​ASCOT NEWS
September 1  2023, Term 3 Issue 2

Ascot Vale Primary School
‘Unique Learning Community’
Where we value:
RESPECT      RESPONSIBILITY      EXCELLENCE      EMPATHY      GRATITUDE
"Hands up, hands down. We are on Wurundjeri land."

Best Book Week Ever!

Father's Day Breakfast Celebrations
Please click on the headings below to discover more. 
REMINDER: You can change the language at the top left hand corner of the webpage
FROM THE PRINCIPAL TEAM 
Dear Parents, Carers, Staff, and Students,

Term three has continued to provide opportunities for much celebration at AVPS  in 2023. 

Congratulations to Lucy Mackinnon, DJ Sensei (Andrew Truong) and the SRC students for organising the Best Book Week Parade ever, as described by Lucy at the conclusion of the event on Thursday 24th August. The effort and creativity that went into student and staff costumes was most noticeable. It was also great to see some parents and preschoolers getting into the book week spirit. All in all, it was a great way to celebrate and promote the positive power of all things 'books and literacy'. Well done to everyone. Enjoy the photos in the Book Week tab below.

The festive atmosphere continued into our Father’s Day Breakfast, where a large bunch of dads and family members gathered to enjoy coffee, pastries, each other’s company and that of their children. Our appreciation extends to our dedicated Parent Reps for organising this event, to the volunteers whose contributions made it all possible and to community members for donating hamper items. Special mention to Angus from unit 2 for most capably hosting the hamper draw.  Well done. See photos in the tab below. 

We look forward to term four events including a Mega BBQ and Bake Sale on Referendum Day, Saturday 14th October AND the much anticipated disco themed Trivia Night for parents on Friday 10th November 2023. Please save these dates and watch out for more information about these and more in term four. 

As this is our final newsletter for term three, we wish our community an enjoyable September break when the holidays arrive. Our last day of term three is Friday 15th September, with the early finish time of 2:30pm, and term four begins on Monday 2nd October. 
​
Kind regards,
​From the Principal Team
Sue & Michael 
Picture
Sue Osborne, Principal
Picture
Michael Downing, Assistant Principal
KEY DATES & EVENTS 
Please access our AVPS Key Dates & Events page AT THIS LINK.
BOOK WEEK 
father's day celebrations
LOST PROPERTY
We encourage parents and carers to check the lost property collection (that has built up to epic proportions of late!)
This is ususally located in the Unit 2 - 3 bag area. Items will also be on display thorugout the day on a table outside in the lead up to the end of term.
​Items will be donated over the holidays if they are not claimed. 
community connections
Please access the headings below for 'Community Connections' news
​​​SCHOOL COUNCIL NEWS
Road and Pedestrian Safety 
Following recent reports about dangerous driving and parking behaviour on Moonee and Bank Streets from several community members, this issue has been raised at both of the term three School Council meetings. 

The School Council has resolved to bring this matter to the attention of Moonee Valley City Council which usually results in the presence of parking officers on Bank and Moonee Streets to observe and penalise drivers found to be in violation of traffic regulations. 

Concerned community members are also encouraged to contact the local council, seeking their support to help keep our school community safe. 
More information about road and pedestrian safety can be found at the tab below in the ‘REMINDERS’ section of this newsletter. 



Education and Policy Update
The Education and Policy team recently reviewed the Department of Education’s  Respectful Behaviours within the School Community Policy and wish to share the following information with our community. 

When parents, carers and school staff work together as one team, our students do better. Everyone at school, particularly staff and parents/carers, play a role in making school a better place for learning and work.

Parents, carers and school staff have a relationship that can last many years. This is an opportunity to work together to create a positive relationship in the best interests of your child. When this relationship is built on respect and trust, students learn better and feel like they belong in the school.

Every member of our school community has a right to feel safe and be protected.

The department’s Respectful Behaviours within the School Community Policy describes the positive behaviour expected from parents, carers, and other adults in Victorian school communities. The policy sets clear standards of behaviour to create a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for students, staff and adults.

There are also resources to support safe and respectful relationships in our school community, including information about getting involved in the school, advice on how to raise a concern or complaint, and parenting support resources. You can find the policy and these resources here.
You may also see a  new poster up around our school, promoting positive behaviour.

We have also recently updated our Statement of Values and Philosophy which outlines the values for all of our school community.



