News

Updated Novel Coronavirus Information

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 09:38:59 AEDT

URGENT CoronaVirus Update

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:50:42 AEDT

Corona Virus Update

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 15:26:37 AEDT

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:58:40 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:13:26 AEDT

Starting school is a big moment in a child’s life. Here’s how to make the most of it.

We can’t wait for you to join us for a great year – the first step towards a lifelong love of learning.

Visit the department’s primary school resources for hints, tips and checklists to make a great start to the new school year, whether your child is starting Kindergarten or Year 6.

You’ll find:

Getting ready for primary school booklet – everything you need to be #Ready2020
Daisy’s First Day – the story of Daisy the koala’s first adventure at Kindergarten
advice from teachers – they’ve been through this before.

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:28:25 AEDT

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way to protect your family from harmful diseases this holiday season and into 2020. Visit your doctor for general health and vaccination advice.

Immunisation not only protects you and your family but also others in your community, by reducing the spread of preventable diseases.

Children starting school in 2020 must have up-to-date immunisations to enrol.

These vaccinations help protect children from highly infectious and severe diseases including whooping cough and measles.

Travel health

If you’re travelling overseas during the school holidays, you may need vaccinations or medication – both for general health protection and for region-specific diseases.

If you’re travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, you may even need a flu shot.

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

S3S Class News

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 12:57:25 AEDT

S3O Class News

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 12:31:15 AEDT

S3P Class News

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 12:26:26 AEDT

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:53:51 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

S3N Class News

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 14:02:27 AEDT

S3M Class News

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 13:17:35 AEDT

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 14:20:56 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Tournament of Minds

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 14:31:21 AEST

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:35:40 AEST

We want to better understand your needs for before and after school care in NSW.

Have your say today on before and after school care.

Fill out the survey by Service NSW to share your specific care needs and to register interest to stay informed of new developments.

Your input will provide insights into where there are gaps in service availability and help us to deliver extra places where they are needed.

You can also contact the team responsible for rolling out the before and after school care commitment at BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:22:15 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Get involved at home

Join in at home and read your child a bedtime story. Studies show that reading a bedtime story six days a week can give kids almost a year’s head start when they begin school. Reading has also been shown to develop empathy, promote critical thinking and help children find a sense of self.

Join in from the classroom

Bestselling children’s author and illustrator Matt Stanton will broadcast live to primary school children across the country from the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday 17 September. We invite schools to register for the livestream of this free event.

Stanton’s author talk is among more than 140 events happening across the country involving more than 50 authors.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – #ReadingHour authors talk about their favourite place to read

Duration: 0:38

Looking for a good spot to open a book? We asked authors Benjamin Law, Morris Gleitzman, Jacqueline Harvey and Mick Elliott about their favourite place to read.

What's Been Happening?

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 08:12:39 AEST

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:41:23 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

4U Class News

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 12:46:06 AEST

4N Class News

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 12:44:45 AEST

2W Class News

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 14:49:07 AEST

What's Been Happening?

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 12:24:09 AEST

4K Class News

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 14:29:52 AEST

What's Been Happening?

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 12:45:35 AEST

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:04:53 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

NAIDOC Week

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 14:53:01 AEST

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:36:31 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:22:50 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

1M Class News

Mon, 27 May 2019 12:13:37 AEST

1E Class News

Mon, 20 May 2019 10:54:45 AEST

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:11:03 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Walk Safely To School Day 17th of May

Mon, 06 May 2019 13:18:00 AEST

1C Class News

Mon, 06 May 2019 12:56:22 AEST

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:08:58 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:41:55 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

Did you know our playground is open in the holidays?

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 16:11:12 AEST

We are excited to participate in the Share Our Space program when it returns these autumn school holidays. Participating public schools across regional and metro areas of the state will continue to open their playgrounds, ovals and sports courts for the whole community to enjoy.

You and your children can play in public schools all over NSW. Schools from Lord Howe Island Central School 600km off the east coast of mainland Australia all the way to Palinyewah Public School in the far west will share their outdoor facilities as part of the program.

Participating schools are open 7 days a week between 8am-6pm from 13 to 26 April 2019, including weekends and public holidays.

Come and visit our playground. For more information or to find another participating school near you, visit Share Our Space.

1A Class News

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 12:55:12 AEST

KW Class News

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 12:51:38 AEST

KA Class News

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 12:47:10 AEST

KG Class News

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 13:29:57 AEDT

KE Class News

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 13:41:55 AEDT

KB Class News

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 16:00:33 AEDT

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:18:14 AEDT

Now that students are back to school after a break it’s a good time to chat with your child about safe behaviours when you walk or commute to school.

Here are our top tips to help our students make a safe trip:

1. Be alert and aware

Take note of the dangers you come across on your walk and bring them to your child’s attention. Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways. Talk to your child about being alert in a road environment.

2. Hold hands

When on the footpath, at a crossing or in a car park always hold your child's hand. It is advised to do this up to the age of at least 8 years old and closely supervise until at least the age of 10.

3. Choose a safe crossing

Lead by example and choose a safe place to cross the road. Explain why it is the safest place to cross.

4. Set a good example

Your child watches everything you do, so if you cross at the crossing they will too. It is also important to share these messages with other carers who may walk with your child to school.

5. Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time you cross the road

Discuss this important road safety message. STOP! one step back from the kerb. LOOK! continuously both ways. LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK! whether it is safe to cross.

Practise makes perfect

The more supervised practice your child can get the better, so why not make Term 1 the start of a new routine to walk with your child to school more often.

Older children may be ready to make the journey to school independently. Before they take this step, observe if they are road safe and reinforce the road safety messages.

For more information, check out the department’s pedestrian safety advice for students, parents and carers.

Stage 3 Camp

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 15:04:13 AEDT

S3P had an incredible day at camp where many of them overcame their fear of heights and went to war in their very own mud fight! One of our students even scored their very own bulls eye in archery!

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 14:57:03 AEDT

The first day of Kindergarten and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you make the most of this time and enjoy the experience, we’ve compiled some useful tips and checklists. We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

Our film #FirstDay2019 captures the excitement – and the nerves – of the rite of passage that is the first day of Kindergarten.

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

School Banking

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:39:30 AEDT

Statement of Accounts

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:32:58 AEDT

Private String Lessons

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:32:25 AEDT

BEGINNER STRINGS ENROLMENTS- Positions Limited

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:31:49 AEDT

SSPS P&C

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:31:08 AEDT

SSPS P&C NEWS

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:30:36 AEDT

We are Still Accepting Enrolments For 2019

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:29:59 AEDT

Global Exchange Committee – One Way One World

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:29:25 AEDT

A VISIT TO THE ANZAC MEMORIAL AT HYDE PARK

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:28:46 AEDT

CLASSES FOR 2019

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 09:28:02 AEDT

REPRESENTATIVE SPORT 2019

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 15:21:58 AEDT

THANK YOU TO PARENT VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE LEAVING US

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 15:21:18 AEDT

WONDERFUL CAROLS; WONDERFUL COMMUNITY

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 15:20:32 AEDT

School Banking

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:13:41 AEDT

Year 6 Mini Fete – for STUDENTS ONLY

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:13:07 AEDT

Year 6 Farewell

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:11:39 AEDT

Statement of Accounts

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:11:05 AEDT

Community Carols Night

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:10:31 AEDT

Scripture

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:09:55 AEDT

Student Stationery Packs for 2019

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:09:20 AEDT

Stage 3 Travel Project

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:08:50 AEDT

Peer Support BBQ

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:08:17 AEDT

Public Speaking Competition

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:07:47 AEDT

KidsMatter BounceBack!-Success

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:07:07 AEDT

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:06:32 AEDT

PREMIER’S SPORTING CHALLENGE

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:05:52 AEDT

A 2019 PARENT OPPORTUNITY

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 10:05:15 AEDT

Language, Learning and Literacy

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 11:00:42 AEDT

Peer Support BBQ

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:57:22 AEDT

Peer Support

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:56:39 AEDT

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019 Kindergarten Orientation begins next Tuesday!

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:56:09 AEDT

PUBLIC SPEAKING

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:55:21 AEDT

FROG ID WEEK

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:54:43 AEDT

Kindergarten Orientation

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 10:54:14 AEDT

S3S News

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 11:40:42 AEDT

During Term 4 this year S3S, along with the rest of Stage 3, have begun their Dance2bfit program. Students have so far loved this program being a part of their CAPA curriculum. During our Dance lessons, expert instructors from Dance2bfit have come in to teach our wonderful students. So far, we have learned a new dance every week! Dances include the Salsa, Barn Dance and many more! Through this program our students have shown skills in rhythm, locomotor co-ordination and an overall appreciation to dance! Keep it up team!

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:23:15 AEDT

Like all NSW public schools, this week we will receive a School Budget Allocation Report with our funding for 2019. The report will help us manage our total budget delivered through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM).

The RAM supports schools through needs-based funding to ensure a fair, efficient and transparent allocation of funds. Our school has the flexibility to make local decisions based on the specific needs of our students.

We will use our 2019 funding to support students and improve educational outcomes. The school executive will continue to work with the school community as we implement the school plan using this needs-based funding.

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Remembrance Day 11 November 2018

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:44:44 AEDT

KINDY ORIENTATION 2018

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:43:53 AEDT

P & C

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:43:20 AEDT

Year 6 Mini Fete

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:42:44 AEDT

Year 6 Farewell

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:42:09 AEDT

Statement of Accounts

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:41:32 AEDT

What is a Fete

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:40:48 AEDT

NSW PSSA State Cricket Carnival

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:39:39 AEDT

SRC Fundraiser for Farmers

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:37:44 AEDT

KidsMatters Bounce Back !

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:36:02 AEDT

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019 Kindergarten Orientation begins next Tuesday!

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:35:26 AEDT

SELF-ESTEEM BUILDING IN OUR STUDENTS

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 09:34:46 AEDT

P&C NEWS

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:55:54 AEDT

Directions In Music Band Expo

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:55:21 AEDT

The Book Club

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:54:44 AEDT

School Banking

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:54:13 AEDT

Peer Support

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:52:53 AEDT

Year 6 Farewell

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:52:20 AEDT

SWAP HAT ‘n GO!!!

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:51:44 AEDT

Statement of Accounts

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:51:04 AEDT

The Great Fete

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:50:26 AEDT

CELEBRATE OUR TEACHERS!!

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:49:32 AEDT

SRC Fundraiser for Farmers

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:47:35 AEDT

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019 Kindergarten Orientation begins next Tuesday!

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:46:35 AEDT

S3N News

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 12:10:05 AEDT

S3N has been working hard on their 'Going Green Project' in which they have just 4 weeks to plan and create a small-scale model of a sustainable home in groups of 3-4. Students have previously learnt about and researched a range of sustainable features including insulation for heating and cooling, solar energy, double-glazed windows, natural lighting and installing a greywater system to conserve water. Not only does this momentous task require creativity, perseverance and teamwork, but students are also expected to present a speech to showcase their design and pitch their ideas to a difficult judge- in the form of their classroom teacher Miss So.

S30 News

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 12:15:09 AEDT

During the past term, S3O have been learning about Pop Art and how it challenges audience’s perception of what art “should” look like. Pop Art started in Britain and USA in mid 1950s and included images from popular culture such as advertising and comic books. Stage 3 students were given the task of drawing an object that they valued the most (e.g. food, modern technology, sport, stationery) on A4 paper. Using various colours of oil pastels, students decorated the object so that it stood out before tracing the outline with thick black permanent marker. Here are some of the many artworks created in the class.

Uniform Shop

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:26:00 AEDT

Reporting Student Absences and Change of Address

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:25:22 AEDT

School Payments

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 12:11:00 AEDT

Questions regarding Permission Notes

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:24:07 AEDT

Directions In Music End of Term Concert

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:23:09 AEDT

Children’s Week 19 October – 28 October 2018

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:21:06 AEDT

School Banking

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:20:16 AEDT

Year 6 Parents/Carers

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:18:43 AEDT

Year 6 Farewell

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:18:02 AEDT

Peer Support

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:17:10 AEDT

SRC Fundraiser for Farmers

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:15:41 AEDT

Tea, Cake & Questions with P&C School Club THIS Wednesday

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:14:30 AEDT

KISS AND RIDE WAITING

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:12:52 AEDT

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:02:05 AEDT

4 ULURU

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:06 AEST

4 Uluru created fantastic angles posters using straws! Students were very excited to express their angles knowledge in fun, creative and colourful ways. They learnt the importance of working with others to create their posters, as well as how to differentiate between each angle – acute, right, obtuse, straight, reflex and full revolution.

FATHER'S DAY BREAKFAST

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:20 AEST

Fathers, grandfathers, uncles, father figures... bring the favourite men in your child's life to breakfast before school on Thursday August 30th.

We will have hot drinks and pastries for sale from 8am to 8:50am, a stall with gift items for purchase and raffle tickets on sale.

Please join us for a lovely family start to the day.

Are you free to volunteer for this event? Please contact Nichola Beukes, School Club Convenor 0435 413 548.

PATH Parents As Teacher Helpers Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

The PATH program continues with approximately 36 parents involved! A great partnership initiative - Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH). This program, modelled on other successful parent partnership initiatives, is a volunteer program that will allow parents and caregivers the opportunity to be trained by our staff facilitator. The program gives those involved, the tools to successfully support children to learn to read, write and use counting in the early years of schooling. It helps parents develop the questioning skills and confidence to deliver high quality assistance in the classroom.

If you are still interested in being involved with this program, it will require a commitment to attend 2 hour sessions at our school from 9:00-11:00am on a fortnightly basis. Please contact the school office. The training dates are as follows:

Term 3:

Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18

Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

If you would like to access any of the last two Parents as Teacher Helpers (PATH) power point presentations, please click on the following links:

Session 1: PATH Introduction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xBpdzLF8Jkv8iybE3b5QiLVpegoKqn1zB1Rwj_j1y3U/edit?usp=sharing

Session 2: PATH Induction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YSJFQCnlMhOcLsgnXdzjxYKHR0bloLa0L99CG6gY7bQ/edit?usp=sharing

Session 3: PATH

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1EJ0rYqz02-2mfgORSwyPZPNb9uTaoaU02uGrg8Hxsmw/edit?usp=sharing

Session 4: PATH

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/18oIg1l8C72rTo4DkWCs5ZDmxeybgMzbQL6g0gPoT26s/edit?usp=sharing

What does “Dance Fever” for Stage 2 (Yr 3 & 4) Tuesday & Thursday Term 3 that appears on the Family

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:40 AEST

In Term 3 Stage 2 students will be participating in the Dance Fever Multisport program supporting the PDHPE dance unit. This curriculum compliant program aims to support and improve dance technique as well as assists with developing children's skills in team work, mutual respect between boys and girls, social interaction and confidence.

String Ensemble Workshop ~TIME IS RUNNING OUT to SECURE YOU SPOT!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:35 AEST

Strathfield South PS is offering a String Ensemble Workshop day on Monday 10 September to give all string students from Years 1-6 the opportunity to play in ensemble groups with experienced tutors and conductors.

Students are invited to participate if they have been learning a string instrument for at least ONE YEAR AND ARE CURRENTLY LEARNING from either tutors at school or from an external teacher. They will be placed in a level-appropriate group and given 2-3 pieces of music to prepare with their teacher beforehand. The day will conclude with a concert at 2:30pm which parents are invited to attend.

If you would like your child to participate, please fill out the form in the attachments or collect from the front office and submit to the School Office with a non-refundable payment of $25.00 by Friday 24 August.

Art Show Silent Auction

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Thank you to all the families who visited our Classwork Art Show in the Library and placed a bid in the Silent Auction. All successful bidders will be contacted by phone today.

A preliminary estimate of potential funds raised is $4000!! This money and the funds raised in the Raffle will all go towards the Quiet Area renovation. Thank you to all the families who have contributed to this generous donation!

Book Week Character Day and Parade

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:13 AEST

"Find Your Treasure"

The Book Week Character Day is WEEK 6 Wednesday 29 August. On this day K-2 will have a parade from 9:15 in the K-2 playground. There's still plenty of time to plan your dress-up costume! Go crazy!

Peer Support

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

This week in Peer Support the children will share the things they enjoy in life and have an opportunity to discuss their favourite activity. This session enables children to recognise what makes them happy. Discuss with your child their favourite activity.

SSPS GATE SECURITY PROCEDURES

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:17 AEST

We have new school exterior gate procedures for our school. Please see the attachment in our newsletter today.

Hot Tip: if the gate you approach is locked, please walk to the main pedestrian entrance on Telopea Ave and ring 9642 1359.

Please be patient. Only one gate can be opened at a time.

EARLY PICK UP

We have new procedures for early student pick up. Please go to through the Telopea Ave main pedestrian entrance if our perimeter gates are locked. Ring the office to organise this.

LATE ARRIVAL

We have new procedures for late student arrival. Please go to through the Telopea Ave main pedestrian entrance if our perimeter gates are locked. Ring the office to organise this.

WHAT'S COMING?

The department of Safety and Security have assessed our school and are collating an upgraded safety plan for our gate system. P&C and the School Executive will consider this as funding will need to be found to pay for this upgraded system.

3 GRAMPIANS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:05 AEST

3 Grampians created mythical creatures by morphing two animals together to form one. They were extremely excited to create, mould and paint their clay for the Art Show. Students learnt that patience was extremely important when waiting for the clay to dry and to be fired in the kiln.

PATH Parents As Teacher Helpers Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Term 3:

Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18

Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

If you would like to access any of the last two Parents as Teacher Helpers (PATH) power point presentations, please click on the following links:

Session 1: PATH Introduction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xBpdzLF8Jkv8iybE3b5QiLVpegoKqn1zB1Rwj_j1y3U/edit?usp=sharing

Session 2: PATH Induction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YSJFQCnlMhOcLsgnXdzjxYKHR0bloLa0L99CG6gY7bQ/edit?usp=sharing

Session 3: PATH

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1EJ0rYqz02-2mfgORSwyPZPNb9uTaoaU02uGrg8Hxsmw/edit?usp=sharing

Active Kids Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:10 AEST

The NSW Government is helping kids get active with the new Active Kids program.

From 31 January 2018, parents, guardians and carers can apply for a $100 voucher per calendar year for each student enrolled in school.

To use the voucher, give your voucher details to an approved Active Kids Provider. The program runs year-round, so kids can get active at any time!

https://sport.nsw.gov.au/sectordevelopment/activekids

At Strathfield South PS we have two programs that run before and after school that are eligible for the Active Kids Program. For further information please contact Football Star Academy nsw23.football@sportstaracademy.com.au and Tennis FX info@tennisfx.com.au.

