, between units 2 and 3 to be reunited with the following items and more.
REMINDERS
BEING ON TIME at 9
Being late to school impacts the child, the teacher and the class, not to mention sets bad habits that in some cases can be hard to break. If punctuality patterns for individual students occur, we will seek individual meetings with families, and together developing attendance improvements plans. Please ensure your child is at school on time. DET Every Day Counts - http://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/school/principals/participation/everydaycountsprimparent.pdf
STUDENT MEDICAL INFORMATION
Medical documentation is important to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all of our students. From time to time it is necessary to update student medical and home contact information. If this is the case we ask you to come to the office or write to us to alert us of any change.
ASTHMA CARE/MANAGEMENT PLANS
The Asthma Care/Management Plan tells the school how to manage your child’s asthma and what to do if their asthma gets worse. This should be updated and signed by the doctor on an annual basis. Please forward these to your classroom teachers as soon as possible. A reminder was sent home yesterday. Thank you to the parents who have already presented these.
Asthma Checklist for parents
1. Does your child have an up to date Asthma Action Plan (Asthma Care Plan)?
2. Does your child carry their reliever puffer and spacer with them at all times? Or is it readily available to their Carers?
3. Are you and your child aware of their asthma triggers?
4. Do you listen to what your child says?
5. Does your child take their asthma medication correctly
BEING ON TIME at 9
Being late to school impacts the child, the teacher and the class, not to mention sets bad habits that in some cases can be hard to break. If punctuality patterns for individual students occur, we will seek individual meetings with families, and together developing attendance improvements plans. Please ensure your child is at school on time. DET Every Day Counts - http://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/school/principals/participation/everydaycountsprimparent.pdf
STUDENT MEDICAL INFORMATION
Medical documentation is important to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all of our students. From time to time it is necessary to update student medical and home contact information. If this is the case we ask you to come to the office or write to us to alert us of any change.
ASTHMA CARE/MANAGEMENT PLANS
The Asthma Care/Management Plan tells the school how to manage your child’s asthma and what to do if their asthma gets worse. This should be updated and signed by the doctor on an annual basis. Please forward these to your classroom teachers as soon as possible. A reminder was sent home yesterday. Thank you to the parents who have already presented these.
Asthma Checklist for parents
1. Does your child have an up to date Asthma Action Plan (Asthma Care Plan)?
2. Does your child carry their reliever puffer and spacer with them at all times? Or is it readily available to their Carers?
3. Are you and your child aware of their asthma triggers?
4. Do you listen to what your child says?
5. Does your child take their asthma medication correctly
PARKING REMINDER – DROP OFF ZONES
Parents/visitors are reminded to please follow the Moonee Valley City Council’s (MVCC) rules and regulations pertaining to parking and the drop off zone near our school. Some parents/visitors have been observed leaving their cars in the drop off zones, which impacts the efficiency of the drop off system and deems drivers at risk of being fined. MVCC parking officers regularly monitor these zones and issue fines for breaches of the rules. To ensure the zones work effectively, drivers should:
NEW UNIFORM SALES
Online uniform sales arrangements will continue in 2021.
Please be reminded that school uniform is not compulsory at AVPS but is available as a practical and attractive choice. This is available from Primary School Wear (PSW) who have been unable to operate a uniform shop at the school as usual twice per month, due to Covid-19. Instead, orders can be placed on-line ( www.psw.com.au ) for home delivery.
PRE-LOVED SCHOOL UNIFORM
A second hand uniform option is also available. This is run by a parent volunteer, Nicole, who can be contacted on 0417 522 761.
Parents/visitors are reminded to please follow the Moonee Valley City Council’s (MVCC) rules and regulations pertaining to parking and the drop off zone near our school. Some parents/visitors have been observed leaving their cars in the drop off zones, which impacts the efficiency of the drop off system and deems drivers at risk of being fined. MVCC parking officers regularly monitor these zones and issue fines for breaches of the rules. To ensure the zones work effectively, drivers should:
- remain in your vehicle at all times
- move forward to join the queue so that other cars can move into the zone
- use the handbrake when the vehicle is stationary
- not double park
- not park across a pedestrian crossing or driveway
- not undertake a U-turn in close proximity to the school
NEW UNIFORM SALES
Online uniform sales arrangements will continue in 2021.