Inclusion Update
AVPS Inclusion Leader, Jamie Saggers, provided an update at the August School Council meeting on her role and the activities that have flowed from AVPS having received significant Inclusion funding in 2023. Highlights include: 
  • Staff professional learning in Semester 1, focusing on developing and improving upon inclusive learning practices in classrooms. Inclusive education means that all members of our school community are valued and supported to fully participate, learn, develop and succeed within an inclusive school culture. Our aim is to provide a safe and inclusive school environment for students with disabilities and additional needs.
  • Connecting with an Inclusion Outreach Coach through the Department of Education to support staff to understand, establish and embed inclusive adjustments within our classrooms.  
  • Identification and implementation of physical adjustments to support inclusive education. For example, purchasing wobble stools, noise cancelling headphones, fidgets, sensory tools and supports.
  • Purchase of inclusive resources, including age appropriate picture books and novels to recognise and celebrate neurodivergent learners.
  • Planning for the ‘I Can Imagination Club’ to be implemented in Term 4. 
  • Streamlining school documentation to meet departmental requirements. 
  • Promoting and celebrating student voice and agency in the development of Individual Education Plans – the learner is at the centre of all that we do.
  • Introduction of Lunchtime Clubs that provide all students a greater choice of inclusive activities during break times.
  • Opening of the Learning Studio at recess and lunchtime, creating an indoor passive space with activities for students to regulate and connect.
  • Establishing consistent Tier 1 (accessible for all students) strategies across the school, including, but not limited to visual schedules, movement breaks, timers, social stories, flexible seating options.
As a school, we have already achieved so much in our first year of the Disability Inclusion reform. We are excited to continue celebrating our diverse learners and improving our school practices in the Inclusion space. Term 4 promises to be another busy term, with further purchases and professional learning. We are already setting our sights on the plans for 2024. Watch this space! 

Writing Update
Jason Simpson, our ‘Learning’ Leader, updated council about the 2023 focus on Writing. Highlights include: 
  • Staff Professional Learning with Moonee Ponds PS early in term 1, facilitated by Misty Adoniou (Adjunct Associate Professor, Education, from the University of Canberra). 
  • A strong focus on the importance of Mentor Texts, and subsequent teaching practices, stemming from the Misty Adoniou Professional Learning. 
  • Resourcing of prescribed Mentor Texts for teaching teams to access and implement in their classroom literacy programs. See image below. 
  • Writing goals established by all teachers to improve instructional practices across the school.
​
PARENT REP NEWS
SPECIAL LUNCH DAYS
Term 3 
The AVPS Parent Reps will be running a 'PIE' LUNCH DAY  in the last week of term 3.
This day will also be a Sports Colours Day, where all students are encouraged to wear their team colours from any sport or code.

DETAILS:
WHEN – TUESDAY  12TH September  
ORDERS – Via Compass Tix at this link: https://compasstix.com/e/oge140cvva  or approach the office to place an order.
ORDERS CLOSE: Friday 8th September  Midday.
MENU – Steak, Party & Gluten Free pies as well as Sausage Rolls and Cheese & Spinach Rolls (from Tony’s Pies and Ferguson Plarre)
TO ORDER – Click on ‘Book Now’ on the link above. 
INGREDIENTS – click on ‘show information’ for dietary details.
SPECIAL REQUEST – please place one order per child/person

REFERENDUM DAY BBQ & CAKE STALL
Saturday 14th October 
AVPS will be running a Mega BBQ and Bake Sale on the day of the Referendum.
Please save this date (above) and sign up to help here:  https://signup.zone/E4z6wPcqtAwaKNhsa 

FLEMINGTON FARMERS' MARKET (FFM) 
SAVE THE (AVPS FFM) DATES:
Term 3
Week 9 - 10th September - U 2/3 
 
Term 4
TBC 
Thank you to parents and carers who have done a great job producing baked goods and running FFM stalls to date.  Enjoy the pics at the bottom of this section. 