Stewart House Used Clothing Appeal

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:34 AEST

This week Stewart House Collection Bags will be given out to students. If you have clean, used clothing, accessories or linen that is no longer wanted, please fill the bags and donate to this charity.

Stewart House provides care and support for around 1800 public school students annually from all over NSW. Opportunities are provided for activities and excursions, medical help and counselling all in a safe environment. SSPS has been a proud supporter of this charity for many years.

Please return bags to the school by Monday August 20th. These bags are to be left outside the hall near the lost property box where they will be picked up by Stewart House.

We hope you will support this worthwhile charity.

Regards

Ms Joan Kennedy

(On behalf of the Stewart House Clothing Appeal)

School Banking

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

Week 3 winner of the Dollarmite Classroom Challenge goes to 2Y. Every Tuesday is school banking day. Students from years 3-6 who are participating in the ICAS maths competition on Tuesday are asked to drop off their banking books into the banking bin beside the rewards table before or after your test. Banking is as normal for the rest of the school.

School banking is a parent volunteer initiative so if you're able to lend a helping hand from 8.30-9am it would be greatly appreciated.

Please see attachment for banking news.

What does “Healthy Harold” for Kindergarten (ES1) and Stage 1 (Yr 1 & 2) week 6 & 7 that appears on

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:40 AEST

As part of our K-2 Personal Development and Health students will have the opportunity to participate in Healthy Harold. Healthy Harold helps to empower children to make safer and healthy choices in their lives. This program provides students with the opportunity to develop strategies and practise the skills required to avoid an unhealthy lifestyle.

Permission note not required – Cost $10.00

String Ensemble Workshop ~TIME IS RUNNING OUT _ SECURE YOU SPOT!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:35 AEST

KidsMatter BounceBack!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

Week 4 – Relationships

As well as starting Peer Support this term, students will be learning about friendship and positive relationships. All children want close relationships with friends and classmates at school. These important relationships help them to cope better with life's occasional hard times. Children who have good social skills are more likely to achieve more at school and be more successful in their future careers, and are less likely to get into trouble, or be attracted to anti-social peer groups or become depressed. There is a ‘luck' factor with regards to the people they will meet as potential friends, but it will be their social skills that make the difference in developing and maintaining friendships.

Key messages to communicate to your child about relationships

No one has close friends all the time and most people feel lonely sometimes.
Not everyone will like you but lots of people will.
Friendships can change and not be as strong as they once were.

What can you do to help your child develop good social skills and make friends?

Make your child's friends and classmates welcome in your home and get to know them.
Model good social skills when you are with your own friends and talk to your child about what you do to be a good friend
Suggest to your child that all of the children they meet regularly at school, sporting activities and clubs are potential friends. Encourage them to develop a diverse social network so that they can interact with and learn about many people, not just people who are similar to them.
Help your child to develop empathy by talking about how others might be feeling by stressing the importance of trying to understand rather than judge.

Week 6 – Relationships

Key messages to communicate to your child about relationships

Social skills are ways of behaving that help people get along and make friends.
To HAVE a good friend, you have to BE a good friend.
It's OK to have an argument as long as you don't hurt the other person.

What can you do to help your child develop good social skills and make friends?

Teach your child how to negotiate by negotiating with them whenever possible (i.e. look for a way in which they can obtain some of what they want but you also get a lot of what you want, because you are still the boss!). For example, they may not want to shower at the time that suits your timetable. You could offer them a 15-minute extension on the time if they agree to get up and do it without any further argument when that time arrives.

Teach and model the social skill of ‘respectful disagreeing', which involves finding points of agreement before stating disagreement (e.g. ‘The scary movie you want to see did get a good review but I think most of us would rather see a funny movie.')
If your children are arguing with each other, sit them down and get them to listen to each other's feelings and points of view and then insist on their negotiating a solution. Try not to act as referee, and stress that put-downs are unacceptable.

Week 8 – No Bullying

Many children occasionally get teased or annoyed by other children at school. Responding to this is one of the common challenges that children have to face at school. Being bullied is more serious. Bullying is when one child (or a group) repeatedly and deliberately uses negative words and/or hostile actions against one specific child that causes distress. Bullying can be:

Physical (e.g. hitting, pushing or damaging personal property)
Verbal (e.g. insults or nasty name-calling)
Social (e.g. trying to socially isolate someone by spreading lies or rumours about them or stopping them from joining in)
Cyberbullying: this means using technology (such as email, mobile phones or social networking sites) to bully someone verbally or socially or to frighten or intimidate them.
It isn't called bullying if any of these things happen only once, if children have a mutual argument or fight, or if a child chooses not to spend time with another child.

Key messages to communicate to your child about bullying

It's never OK to bully someone or take part in bullying even in small ways.
It's never the fault of the person who is being bullied.

What can you do to help your child if they are bullied and to encourage them not to bully others?

Let your child know that you strongly disapprove of bullying. Taking part in bullying can be the start of a pattern of antisocial behaviour for many children.
Encourage your child to support someone who is being bullied (e.g. they could: calmly tell someone who is bullying that it's a mean thing to do, defuse the situation by suggesting something else to do, let a teacher know about it, or later offer them comfort and support).

More about anti-bullying in Week 10.

Week 10 – No Bullying

In Week 8's edition we discussed how children occasionally get teased or annoyed by other children at school. Responding to this is one of the common challenges that children have to face at school. Being bullied is more serious. Bullying is when one child (or a group) repeatedly and deliberately uses negative words and/or hostile actions against one specific child that causes distress.

Key messages to communicate to your child about bullying

It is important to ‘think for yourself'.

If other people try to convince you to take part in bullying someone, don't just do what they tell you to do. Think for yourself and do what is right and don't just go along with what other children are doing.

Asking for support and acting responsibly are not the same as dobbing.

Dobbing means trying to get someone into trouble. It's not dobbing when you ask for help when you're in trouble or when you try to help someone else who is in trouble.

What can you do to help your child if they are bullied and to encourage them not to bully others?

Respond calmly if you think your child is being bullied. Talk to them about what is happening. Listen to the whole story before responding or asking questions. Ask how they would like you to help. One of their fears will be that you might over-react and make things worse. Discuss with them what they could do, e.g.:

avoid high-risk areas and not respond to nasty text messages etc.
say ‘leave me alone' in a calm voice and leave the situation (rather than yelling or responding in an upset or emotional way)
talk to their friends about what's happening and ask for help
speak to a teacher and ask for support to solve the problem.
If the situation doesn't improve, make an appointment to speak to the teacher and work together with the school to improve the situation.

Questions regarding Permission Notes

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:28 AEST

When students leave the grounds of the school on an excursion or sport event – a Permission Note MUST BE SIGNED.

When students attend an incursion (staying at school) a Permission Note is NOT REQUIRED.

Silent Auction of Class Artworks

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:33 AEST

What is a silent auction?

Silent auctions are held without an auctioneer. People write how much they want to pay on a bidding sheet instead, this is called a bid. Next to each artwork there will be a bidding sheet for you to write on your bid. The final and highest bid will win the auction. Please consider your bid increment - we encourage a $5-$10 incremental bid each time.

If you are visiting the Library to view the works with your children please ensure they leave their bags at the door. Thank you from the Art Crew.

“LUCKY LUCKY” DOOR PRIZE WINNERS!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:21 AEST

Congratulations to 3 SSPS families who were the winners of our 3 Lucky Door Prizes - each receiving a $100 raffle ticket and getting their chance to win a new Honda Jazz or one of the other great prizes! (See below and attachments for more details)

Each family who visited the ART SHOW on Saturday received a lucky door ticket which was then drawn this morning. Congratulations to the Han family, the Kataria and Jang family. Good luck in the Raffle!!

SAFETY and SECURITY UPDATE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

As mentioned in two letters last week, access to our school grounds in learning times has been restricted. Please use the Telopea Ave gate between 9:15am – 2:45pm each school day. Please ring our office to gain entry on 96421359 and be patient. They will unlock as soon as possible. More updates on short, medium and long-term security measures will be forthcoming.

OUR TEACHERS REPRESENT US

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

Four of our Art Show teacher team attended the opening of the Strathfield Council Korean Art Show, located at high St Library. They are pictured at this auspicious event with Jodi McKay, our local State MP.

OUR ART SHOW WAS IMPRESSIVE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

Last Saturday, many of us experienced a very special community opportunity. Our Strathfield South PS students proudly brought their parents, grandparents, friends and families to see their fabulous artwork. Our students worked diligently for many weeks producing visually impressive individual and collaborative class works, for our celebration of 2018 Education Week.

With glorious weather on show, our P&C, School Club and teachers welcomed our guests. What a special time! Rich conversation, smiling students and happy families – a recipe for success.

Thank you to all those who were instrumental in organising our Art Show. It was magnificent!

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:27 AEST

Enrolments for 2019 are welcome. Please see the office for an enrolment form. If you do not reside in the local catchment area, please note that it is a requirement that you complete an "out of area" application. This requires you to bring in your child's childcare progress report. Please have this ready BEFORE applying.

PATH Parents As Teacher Helpers Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Term 3:

Week 3 Wednesday 8.8.18

Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18

Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

If you would like to access any of the last two Parents as Teacher Helpers (PATH) power point presentations, please click on the following links:

Session 1: PATH Introduction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xBpdzLF8Jkv8iybE3b5QiLVpegoKqn1zB1Rwj_j1y3U/edit?usp=sharing

Session 2: PATH Induction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YSJFQCnlMhOcLsgnXdzjxYKHR0bloLa0L99CG6gY7bQ/edit?usp=sharing

Session 3: PATH

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1EJ0rYqz02-2mfgORSwyPZPNb9uTaoaU02uGrg8Hxsmw/edit?usp=sharing

Cancer Council Fundraiser Thank You

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

A very BIG thank you to everyone who helped SSPS raise funds for The Cancer Council.

We were able to collect $2400 and this was greatly appreciated by the association.

A special THANK YOU to all those volunteers who were able to assist on that day!

It would have been an impossible task without you! Once again your generous donations of goodies and partaking on that day is truly appreciated.

Regards

Meera Ragaven - School Club

Active Kids Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:10 AEST

The NSW Government is helping kids get active with the new Active Kids program.

From 31 January 2018, parents, guardians and carers can apply for a $100 voucher per calendar year for each student enrolled in school.

To use the voucher, give your voucher details to an approved Active Kids Provider. The program runs year-round, so kids can get active at any time!

https://sport.nsw.gov.au/sectordevelopment/activekids

String Ensemble Workshop ~Get your spot!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:35 AEST

ART SHOW @ SSPS TOMORROW!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Saturday 11 August SSPS will be hosting an

ART SHOW in the School Hall. This will be a collection of artworks produced by all students throughout Term 2 to illustrate what Education Week is all about. (W3 Term 3). It celebrates how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing, globalised world.

Silent Auction of Class Artworks

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:33 AEST

What is a silent auction?

Silent auctions are held without an auctioneer. People write how much they want to pay on a bidding sheet instead, this is called a bid. Next to each artwork there will be a bidding sheet for you to write on your bid. The final and highest bid will win the auction. Please consider your bid increment, we encourage a $5-$10 incremental bid please. If you are visiting the Library to view the works with your children please ensure they leave their bags at the door. Thank you from the Art Crew.

Collaborative class artworks will be auctioned to the highest bidder!

Auction Continues until August 17^th3:30pm - located in the library.

Education Week

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

Education Week is a statewide, annual event, held during the first week of August, to celebrate NSW public education. The key messages of this year's theme, "Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world" resonates with our philosophy at Strathfield South PS.

We constantly strive to equip our young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing, globalised world. Our wonderful Art Show is an example of our students having opportunities to embrace challenge, promote connection and collaboration and ensure that every student is known, valued and cared for.

Congratulations to our students and teachers on providing us with such a feast for the eyes! The collaborative class artworks are truly inspiring and the individual works creative and colourful.

Have a wonderful Education Week everyone. I am eager to catch up with you all on Saturday at our Art Show, which is open for viewing between 10am and 3pm on Saturday 11 August.

PATH - Parents As Teacher Helpers Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Term 3:

Week 3 Wednesday 8.8.18 Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18 Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

If you would like to access any of the last
two Parents as Teacher Helpers (PATH) power point presentations, please click on the following links:

Session 1: PATH Introduction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xBpdzLF8 Jkv8iybE3b5QiLVpegoKqn1zB1Rwj_j1y3U/edit?us p=sharing

Session 2: PATH Induction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YSJFQCn lMhOcLsgnXdzjxYKHR0bloLa0L99CG6gY7bQ/edi t?usp=sharing

Session 3: PATH

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1EJ0rYqz0 2-
2mfgORSwyPZPNb9uT aoaU02uGrg8Hxsmw/edit ?usp=sharing

KidsMatter

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:43 AEST

This semester BounceBack! lessons will run alongside our whole school Peer Support program. These programs aim to build resilience in our students and enhance pupil wellbeing. What students are learning is outlined in the BounceBack! acronym: Bad times don't last. Things always get better. Stay optimistic.
Other people can help if you talk to them. Get a reality check. Unhelpful thinking makes you feel more upset. Think again. Nobody is perfect—not you and not others. Concentrate on the positives (no matter how small) and use laughter. Everybody experiences sadness, failure, rejection and setbacks sometimes, not just you.
They are a normal part of life. Try not to personalise them. Blame fairly. How much of what happened was due to you, to others and to bad luck or circumstances? Accept what can't be changed (but try to change what you can change first). Catastrophising exaggerates your worries. Don't believe the worst possible picture.
Keep things in perspective. It's only part of your life.

The program can help your child to get better at:

Using helpful thinking when faced with a
problem or a difficult situation
Thinking more optimistically, i.e. expecting
bad times to get better
Understanding that everyone has setbacks
and difficulties, not just them
Talking to people they trust so they get a
reality check on their thinking
Being brave and facing their fears
Managing strong emotions and turning a
bad mood into a good mood
Getting along with others and cooperating
Setting goals, being resourceful and not
easily giving up
Being kind, fair, honest, friendly,
responsible, and accepting of differences
Respecting other people and not bullying
others.
You can help your child get the best out of their involvement with Bounce Back! if you reinforce the key messages they are learning.

Active Kids Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:10 AEST

The NSW Government is helping kids get active with the new Active Kids program.
From 31 January 2018, parents, guardians and carers can apply for a $100 voucher per calendar year for each student enrolled in school.

The voucher may be used with a registered activity provider for registration, participation and membership costs for sport, fitness and active recreation activities. The voucher can be used at any time during the calendar year it was issued. To use the voucher, give your voucher details to an approved Active Kids Provider. The program runs year-round, so kids can get active at any time! https://sport.nsw.gov.au/sectordevelopment/active kids

String Ensemble Workshop

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:35 AEST

Strathfield South PS is offering a String Ensemble Workshop day on Monday 10 September to give all string students from Years 1-6 the opportunity to play in ensemble groups with experienced tutors and conductors.
Students are invited to participate if they have been learning a string instrument for at least ONE YEAR AND ARE CURRENTLY LEARNING from either tutors at school or from an external teacher. They will be placed in a level-appropriate group and given 2-3 pieces of music to prepare with their teacher beforehand. The day will conclude with a concert at 2:30pm which parents are invited to attend. If you would like your child to participate, please fill out the form in the attachments or collect from the front office and submit to the School Office with a non-refundable payment of $25.00 by Friday 17 August.

Education Week 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

Education Week 2018 runs from Monday 6 August to Friday 10 August with the theme 'Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world'

Key messages
Growth mindset By developing a growth mindset, our students will become lifelong-learners equipped with the resilience to embrace challenges, the aptitude to reach higher levels of achievement and the adaptability to master new skills.
Applied learning By grounding education in real world learning opportunities, our students are acquiring the capabilities needed to tackle and solve complex issues in the 21st century.
Evolution of the classroom By creating future-focused learning spaces that integrate advanced technology and promote connection and collaboration, the classroom is expanding beyond the traditional four walls.
Strong relationships By building strong relationships in our school communities, we are ensuring that every student is known, valued and cared for.
System-wide commitment to innovation and excellence By placing our students at the centre of all our decision-making, we are continually striving for improvement and innovation so that young people in our care learn in a world-class education system.

ART SHOW @ SSPS 11 August – Save the date!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Saturday 11 August SSPS will be hosting an ART SHOW in the School Hall. This will be a collection of artworks produced by all students throughout Term 2 to illustrate what Education Week is all about. (W3 Term 3). It celebrates how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing, globalised world.

Silent Auction begins

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:33 AEST

Silent Auction of Class Artworks

What is a silent auction?

Silent auctions are held without an auctioneer. People write how much they want to pay on a bidding sheet instead, this is called a bid. Next to each artwork there will be a bidding sheet for you to write on your bid. The final and highest bid will win the auction. Collaborative class artworks will be auctioned to the highest bidder! Auction opens from July 31st - August 17th located in the library.

EDUCATION WEEK

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

Education Week is officially held from 6 August to 10 August. The week highlights the achievements of public education, putting the spotlight on our students, educators and school communities. Visit our library and view the stunning class artworks on display. We will also offer you an opportunity to bid on your class artwork in the silent auction and buy a ticket in the P&C fundraising raffle.

Help make a difference to our playground for your children and the students of the future.

As part of Education Week, we are holding an Art Show; opening the school on Saturday 11 August to display an incredible array of our student art for your enjoyment. Please bring your family along anytime from 10am – 3pm to see your child's artwork. Every child has a piece of art displayed.

Buy a raffle ticket, sell a raffle ticket, and share our link on every social media channel you use, such as Facebook.

So make a difference; sell a ticket to someone who needs a brand new car! Help our school.

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

PATH Parents As Teacher Helpers Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Our school has started a new initiative called the Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) program. This program, modelled on other successful parent partnership initiatives, is a volunteer program that will allow parents and caregivers the opportunity to be trained by our staff facilitator. The program gives those involved, the tools to successfully support children to learn to read, write and use counting in the early years of schooling. It helps parents develop the questioning skills and confidence to deliver high quality assistance in the classroom.