Please be reminded that school uniform is not compulsory at AVPS but is available as a practical and attractive choice. This is available from Primary School Wear (PSW) who have been unable to operate a uniform shop at the school as usual twice per month, due to Covid-19. Instead, orders can be placed on-line ( www.psw.com.au ) for home delivery.
PRE-LOVED SCHOOL UNIFORM
A second hand uniform option is also available. This is run by a parent volunteer, Nicole, who can be contacted on 0417 522 761.
KEY DATES
Term 2, 2021
Fri 11th June- Yr 5/6 Winter Interschool Sport Gala Day
Mon 14th June - Queen's Birthday Public Holiday - SCHOOL CLOSED
Fri 18th June - Yr 5/6 Winter Interschool Sport Gala Day
Mon 21st June - Year 3-6 Athletics Carnival - save the date
Mon 21st June - Annual Report & eLearning Community Meeting 7:00pm in Hall - Numbers limited - bookings essential - available here: https://compasstix.com/e/irj6xohx54
Fri 25th June - Last Day Term 2 - Early Finish 2:30pm
Term 3, 2021
Mon 12th July - First Day - Term 3 - See you On Time at Nine
Victorian School Term Dates Click button below:
Term 2, 2021
Fri 11th June- Yr 5/6 Winter Interschool Sport Gala Day
Mon 14th June - Queen's Birthday Public Holiday - SCHOOL CLOSED
Fri 18th June - Yr 5/6 Winter Interschool Sport Gala Day
Mon 21st June - Year 3-6 Athletics Carnival - save the date
Mon 21st June - Annual Report & eLearning Community Meeting 7:00pm in Hall - Numbers limited - bookings essential - available here: https://compasstix.com/e/irj6xohx54
Fri 25th June - Last Day Term 2 - Early Finish 2:30pm
Term 3, 2021
Mon 12th July - First Day - Term 3 - See you On Time at Nine
Victorian School Term Dates Click button below:
Pupil Free Days 2021
Please make alternative arrangements for the care of your child or children on the following dates, as students are not required to attend school on Pupil Free Days.
Please make alternative arrangements for the care of your child or children on the following dates, as students are not required to attend school on Pupil Free Days.
Pupil Free Days 2021 |
TERM 1 Wed 27th Jan - Staff Dev Thu 28th Jan - Staff Dev NB, FIRST DAY for: Years 1-6 is Fri 29th Jan Years Prep is Mon 1st Feb |
TERM 2 - NIL |
TERM 3 Mon 2nd Aug - Staff Dev |
TERM 4 Mon 1 Nov - Report Writing |
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Please click on the heading above to access important reminders for AVPS parents and /or guardians, which are updated fortnightly.
OPTIONAL/ EXTRA CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES @AVPS
Please click on the heading above to discover how your child / children can become involved in extra curricular programs at AVPS.
Please click on the heading above to access important reminders for AVPS parents and /or guardians, which are updated fortnightly.
OPTIONAL/ EXTRA CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES @AVPS
Please click on the heading above to discover how your child / children can become involved in extra curricular programs at AVPS.
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
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OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE (OSHC)
How to get started before using our programs you must register online for an account. Registering is quick and easy. Visit our website to begin www.campaustralia.com.au
Once registered you can make bookings and cancellations, view your statements and manage your details anytime of the day online. Keep in mind we are able to take bookings at short notice to help busy families.
Save on Care. You can save 50% or more on Before and After School Care fees with the non-means tested Child Care Rebate. Almost all families are eligible. To find out more, call our Customer Service Team on 1300 105 343 Monday to Friday
Once registered you can make bookings and cancellations, view your statements and manage your details anytime of the day online. Keep in mind we are able to take bookings at short notice to help busy families.
Save on Care. You can save 50% or more on Before and After School Care fees with the non-means tested Child Care Rebate. Almost all families are eligible. To find out more, call our Customer Service Team on 1300 105 343 Monday to Friday
Please access files below to view the OSHC fortnightly report and/or the Camp Australia Holiday Program.
Dee and the OSHC team
Dee and the OSHC team
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