FRESH FRUIT FRIDAY (FFF)
Thank you to the volunteers who have helped to prepare fruit platters on Fridays to date. The children enjoy sharing a healthy snack together and seeing their parents at school helping to prepare and deliver platters. 
​
Term 3  FFF DATES
U 6/ 1 - Week 9 - 8th Sep
U 4 / 5 - Wk 10- 15th Sep
Term 4  FFF DATES
U 2/3 - Week 1- 6th Oct
U 6/1 -Week 2 -13th Oct
U 4 / 5 - Wk 3 - 20th Oct
U 2 / 3 - Wk 4 - 27th Oct
U 6/1 - Week 5 - 3rd Nov
U 4 / 5 - Wk 6 -  10th Nov
U 2 / 3 - Wk 7 - 17th Nov
U 6/ 1 - Wk 8 - 24th Nov
U 4 / 5 - Wk 9 - 1st Dec
U 2 / 3 - Wk 10 - 8th Dec
U 6/1 - Wk 11 - 15th Dec


TRIVIA NIGHT 2023
Following the tremendous success of the 2022 Hawaiian AVPS Trivia Night, a Disco Trivia event will take place on  Friday 10th November, 2023.
This will be an adult only event held in the Hall at AVPS.
Save the date, start researching your disco outfit and organising tables of 10 now.
Tickets will be go on sale in term 4.  

​
2023 Parent Reps
Thank you to the following volunteers who will share the Parent Rep roles in 2023.
The next meeting will be held  on online on Wednesday 6th September.
UNIT 1 PARENT REPS
Kirsten Deruddere
Jemima Flego
​Andrea Benyi
​UNIT 2 PARENT REPS
​Claire Topliss
Hazel Grunwaldt
Katie Roberts​
​UNIT 3 PARENT REPS
Benita Champion
Emily Webster
Jennifer Wallace
​UNIT 4 PARENT REPS
Katherine McConnell
Volunteer Needed



​
​UNIT 5 PARENT REPS
​Erin Katsavos
Tanya Anderson
Jenelle Dandris
Danielle McKeown
​Shelley Smith
​UNIT 6 PARENT REPS
Volunteer Needed
​​


​
Farmers' Market 2023
src news
During term 3, the SRC has been working hard at starting up the Courtyard Clubs, the book week assembly and ‘R  U OK’ Day promotion. During our most recent meeting we made some posters for national ‘are you okay day’ which is on the 14th of September. Last term the SRCs raised $1000 on Pyjama Day for the charity Camp Quality. It was very fun and the units who raised the most money were Unit 1, 2 and 3.
Thanks!
Zara
SPORT & PE NEWS
Hello AVPS families! It’s been an wonderful term of physical activity and team building in our PE classes. From the exciting touch rugby drills and games, where students showcased their agility and coordination, to the intense stretch of hockey that highlighted their strategic thinking and teamwork, and finally, the fast paced basketball games that have pushed their endurance and hand-eye coordination. It has been lots of fun instructing and witnessing them in these sports.
 
It has been another big term of sporting events. With the distract athletics competition on the 28th of July. I was extremely proud of all students who attended and had a go at their event. As a school we had lots of success, finishing 4th overall and with some students being invited to the Division level. Congratulations to all our students and a big thank you to the parent helpers. Currently students are training for the District Basketball competition (happening on 01/09). David Butters, a parent volunteer, has been meeting with the teams every Friday for the weeks leading up to the comp, providing them training and helping them to work as a team; thank you David. I am looking forward to attending and reporting back on the event!
 
Thank you 😊
 
 
Emily Walker
PE Coordinator and Classroom Teacher 

Picture
Emily Walker - PE Teacher 3 days p/w. Unit 6a Teacher 2 days p/w



​Please enjoy pics below of our athletics carnival taken by Ellen Waters
environment team news
​As Winter is drawing to a close the Environment Team is thinking ahead to what we can plant for spring (Doug has lots of seeds!). With the upcoming Working Bee (see details on Class Dojo) the team will be looking over our planter boxes/gardens and sowing seeds in preparation. We are looking forward to getting involved and brightening up the AVPS yard. Hope to see you at the Working Bee. Happy spring from the Environment Team.
MUSIC NEWS
Click headings below for 'Music' news. 
mvimp - mOONEE VALE INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM
 MVIMP Term 3 News 1st September 2023

MVIMP has been humming along nicely, with regular lessons and band rehearsals happening. This year we have tried hard to include regular performances at our assemblies, and it has been terrific. This has been a showcase for the whole school to see just how talented our students are. It has also been a chance for our students in Years P/1 and 2 to see some of the different musical instruments on offer and don’t forget that our Year 2s can sign up for MVIMP next year when they are in Year 3.
 