If you are interested in being involved with this program, it will require a commitment to attend 2 hour sessions at our school from 9:00-11:00am on a fortnightly basis. The training dates are as follows:

Term 3:

Week 1 Wednesday 25.7.18

Week 3 Wednesday 8.8.18

Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18

Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

If you would like to access any of the last two Parents as Teacher Helpers (PATH) power point presentations, please click on the following links:

Session 1: PATH Introduction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xBpdzLF8Jkv8iybE3b5QiLVpegoKqn1zB1Rwj_j1y3U/edit?usp=sharing

Session 2: PATH Induction

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YSJFQCnlMhOcLsgnXdzjxYKHR0bloLa0L99CG6gY7bQ/edit?usp=sharing

Session 3: PATH

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1EJ0rYqz02-2mfgORSwyPZPNb9uTaoaU02uGrg8Hxsmw/edit?usp=sharing

Active Kids Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:10 AEST

The NSW Government is helping kids get active with the new Active Kids program.

From 31 January 2018, parents, guardians and carers can apply for a $100 voucher per calendar year for each student enrolled in school.

The voucher may be used with a registered activity provider for registration, participation and membership costs for sport, fitness and active recreation activities.

The voucher can be used at any time during the calendar year it was issued.

To use the voucher, give your voucher details to an approved Active Kids Provider.

The program runs year-round, so kids can get active at any time!

https://sport.nsw.gov.au/sectordevelopment/activekids

Banking

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

With the athletics carnival occurring next Tuesday, please be advised that banking will go ahead as normal. Students from years 3-6 are asked to drop off their banking books into the banking bin beside the banking tables before going to the carnival. K-2 students will be banking as normal on this day.

Look out soon for the chart that shows which class is winning the banking challenge!

Athletics Carnival Tuesday 31.7.18

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Next Tuesday (31/07/18) students from years 3-6 will be going to Sydney Olympic Park for our school athletics carnival. Students are required to be at school by 8:00 am. Please ensure that your note has been returned before then.

In addition, please be aware that the buses will be parking along Telopea Avenue and in the Kiss and Ride Zone. For safety and efficiency we would like to please encourage you to avoid using Telopea Avenue in the morning as this will be the area the children will be boarding buses. We ask you to drop off or park in another safe location on that morning.

Peer Support Commences

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

We are commencing our Peer Support lessons this term. The whole school participates in Peer Support for 30 minutes each fortnight. Two Peer Support leaders facilitate a small group of 8-10 younger students, who work together through a number of structured activities. Each teacher will supervise 2-3 groups in their classrooms. We are working on a module called Living Positively helping us explore the concept of optimism. The module runs for 8 sessions. Our first session, which will commence next week, enables the children to get to know everyone in the group, agreeing on how they will work well together and interact cooperatively with others. They will also begin to think about what it means to be optimistic. We encourage you to talk to your children about Peer Support every week, as it will help to reinforce the concepts learned in each session.

Stage 3 Teachers

Question regarding Permission Notes

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:28 AEST

When students leave the grounds of the school on an excursion or sport event – a Permission Note MUST BE SIGNED.

EDUCATION WEEK

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

Education Week is officially held from 6 August to 10 August. The week highlights the achievements of public education, putting the spotlight on our students, educators and school communities.

As part of Education Week, we are holding an Art Show; opening the school on Saturday 11 August to display an incredible array of our student art for your enjoyment. Please bring your family along anytime from 10am – 3pm to see your child's artwork. Every child has a piece of art displayed.

We will also offer you an opportunity to bid on your class artwork in the silent auction and buy a ticket in the P&C fundraising raffle. Viewing of class artworks will be held in our library from next week.

Help make a difference to our playground for your children and the students of the future.

Buy a raffle ticket, sell a raffle ticket, and share our link on every social media channel you use, such as Facebook.

So make a difference; sell a ticket to someone who needs a brand new car! Help our school.

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

3 CONJOLA

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:58 AEST

3C has been learning about French Impressionist painter, Claude Monet. Here are some photos of students painting a recreation of Monet's painting ‘The Water Lily Pond'. Students first sketched their artwork and then used water colours to paint it.

STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL PARENTS & CITIZENS END OF FINANCIAL YEAR VOLUNTARY TAX DEDUCTIBLE D

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:35 AEST

The generous support of the school community has helped to make our school what it is

today, a centre of excellence in education for our children. In 2017, the Parent Groups (P&C and P&C School Club) have funded the following projects:

• Technology in classrooms+ IT Support

• Speech Pathology

• Robotics Program

• Reading And Parent Program (RAPP)

• Literacy Programs

• Numeracy Programs

• Information & Communications Technology Programs

• Tennis Court Refurbishment

TOTAL $134,146

Our school relies on donations from the Parent Groups to provide additional resources that are not funded by the Department of Education.

This year, through the continued support of the families of our school community the P&C are seeking to raise $120,000 to contribute towards the funding of the following projects:

• Continue Technology in classroom $12,000

• Continue with Speech Therapy program $20,000

• Continue with RAPP program $12,000

• Robotics program $15,000

• Contribution towards redevelopment of quiet area $60,000

Please complete the form in Attachments and return it to the school with your contribution.

Thank you for your support. We endeavour to see that all funds collected will ensure a better learning environment for all children at SSPS.

Strathfield South Public School Parents & Citizens Association

ART SHOW @ SSPS 11 August – Save the date!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Saturday 11 August SSPS will be hosting an

ART SHOW in the School Hall. This will be a culmination of artworks produced by all students throughout this term to celebrate Education Week W3 Term 3. It celebrates how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing, globalised world.

In addition classes have prepared a collaborative class artwork which will be auctioned to the highest bidder! Artworks will be on display for you to bid in the Library from 31 July – 17 August 2018.

2nd Prize – Artwork $8000

"Murrawuk – Burn Off"

by Helen McCarthy Tyalmuty

See attachments for certificate of Authenticity, original aboriginal artwork and Provenance.

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

P&C Community Update Why is supporting the P&C so important for our children?

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

As a parent group it is so important to support our school's fundraising efforts in any way we can. If all 600 SSPS families supported in any way they could, we could build a better future and school for our children. If everyone just does a little bit, no one has to do a lot!

So a collective thank you for "doing your bit" and buying Easter holiday raffle tickets, spending at the school canteen, banking on a Tuesday, buying your uniforms from our uniform shop, shopping at our Mother's Day stall and for volunteering your time to support P&C initiatives.

All of this support means that there are profits and when we have profits we have funds raised to upgrade facilities and resources for our children. Being a part of the P&C also gives you, the community an opportunity to voice where the funds could be spent.

Beginner Strings Terms 3 & 4 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:13 AEST

Would you like your child to learn the violin, viola or cello? This exciting opportunity is offered to all students in K-2 as weekly 30 minute group classes. They will learn about the instruments, elementary concepts of time, pitch, note reading in a fun and exciting group environment whilst playing various genres of music. There are only a limited number of new spaces for Terms 3 & 4 2018. Students already enrolled will need to re-enrol by 24 July, 2018 to retain their place in the program. Please see The Scene attachment or the school office for more information.

Ms Ruth Choong – mob 0404 872 410

Ruthchoong.strings@gmail.com

KidsMatter – Emotions

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

Students have been learning a lot about feelings this month in their Bounceback lessons. Each week in The Scene we provide parents with lots of ideas and suggestions about communicating with and supporting your child to understand and live better with emotions. If you've missed them, please check out our back issues.

What can you do to help your child become more able to understand and manage feelings?

Teach your child how to manage their strong feelings

Use the following five steps to help your child when their emotions are ‘hot' such as when they are sad or afraid or angry. These five steps provide an opportunity to be close to your child and teach them how to manage strong feelings.

Take notice when your child is feeling sad or angry or upset.
Listen to your child and show them you understand how they are feeling.
Name the emotion in words your child can understand.
Help your child with problem solving within acceptable limits.
Finish with a hopeful or optimistic statement that they can do something to help make things feel better.

An example of the five steps in action

Your child comes home from school looking upset:

Parent: How was school today? (noticed the child is upset)

Child: Awful, Ella was sick and she won't be back till Friday and I had no one to play with. Everybody else had someone to hang around with at lunchtime except me.

Parent: You must have felt lonely then, and probably a bit sad. (Listening and naming the emotion your child is feeling)

Child: I don't want to go back to school till Ella comes back.

Parent: Well I can understand why you feel that way because it isn't nice to feel all by yourself and left out. (Show empathy) But you can't stay home from school just because Ella is away. Can you think of any ways to make you feel less lonely tomorrow? (Hep with problem solving but within stated limits)

Child: I suppose I could go to the library at lunchtime.

Parent: Yes, that could be good. What about Tran – you two have always got on well. He'd probably be happy to catch up with you. Things always seem better in the morning too. (Take an optimistic approach)

Help your child to learn to change a bad mood into a good mood

When they are feeling down help your child choose something to do that would make them feel happier such as drawing, reading, watching a funny DVD, playing a game, doing something nice for someone else, asking a friend over to play a physical game outside.

Help your child to correctly name their feelings

Sometimes children make a mistake about how strong the feeling is, for example, they say they are really angry or absolutely furious when they are just annoyed. Help them to use more low-key language like ‘cross' instead of ‘furious', and ‘down' instead of ‘depressed'. Children also make mistakes about what they are feeling. For example they may say they are angry when they are really scared because the sensations in their body are similar. Say ‘perhaps you're also feeling .. " as a prompt.

Help your child to understand and experience positive feelings

Identify times when you can help your child to notice and ‘savour' pleasant feelings (e.g. such as feeling proud, excited, satisfied, relieved, joyful and hopeful) that arise from a positive experience. Name the feeling that would be associated with the experience and ask them questions to help them to re-live the positive feelings they are experiencing. For example:

Child: I helped Uncle Bill to milk the cows when I was staying on the farm.

Parent: What fun! You must have felt very excited about doing something like that and proud that he trusted you to help him.

Help your child to learn to recognise other people's feelings

Whenever you see an opportunity, talk to your child about how others might be feeling (e.g. during particular family or school situations, in a story or movie, on the news).

Model handling your own difficult feelings well

When you are feeling worried, sad, disappointed or unhappy let your child see and hear you managing your feelings in a constructive way that includes using helpful thinking.

Have a safe and happy winter holiday!

KidsMatters Team

Winter Uniforms

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

Winter is well and truly here! Please ensure you have dressed your child in their warm winter school uniform so as to minimise catching any colds or flu.

If you haven't purchased a winter uniform, please note that a long sleeve white polo shirt is available and teamed with a white skivvy adds extra warmth. There is also an all-weather, thermal school jacket that can be purchased to keep out those cold winds. If your daughter is wearing the navy school tunic (dress) please buy some warm woollen tights to wear underneath.(No long socks) Remember to wear school colours (royal blue/navy) if you are buying school uniform items (beanies / scarfs) from other retail shops.

Enjoy the chill! And don't forget to label, label, label!

Mrs B Hamilton

Deputy Principal

Asthma Australia PAJAMA Day 25.7.18

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Asthma Australia is an organisation that supports 2.5 million Australians living with asthma – many of them are children. Asthma is a leading cause for children missing out on school.

Strathfield South Public School with be having a "PYJAMA DAY" on Wednesday 25 July 2018 in Term 3. Students are encouraged to wear PJs for a gold coin donation, however, students must wear enclosed sport shoes to ensure safety. Please wear your school jacket in preference to wearing a dressing gown. All funds raised will be donated to Asthma Australia to support ongoing research.

SRC Team

School Photos and PSSA Photo Orders

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

A majority of the school photos, sibling, SRC and School Captain and School Vice Captains were handed out on Friday 22.6.18. Years 3-6 students may have been at sport and will receive them today.

A reprint of 4W and 4K classes is being done due the name of a student incorrectly spelt.

To view and purchase summer and winter PSSA, and House Captains and House Vice Captains, and the Year 6 muck up photo, please go to www.theschoolphotographer.com.au and use the access code:

18S473EL39SS

The formal Year 6 photo with a portrait photo will be handed out at the Year 6 farewell dinner at the end of the year. Photo prices: $16 each, 2 for $30, 3 for $42 or 5 for $60. Additional photos $10 each.

See attachment for further details.

Learning to Swim

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:46 AEST

Swimming is one of the most popular pastimes in Australia. Currently, drowning is the fourth largest cause of unintentional death and occurs in people of all ages. Children aged 5-14 years have the lowest rate of drowning deaths in Australia and it is believed that learning to swim and water safety skills in this age group are important drowning prevention strategies and may explain why the drowning rate is so low. For this reason, it's important that our students learn water safety and survival skills, so that they can continue to enjoy aquatic activities. To help achieve this goal, the Department of Education (DoE) runs the School Swimming and Water Safety Program. During Weeks 3 and 4 of Term 3, students in Stage 1 will have the opportunity travel to Enfield Pool accompanied by classroom teachers and be part of this vital program promoting water safety skills children will need for life.

International Life Saving Federation. Position Statement: Swimming and Water Safety Education. International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education 2007;1(4):373-377.

School Banking

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

This Tuesday is the last school banking day for Term 2. Banking resumes on the first day back of Term 3 (24.7.18). School banking is now in front of the hall.

Remember to bank every week to add points towards your class for the new class reward. Please see attachments for banking news.

What does the “Voluntary Contribution” for K - 6 and “Moving Bodies Years 3 - 6 students that appea

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

Although Voluntary Contribution is the least paid fee, it covers the widest range at the school. The items are vast and very important to ever student in the school.

This term students participated in the Moving Bodies athletics program which supported and improved physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development and was a lot of fun. The program covered, shot put, discus, javelin (modified) hurdles, relays including baton exchange, long jump, high jump, sprints and distance running. Students learnt to use equipment safely and the right techniques fulfilling NSW PDHPE syllabus.

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:27 AEST

Enrolments for 2019 are welcome. Please see the office for an enrolment form. If you do not reside in the local catchment area, please note that it is required to complete an "out of area" application. This requires you to bring in your child's childcare progress report. Please have this ready BEFORE applying.

AND… A HONDA JAZZ WILL BE ONSITE TO ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION NEXT TERM!

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:10 AEST

Help us Jazz up our playground by taking part in our first ever Car Raffle!!!

This year, Strathfield South Public School's P&C are running an online car raffle for the

1st time ever to celebrate the SSPS Art Show 11 August 2018!

Why are we fundraising?

SSPS will be JAZZ'ing up the Quiet Area playground! 100% of the profits will contribute to the re-development of the Quiet Area, to create a flexible, sensory, outdoor learning environment for all children to Connect, Succeed, Thrive and Learn.

1st Prize - A brand new 2018 Honda Jazz valued at $19 985!

It's so easy!!! Go to….Raffle link

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

Only 500 tickets will be sold! Better odds than Lotto! Raffle drawn 2/9/18 Father's Day!

What You Can Do? It's as easy as 1, 2, 3! –

Talk, Share & Find!

Talk to your friends, colleagues, neighbours and family about the SSPS online car raffle and promote!

Share the raffle link on Social Media!

Find someone to buy a raffle ticket! It could be you!

So what are you waiting for?---> https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

PARENT HOLIDAY HOMEWORK

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Help make a difference to our playground for your children and the students of the future.

Buy a raffle ticket, sell a raffle ticket, and share our link on every social media channel you use, such as Facebook.

Whilst we are happy for you to buy a ticket or two, the aim of this raffle is to sell, sell, sell!

As a community, if we can sell 500 tickets, we can renovate or 'Jazz Up' our Quiet Area and create a space for all classes to use in learning time, and for all children to use at play time.

So make a difference; sell a ticket! Help our school.

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:27 AEST

Dear Parents/Carers:

"It has become rather trite to talk of the need for ‘life-long learning'. But never has the need for such learning likely to have been greater given the longer span and greater volatility in future career paths. Making these career transitions will itself call for a particular set of skills – personal resilience, problem solving and flexibility. As is now well recognised, these character attributes are best instilled in the early years."

I came across this quote and it resonated with what we try to achieve at our school. Our School Plan theme of Flourishing Students encourages students to connect, succeed, thrive and learn.

As a community, we care about our children's futures and ensuring they are successful their whole life. Let's all remember what is important for this to occur; personal resilience, problem solving and flexibility.

Art Show Car Raffle

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:11 AEST

You could win a new car !

Click on this link to enter: https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

FUTURE EVENTS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:22 AEST

June

27	PATH – Parent training
28	Endeavour Concert Rehearsal
29	Last day to book online for teacher interviews, excluding S3S & S3D

July

2	School Band Concert 6pm
2	TAIKO drumming
2-6	Student, Parent, Teacher Interviews
3	TAIKO drumming
4	Stage 3 Science Incursion
5	Peer Support Training
5	TAIKO drumming
6	Last Day Term 2
23	Student Free Day
24	First Day Term 3, Years K-6
25	PAJAMA day – Asthma Australia Yr K-6
25	PATH – Parent training
26	ICAS English 7:45am arrival start 8am
30	Moving Bodies Stage 1 starts
31	Athletics Carnival Year 3 - 6

August

1	Opportunity Class Placement Test
2	Peer Support starts
6-10	Education Week
6-17	Swim Scheme
8	School Club
8	Middle School commences
11	Art Show Opening – Ed Week
14	ICAS Math 7:45am arrival start 8am
16	Primary Proms Rehearsal
20	P&C
20-24	Book Week
22	Zone Athletics
30	Father's Day Stall
30&31	K-2 Healthy Harold

September

2	Raffle Draw!
3-5	K-2 Healthy Harold

Climbing equipment proposal

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

If you are interested in being part of a parent committee to investigate the feasibility/ possibility of installing climbing equipment for SSPS students in the future, please contact the P&C President Mr Daniel Everett or email the school and your intentions will be forwarded on. Thank you.

P&C Community Update

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Why is supporting the P&C so important for our children?

Korean Public Speaking Contest

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:45 AEST

Korean students will participate in an International Korean Public Speaking Contest on July 7^th. The aim of the event is to improve their Korean skills and feel proud of their cultural heritage and language. Please wish our brave contestants all the best!

The Italian Immigrant Story

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:37 AEST

In Italian this term, Stage 3 has been inquiring into the Italian immigrant story whilst comparing cultures between Italy and Australia, now and in the past. Year 5 and 6 students have investigated key questions in groups such as ‘What is immigration?' and ‘Why did the Italians immigrate to Australia?' Students have developed both their reading, speaking and listening skills by investigating the stories of the Italian immigrants, their contributions to Australian society and their shared themes of determination, grit and hope for a better life. We congratulate those students who also worked on a special project to depict their learning through art on canvas!

Students have been given a home learning task to develop their research skills; creating questions, interviewing an immigrant and then presenting their findings to their class in a mode of their choice. We remind all students that these presentations are to be prepared by week 10 to present in the first week of Term 3.