Next term is going to be a busy. All MVIMP students will perform at the annual MVIMP Combined Concert. This is to be held on Thursday November 9th at Moonee Valley. There will be more information coming home early next term. We are excited!
 
Thanks,
Amanda and Jason
 


​
MVIMP Term 3 News 28th July 2023
This term the MVIMP program started with a BANG.  Week one saw some lucky students visiting the Urban Camp in Parkville and what a success it was. Our musicians had a fine time practising their skills for three days with the help of the Music Tutors. This culminated in a concert on the Thursday night and many parents and teachers were entertained with some fine playing. A HUGE thankyou to Jason who spent 3 nights at camp, supervising and entertaining the crew.
 
Week 2 was a big one too. Our Soiree took place in the Hall and it was so impressive. Many parents were blown away. Every MVIMP student played, there were nerves but it went off with a hitch. Well done to everyone who performed.
 
Please keep an eye out on our School Dojo Page for any changes to lesson times. We try our best to keep you up to date.
 
Thanks,
Amanda and Jason
 
Picture
Percussion Fun Term 2 2023
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Violinists Term 1 2023
Please find the latest MVIMP Family Handbook in the file below. 
mvimp_family_handbook_2023.pdf
File Size: 619 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File
Please take a look below to confirm the day that your child has their lesson.
 Monday
  • Percussion          
  • Brass                     
  • Saxophone        
Wednesday
  • Violin                    
  • Cello                     
Thursday
  • Clarinet/Flute      
  • Band                      
 
Don’t forget that BAND is on a Thursday afternoon at 2.30pm.
PIANO - LAMPLIGHT MUSIC
Private piano lessons are available on request, vacancies permitting. 
The company providing this service is Lamplight Music. 
​Director:  Joshua Cowie
PH 0413 884 067 Email:  [email protected] 
NB There are currently no vacancies. 
Please contact Joshua to be placed on the waiting list.
P-2 CLASSROOM MUSIC WITH KATHERINE
September Music News
In the second half of term 3, Prep-2 classes are building on the work they have done playing rhythm sticks to use everyday items as percussion instruments – such as paper plates and pencils. Students are using these items to play rhythmic patterns to music in a range of styles – from classical and folk music to popular songs and soundtracks. All classes have been introduced to the new notes C, D and E on recorder and most recently explored playing ‘Happy Birthday’.
 
Katherine Anderson 



July Music News

​Prep-2 classes have the started the term by learning about the note ‘C’ on recorder and using it in a range of songs. Students are also exploring ways to play rhythm sticks by learning patterns to go with music of different styles, including ‘Octopus’ Garden’ by the Beatles, ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’ and ‘Friend Like Me’ from ‘Aladdin’. 

​​Katherine Anderson

​June Music News

​Students in all Prep-2 classes are enjoying working together on a range of class and small group activities to develop recorder skills. We have explored the notes B, A and G then played a range of songs including 'Hot Cross Buns' and 'Au Clair de Lune'. All classes have explored beat, rhythm, tempo and pitch through movement and body percussion activities related to themes such as Easter, Mario Brothers and Star Wars (May the 4th be with you!).

I have enjoyed helping students develop persistence, resilience, creativity and teamwork through all these activities!

​Katherine Anderson
DRAMA nEWS
Year 3-6 Drama News -September 1  2023
The past two weeks have seen the hall turned into a world of fractured fairytales. We have seen Goldilocks and the Three Aardvarks, Jack and the Big Fib and Cinder…really? To name a few of the plays. For the past three-week students have been diligently rehearsing their fractured fairytales and their hard work has resulted in amazing plays that have left the audience begging for more. It has been fantastic to watch students’ confidence grow as their artistic side comes out. They are taking more risks with their facial features and voice projections, and it is amazing to see them bring their characters to life. Well done 3-6s, you should all be proud of yourselves! 
 

Britt Stephenson 
AVPS Drama Teacher - Wednesdays and Thursdays
Picture
Britt Stephenson - AVPS Drama Teacher
Drama News -June 22, 2023

The 3-6 students of AVPS have embraced Drama with a passion that can only be described as fierce. The first five to ten minutes of each session students engage in interpretive dance that quickly escalates into intense dance battles. It is fantastic to see each student getting involved and letting their creative side out. Then we move onto short improvisations and drama games. The last few weeks we have been working on short two-minute performances that the students have done in small groups. It was great to see how the individual groups changed the scripts to suit their personalities.  

I asked some of the 5/6s to describe Drama so far and their comments were:
“fun” “Extravagant” “Good for our wellbeing” “Fascinating and very dramatic”

It will be exciting to see how drama evolves over the next two terms! Have a great holidays and remember to practise your moves for the dance battles when you all come back!

Britt Stephenson 
AVPS Drama Teacher - Wednesdays and Thursdays

Enjoy these pics from Drama term 2:
​
Drama News 19th May 2023 
​
Confirmation of the Fourth Specialist Programs at AVPS
Following the implementation of the 2022 Victorian Government Schools Agreement, where an increase in teacher release time was awarded and funded, AVPS has introduced a fourth specialist teaching program across all year levels in 2023. The P-2 program was decided and staffed in a relatively smooth manner in term one (details below). However, the year 3-6 program opened both opportunities and staffing challenges for us. The original plan was to allocate Bella Rope to the 3-6 Specialist program in term one only, then for the subject focus to evolve over time, depending on staffing options. This changed at the beginning of the school year due to Bella being placed in the Unit 3 classroom position. Britt Stephenson stepped in as a casual teacher and played to her strengths by implementing a Health program to the Year 3-6’s in term 1. 

Introducing ‘Drama’ to the Year 3-6 AVPS Curriculum
The decision to run a Drama program as the fourth specialist class for Year 3-6 students at AVPS from term 2 was made late in term 1 2023, following a staff consultation process. Staff were prompted to identify areas of the compulsory curriculum where the biggest gaps are at AVPS; Drama was the most obvious choice. It was also agreed that Drama would bring multiple benefits to students, allowing them to develop confidence in performing or providing new experiences in expression. We plan to run Drama for the remaining three terms of the school year and to review options in term four, via a staff and student consultation process, for the 2024 program. Britt looks forward to sharing information about her new program to the school community soon. ​
JAPANESE NEWS 
July 28 Japanese News

Konnichiwa to all our families,

First, thank you to all the parents who met with me for a parent teacher interview. If you didn’t get a chance to meet with me, I am always contactable on Class Dojo if you wish to send me a message asking about Japanese at AVPS and your child’s progress in class.

This week our Prep-2 Units have been focusing on writing the numbers from six to ten with a focus on stories as strategies to assist their memory as well as the importance of the correct shape, stroke order and neatness of each other numbers.

Our Grade 3/4s have started learning the Japanese names for different hobbies and used their understanding of Hiragana to read the words that they know. This week, they played a group game called Wildcard to test their knowledge and recall of the hobbies learnt.

Our Grade 5/6s have completed making their Bento Boxes and have done such an amazing job bringing their original designs to life. Here are some of the bento boxes the students have brought together. 
June 22 Japanese News
​This term, Year 5/6 students have learnt about bento boxes and are currently in the process of creating Bento Boxes along with food to be put on display. In groups, they planned the appearance of the bento boxes and wrote sentences in Japanese about what is in the bento box. They then used a variety of materials to bring the plan to life. I am looking forward to seeing them all finished next term. 

Sensai Andrew Truong
Japanese Teacher

Enjoy these pics from Japanese term 2:
NIHONGO NEWS - 24th March 2023
This week, to coincide with Harmony Week, students from Unit 4B and Unit 6 learnt about the Hiroshima Peace Park and the Children’s Peace Monument and made Origami Hearts with the kanji symbols that mean peace and harmony 平和 (heiwa).

They learnt about the Sadako Sasaki who was diagnosed with leukemia due to radiation from the atomic bomb and how she persisted to fold one thousand paper cranes before her passing. The Children’s Peace Monument was created as a tribute to Sadako and all the children who passed away from the atomic bomb. People from all over the world send in their strings of paper cranes to the Peace Park to promote peace all around the world.
Picture
The Children's Peace Monument
AVPS NIHONGO NEWS - 3rd March 2023
Konnichiwa to our parents and guardians,
On Wednesday the 1st of March 2023, Sue and I had a great opportunity to participate in a Zoom Call with the Katsuragi City councillor Mitsuno Shibata, English Teacher Ayuko Tabata and the Principal Yoshitsugu Toge of Iwaki Primary School in Katsuragi City, Japan. This meeting was the steppingstone to begin planning a cultural exchange. The cultural exchange will be online communication classes in Japan along with other methods of offline communication such as letters and gifts.