Italian Teachers

Beginner Strings Terms 3 & 4 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:13 AEST

Would you like your child to learn the violin, viola or cello? This exciting opportunity is offered to all students in K-2 as weekly 30min group classes. They will learn about the instruments, elementary concepts of time, pitch, note reading in a fun and exciting group environment whilst playing various genres of music. There are only a limited number of new spaces for Term 3 & 4 2018. Students already enrolled will need to re-enrol by 24 July, 2018 to retain their place in the program. Please see The Scene attachment or the school office for more information.

Ms Ruth Choong – mob 0404 872 410

Ruthchoong.strings@gmail.com

KidsMatter – Emotions

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

Students continue to learn about emotions – both pleasant and unpleasant – in their BounceBack lessons this week.

Key messages to communicate to your child about their feelings

Sometimes we have mixed emotions about the same thing.

Talking with your child about their mixed feelings will help them to make sense of their different feelings (e.g. they can feel pleased about being given a part of the school play but also nervous).

You can change a bad mood into a good mood.

It's normal to sometimes feel sad, lonely, disappointed, angry or worried. You can help yourself feel a little better if you do something physical (e.g. walking, or sport), something that creates positive feelings (e.g. playing with your pet, making or drawing something or looking at photographs taken on a holiday) or do something kind or helpful for someone else.

In order to understand others, you need to learn to work out how they are feeling.

This is called empathy. Trying to understand other people's feelings, and letting them know that you do understand and care – this is important for making and staying friends and for supporting other people.

What can you do to help your child become more able to understand and manage feelings?

Teach your child how to manage their strong feelings.

Use the following five steps to help your child when their emotions are ‘hot' such as when they are sad or afraid or angry. These five steps provide an opportunity to be close your child and teach them how to manage strong feelings.

Take notice when your child is feeling sad or angry or upset.
Listen to your child and show them you understand how they are feeling.
Name the emotion in words your child can understand.
Help your child with problem solving within acceptable limits.
Finish with a hopeful or optimistic statement that they can do something to help make things feel better.

KidsMatters Team

Asthma Australia PAJAMA Day 25.7.18

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:12 AEST

Asthma Australia is an organisation that supports 2.5 million Australian living with asthma – many of them are children. Asthma is a leading cause for children missing out on school.

Strathfield South Public School with be having a "PAJAMA DAY" on Wednesday 25 July 2018 in Term 3. Students are encouraged to wear PJs for a gold coin donation, however, students must wear enclosed sport shoes to ensure safety. Please wear your school jacket in preference to wearing a dressing gown. All funds raised will be donated to Asthma Australia to support ongoing research.

SRC Team

School Photos and PSSA Photo Orders

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

A majority of the school photos, sibling, SRC and School Captain and School Vic Captains were handed out on Friday 22.6.18. Yr 3-6 students may have been at sports and will receive them today.

A reprint of 4W and 4K classes is being done due a name of a student incorrectly spelt.

To view and purchase summer and winter PSSA, and House Captains and House Vice Captains, and the Year 6 muck up photo, please go to www.theschoolphotographer.com.au and use the access code:

18S473EL39SS

See attachment for further details.

What does the “Living Eggs for school incursions” for Kindergarten and “Commonwealth Gala Sport Day

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:40 AEST

In term 2, Kindergarten students studied "The Farm" as part of their Science unit. Kindergarten had the opportunity to observe eggs hatching into chicks over a two week period. $5:00

The SSPS Commonwealth Games Day was an educational day held at school during the Commonwealth Games. Students K-6 participated in an opening & closing ceremony and enjoyed a wide variety of athletic games and events throughout the day. All students developed a greater understanding of the Commonwealth Games ideals – Humanity. Equality & Destiny $6:00

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:27 AEST

FROM DUST BOWL TO OASIS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:20 AEST

Help make a difference to our playground for your children and the students of the future.

Buy a raffle ticket, sell a raffle ticket, and share our link on every social media channel you use, such as Facebook.

Whilst we are happy for you to buy a ticket or two, the aim of this raffle is to sell, sell, sell! As a community, if we can sell 500 tickets, we can build and 'Jazz Up' our Quiet Area and create a space for all classes to use in learning time, and for all children to use at play time.

So make a difference; sell a ticket! Help our school. Imagine encouraging a friend or work colleague to buy a raffle ticket, only to find out they won a car on Fathers' Day!

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=vfnvm

1^st Prize Honda Jazz $19 985!

2^nd Prize Aboriginal Artwork $8000

3^rd Prize MacBook Pro

OFFICIAL MULTIPURPOSE COURT OPENING

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

You are invited to join our P&C President, Daniel Everett, and our NSW State Government Member for Strathfield, Jodi McKay MP, for the official opening of our newly renovated multipurpose court. The students and teachers are reporting this space to be wonderful in terms of outdoor learning opportunities.

When: Tuesday 3 July at 9am

Where: on the multipurpose court

This will be a short ceremony to thank everyone for the support given to make this improvement dream to our school come true.

Whilst not all students can attend, a selected group will be present to enjoy this occasion.

P&C Community Update Why is supporting the P&C so important for our children?

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Beginner Strings Terms 3 & 4 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:13 AEST

Ms Ruth Choong – mob 0404 872 410

Ruthchoong.strings@gmail.com

KidsMatter – Emotions

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

Students continue to learn about emotions – both pleasant and unpleasant – in their BounceBack lessons this week.

Key messages to communicate to your child about their feelings

Don't let yourself be "hijacked" by your feelings.

"Hijacked" means that your feelings have over taken you and you are no longer in charge. If your feelings are taking over, you need to go to a quiet place or do something that will help you calm down (e.g. throw a basketball through a hoop, play music or play with a pet). If you don't calm down, you can't think of the best way to deal with how you are feeling. Your anger should never be expressed in a way that hurts others, property or yourself.

You need to ask "Did they really mean it?"

Sometimes we get upset and angry over something that a person has done, but it was just an accident or they were a bit thoughtless and they did not mean to hurt us or hurt our feelings. Before responding in an angry way, you need to think about whether their actions were deliberate and intended to harm you or just an accident or mistake.

Unhelpful thinking makes you feel worse.

Unpleasant feelings can get worse because of the unhelpful things you say to yourself about them. No person and no event makes you feel a certain way. Sometimes it is understandable that you feel angry or sad because of what is happened but that event or person hasn't made you have that feeling. One of the best way to be in control of your feelings is to use more helpful thinking and "self-talk".

KidsMatters Team

Scholastic Book Fair

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

Thank you to all parents, grandparents, carers and teachers that supported our successful scholastic book fair this term. During the event everyone was so enthusiastic and excited about the variety of quality literature that was supplied to us by scholastic. As a result, the school made approximately $10000 and will receive 20% commission from this. The money will be used to replenish the school library resources based on the needs of the school.

Ms C Rahme, Teacher Librarian

School Photos

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

School Photos

Class, individual, sibling photos will be arriving at the school 22 June, 2018 and will be distributed directly to the teachers to be given to your children.

PSSA & SRC Photo Orders

These photos are not available to purchase at the present time. An error was made regarding the Access Code. Apologies for the inconvenience.

PSSA & SRC photos are still being verified and should be available by the end of June. A new Access Code will be given in the Scene.

What does the “Fizzics Education Incursion” Stage 3 (Year 5 & 6) that appears on the family Statemen

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:40 AEST

Wednesday 4 July, 2018

This incursion will provide the students with a fun and unique hands on experience linked to their science unit "Electricity and Light". Fizzics Education is a hands-on school science workshop relevant to modern living! Students investigate electrical energy production from renewable and non-renewable resources. The activities cover a range of topics including wind farms, hydrogen fuel cells, the Snowy Mountains Scheme, how to reduce energy consumption in the home and the difference between ozone depletion and the enhanced greenhouse effect. Students will develop a better understanding of the different sources of energy and gain insight into current research being undertaken into energy production.

No permission note required but a payment of $12 can be made online or at the office.

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:27 AEST

HAVE YOU VISITED OUR BEES LATELY?

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:24 AEST

As well as enhancing sustainability, being a real life lesson in biodiversity, conservation and a truly wonderful education experience, our native stingless bees are just fun to watch. Have a look yourself, and chat to your children about them.

Our native stingless bees are located in their hive in the garden bed outside Miss Ridani's Kindergarten classroom. You will find these tiny winged creatures flying about busily.

SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR ART SHOW and SCHOOL FUNDRAISER

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

Most schools celebrate Education Week with one or two items. BUT at Strathfield South PS we are celebrating Education Week already. Classrooms are buzzing as student individual and class artworks are being prepared for our Community Art Show, to be held on Saturday 11 August from 10am – 3pm.

Come along on the day to see the creative display of our class works, buy a raffle ticket to win a brand new car, place a bid on a class artwork that will hold fond memories for your family for evermore.

AND where will the money go that is raised? To improving our playground for our students of course! All monies raised will be directed to ‘Jazzing up' our quiet area with landscaping and seating. No more dust bowl!

Get ready to be part of another exciting SSPS project, making our outdoor spaces more student learning focused.

KidsMatter – Emotions

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

For the rest of term, students will be considering emotions in BounceBack lessons – theirs and other people's.

We all experience a range of emotions every day. Our feelings are necessary for us to survive and co-exist harmoniously with others. Without pleasant feelings (e.g. feeling pleased, proud, excited, loving) we would not learn what makes us happy and what we want to strive for. Experiencing a lot of pleasant feelings can help children become more resilient and bounce back more quickly from a difficulty or setback.

However, unpleasant feelings are also important too. Without unpleasant feelings as warnings (e.g. fear, worry and anger), we would be less able to protect ourselves from possible danger or to stand up for ourselves. Some unpleasant feelings (e.g. embarrassment, disappointment and sadness) also motivate us to think deeply about some of the difficult and challenging situations we sometimes have to cope with (e.g. failing, loss and rejections). This type of reflection helps us to learn from our experiences and become more able to make good decisions and problem solve.

Our unpleasant emotions can sometimes ‘hijack us' and we react to them by behaving in ways that alienate others or work against us. Learning how to express their emotions in a positive and assertive way helps children to feel more in control when things are difficult for them.

Key messages to communicate to your child about their feelings.

Talking to someone else can help.

When you are feeling sad or disappointed it can be helpful to talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling. They can help you to check whether or not you are seeing things clearly and help you to solve problems.

Correctly naming your feeling can help you to manage it better.

Being able to name your feeling helps you to feel more in control. For example, if you know that you are feeling angry, then you also realise that you need to calm yourself down and speak up for yourself in a calm but strong way. If you can correctly name what you are feeling as ‘disappointment' rather than ‘anger', then you realise that it is not helpful to feel so upset and it's easier to calm down.

KidsMatters Team

PSSA & SRC Photo Orders

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:28 AEST

These photos are not available to purchase at the present time. An error was made regarding the Access Code. Apologies for the inconvenience.

PSSA & SRC photos are still being verified and should be available by the end of June. A new Access Code will be given in the Scene.

What does the “Moving Bodies” that appears on the family Statement of Account, mean:

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:40 AEST

Stage 2 (Years 3&4) and Stage 3 (Years 5&6)

Tuesdays Term 2

This term, students will be participating in the Moving Bodies athletics program which aims to support and improve physical, cognitive, social and emotional development along with improving student fundamental movement skills for all sports, in a safe and challenging environment. The Moving Bodies athletics program covers a diverse range of events giving students the opportunity to perform various aspects of athletics including: Shot Put, Discus, Javelin (modified), Hurdles, Relays including baton exchange, Long Jump, High Jump, Sprints and distance running. Students learn to use the athletics equipment safely while developing the correct techniques to fulfil this component of the NSW PDHPE syllabus.

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:27 AEST

SEMESTER TWO REPORTS ARE ALMOST READY

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:33 AEST

Student Reporting is the process of communicating information about student learning—including a student's level of attainment, the progress they have made and a review of their personal goals. The fundamental purpose of assessment and reporting is to improve student learning.

Our teachers have been concentrating on collaboratively writing student reports this term. A great deal of discussion about consistent teacher judgement occurs. They will invite you to meet with them to discuss your child's progress.

I look forward to seeing every family at our school for these meetings.

2 Yowie

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:56 AEST

2Y has been working hard on our artworks for the art show next term! We're experimenting with many different techniques, including watercolours, paint and even hammers and nails! We are so excited for you to see our final artworks!

2 Wanda

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:53 AEST

As the SSPS Art Show is coming up, 2W have been busily preparing their pieces. We are creating our very own mosaics. We can't wait till they are finished and for everyone to come and view them at the art show next term!

School Phone Lines

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

We are still experiencing phone line outage. The only number available is 9642 1359. This number is diverted to a mobile number which can only take one call at a time and calls are unable to be transferred. Please email the school if you are having difficulty getting through.

KidsMatter – Looking on the Bright Side

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

Looking on the Bright Side

Students continue to consider how to be optimistic and show gratitude in their Bounceback lessons this week.

Key messages to communicate to your child about being optimistic

It is important to stay hopeful when you have unhappy times.
You will get over unhappy times in your life more easily if you stay hopeful that good things will happen again and things will get better. If you stay hopeful then you don't give up.

Be thankful and grateful.

Being thankful for the nice things people do for you and the good things that happen in your life can help you to feel happier. Letting people know that you are thankful or grateful for how they have supported and cared about you also makes them feel happy too.

Good memories of things help you to bounce back.
When you are feeling sad because you have lost someone or something you love, it helps to remember some of the good times you shared with them to help you feel a bit better.

When one unhappy things happens in your life, it does not spoil everything else.
When one thing in your life goes wrong or you feel unhappy or worried, try to remember all the things that are still good in your life. It is just one thing that is going wrong for a while, not everything.

What can you do to help your child to look on the bright side?

Three Good Things in Your Day

At the dinner table, ask your child, ‘What were three good things that happened for you today?' With younger children, you can do this just before they go to sleep. If they cannot think of anything ask them some prompting questions (e.g. did you have any laughs? Did you enjoy being with anyone? What did you do well?)

The Positive Tracking Game

Challenge everyone in the family to identify the three best things about your family, your home, your holiday, your suburb, about being their age, about this time of the year etc.

Showing Gratitude

Encourage your child to say thank you to someone who has done something nice for them (e.g. by

sending a note or card, text, email or by ringing them).

Good Memories

Help your child to make a photo album, slide show or little book of their favourite photos and to look at the photos to help them remember the good times when they need ‘brightening up'.

Modelling

Let your child see and hear you using positive tracking, showing gratitude, saying ‘things will get better soon' and expecting that good outcomes are possible.

KidsMatters Team

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

From 2015, all schools in Australia are required to participate in the annual Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on school students with a disability. This new approach is based on the professional judgement of teachers about their students and the level of reasonable adjustments needed that draws on the broad definition of disability under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. This information will be available in a consistent, reliable and systematic way. This collection will strengthen existing approaches to supporting students with a disability. Please read the attachment to this scene for more information.

Compulsory School Uniform

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:16 AEST

This is a reminder for all students that school uniform is compulsory. We are now expected to be wearing Winter Uniform. For BOYS this is grey long pants and grey long sleeve shirt with grey socks and black shoes.

For GIRLS this is a blue tunic with a white long sleeve shirt, navy tights or white socks with black shoes. We also have the option of navy pants with the white shirt.

Please note that coloured joggers are not to be worn with the school uniform only black school shoes. If you are wearing SPORTS uniform, our preference is white joggers. Please ensure you have a safe school hat.

Now the cold weather is here you need to be wearing a school winter jacket – these can be ordered from the Uniform Shop.

PSSA & SRC Photo Orders

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:28 AEST

These photos are not available to purchase at the present time. An error was made regarding the Access Code. Apologies for the inconvenience. PSSA & SRC photos are still being verified and should be available by the end of June. New Access Code will be given in the Scene.

School Photos

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

Class, individual, sibling photos will be arriving at the school within the next 2 weeks and will be distributed directly to the teachers to be given to your students.

Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

The P&C School Club will be running a Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea on Thursday 7 June 2018 at 11am. All proceeds will go to help the excellent work of the Cancer Council.

There will be a cake stall for the children to buy a cake for morning tea. Most cakes will be $2 so please send some money with your child/children so that they can enjoy the morning tea and support
the Cancer Council.

Parents AND Grandparents, please come to school on this day and have morning tea with your children and friends. All baked goods will be labelled clearly for students with allergies.

We acknowledge that for some in our community this a fasting period. We do not set the date for this event, as it is organised and published by the Cancer Council. You are very welcome to bring along a container to store your cake/s to enjoy later in the evening.

If you would like to purchase any of the event merchandise, the School Club will have an order form available on the day. Please see the following link for items for sale. If we bulk order we only paid delivery fee once. Take a look!

https://secure.cancercouncilfundraising.org.au/registrant/TicketingWelcome.aspx?eventid=50185&langpref=en-CA&Referrer=direct%2fnone

We will need help to make food for the sale on this day and also help serving on the day.
Please contact Meera on 0414 440 381 if you can help.

What does the “Music Specialist Program” that appears on the family Statement of Account, mean:

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:40 AEST

All students in Stage 2 (years 3 & 4) and Stage 3 (years 5 & 6) participate in a specialised music program for a semester. During these sessions, an expert music teacher instructs explicit, creative, high-quality activities that challenge, engage and inspire students in the performing arts.

A STRATHFIELD COUNCIL INITIATIVE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:08 AEST

Strathfield Council is working with RMS to raise awareness about pedestrian safety. They have installed several point of behaviour LOOK OUT BEFORE YOU STEP OUT stencils in high pedestrian traffic areas. They are specifically aimed at pedestrians distracted by hand held devices. Please support this campaign and use this week to discuss pedestrian safety with your child.

PLAYGROUND DISRUPTION ON TUESDAY 12 JUNE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Sadly, a large gum tree has been deemed unsafe and must be removed immediately. On Tuesday 12 June, from approximately 7am - 4pm, this disruption will occur.

The gate nearest canteen will be open until 9:30am. After that, it will be closed. The Liverpool Rd gate will remain open due to this.
There will be no stopping or parking in Telopea Ave in parts of the Kiss n' Ride area all day. Signage will direct you to appropriate parking and stopping.
We will send an App notification to you on Monday 11 June to remind our community of this disruption.
Our senior toilets, the hall and the canteen will be open as usual.