Founded in 1874, Iwaki Primary School is in Katsuragi city in the Nara prefecture. The school had 755 students enrolled in 2020. English is being taught by a Japanese Teacher and Assistant Language Teachers who come from countries where English is the official language.

We look forward to be working with Ayuko in the future. We also hope our Year 5/6’s will enjoy this upcoming intercultural experience.
 
For any future updates, make sure to keep your eyes on the newsletter for future articles.
 
Andrew Truong
Japanese Teacher
TUTOR PROGRAM NEWS


​28TH JULY 2023

Year P-2 students in the Tutor Program have been concentrating hard on their reading and writing this week. Each day, small groups of students work together with me using the Little Learners Love Literacy decodable Book Program. The students are working at their point of need sharing and engaging with their peers. The focus is on Phonological Awareness, being able to notice and use the sound structure of spoken words (using letter sounds to decode and read words).
Explicit teaching points:
  •  decoding skills, fluency, accuracy and intonation when reading
  •  comprehension and recognising letter sound blends in words, e.g. bl, fl, gr
  • recognise all upper-case and lower-case letters and their corresponding sounds
  • learning ‘heart’ words to store in our long-term memory (words that cannot be ‘sounded out’- need to learn ‘by heart’). Another common name for this is sight words.
  • conversational language experiences to enhance oral language skills 
The students are enjoying their learning and have been enthusiastic and happy! I will be updating parents on student progress through individual student/parent class dojo messages and you can make an appointment to see me during the week if you have any questions. I will be available on Thursday afternoons after school near the oval (3.30-3.45pm) too.
Kind regards,
Doug Skate
visual arts news
Visual Arts News 28th July 2023
​NAIDOC WEEK IN THE ART ROOM 
 
To acknowledge and celebrate NAIDOC week we looked at the wonderful  landscapes  and animals of Dreamtime storytelling. 
 
The Bungle Bungles- unit 4 5/6 
 
This project was inspired by the amazing landscapes found in the state of Western Australia - specifically, the 'Bungle Bungles'. The Bungle Bungle Range forms the major component of the Purnululu National Park and it is known for its distinctive 'beehive' rock formations.
 
Unit 1 echidnas were inspired by the Dreamtime story, 'The Echidna and the Shade Tree'. 
 
Lucy Mackinnon
​
Picture
The Bungle Bungles - Inspiration for children's art work.
Term 1 News
​You Scream, I Scream, we all Scream for ICECREAM!!! 
 
The art room has been a delicious space this term with students getting creative  exploring the theme of 'Ice Cream'. 
 
We have explored different styles of art and mediums and looked at the artwork of artist Wayne Theiboud. We have studied every type of icy dessert across the different levels from soft serves to triple scoop ice creams, you name it we've drawn, painted, collaged and zentangled it. 
 
Here's a range of beautiful works from Prep through to grade 6. Absolutely delicious 😋 
Well done artists. 
 
Lucy 
reminders
As previously published, please access important information by clicking on the headings below:
2023 PUPIL FREE DAY REMINDERS
Pupil Free Days 2023
​Please make alternative arrangements for the care of your child or children on the following dates in 2023, as students are not required to attend school on Pupil Free Days.
TERM 1
  • Friday 27th January 2023 - 'Teaching Writing' Professional Development 
  • Monday 30th January 2023 - Start of Year Pupil Free Day 
TERM 2 
  • Monday 24th April 2023 - Staff Professional Practice Day
  • Friday 2nd June 2023 -  Strategic Planning Development Day
TERM 3 
  • Monday 10th July 2023 - Staff Professional Practice Day
TERM 4 
  • Monday 6th November 2023 - Report Writing Day 
ASSEMBLY SCHEDULE 
'In person' assemblies have returned to AVPS after three years of 'going online'. 

The plan is to hold these on the outdoor stage at the rear of the library, near the oval in fine weather, or in the hall when the weather prevents us from enjoying the healthy outdoor air. 

Parents/carers are welcome to attend. Gates will be opened just prior to commencement of the assembly. Alternatively, please enter via the school office.  There is no need for community members to sign in as visitors when attending AVPS assemblies.  

Teachers of the presenting units will publicise the assemblies in the days or week prior to the event. 