FUTURE EVENTS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:22 AEST

May

28-1.6	Book Fair starts – finishes 1.6.18
29	ICAS Science
30	PATH – Parent training
30	Stage 2 Shelters Incursion
31	Stage 2 Shelters Incursion

June

5	Public Speaking Finals
6-8	CoS Music Camp
7	Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea
11	Queen's Birthday
12	Kindergarten Calmsley Hill City Farm
13	School Club
13	PATH – Parent training
14	Environmental Awareness Day
18	P&C
18-20	Great Aussie Bush Camp S3O, S3P, S3N S3S
18	FoIM Recorders Mimosa Concert
20	Stage 3 Science Incursion
27	PATH – Parent training
28	Endeavour Concert Rehearsal

July

2	School Band Concert 6pm
2	TAIKO drumming
3	TAIKO drumming
4	Stage 3 Science Incursion
5	Peer Support Training
5	TAIKO drumming
6	Last Day Term 2
23	Student Free Day
24	First Day Term 3, Years K-6
25	PATH – Parent training
30	Moving Bodies Stage 1 starts
31	ICAS English 7:45am arrival start 8am

August

1	Opportunity Class Placement Test
14	ICAS Math 7:45am arrival start 8am
30	Father's Day Stall

PATH Parents As Teacher Helpers Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Term 2:

Week 5 Wednesday 30.5.18 in P Block

Week 7 Wednesday 13.6.18

Week 9 Wednesday 27.6.18

Term 3:

Week 2 Wednesday 25.7.18

Week 3 Wednesday 8.8.18

Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18

Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

KidsMatter – Looking on the Bright Side

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

In the next few weeks students will be discussing optimism and gratitude in their BounceBack lessons.

If you think optimistically it means that you expect things to mostly turn out well and you focus on the positives rather than the negatives in a situation. It also means that you understand that setbacks and difficult times happen to everyone but that things get better after a while. Teaching your child to be optimistic will help them to be better equipped to ‘bounce back' when they face difficulties, frustrations and problems. It means that when they are faced with a problem they will be more likely to look for solutions rather than giving up and not trying.

Key messages to communicate to your child about being optimistic

Look on the bright side

This means being positive and expecting that things will work out well or get better. When you look on the bright side you believe that good things CAN happen and you don't give up easily.

It is good to be a positive tracker

A positive tracker looks for and points out the good things in themselves, in order, and in what happened in their life. They are more fun to be with and others like them more and want to be their friends.

Look for the small good bits in the bad things that happen

Sometimes things happen that you don't like. But you can usually find something good in their situation if you try. Sometimes the good thing is that it could have been worse. Sometimes the good thing is the lesson you learned from it. Sometimes a small good thing happened anyway even if the rest was bad.

Bad times don't last. Things get better.

When a bad thing happens in your life, it is not forever. Bad times and bad feelings always go away again although sometimes it might take a bit of time for this to happen. Things will get better faster if you talk to your parents about what is worrying you.

Environmental Awareness Day @ SSPS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

Thursday 14 June, 2018

Roll up your sleeves and let's care for our school

Environment!

Compulsory School Uniform

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:16 AEST

This is a reminder for all students that school uniform is compulsory. We are now expected to be wearing Winter Uniform. For BOYS this is grey long pants and grey long sleeve shirt with grey socks and black shoes.

For GIRLS this is a blue tunic with a white long sleeve shirt, navy tights or white socks with black shoes. We also have the option of navy pants with the white shirt.

Please note that coloured joggers are not to be worn with the school uniform only black school shoes. If you are wearing SPORTS uniform, our preference is white joggers. Please ensure you have a safe school hat.

Now the cold weather is here you need to be wearing a school winter jacket – these can be ordered from the Uniform Shop.

Take pride in your school and your uniform. Ensure your uniform is clean and tidy and your BLACK shoes get a polish once a week!

PSSA & SRC Photo Orders

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:28 AEST

Sport team photos and SRC photos can be ordered from this week. The photos will be on display on The School Photographer web site and soon in the glass noticeboards outside the office.

Purchases can only be made online, no cash or cheques. If you would like to order a photo package for your child and to make a payment, please go to

www.theschoolphotographer.com.au

Access Code: X473EL39SS

Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

The P&C School Club will be running a Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea on Thursday 7 June 2018 at 11am.

All proceeds will go to help the excellent work of the Cancer Council.

Parents AND Grandparents, please come to school on this day and have morning tea with your children and friends.

All baked goods will be labelled clearly for students with allergies.

We will need help to make food for the sale on this day and also help serving on the day. Please contact Meera on 0414 440 381 if you can help.

What does the “Student Resource Fee” that appears on the family Statement of Account, mean:

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

The Student Resource Fee comprises any textbooks or journals used by the students, digital literacy subscriptions, creative arts supplies and programs plus a paper levy to support all learning programs. Included are special creative arts incursions for each stage.

ORAL LANGUAGE IMPORTANCE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

‘A clear confident speaking voice is an essential life skill

that fosters self-esteem and personal confidence'.

If you are a multi-language user, it will be no surprise to you that oral language is learned more easily, and used more often, than reading or writing. To learn any language, English included, one must communicate by speaking and listening, reading and writing. Individual students should have opportunities to share, expand and clarify their own thinking.

Some helpful ways to support your child in improving their oral language are:

Give your child TIME TO THINK before they answer (the 30 second rule seems long, but really is necessary for many children)
Encourage your child to SAY MORE: Can you say more about that? What do you mean by that? Can you give an example?

CONSOLIDATE…So, Are You Saying...?,

So, let me see if I've got what you're saying, Are you saying...? (always leave space for your child to agree or disagree and say more).

Try to ask questions that are open-ended for example, ‘What's been happening since we last saw each other?' instead of, ‘How was your day?' Encourage longer, more complex answers, rather than one-word answers such as ‘good'.

RESPONSIBLE PHONE USAGE REMINDER

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:29 AEST

Please remember that we understand that your child may need to bring a mobile phone to school for contact purposes outside school hours. However, ALL phones must be brought to the office before school, turned to silent. They will be stored safely and returned to students at the end of the school day.

COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:16 AEST

Class teachers and our Executive are most happy to discuss any social or academic concerns that may come to your attention. Teachers are trained to support our students and maintain student safety at all times.

If you wish to discuss your child's progress, please make an appointment. Our teachers cannot have meetings with parents in learning time and this begins when the morning bell goes. Teachers wish to comprehensively answer your queries and questions; and this often requires a quiet, private space. To make an appointment, please phone or email our school.

Later this term, we will be communicating with you about our upcoming parent – teacher interview opportunities. Please ensure that you take advantage of this opportunity to share in your child's learning with their 2018 teacher.

2 Gunnamatta

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:47 AEST

2G have been learning about where our food comes from in our science unit. Last week, we learnt where bread comes from. As a fun activity, we created our own bread using salt dough.

ChatterBox at SSPS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

Conversation & Skills Class

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult

English skills in a fun and friendly way.

All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

WHERE: Strathfield South Public School

WHO: Any adult member of the community who would like to learn the English language.

WHEN: Every Thursday from 10-12pm during school hours.

LEADER: In Terms 1, 3 & 4 a volunteer leads the program in an informal conversation style group. In Term 2, a qualified English teacher will lead a formal English class.

CONTACT: Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information or attend the school office at the above time.

Year 6 T-Shirts and Farewell

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

It is hoped that the T-shirts will be arriving at the beginning of Term 2.

Please save Monday night 17 December, 2018 for the Year 6 Farewell. To make this a great night we need help with helium balloons, flowers, table decorations, a photo booth, gifts for the children, preparing a slideshow presentation of photos etc. Please contact Kerry 0408 119 187 or Jo 0409 832 966 if you can assist.

Please also start gathering together any photos you have of your child throughout their years at SSPS participating in school activities, e.g. camp, Easter parade, K-2 sport carnival, PSSA, fete etc. so that they can be included in the presentation.

Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Our school has be started a new initiative called the Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) program. This program, modelled on other successful parent partnership initiatives, is a volunteer program that will allow parents and caregivers the opportunity to be trained by our staff facilitator. The program gives those involved, the tools to successfully support children to learn to read, write and use counting in the early years of schooling. It helps parents develop the questioning skills and confidence to deliver high quality assistance in the classroom. This course involves 5 x 2 hour training sessions.

Term 2:

Week 5 Wednesday 30.5.18

Week 7 Wednesday 13.6.18

Week 9 Wednesday 27.6.18

Term 3:

Week 2 Wednesday 25.7.18

Week 3 Wednesday 8.8.18

Week 5 Wednesday 22.8.18

Week 7 Wednesday 5.9.18

KidsMatter

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:43 AEST

BounceBack lessons continue this week to look at what courage means.

Key points to communicate to your child about courage:

We will need to use a lot of ‘everyday courage' in our lives.

Every day courage is shown when you try to do something that is ordinary that still makes you feel a bit nervous such as giving a talk to the class, trying out for a part in a play, sleeping over at a friend's house or going to camp.

Weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of trying to be a hero.

A hero is someone who puts himself/herself at risk to protect the safety and wellbeing of another. It is very rare for someone your age to be in a situation where heroism is required. If you are, think carefully before you act as you might not have enough skill to do it and you could get badly hurt or make things worse. Consider calling 000 or ask an adult to help. You can be a hero in smaller ways (e.g. by standing up for someone who is being mistreated at school).

What can you do to help your child to be brave?

Talk about when you have felt scared and what you did to overcome your fears and be brave. Give examples of times in your life of when you tackled your fears and ‘had a go' at something that was difficult. Stress how pleased you felt afterwards.
Discuss the gains that being brave can bring (e.g. self-respect, confidence, skill).
Look for examples of courage, heroism and foolhardiness in the media and discuss them with your child to help them to understand the differences between courage, heroism and foolhardiness.
Encourage your child to have the courage to do what they believe is ‘the right thing' even if others don't agree with them.
Remind your child about the things that took courage for them to do when they were little but now seem easy to them. Explain that things that take courage for them to do now will seem easier and less scary as they get older.
Stress that throughout life there will be always be new challenges that will require courage. Facing our fears is one of the ways we become stronger.

KidsMatters Team

Compulsory School Uniform

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:16 AEST

For GIRLS this is a blue tunic with a white long sleeve shirt, navy tights or white socks with black shoes. We also have the option of navy pants with the white shirt.

Now the cold weather is here you need to be wearing a school winter jacket – these can be ordered from the Uniform Shop.

Take pride in your school and your uniform. Ensure your uniform is clean and tidy and your BLACK shoes get a polish once a week!

PSSA & SRC Photo Day 25 May

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:28 AEST

Children who are involved in WINTER or SUMMER PSSA teams will be having their team photos taken this Friday. Please come dressed in your sports uniform.

SRC students will also have their group photo taken on this day. Both sports uniform and school uniform is acceptable for this photo.

THE WEATHER IS CHANGING

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:37 AEST

An old Swedish saying (for times when you feel caught out by the weather …)

‘There is no such thing as bad weather; only bad clothing'. So ensure your children are ready for rain, cold and sunshine. Have raincoats and umbrellas in their school bags. Layer their clothing, as children get hot in class and at play. Be positive. Be prepared.

SAFE DROP OFF and PICK UP

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

Take your time; ensure all our children are safe.

Kiss and Ride IS TWO MINUTES ONLY – (no time to check phones or sms anyone).
Double parking is strictly forbidden – please do not call your child onto the road. This is extremely unsafe.
Take your turn in the line that forms from Liverpool Road into Telopea Ave. Do not take over the bus area, and be mindful of buses needing to pull out.

A good rule of thumb everyone – if there is no space, go around the block! Take your time; ensure all our children are safe.

2018-2020 SCHOOL PLAN

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:57 AEST

Our school has three new strategic directions or 2018-2020. They are:

Strategic Direction 1 Flourishing Students

Strategic Direction 2 Dynamic Teaching

Strategic Direction 3 Prosperous Partnerships

In terms of Prosperous Partnerships, we aim to build, sustain and grow inclusive partnerships through effective communication with our parents and the school community. We want you to understand and have confidence in the purpose behind what is taught at primary school and how we teach it. We also hope to build partnerships with you to enhance student learning.

One such example that we introduced today is our PATH program (Parents as Teacher Helpers). Thirty-six eager parents came along to begin a program, which will prepare them to support literacy and numeracy learning in the classroom. We are very excited to be able to offer this program and look forward to sharing the highlights with you.

Year 6 T-Shirts and Farewell

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

It is hoped that the T-shirts will be arriving at the beginning of Term 2.

Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Our school will be starting a new initiative called the Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) program. This program, modelled on other successful parent partnership initiatives, is a volunteer program that will allow parents and caregivers the opportunity to be trained by our staff facilitator. The program gives those involved, the tools to successfully support children to learn to read, write and use counting in the early years of schooling. It helps parents develop the questioning skills and confidence to deliver high quality assistance in the classroom. This course involved 5 x 2 hour training sessions.

Term 2:

Week 3 Wednesday 16.5.18

Week 5 Wednesday 30.5.18

Week 7 Wednesday 13.6.18

Week 9 Wednesday 27.6.18

Term 3:

Week 2 Wednesday 25.7.18

Please register your interest in attending by completing the Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) form attached or found with the notes in the office foyer. Please return it to the office.

There is also a copy in the attachment to this Scene.

KidsMatter

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:43 AEST

This term students have been investigating "What is courage" during Bounce Back lessons.

Fear is a normal human response to situations that might harm us. Fear motivates us to check out whether or not the situation really is a dangerous as it seems and then, if it is, to take action to protect ourselves. Everyone feels scared at times. However we don't necessarily fear the same things as other people. Some people feel scared about riding on a roller coaster but others really enjoy it. But the same people who don't fear going on a roller coaster might feel very nervous when they have to give a speech. Courage means facing fear and not being overwhelmed by it. We need courage if we experience misfortune. We also need courage to face some of the ‘everyday' challenges in our lives such as learning a new skill or sorting out friendship issues.

Key points to communicate to your child about being brave

Everyone feels scared sometimes.

Some people pretend they never feel scared but everyone does. Different things scare different people. One person might feel nervous about learning to dive but not about acting on stage. For someone else it might be the opposite.

There is a big difference between courage and being foolhardy.

Being foolhardy means being stupid and doing a risky and scary thing (e.g. jumping from a tree branch into a river) just to show off or because people are daring you to do it. If you do something really dangerous, the best you will get are bragging rights and the worst you might get is a serious injury or death.

KidsMatters Team

K – 2 Basketball Clinic

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:29 AEST

Thanks to Sporting Schools NSW, K-2 students will be participating in a basketball clinic. Each class will participate in four 30 minute sessions run by Western Sydney Wolves. Please ensure that students come to school in sports uniform on the following dates – Thursday 3 May, Thursday 10 May, Thursday 17 May, Thursday 24 May.

Opportunity Class Applications 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

Opportunity classes cater for highly achieving academically gifted students who may otherwise be without sufficient classmates at their own academic and social level. These classes help gifted and talented students to learn by grouping them with other gifted and talented students, teaching them in specialised ways and providing educational materials at the appropriate level.

Applications for opportunity class placement are considered mainly on the combined results of the Opportunity Class Placement Test and school assessments. The Opportunity Class Placement Test will be held on Wednesday 1 August 2018.

If you would like to have your child considered for Year 5 opportunity class entry in 2019, you need to apply now. You will need to apply on the internet using a valid email address (not the student's email address).

Detailed instructions on how to apply online are now available (Tuesday 1 May 2018) at https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-5 . The application website opens on Tuesday 1 May 2018 and closes on Friday 18 May 2018. No late applications will be accepted.

There are no paper application forms. If you do not have internet access, you could apply at a public library. If you have a disability that prevents you from using a computer, you can contact the Unit for assistance after 1 May 2018.

You must submit only ONE application for each student.

The OC Information Booklet for parents was given out to ALL Year 4 students at the end of Term 1.

Please see attachments for the note indicating your interest. Please return to the office by Friday 4.5.18.

Mrs B Hamilton – Deputy Principal

SSPS Website Additions

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:34 AEST

Our Annual School Report for 2017 is available on our website for your perusal. Please have a look at our record of the last year's achievements and our plans for the future.

Our 2018-2020 School Plan is available on our website. This is the document that takes into account our evaluations from 2017, and future directions from the Department of Education, appreciating the most current educational research for 21-Century learners possible. We will report on this document to the DoE and our community for the next three years.

I will discuss both documents at our next P&C meeting, next Monday 21 May at 7:30pm.

Have a wonderful week of learning, everyone

Karen Mortimer

Principal

Good News Stories

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:22 AEST

From time to time, our students have incredible successes outside our school. Representative team successes, competitions, awards and volunteering are just some of the many activities they, and their families, are involved in. Our school is eager to congratulate students on their achievements. For example, recently one of our students has been chosen as a finalist in the Young Archie art competition, another won a Korean writing competition and yet another student was part of a team that won the NSWPSSA tennis championships. If we hear about these incredible feats, our school will officially congratulate the proud student at their next weekly assembly (our assistant Principals coordinate this), and where possible we send out a congratulatory tweet on our twitter page.

1 Coogee

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:45 AEST

1C have been having so much fun learning about plants. We learnt the features of a plant, what it needs to grow and why plants are important.

Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) Program

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Term 2:

Week 3 Wednesday 16.5.18

Week 5 Wednesday 30.5.18

Week 7 Wednesday 13.6.18

Week 9 Wednesday 27.6.18

Term 3:

Week 2 Wednesday 25.7.18

Please register your interest in attending by completing the Parents As Teacher Helpers (PATH) form attached or found with the notes in the office foyer. Please return it to the office.

There is also a copy in the attachment to this Scene.

KidsMatter NAPLAN Online

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

The school will be conducting the National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) commencing in week 3. This year, the students will be completing the tests online. The students have already completed a NAPLAN Online Practice test in March.

Students from Year 3 and 5 will sit these tests each morning beginning Tuesday 15 May and concluding on Friday 18 May. Catch up sessions will be available that week and the following week.

The school receives a lot of important diagnostic data which we as a team analyse to celebrate our successes and improve on any weaknesses. Although these tests are important for the school as well as students and parents, it is vital that we do not place any additional pressure on the students to perform well.

For the Year 3 students, it will be their first formal test in closely moderated conditions and this can be uncomfortable for some students. It is also important to remember that this assessment is only a snap-shot and that the school conducts regular on-going assessments and observations that can paint a true picture of your child unlike the formal pen and paper tests. The product of our school-based assessments is our Semester 1 reports which will be issued later this term.

The school's advice is to reassure your child, ensure they get a good night sleep and they eat well in the morning before the assessments.

If you would like further information, please refer to the attachments in week 1 and 2 in The Scene.

M. Cidem

Deputy Principal

TEA, CAKE & QUESTIONS with P&C School Club

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:36 AEST

All parents, grandparents and carers are warmly invited to hear about events for Term 2 and bring your questions that you might have about school life. Have a cup of tea and a slice of cake; make new friends.

All welcome! Wednesday 9^th May, 9:15am-10:15am. Meet outside the School Office.

Any questions? Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548, School Club Convenor

BYOD Parent Information Session 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:14 AEST

Thank you to everyone who has registered their interest in attending our BYOD parent information sessions this Thursday 10 May in our school library Based on the responses we received, we will be holding a session at 8:00am and a repeat session at 4:00pm.

K – 2 Basketball Clinic

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:29 AEST

Opportunity Class Applications 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

You must submit only ONE application for each student.

The OC Information Booklet for parents was given out to ALL Year 4 students at the end of Term 1.

Please see attachments for the note indicating your interest. Please return to the office by Friday 4.5.18.

Mrs B Hamilton – Deputy Principal

STUDENT SAFETY IS A CONCERN FOR EVERYONE: BE THOUGHTFUL OF OUR NEIGHBOURS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:36 AEST

Managing driving and parking behaviour around our school can be a challenge. Issues of hazardous parking, illegal U-turns, traffic congestion and conflict with local residents during drop off and pick times can be a constant source of frustration and a threat to student safety and the community in general.

Please think of others when you deliver your children to school, or pick them up. For those who use private vehicles, be prepared to arrive early if you wish to park close by, or accept that a walk to the car is a healthy alternative. I encourage all those who can walk to school to do so. Please avoid parking illegally. Our neighbours' driveways are out of bounds.

Please pay strict attention to kiss and ride parking regulations, and be mindful of traffic congestion from 3pm – 3:15pm particularly. Never approach discourteous drivers about their behaviour. This is the role of Strathfield Council traffic patrol and the police. You are best to ring them about such matters. The school cannot ring on your behalf. We can however, address student safety issues, so please report these to our office by email or phone.

A reminder: Strathfield Council have routine traffic inspections of every school. Drivers may believe you can park in the small access road off Telopea Ave, but this belief is incorrect. Council is aware that some of our parents are parking in this area.

OUR MULTIPURPOSE COURT IS ALMOST READY FOR USE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

Super exciting news! During the holidays, our multipurpose courts were completed. There are a few touch ups to finish this week and staff training on maintenance and care is a high priority. We will be ready for classes to use this outdoor learning space very soon. Our students will be experiencing the dream in a very short time!

Walk Safely to School Day

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:39 AEST

Walk Safely to School Day is about encouraging everyone to walk safely to school. We want you to participate with us on Friday 18^th May 2018.

All you have to do is…

Walk safely to school with your child

Park a block or two away and walk

Spend some time on the weekend walking the school route.

Students who walk and arrive prior to 8.55am could receive an apple, a bottle of water and tattoo or sticker.

This is a fantastic community event that supports what your children are learning, promotes healthy physical activity and is great for the environment. Active kids are smarter kids.

We look forward to you joining us on Friday 18^th May 2018.

ChatterBox at SSPS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

Conversation & Skills Class

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English skills in a fun and friendly way.

All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

WHERE: Strathfield South Public School

WHO: Any adult member of the community who would like to learn the English language.

WHEN: Every Thursday from 10-12pm during school hours.

LEADER: In Terms 1, 3 & 4 a volunteer leads the program in an informal conversation style group. In Term 2, a qualified English teacher will lead a formal English class.

CONTACT: Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information or attend the school office at the above time.

Year 6 T-Shirts and Farewell

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

It is hoped that the T-shirts will be arriving at the beginning of Term 2.

MOTHER'S DAY STALL

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:22 AEST

Helpers Needed!

Children across the school will have a chance to buy something for mum/grandma next Thursday 10th May during school hours. Are you available to help with set up the day before, sales on the day and lay-by before school on Friday 11th? Many hands make light work! Please contact Eva Plakias if you can help!

Eva 0415 086 386. Thank you!

TEA, CAKE & QUESTIONS with P&C School Club

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:36 AEST

All welcome! Wednesday 9^th May, 9:15am-10:15am. Meet outside the School Office.

Any questions? Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548, School Club Convenor

School Banking

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

Changes to School Banking

Tuesday is Banking Day. Face-to-Face banking will continue for ALL student bankers from K-6 at SSPS.

KidsMatter BOUNCE BACK

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:42 AEST

Welcome back! Term 2 Bounce Back lessons will begin this week for the whole school. This is how we learn the skills and attitudes needed to be more resilient.

BOUNCE BACK! Stands for:

Bad times don't last. Things always get better. Stay optimistic.

Other people can help if you talk to them. Get a reality check.

Unhelpful thinking makes you feel more upset. Think again.

Nobody is perfect – not you and not others.

Concentrate on the positives (no matter how small) and use laughter.

Everybody experiences sadness, failure, rejection and setbacks sometimes, not just you. They are a normal part of life. Try not to personalise them.

Blame fairly. How much of what happened was due to you, to others and to bad luck or circumstances?

Accept what can't be changed (but try to change what you can change first).

Catastrophising exaggerates your worries. Don't believe the worst possible picture.

Keep things in perspective It's only part of your life.

K – 2 students learn how to "BOUNCE", while Years 3 – 6 also learn the skills involved with B-A-C-K.

What can you do to help your child?

Use the appropriate BOUNCE BACK! statement whenever you see the opportunity.
Consider displaying the statement on the fridge or somewhere prominent so they serve as a useful prompt for your child (and the rest of the family!).

Watch this space to find out more details this term about our wellbeing and resilience program. Bounce Back!

KidsMatter Action Team

Commonwealth Games Day

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:15 AEST

On Wednesday of the last week of Term 1, the whole of SSPS participated in our very own Commonwealth Games. After the grand opening ceremony, that included official flag bearers and a Commonwealth games torch, students and staff took full advantage of the sunny weather and competed in a range of sports events, including sprinting, soccer and tug-of-war.

Thank you to all involved for making the day such a great success, a good sign of how much fun we had was the fact we were all so exhausted by the closing ceremony. It was definitely a day to remember!

Ms Gainsford and Ms Tsang

Organising Teachers

Walk Safely to School Day 18 May, 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:39 AEST

It is that time of year again when our school seriously starts talking about walking!

Not only is walking a wonderful way to get you where you want to be, but it also gets your health and your child' health on the right track. So that's why this year our school is participating in National Walk Safely to School Day on Friday 18 May 2018.

Walk Safely to School Day asks that we all consider our transport habits and try to incorporate more walking as part of a healthy, active way to get around. Although walking all the way to school is not realistic for many of us, it is quite easy to figure out how you can build a walk into your family's daily routine.

You can teach your child the healthy habit of walking more by:

Walking with them the whole way to school
If you have to drive, park the car a few blocks away from the school and walk the rest of the way
Walk around the block in the afternoon or on the weekend.

Regular exercise like walking with your child not only helps them (and you!) beat chronic problems like obesity, heart disease, behavioural and mental health issues and diabetes, it also gives you a great opportunity to teach your child safe ways to behave around roads and traffic.

Remember, Active Kids are Healthy Kids so get planning your own Walk Safely to School Day journey for Friday 18 May, 2018.

Uniform Shop - CHANGES

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:38 AEST

The New Day for the Uniform Shop is Monday.

The New Time for the Uniform Shop is 2 – 4pm.

This is a permanent arrangement.

SCHOOL WINTER UNIFORMS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:32 AEST

WINTER

May to September (Term 2 and Term 3)

*Navy pinafore or navy long pants

*Plain white blouse (or skivvy).

*White socks or navy tights

*Royal blue school jacket or sloppy joe with school logo (navy woollen jumper if preferred).

*Black leather shoes

WINTER

May to September (Term 2 and Term 3)

* Grey trousers (or shorts)

* Grey school shirt with school logo

* Grey socks (plain)

* School tie (may be worn with shirt)

* Royal blue school sloppy joe or jacket with school logo

* School flap cap with school logo

* Plain grey woollen jumper (if preferred)

* Black leather shoes

K – 2 Basketball Clinic

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:29 AEST

ANZAC Service

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:11 AEST

During the holiday, Miss Gainsford and some of our school leaders had the honour to present a wreath on behalf of Strathfield South Public School at Burwood Park for the ANZAC service.

We are very thankful to our dedicated parents, teachers and students who took time out of their holidays to represent our school at this very important event

Opportunity Class Applications 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

You must submit only ONE application for each student.

The OC Information Booklet for parents was given out to ALL Year 4 students at the end of Term 1.

Please see attachments for the note indicating your interest. Please return to the office by Friday 4.5.18.

Mrs B Hamilton – Deputy Principal

Break the germ cycle

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:13 AEST

At this time of year, many of our students and our staff, for that matter are coming down with the typical colds, infections and gastro bugs that seem to be prolific in the colder months.

It is particularly important to stress hygiene for this reason. Effective hand hygiene is the single most important strategy. Below is a reminder about the steps of hand washing. I have also included a YouTube video demonstration to support conversations at home around hand hygiene.

FUTURE EVENTS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:22 AEST

May

1	First Day Term 2 K – 6 OC Online applications open
3	SRC Induction Ceremony
3	Interrelate
7	Cross Country Carnival
8	Stage 1 Toy History
9	P&C School Club
10	FoIM Mimosa Concert rehearsal
10	Mothers' Day Stall
14	Stage 1 Toy History
16	Stage 3 Science Incursion
18	OC Online applications close
23	Stage 3 Science Incursion
15-25	NAPLAN online – time frame
25	Sports Photo Day
29	ICAS Science

June

6-8	CoS Music Camp
7	Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea
11	Queen's Birthday
12	Kindergarten Calmsley Hill City Farm
18	P&C
18-20	Great Aussie Bush Camp S3O, S3P, S3N S3S
18	FoIM Recorders Mimosa Concert
28	Endeavour Concert Rehearsal

July

6	Last Day Term 2
23	Student Free Day
24	First Day Term 3, Years K-6
31	ICAS English 7:45am arrival start 8am

August

1	Opportunity Class Placement Test
14	ICAS Math 7:45am arrival start 8am
30	Father's Day Stall

Year 6 T-Shirts and Farewell

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

It is hoped that the T-shirts will be arriving at the beginning of Term 2.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY – Walk Safely To School Day in May

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

School holidays are fast approaching!

When you walk outside with your child during the holidays, take the opportunity to talk about safe conduct and demonstrate correct pedestrian behaviours. Walking together also helps you to observe if older children are ready to cross the road independently.

The best way you can help your child to be a safe pedestrian is to:

*Give them lots of supervised practice with you or another trusted adult.

*Talk with and teach your child about being alert in a road environment.

*Always hold your child's hand.

*Explain why the place you have chosen is the safest place to cross the road.

*Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways.

*Use pedestrian crossings and traffic lights correctly.

* Teach your child to keep turning their head in both directions to look and listen for traffic as they cross the road.

*Talk with them about everything they need to think about to keep safe when walking.

*Explain why they should look and listen before crossing a driveway, road or carpark.

* Talk with your child and reinforce

Stop! Look! Listen! Think! Every time you cross the road together!

STOP! one step back from the kerb.

LOOK! continuously look both ways.

LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic.

THINK! whether it is safe to cross.

Children are vulnerable road users – learning takes place at home and at school.

ANZAC Memorial Centenary Project, Hyde Park

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:11 AEST

Last year, class S3L was invited to participate in a soil collection project linked to the ANZAC Memorial Centenary Project at Hyde Park, Sydney. Strathfield South was selected along with 1699 other significant sites around as a suburb where many volunteers enlisted to join The Great War, known as World War I. In late November 2018, the ANZAC Memorial Centenary Project will be complete and open to the general public. The school community is invited to view Strathfield South PS's contribution to the project. Entry is free. More information about the project can be viewed at the following link: http://www.anzacmemorial.nsw.gov.au/anzac-memorial-centenary-project

Italian – Term 1

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:27 AEST

Italian classes have been in full swing this term with students participating in a wide range of language and cultural activities. Students have enjoyed playing games to learn Italian greetings, numbers, colours, conversation questions and have studied cultural festivals such as ‘Carnevale' in cities like Venice and Via Reggio. Stage 3 completed role plays of the traditional Carnival theatre characters using voice, timing and gesture. They also made their own masks! The children also learnt about Easter in Italy completing artworks to discuss the many symbols of Easter, developing their speaking skills. Stage 1 learnt the song Fra Martino and performed actions to the song!

Cultural Exchange Committee – CEC

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:17 AEST

Term 1 Update

The Cultural Exchange Committee, now renamed "One Way, One World of Friendship" has completed four successful meetings in Term 1. We have chosen our name and now we are now working on a video to send to schools in Korea, Italy and China of a tour of our school grounds. We look forward to next term where we will start writing each other emails and letters to cultivate our international friendships!

Ms Bergamin, Ms Lee, Ms Chen

Seniors Week ‘Let’s Do More Together!’

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:33 AEST

On Tuesday 3 April, a Senior Citizens group from Inner West Neighbour Aid visited our school to strengthen our links with our senior community. Ms Jodi McKay, Member for Strathfield addressed the audience of Stage 1 students, teachers and parents. Ms Tutt taught her class 1E a dance, which the students performed alongside the senior citizens in front of a well behaved Stage 1 audience. The junior choir also sang a beautiful song. The event finished with an appetizing afternoon tea for our senior citizens.

We are greatly appreciative to Ms Tutt and 1E for practising and performing the dance with enthusiasm. Thanks must also go to Mrs Hamilton and Mrs Meduri for the organisation of the event. Ms Beukes, Mrs Vickery and the Student Leadership Team helped serve afternoon tea to the senior citizens. Lastly, thank you to our canteen staff led by Hui-Ching Su Baruah for the preparation and set up.

We look forward to partnering with Inner West Neighbour Aid in the future to strengthen our community relationships and further build respect for our senior citizens.

1 Bondi

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:45 AEST

Celebrating the Commonwealth games this week has allowed 1 Bondi to learn about different countries, refine our athletic skill and monitor the medal count while we practise our maths. Our activities culminated in a whole school Commonwealth Games event. The P&C did an amazing job supporting this event by catering with a range of different national cuisines.

KidsMatter BOUNCE BACK and Playground Pals

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:41 AEST

learning how people can ‘bounce back'. Throughout life children will need skills and attitudes to help them to bounce back. They will encounter everyday challenges such as making mistakes, falling out with a friend, moving house or school and losing in a sports competition. Many will also face challenges such as adapting to family breakdown, a step-family, the illness or death of a family member, or being bullied.

Key messages to communicate to your child about ‘bouncing back'.

Life is mainly good but now and then everyone has a difficult or unhappy time. Things always get better even though sometimes they may take a bit longer to improve than you would like. It is important to stay hopeful and expect things to get better.
You will feel better and have more ideas about what to do if you talk to someone you trust about what is worrying or upsetting you.
Unhelpful thinking is not necessarily true and makes you feel worse. Helpful thinking makes you feel better because it is more accurate and helps you work out what to do.
No one is perfect. We all make mistakes and find out there are some things we can not do well.
If you can find something positive or funny in a difficult situation, no matter how small, it can help you to cope better.

What can you do to help your child?

Do not over-protect your child from the normal challenges that all children have at different ages (e.g. walking to school, looking after their own things, packing their own lunch). Start by giving your child small age-appropriate challenges that require small responsibilities. Using small steps moves them towards becoming more independent and competent. Do not do things for them without checking that they are capable of doing it for themselves.
Encourage your child to talk about what is troubling them and help them to find solutions. Encourage them to talk about how they are feeling and what they are thinking about the problem. Then help them to think about different solutions.
Gently challenge self-defecting talk (e.g. I can't do this, I'm hopeless, dumb, useless) and helpless behaviour (giving up easily, expecting others to do things for them), Suggest they use helpful thinking instead (e.g. I made a mistake but everyone makes mistakes).
Do not fight all your child's battles. Children need to experience some difficult times so they learn how to bounce back.
Model effective solving of problems that are age appropriate for your child by talking ‘out loud'. Review different solutions to a problem and the possible good or bad consequences of the different solutions.
Avoid offering ‘quick fixes' or ‘feel good' options when things get tough. Rather than distracting them with a movie or treats, let them sit with the bad feelings, knowing that you care that they are hurting, but that it is something they have to deal with, not escae from.

Hoping you have a safe but adventurous holiday.

KidsMatter Action Team

SRC Induction Ceremony

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:33 AEST

A note will be sent home this week informing parents that their child has been selected as an SRC member. An Induction Ceremony will take place on Thursday 3 May at 9:10am in the school hall. Parents are welcome to attend and present the SRC badge to their child. Congratulations to all students selected by their peers.

Ms Ta, Mr Godfrey, Ms Gangi

SRC Coordinators

Opportunity Class Applications 2019

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:24 AEST

If you would like to have your child considered for Year 5 opportunity class entry in 2019, you need to apply soon. You will need to apply on the internet using a valid email address (not the student's email address).

Detailed instructions on how to apply online will be available from Tuesday 1 May 2018 at https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-5 . The application website opens on Tuesday 1 May 2018 and closes on Friday 18 May 2018. No late applications will be accepted.

You must submit only ONE application for each student.

OC Information Booklet for parents will be given out to ALL Year 4 students this week.

Please see attachments for the note indicating your interest. Please return to the office by Friday 14.4.18.

Mrs B Hamilton – Deputy Principal

COMMUNICATING CONCERNS and INCIDENT PROTOCOLS

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:16 AEST

Please do not take matters into your own hands, by contacting a parent or child about a matter that occurs at school or in our school grounds. This is our role, and we investigate thoroughly should a matter warrant this.

Please, for child protection reasons, do not approach any child about a negative social matter. What you may think is just a word of advice, could be a devastating experience for a child.

Report your concerns through the usual communication methods, or to the nearest teacher, and we will follow up promptly.

If you wish to discuss your child's progress, please make an appointment. Our teachers cannot have meetings with parents in learning time and this begins when the morning bell goes. Teachers wish to comprehensively answer your queries and questions; and this requires a quiet space. To make an appointment, please phone or email our school.

SYMPHONIA JUBILATE COMMUNITY of SCHOOLS K-12 OPPORTUNITY

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:36 AEST

SSPS offers many creative and performing arts opportunities for our students.

One such incredible opportunity is the Symphonia Jubilate K-12 Orchestra. Students from SSPS enrol and experience playing in an orchestra with like-minded lovers of music, supported by truly talented musicians and conductors.