​TERM 3 MONDAY Assembly Schedule - Oval or Hall at 3:00pm
These arrangements have been updated and appear in the Compass Community Calendar- accessible by families.
WEEK 3 – 24th July - Unit 2
WEEK 5 – 7th August - Unit 4
WEEK 7 – 21st August - Unit 6
WEEK 9 – 4th September - Unit 1
Assembly Schedule Term 4
WEEK 1 – 2nd October – Sue and Michael
WEEK 3 – 16th October - Unit 2 
WEEK 5 – 30th October – Unit 3 & 5
WEEK 7 – 13th November – Unit 4
WEEK 9 – 27th November – Unit 6
Week 11 – 11th December – Sue and Michael
Week 12 – Wednesday 20th December – END OF YEAR ASSEMBLY – 9:00am
school tours
We are offering opportunities for community members to visit Ascot Vale PS in person to meet with leadership staff, interact with school community members (where possible), visit classrooms and other facilities.

Visitors will receive information about AVPS and how to enrol from the tour guides, usually the Principal, Sue Osborne and/or Assistant Principal, Michael Downing.

These tours are designed to help visitors find out more about our school and to get to know us better. They are mostly suited to parents or carers of Year Prep / Foundation children intending to start school in 2024, however, any prospective family may join AVPS tours.

Please click on the button below to book a school tour. ​
cAMP DATES
In case you missed this under the School Council section in the last newsletter, here is a repeat for your information and diaries.
SCHOOL CAMP ARRANGEMENTS 
The following arrangements have been approved by the Principal, pending documentation: 
2023 
  • Club Lorne https://www.clublorne.com.au/
  • October 23-27 - Week 4 Term 4 
  • Year 5 / 6 ’s Monday to Wednesday.
  • Year 3 / 4 ’s Wednesday to Friday. 
  • Approximate costs $350 - $420. Final costs to be confirmed 

2024 
AVPS Year 5 / 6 Camp
  • Canberra Camp
  • Accommodation / TBC
  • Term 2 - Monday 15th April - Friday 19th April
  • Traveling both ways by Coach
  • Approximate costs $950 - $1000. Final costs to be confirmed

 AVPS Year 3 / 4 Camp 
  • Campaspe Downs  www.pgladventurecamps.com.au
  • Term 4 - Wednesday 13th November - Friday 15th November 
  • Approximate costs $430 - $480. Final costs to be confirmed 
PUNCTUALITY AND ATTENDANCE
​As partners in your child's education, we would like to address a matter of utmost importance that affects the smooth functioning of our school and your child's learning experience. We kindly request your attention to the topic of student punctuality and minimising withdrawals for routine appointments. Recently, we have observed a growing concern regarding student punctuality and the impact of early  withdrawals. While we understand that there are always exceptions, such as illness, unavoidable medical attention, and agreed upon allied health appointments, we kindly request your cooperation in ensuring that your child arrives at school on time, at 9 am, and remains present for the entire school day.
 
The impact of lateness and frequent absences is noticeable more than ever, affecting various aspects of our school community:

  • Impacts on Classrooms and Learning: Punctuality plays a crucial role in maintaining a conducive learning environment. When students arrive late, it disrupts the flow of instruction, interrupts their classmates' focus, and may result in missed essential information. Consistent punctuality fosters a sense of responsibility and respect for others, while maximising the learning opportunities for your child.
 
  • Impacts on Office Staff: Frequent withdrawals for routine appointments can place a burden on our hardworking office staff. The increased administrative tasks involved in managing attendance records, collecting students, and coordinating with teachers can be time-consuming, hindering their ability to attend to other important tasks.
 
  • General Impact of Missing School: Regular school attendance is critical for academic success. Students who consistently miss school days or arrive late often experience gaps in their learning and may find it challenging to catch up with their peers. Every school day offers valuable opportunities for growth, collaboration, and social interaction, which contribute to your child's overall development.
 
Furthermore, we have been actively listening to our teachers, who have expressed their concerns about the impact of student punctuality on their roles in the classrooms. When students arrive late, it requires additional attention to help them settle in, which diverts precious instruction time away from the entire class. Consistent punctuality allows our dedicated educators to provide uninterrupted lessons, ensuring that every student receives the best possible education.
 