There are three orchestras; Pizzicato (for K-2 string players), Secondo (for stage band and string players at primary school) and Primo (for High School students primarily from Strathfield Girls HS and Homebush Boys HS. Strathfield South HS and Concord HS are members too.

Symphonia Jubilate welcomes new players and offers a great deal more than an opportunity to play beautiful music. Musical expertise is greatly enhanced, new friends are made and opportunities to perform in highly prestigious venues and competitions abound. The NSW Performing Arts Unit supports this venture, and Former Governor of NSW Dame Marie Bashir is patron, along with Lyn Williams OAM founder of the Gondwana Choirs.

If your child is learning an instrument, please consider this opportunity. What an opportunity to meet others, including the Principals of your ‘wish list' High School! SJ is highly supported by our local High Schools.

One such opportunity that will be coming up in 2019 will be a SJ performance concert tour to Hawaii. Some of you may recall our school participating in a SJ concert tour to China in 2016.

The details are below, as advertised last week in The Scene.

An information meeting on the proposed 2019 Symphonia Jubilate Hawaii concert tour will be held tomorrow evening.

Tuesday 10 April

7:00pm - 8:00pm

Strathfield Education Office

65 Albert Ave Strathfield

Ms Larkin, our Stage 3 Assistant Principal, will be attending this meeting.

K Myrtle

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:39 AEST

"KM's budding scientists explore the seasonal changes in the environment and their effect on living things by questioning and observing (ACSSU004 and Ste7NE). They replicate the grey and white clouds on a plastic plate using a spray bottle and observe the formation of large drops that fall as rain. The class enjoyed the outdoor investigation into which fabrics (shower cap, raincoat, umbrella, and towel) are best for rainy weather by feeling materials. The students made predictions and compared them to the findings of the experiment."

1 Akuna

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:03:43 AEST

Term 1 has been a very exciting and busy time for 1 Akuna as we've settled into Year 1 classroom routines. Students in 1A love participating in our integrated learning centres that allow us to consolidate a range of concepts in various ways , we currently love coding on the iPads to support our digital technology skills and positional language in Mathematics. In addition, students in 1A have been challenging themselves to revise and edit their writing. We've also created our very own clocks to assist us in learning about 'half-past' time. To top off the end of Week 9, we enjoyed creating artworks for our Easter Hat Parade and meeting the Easter Bunny who came and visited our class!

KidsMatter BOUNCE BACK

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:41 AEST

Across the school, we have a lesson in class every week to promote the well-being and resilience of our students. Last week for Harmony Day we specifically looked at belonging embracing diversity and living in harmony.

The BOUNCE BACK! Wellbeing and Resilience program teaches children the skills and attitudes to help them become more resilient. It uses literature as a starting point for discussions and follow-up activities. These ten coping statements are a core part of the program.

BOUNCE BACK! Stands for:

Bad times don't last. Things always get better. Stay optimistic.

Other people can help if you talk to them. Get a reality check.

Unhelpful thinking makes you feel more upset. Thank again.

Nobody is perfect – not you and not others.

Concentrate on the positives (no matter how small) and use laughter.

Everybody experiences sadness, failure, rejection and setbacks sometimes, not just you. They are a normal part of life. Try not to personalise them.

Blame fairly. How much of what happened was due to you, to others and to bad luck or circumstances?

Accept what you can't be changed (but try to change what you can change first).

Catastrophising exaggerates your worries. Don't believe the worst possible picture.

Keep things in perspective. It's only part of your life.

The program can help your child to get better at:

Using helpful thinking when faced with a problem or a difficult situation
Thinking more optimistically, i.e. expecting bad times to get better
Understanding that everyone has setbacks and difficulties, not just them
Talking to people they trust so they et a reality check on their thinking
Being brave and facing their fears
Managing strong emotions and turning a bad mood into a good mood
Getting along with others and cooperating
Setting goals, being resourceful and not easily giving up
Being kind, fair, honest, friendly, responsible, and accepting of differences
Respecting other people and not bullying others

You can help your child get the best out of their involvement with BOUNCE BACK! If you reinforce the key messages they are learning.

KidsMatter Action Team

EASTER HOLIDAY RAFFLE ONLINE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

No time but want to help student learning?

Buy a ticket to win an IPad to support our students, donated by Xenontech.

Only 500 tickets to be sold; so you have a huge chance of being the lucky winner. Tickets are on sale online. Get in quickly. All monies raised will go towards SSPS classroom learning resources K-6.

There is ALWAYS a HUGE need in this area. Share the online link with business colleagues and family members; even overseas family members. Your child will benefit from all 500 tickets being sold.

Have a wonderful week of learning everyone, and please buy a raffle ticket to support our student learning in classrooms.

SAFETY REMINDERS KISS and RIDE

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:31 AEST

The Kiss and Ride area of Telopea Ave should be treated like a clearway. A driver can only stop for 2 minutes, then move away. Under no circumstances should cars bank up around the corner onto the Hume Highway. This is illegal and drivers could get booked.

The Kiss and Ride Rules are very strict and we insist you all abide by them, to ensure your child's safety. Under no circumstances will a child be allowed to climb into a car that is double-parked. Please be considerate and follow the rules.

You may drop off or pick up children for a maximum of 2 minutes.

Hint: If your child is not waiting in the afternoon, drive around the block, or park in another area, walking back to collect them.

The driver must remain within 3 metres of the car

Hint: You can get out to help your child with their bag, but cannot walk into the school grounds or away from your car.

Please abide by the rules. Fines are steep and unnecessary. Minimum penalty $165 and 2 demerit points.

Please be patient and use this area wisely.

HARMONY DAY

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:24 AEST

Harmony Day is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core Australian values. Held every year on 21 March. The Day coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Every year our school celebrates the rich diversity of our school on Harmony Day. This year we raised money for Stewart House on this day.

Please see our Twitter page for lots of classroom activities that were organised on this day and throughout the week.

It may seem each school focuses on this important message on only one day per year. Rest assured this is not the case.

It is important that at home and at school that we celebrate everyone belonging, celebrate our rich multicultural school and honour all our families.

Adults demonstrating respect for all has a lasting impression on our young people. Stand up for all; be fair; and celebrate our incredible school community at all times.

YOU COULD WIN AN IPAD

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

OUR SCHOOL IS RUNNING A RAFFLE

YOU CAN BUY TICKETS BY CLICKING HERE: https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=3xpyy

YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND WORK COLLEAGUES CAN ALSO BUY - PLEASE SHARE THE LINK!

Easter Hat Parade K – 2

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:19 AEST

This year our Easter Hat Parade for K-2 will be held on Thursday 29 March, 2018 from 10:15am – 11:00am in the K-2 playground.

Students are asked to create an Easter hat or Easter basket at home, which they will then parade on the day. Students should bring their completed Easter hats or baskets to school on the morning of the parade.

We will also be drawing the Easter Holiday Raffle prize at 10:45am. Buy a ticket to win 1 of 3 prizes! Only 500 tickets to be sold.

You can buy tickets by going to:

https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=3xpyy

All monies raised will to towards SSPS classroom learning resources K-6.

We look forward to seeing you at the parade!

Organisers K-2 teachers

HARMONY DAY – 21 MARCH 2018

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:23 AEST

Harmony Day is a day for all Australians to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common. Harmony Day is celebrated throughout Australia on 21 March. Since first held in 1999, Harmony Day has grown to become a significant annual day for Australians to come together and celebrate our nation's cultural diversity.

This year to celebrate Harmony Day, Strathfield South Public School will be having an ‘orange' day on Wednesday, 21 March 2018. Students are encouraged to wear orange coloured clothes and accessories. Additionally in their classes they will be participating in meaningful activities related to the Bounce Back program.

Students who wear mufti are asked to bring a gold coin donation. All funds raised will be donated to Stewart House. https://www.stewarthouse.org.au/.

"Every year 1,800 public school children attend our safe haven next to Curl Curl beach at no cost to their parents or carers. During a 12 day stay they are provided with dental, optical, hearing and medical screening and treatment.

Children participate in educational programs and excursions designed to develop their social and emotional skills, build self-esteem and improve their overall well-being.

This experience provides children with a much needed break from their current circumstance. Our children are inspired to see beyond the present and to have real hope and positive aspirations for their future."

Parents who would like to make a more substantial donation to Stewart House, please see the following link to donate. https://www.stewarthouse.org.au/donate/

Zone Swimming Carnival

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:42 AEST

What a fantastic day we had last Wednesday 14 March, 2018. SSPS made their way to Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre Auburn to compete in the Western Suburbs Zone PSSA Swimming Carnival. The students had a wonderful day, represented the school with pride and competed to the best of their ability. Their efforts resulted in SSPS placed second overall in the zone. Luke Toia, William Brownlie and Caitlyn Tran will be representing Western Suburbs in individual events. Our junior girls relay team also will be representing the WSPSSA zone after winning their relay event. The team was made up of Yi-Rim Jan, Caitlyn Tran, Joy Li and Chatelle Luu. We wish them the best of luck. Thank you to Ms Perestrelo and Ms Michaelopoulos for assisting on the day and a big congratulations to Ms Munns for convening such a magnificent event.

Cultural Exchange Committee (CEC)

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:17 AEST

SSPS engages in a special project to communicate and develop friendships with students in Korea, China and Italy. We have now recruited some Year 3 to 6 students to start a Cultural Exchange Committee (CEC). The aim of the program is to share cultural knowledge and skills between countries. Students will develop their international communication and leadership skills. There are many schools around the world that are interested in connecting with SSPS as sisterhood schools and the students will start by exchanging letters, emails and artefacts in order to learn about each other. We are very excited to be a part of this great opportunity!

Ms Bergamin Ms Lee, Ms Chen.

Parents and Citizens News! (P&C) 19.3.18

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:25 AEST

Thank you to all the parents that came along to our first meeting, it was great to see so many faces. Being a part of the P&C meeting is an opportunity to make new connections, meet teaching staff and to learn about school initiatives.

The Parents & Citizens (P&C) Community is a welcoming, dedicated, all inclusive, open group who strive to improve our children's school learning environment and resources - Everybody is Welcome!

Our 2nd meeting of 2018 will be held on Monday 19th March, 7.30pm. The location of the meeting will be in the staff room (the School Office building). We will start with the Annual General Meeting followed by the General Meeting.

We hope to see you there.

Part 1: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) – 7:30pm

Strathfield South Public School Parents & Citizens (SSPS P&C)

Part 2: GENERAL MEETING

Following the AGM

At AGM, all current positions become vacant. A new team of P&C Executive members will be elected. The Executive Committee members include:

1 President, 2 Vice Presidents, Treasurer and Secretary.

We are looking for new and existing parents to run for the Executive Committee member roles. Accordingly we are seeking nominations for the P&C positions that are required to be filled.

If you wish to hold an Executive position listed above you must be a financial member of the P&C. If you would like to nominate yourself or someone else (with their permission) for a P&C position, please complete the attached nomination form and return via email ssps.pnc@gmail.com by Friday 16 March 2018.

Not yet a member? No problem!

You can become a financial member by filling out the attached Parents & Citizens Membership Form. Place the membership form, AGM nomination form and your $1 membership fee into the YELLOW P&C box in the school foyer. Once again, NO LATER than Friday 16th March 2018.

Join us on this special night and be part of the team to make SSPS the best school for our children. More information about the P&C can be found by visiting the school website, we encourage the community to check it out.

http://www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au/parent-services

P&C also has a Facebook page:-

https://www.facebook.com/sspspnc/

"follow" the page to keep posted on community events, meetings and call-outs for volunteers.

Daniel Everett

President

SSPS Parents & Citizens

KidsMatter BOUNCE BACK

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:41 AEST

On Wednesday this week, 21 March, students will be celebrating Harmony Day. Students are asked to wear orange and will be engaged in Bounce Back! Lessons in class that identify and celebrate our nation's social and cultural diversity. Some of our core values to be explored include:

Being Cooperative

Cooperating means working together with someone to achieve something that you both want. It requires sharing ideas and resources, listening, encouraging each other, making sure that both of you have a say, doing your share of the work, and making decisions together that are fair to both of you.

Being Friendly

Being friendly means being kind and welcoming to others and trying to include people (even if they are not your close friends or they are people who are different or sometimes hard to like). This means looking in their eyes and smiling, saying hello, being kind and inviting them to join in games and conversations being friendly towards strangers is not a good thing to do until you are very sure they are safe people.

Being respectful

Being respectful means treating others as you would like them to treat you. It means thinking about other people's feelings and rights, being polite and using good manners, and not insulting or hurting others or their property. If you want people to respect your rights and your culture, then you have to respect their rights and their culture.

Showing self-respect

Self-respect means looking after yourself and standing up for yourself because you think you matter and should be treated well by others.

What can you do to help your child develop these core values?

Present different people's points of view when talking problems through with your child. This helps them gain a sense of what is fair for everyone involved.
Give your child regular chores and give them positive feedback when they do these without being reminded. Stress that people will trust and respect you more when you behave responsibly.
Model cooperative behaviours for your child by working with them on a project (e.g. building a model) or task (e.g. tidying up the garage). Comment on how and why things went well (e.g. you both did a good share of the work, each did the part they were good at and each respected and what the other person did).
Provide opportunities for your child to socialise with their extended family, neighbours and friends, and participate in community groups such as clubs and sporting teams. Emphasise the importance of being friendly and accepting differences in people and discuss with your child how they might do this in each situation. Show them by example too.
Never give up! Sometimes there is a ‘sleeper effect' and values that your child did not seem to ‘take up' at an earlier age pop up in their behaviour when they are older.

KidsMatter Action Team

WORK ON OUR MULTIPURPOSE SPORTS COURTS HAS BEGUN

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

Great news. Our multipurpose court renovation has begun.

STUDENT SAFETY AT LOCAL FACILITIES

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:36 AEST

A kindly neighbour has reported to us that a group of our students are climbing the tree outside the High St library after school hours. Please ensure that your child is safe after school hours.

Whilst visits to the High St library are encouraged, this should only be with parental consent. Standing outside the library instead of entering is not an ideal situation and can be unsafe. Climbing trees without parental permission is also considered unsafe.

I have spoken to Strathfield Council and the Police about the importance of our students being safely supervised after school.

Parents, please note that if you see any child in an unsafe situation at any time outside the school grounds, you should contact the police immediately.

DRIVER COURTESY

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:04:17 AEST

Please remember our neighbours when you are parking and driving around our school grounds. Remember; safety first. Drive slowly and park in the designated locations. Our neighbours, particularly those in Telopea Ave, thank you for your consideration.

WHERE IS MY CHILD’S TEACHER?

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 20:05:41 AEST

Where are teachers when they are not in the classroom? Parents may sometimes wonder where their child's teacher is, if they are not on class. Many things could be happening.

Teachers could be:

having their weekly release from face-to-face teaching (they are entitled to 2 hours).
involved in professional learning off site.
involved in professional learning on site.
completing executive duties.
mentoring other teachers.
on leave eg sick, family or emergency leave – this is confidential and only the teacher can share this information.

When teachers know they will be absent, they plan for this time, ensuring their class timetable is adhered to where possible. Please ask your child's teacher for more information about our professional learning plans to improve whole school learning and your child's success.

ChatterBox at SSPS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

WHERE: Strathfield South Public School

WHO: Any adult member of the community who would like to learn the English language.

WHEN: Every Thursday from 10-12pm during school hours.

LEADER: In Terms 1, 3 & 4 a volunteer leads the program in an informal conversation style group. In Term 2, a qualified English teacher will lead a formal English class.

CONTACT: Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information or attend the school office at the above time.

School Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Tuesday is Banking Day. Kindergarten and Year 1 student please come to the school office at 8:30am to bank. Year 2 – 6 hand your bank books to your teacher when you go to class.

Parents and Citizens News! (P&C) 19.3.18

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Thank you to all the parents that came along to our first meeting, it was great to see so many faces. Being a part of the P&C meeting is an 4 opportunity to make new connections, meet teaching staff and to learn about school initiatives.

The Parents & Citizens (P&C) Community is a welcoming, dedicated, all inclusive, open group who strive to improve our children's school learning environment and resources - Everybody is Welcome!

Part 1: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) – 7:30pm Strathfield South Public School Parents & Citizens (SSPS P&C)

Part 2: GENERAL MEETING Following the AGM

At AGM, all current positions become vacant. A new team of P&C Executive members will be elected. The Executive Committee members include:

1 President, 2 Vice Presidents, Treasurer and Secretary. We are looking for new and existing parents to run for the Executive Committee member roles. Accordingly we are seeking nominations for the P&C positions that are required to be filled.

Not yet a member? No problem! You can become a financial member by filling out the attached Parents & Citizens Membership Form. Place the membership form, AGM nomination form and your $1 membership fee into the YELLOW P&C box in the school foyer. Once again, NO LATER than Friday 16th March 2018.

P&C also has a Facebook page:- https://www.facebook.com/sspspnc/ "follow" the page to keep posted on community events, meetings and call-outs for volunteers.

Daniel Everett President SSPS Parents & Citizens

SSPS String Ensemble Workshop Day Monday 19 March, 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Strathfield South PS is offering a String Ensemble Workshop day on Monday 19 March to give all string students from Years 1-6 the opportunity to play in ensemble groups with experienced tutors and conductors. Playing in an ensemble group has shown to develop technique, listening and team building skills and reinforces what is learned in individual lessons in a positive and interactive environment.

Students are invited to participate if they have been learning a string instrument for at least ONE YEAR AND ARE CURRENTLY LEARNING from either tutors at school or from an external teacher. They will be placed in a level-appropriate group and given 2-3 pieces of music to prepare with their teacher beforehand. Please note, it is important that you provide us with an active email address below, as no hard copies will be provided.

If you would like your child to participate in this wonderful opportunity please either collect the pink form from the front office A non-refundable fee of $20 will be required ASAP.

SSPS ORCHESTRA REHEARSAL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Week 7 8:00 Start in P Block Classroom. Please be on time to start at 8am.

KidsMatter

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

BOUNCE BACK

Students have been considering their core values. Our values are statements about how we think we should behave and what we believe is important. Our values are our moral map, which guide our behaviour and actions the following values are taught in the BOUNCE BACK program. Acting on these values can increase your child's sense of being a decent, worthwhile person and help them to be more resilient.

Being Honest

Being honest means telling the truth and not stealing; it means giving things back when they belong to someone else and ‘owing up' when you have done the wrong thing.

Being Fair

Being fair means following the rules and not cheating; it means returning favours and kindnesses, and helping others to get justice and a fair deal.