We acknowledge that there are exceptional circumstances where withdrawal for routine appointments is necessary. However, we kindly request that such appointments be scheduled outside of school hours whenever possible or during times that minimally disrupt your child's education. We greatly appreciate your understanding and support in this matter.
 
Please remember that our primary goal is to provide your child with a nurturing and academically rich environment. By emphasising the importance of punctuality and minimising routine appointment withdrawals, we can collectively create an optimal learning environment for all students.
 
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain a culture of punctuality and regular attendance. Should you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the school office staff and/or your child’s classroom teacher.
ROAD & PEDESTRIAN SAFETY - MOONEE AND BANK STREETS
​PARKING –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:
  • ask your child to head straight to the pick up zone once the bell rings –they will then be ready and waiting once you arrive
  • plan to arrive after the bell rings, not before, as you cannot wait in the zone
  • 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
  • not use the staff car park as a drop off zone
What does the no parking sign (in the drop off zone) mean?
Drivers cannot park in the drop off zone during the times identified on the sign as this is only  to be used as a pick up or drop off zone during those times.
Vehicles are only allowed to stay in the drop off zone for two minutes. If you overstay this time limit, you may receive a parking infringement.

​IN PARTICULAR - PLEASE NOTE – The Bank Street car park and lane way MUST NOT be used as a drop off zone or for completing U turns as this is a DANGEROUS  manoeuvre around small children.

In the interests of children's safety, community members are reminded to NOT use the carpark / lane driveway on Bank Street as a drop off zone. This is considered a hazardous practice, given that children often walk across this driveway. 

We strongly encourage parents and carers to please follow the requests above in order to keep everyone safe, particularly our children.
We encourage parents / carers to park away from school and walk a short distance to avoid traffic congestion. ​

Please find ' Safety Around Schools' and 'Drop Off & Pick Up' & 'Getting to and From School' information from MVCC below:
safety-around-schools-flyer-updated-september-2022.pdf
File Size: 470 kb
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drop-off-and-pickup-zone-flyer-2.pdf
File Size: 2294 kb
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mvcc3264-getting-to-and-from-school-brochure-november-2018-3.pdf
File Size: 302 kb
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​SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL HOURS
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
We would like to address an emerging concern regarding the supervision of our students before and after school hours. It has come to our attention that an increasing number of students are being left unsupervised during these times. As partners in your child's education, we want to ensure their safety and well-being at all times.

At Ascot Vale Primary School, we have established guidelines to ensure adequate supervision for our students. Please take note of the following responsibilities and guidelines:
1. Supervision Hours: School supervision is provided 15 minutes before the start of school and up to 15 minutes after the school day ends. Specifically, our staff members will be present for yard duty between 8:45 am and 3:45 pm.
2. Active Supervision: We emphasise the importance of active supervision before and after school hours, particularly before 8:45am and after 3:45 pm. During these times, it is the responsibility of parents and caregivers to ensure the care and supervision of their children, including their travel to and from school.
3. Parental Responsibility: Before and after the designated supervision hours, the primary responsibility for the care and supervision of students lies with parents and caregivers. We kindly request your cooperation in fulfilling this crucial role.

Please note our Yard Duty and Supervision Policy - https://avps.vic.edu.au/uploads/9/5/6/5/95656824/yard_duty_supervision_policy_2022.pdf 
To further support the supervision of students before and after school, we highly recommend that you familiarise yourself with the DET (Department of Education and Training) student supervision policy. You can find the policy, including the section titled "Strategies to encourage parent or carer support for supervision," at the following link https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/supervision-students/policy

This resource will provide valuable information through a safety lens and aid in maintaining a secure environment for our students.
We believe that by working together, we can create a safe and nurturing environment for all our students. Your cooperation and adherence to the supervision policy and guidelines will help ensure their well-being and security. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We appreciate your ongoing support and commitment to your child's education.
OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE (oshc)
OSHC phone:​​ 0423 795 247
Coordinator:​​ Dee Seneviratne
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
​Please access files below to view the OSHC fortnightly report and/or the Camp Australia Holiday Program.
​
Dee and the OSHC team
ASCOT VALE COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
Please peruse the community notices in the files and slideshow below:
ascot_vale_-_kelly_sport_term_1_2023__1_.pdf
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ascot_vale_yoga_flyer_2022.pdf
File Size: 2326 kb
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ascot_kindergarten_flyer_1_2022.pdf
File Size: 332 kb
File Type: pdf
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