Being Kind

Being kind means caring about other people and their wellbeing and showing support and thoughtfulness to others.

Accepting Differences in Other People

Everyone is different from you in some way and that is OK. If you accept that other people are different (e.g. in where they come from, what they look like, what they like to eat or do, and in their opinions). You get to know more people (and not just those who are similar to you), you include people who are different from you in games and conversations and you don't tease or exclude them.

What can you do to help your child develop and live by good values?

- Give your child positive feedback when they act honestly (e.g. when they tell the truth, own up to what they have done, avoid the temptation to keep something that belongs to someone else, and when they try to identify who owns something they have found that doesn't belong to them).

- Play age-appropriate board and card games with your children. This provides an opportunity for you to reinforce playing fairly by following the rules of a game and not cheating. Playing games with your children also provides an opportunity for them to practise social skills such as being a good winner and loser.

- Help them to develop kindness and a sense of fairness towards others who are less fortunate then themselves. Model for them some ways to support others who are in need.

- Encourage your child to appreciate and return the kindnesses and favours they receive from others.

- Present different people's points of view when talking problems through with your child. This will help them gain a sense of what is fair for everyone involved. KidsMatter Action Team

Stewart House

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Stewart House is a charity that helps disadvantaged school students and their families. Every year, SSPS helps by sending home bags for Stewart House clothing drive. The good, clean, wearable clothes you provide are appreciated by Stewart House. Thank you for the bags that have been donated. We have quite a collection for Stewart House to pick up. The bags will be collected from the front of the school hall on Friday 16 March, 2018. Any plastic bag is acceptable for your donation.

Tea, Cake & Questions with P&C School Club

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

All parents, grandparents and carers are warmly invited to hear about events for the rest of the term and bring your questions that you might have about school life. Have a cup of tea and a slice of cake; make new friends; part of the meeting will be a short AGM and election of a new 2018-2019 School Club executive. All Welcome! Wednesday 14 March, 2018 9:15am -10:15am. Meet outside the School Office.

PREMIER’S READING CHALLENGE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

We have enrolled again. This year our wonderful new Teacher Librarian Ms Cynthia Rahme will answer any questions you have about this incredible reading opportunity. In 2017 nearly 217 000 students completed this challenge. Get on board; encourage your child to participate. Last year the NSW Premier visited our school as part of this program.

WALKING SAFELY AROUND OUR SCHOOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Parents and carers, could you please help us? From time to time Mr Jim, our general assistant, places barriers on walkways to allow maintenance work to be carried out in garden beds and buildings. Could I ask you to remind your children what to do if they find walking areas blocked off? The idea is to find another walkway to choose, rather than just ignore the barrier and continue. Could you also remind your child to focus their eyes on the direction they are walking? Many collisions with our building support poles are caused by students talking to their friend who is walking behind them.

STUDENT PARENT TEACHER GOAL SETTING MEETINGS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Effective partnerships in learning means students are motivated to deliver their best and continually improve. We are very excited to offer this opportunity this week for you to meet with your child and teacher, listening to how your child sees their future directions for this year. This meeting is designed to focus on your child, providing clear and specific information about learning, next steps and expectations. The teacher and parent role is secondary here. Your role is of listener, prompter and encourager. It is your child who has the stage.

K Grevillea

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:43 AEDT

KG have done a brilliant job of learning the routines of big school. We are becoming more and more independent and are learning how to be self-regulated learners, especially during literacy groups as this is when we learn lots of different reading strategies from Miss Barker. We have loved learning our sounds, about the weather, resilience and family differences.

Look at us beaming with pride!

K Banksia

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:43 AEDT

Kindergarten have been busy little bees, becoming familiar with our school surroundings and our classroom learning environment. In KB we have enjoyed literacy groups, learning our sounds, letter formation, sight words and reading with fluency. In TEN numeracy groups, we have used lots of concrete materials to develop an understanding of number relationships. We've also enjoyed getting fit in the great outdoors. KB are learning to work as a team and have adapted so well to life in "big school".

Happy Lunar New Year!!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Last week, SSPS was privileged to have a group of Korean drummers (¿¿¿¿ ¿) performing for the whole school. It was to celebrate Lunar New Year and the Pyeoungchang Winter Olympics. It was a great opportunity for our students to explore Korean music and appreciate the culture. We thank the drummers for performing a great show and all students for being a great audience

KidsMatter Bounce Back!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

If you are resilient, you are able to cope reasonably well with difficult situations and things that go wrong and then ‘bounce back'. Throughout life children will need skills and attitudes to help them to bounce back. They will encounter everyday challenges such as making mistakes, falling out with a friend, moving house or school and losing in a sports competition.

Many will also face challenges such as adapting to family breakdowns a step-family, the illness or death of a family member, or being bullied.

The BOUNCE BACK! Wellbeing and Resilience program teaches children the skills and attitudes to help them become more resilient. It uses literature as a starting point for discussions and follow-up activities. Your child will be engaged in such activities each week.

The program can help your child to get better at:

Using helpful thinking when faced with a problem or a difficult situation
Thinking more optimistically, i.e. expecting bad times to get better
Understanding that everyone has setbacks and difficulties, not just them
Talking to people they trust so they get a reality check on their thinking
Being brave and facing their fears
Managing strong emotions and turning a bad mood into a good mood
Getting along with others and cooperating
Setting goals, being resourceful and not easily giving up
Being kind, fair, honest, friendly, responsible, and accepting of differences
Respecting other people and not bullying others.

You can help your child get the best out of their involvement with Bounce Back! If you reinforce the key messages they are learning.

Watch this space each week to find out the key messages being learnt in our whole school Bounce Back! Program.

KidsMatter Action Team

ChatterBox at SSPS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly
way. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

WHERE: Strathfield South Public School

WHO: Any adult member of the community who would like to learn the English language.

WHEN: Every Thursday from 10-12pm during school hours.

LEADER: In Terms 1, 3 & 4 a volunteer leads the program in an informal conversation style group. In Term 2, a qualified English teacher will lead a formal English class.

CONTACT: Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information or attend the school office at the above time.

Parents and Citizens News! (P&C)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

The Parents & Citizens (P&C) Community is a welcoming, dedicated, all inclusive, open group who strive to improve our children's school learning environment and resources - Everybody is Welcome!

We hope to see you there.

Part 1: ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) – 7:30pm

Strathfield South Public School Parents & Citizens (SSPS P&C)

Part 2: GENERAL MEETING

Following the AGM

At AGM, all current positions becomes vacant. A new team of P&C Executive members will be elected. The Executive Committee members include:

1 President, 2 Vice Presidents, Treasurer and Secretary.

We are looking for new and existing parents to run for the Executive Committee member roles. Accordingly we are seeking nominations for the P&C positions that are required to be filled.

Not yet a member? No problem!

http://www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au/parent-services

P&C also has a Facebook page:-

https://www.facebook.com/sspspnc/

"follow" the page to keep posted on community events, meetings and call-outs for volunteers.

Daniel Everett

President

SSPS Parents & Citizens

High School Expression of Interest 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Expression of Interest application forms for 2019 High school have been distributed to all Year 6 students. Please complete the form, irrespective of whether your child is going to a Government school or private school, and return to the school office before Friday 16 March 2018. If you have changed address, this will alter your local High School placement that is indicated on the form. If so, please provide our office with the new details.

The parent/carer workshop to assist you completing the form: Thursday 8.3.18 3:10pm

Ms M Cidem

Deputy Principal

TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION MEETING INVITATION REMINDER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

All Year 6 students must hand in a ‘2019 Year 6 to Year 7 enrolment' by 16 March, to the office. This form is sometimes difficult to navigate. For greater success, come along and be supported by our experienced staff.

We will be holding ONE MORE information meeting for parents and carers of Year 6 students regarding the completion of the ‘Moving into Year 7 in a NSW Government School in 2019' expression of interest form. This information meeting will be held in our Library on Thursday 8 March at 3:10pm.

HAVE YOU HEARD OF STEM EDUCATION?

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Seventy-five percent of the fastest growing occupations are going to require a working knowledge and skill base in SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING and MATHEMATICS.

At SSPS, we recognise the benefits of challenging and stimulating lessons in these areas of education. Incorporating digital technology into day-to-day learning is at the heart of quality teaching and learning. Our brilliant teaching staff encourage their students to be equipped with the skills of a future workforce. In fact, our Year 2 and Stages 2 and 3 Bring Your Own Device students have joined over one million other Australian children taking their tablets to school!

We have a team of dedicated teachers who drive SSPS creative and innovative learning. Mr Matthews leads this team. Thanks to our P&C, support from external experts is also incorporated. When formal meetings are held, P&C sends a representative.

SSPS String Ensemble Workshop Day Monday 19 March, 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Students are invited to participate if they have been learning a string instrument for at least ONE YEAR AND ARE CURRENTLY LEARNING from either tutors at school or from an external teacher. They will be placed in a level-appropriate group and given 2-3 pieces of music to prepare with their teacher beforehand. Please note, it is important that you provide us with an active email address below, as no hard copies will be provided.

If you would like your child to participate in this wonderful opportunity please either collect the pink form from the front office or see Attachments in the school web page, as mentioned at the end of this Scene. A non-refundable fee of $20 will be required by Friday 9.3.18.

Gardening Club

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

The members of KidsMatters team are thrilled to announce that our exciting Gardening Club 2018 is about to start! Our program will include an opportunity for students to learn about nature, what it offers and how they can look after it. We will share the work of weeding, watering, planning, harvesting and feeding worms in our worm farm. If your child loves nature and gardening please encourage them to see us at the table near the school office to sign up during the first half lunch from Friday 23 February to Friday 2 March, 2018. As a member of Gardening Club, they can come any day during the week to help to beautify our school environment.

Whole School Photo Day MONDAY 6.3.18

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

To order your students photo package and to make payment, please go to: www.theschoolphotographer.com.au

Access Code: X473EL39SS

PLEASE NOTE: There will not be any order envelopes sent home this year. Orders and payment can only be made online this year and cash or cheque payments will not be accepted.

P&C School Club AGM and Election

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

School Club will elect a new 2018-2019 Executive at our AGM on Wednesday 14 March, 2018 9:10am. For job descriptions and nomination forms, please check the pamphlet holder in the school office reception area.

Any questions? Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548

School Club Convenor

High School Expression of Interest 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Expression of Interest application forms for 2019 High school have been distributed to all Year 6 students today. Please complete the form, irrespective of whether your child is going to a Government school or private school, and return to the school office before Friday 16 March 2018. If you have changed address, this will alter your local High School placement that is indicated on the form. If so, please provide our office with the new details.

The parent/carer workshops on assistance on filling in the form:

Thursday 1.3.18 8:15am

Thursday 8.3.18 3:10pm

Ms M Cidem

Deputy Principal

KISS and RIDE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:45 AEDT

The Kiss and Ride Rules are very strict and we insist you all abide by them, to ensure your child's safety. Under no circumstances should a child be expected to climb into a car that is double parked.

Please be considerate and follow the rules.

You may drop off or pick up children for a maximum of 2 minutes.

Hint: If your child is not waiting in the afternoon, drive around the block, or park in another area, walking back to collect them.

The driver must remain within 3 metres of the car.

Hint: You can get out to help your child with your bag but cannot walk into the school grounds.

Please abide by the rules. Fines are steep and unnecessary.

Minimum penalty $165 and 2 demerit points.

Please be patient and use this area wisely.

For further information, go to;

https://www.strathfield.nsw.gov.au/assets/Files/Documents/0247-120712-07-Kiss-and-Ride-Zone-Parking-Flyer.pdf

RESPONSIBLE MOBILE PHONE USAGE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Please remember that we understand that your child may need to bring a mobile phone to school for contact purposes outside of school hours.

However, ALL phones must be brought to the office before school, in a zip-lock bag labelled with the student's name and class, and turned to silent. They will be stored safely and returned to students at the end of the day.

SAFETY REMINDERS STRANGER DANGER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

It has come to our attention that students have been approaching our perimeter fences and holding conversations with passers-by.

Our teachers are aware of this and as a school, we have promptly addressed this concern to ensure student safety.

Classroom teachers have explained that communication between students and strangers is not safe and informed students that they must stay away from our fence line, never reach through the fence bars, never pat dogs and to always report strangers attempting to communicate with them to a teacher immediately.

Please ensure you speak with your child about this matter and for further guidance please visit https://www.safety4kids.com.au/safety-zone/stranger-danger.

FROM TENNIS COURTS TO MULTIPURPOSE LEARNING SPACE UPDATE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

From this

To this

The tender process has been completed and we are ready to begin our upgrade of our old, rusty tennis courts into a space that looks somewhat like the picture above. Anticipated works will commence within a fortnight. Therefore, Homebush Rd will be closed to all pedestrian and vehicle traffic in the near future. We understand our renovation will be complete by Term 2, day 1

A GLORIOUS DAY AT THE POOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

Our Stage 2 and 3 students (including some Year 2 squad swimmers) enjoyed an energetic, wet, wonderful experience at our annual swimming carnival last week. Thanks must go to Mr Matthews and his most competent organising committee for such a rewarding, memorable experience. Students swam extremely well and cheered incredibly loudly for their house teams. They marvelled at the teachers' race and their ‘salmon dive' fully clothed!

Apologies to those affected by our communication misunderstanding about where parents should sit. The school encourages community members to attend this event and are able to sit with the students in the stands, or by themselves. Students must sit in their allocated house teams, under direct teacher supervision.

The Western Suburbs Zone Swimming Carnival is coming up on 14 March. We wish all our competitors good luck.

K Acacia

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:42 AEDT

The Kindergarten students in KA have had a wonderful start to their life long learning journey at SSPS. We have been exploring through developmental play, learning to be effective communicators through news times, making new friends and exploring our creativity through craft and the stories we love to read.

Mrs Ibrahim and Mrs McMurtrie

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

FEBRUARY

19	P&C Meeting
20	First Day Kindergarten Banking
21	Year 3-6 School Swimming Carnival
23	Summer PSSA Starts

MARCH

6	Whole School Photo Day – online order and payment ONLY – NO CASH NO CHEQUES
14	P&C School Club Meeting
15	Selective High School Test for 2019
19	String Ensemble Workshop
26-28	Year 5 & 6 Great Aussie Bush Camp
30	Easter Friday

APRIL

2	Easter Monday
13	Last Day Term 1
30	First Day Term 2 Staff Develop Day

May

1	First Day Term 2 K – 6

High School Open Times for 2019 enrolment

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Ashfield Boys High School

117 Liverpool Road

Ashfield

Ph: 9798 6620

Tuesday 27 February, 2018

6:15pm – 8:00pm

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" download the Free App

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

Reporting Student Absences and Change of Address

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Another good reason to download the SSPS School App: Student absences online via the School App – simply select: "Forms" from the Home Tabs and complete all fields with an "*"

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Online payment method –

Go to www.strathfies-p.schoolsnsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a GREEN ( * ) are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

School Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Tuesday is Banking Day.

Kindergarten's first day for banking will be Tuesday 20.2.18.

Stationery requirements K-6 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We are pleased that SSPS has partnered with Winc for Back to School stationery requirements for 2018.

Visit winc.com.au/backtoschool
Enter our school ID 423290
Follow the prompts, no additional stationery is required.
Your order will be delivered to your address.

Uniform Shop - CHANGES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The New Day for the Uniform Shop is Monday.

The New Time for the Uniform Shop is 2 – 4pm.

This is a permanent arrangement.

Coles Vouchers

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

SSPS is NOT participating in the Coles promotion vouchers in 2018.

P&C School Club AGM and Election

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Any questions? Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548

School Club Convenor

Uniform Shop Times Change for 2 weeks

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

For the next 2 weeks ( Monday 20/2 – Monday 1/3 ) Hui Ching (Canteen manger) will open the uniform shop in my absence.

However, the uniform shop will only be open 2.00pm – 3.30pm on only these 2 Mondays.

WE ARE SEEKING VOLUNTEERS for all other Mondays 3 – 4pm. If you have children attending band lessons this is the perfect time to drop in and help. Please see Hui Ching on Monday or at the Canteen on other days.

Samm – Uniform Shop Coordinator

STUDENT/PARENT/TEACHER GOAL SETTING (formally known as reverse parent teacher interviews)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Each student will have the opportunity to share their learning goals for 2018 with their teacher and parent, whose job it is to nurture, guide, inspire and challenge each and every child. You will have the opportunity to book in with your child from Monday 12 March – Friday 16 March (to be advised through schoolinterviews.com).

If you would like to inform the teacher of anything that may influence your child's learning, e.g. health concerns, family concerns or confidential information, please schedule a meeting directly with the class teacher. Don't wait; make an appointment as soon as you can.

STAGE LEARNING EXPOS (formally known as parent information sessions)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Parents and carers are invited to attend our newly formatted Stage Learning Expos. Meet at your child's classroom for a short ‘meet and greet'. You will then move to the designated space for a showcase of learning activities hosted by the team of teachers who teach your child.

Dates:

Stage 3 Wednesday, 7 March, 8:15am, expo held in the library

Stage 2 Thursday, 8 March, 8:15am, expo held in the hall

Stage 1 Friday, 9 March, 8:15am, expo held in the hall

Kindergarten Tuesday 20 March, 4:30pm, expo held in the library

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

STUDENT LEADERSHIP and LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

The Civics and Citizenship guidelines for Primary Schools aim to build students' active participation in Australia's diverse and dynamic society. Congratulations to all those students who have joined an activity since we started school this term.

Most activities for sporting and musical opportunities hold practices at school before school, lunchtimes and after school. They are wonderful way to meet new friends and use our brains in a different way.

Many high schools are encouraged by the diversity of activities students can show evidence of being involved in. For example, if a high school has an orchestral program, they may be looking for brass or strings players. This is encouraging particularly if a family is seeking out-of-area enrolment. Being part of our school band or string program could well give a student a favourable chance of acceptance in an out-of-area, popular High School. Joining Community of Schools' programs offered such as Symphonia Jubilate (local high schools and primary schools' orchestra program) give further weight to enrolment possibilities at schools such as Strathfield Girls HS, Homebush Boys HS and Strathfield South HS. No guarantees BUT more chance of acceptance perhaps.

Our school is noted for offering so many opportunities, supporting a lifelong sense of belonging to and engagement with civic life as an active and informed citizen. Encourage your child to join up. The rewards are rich.

SCHOOL HOURS STAY HOME UNTIL 8:30AM

Many children are coming to school well before 8:30am yet again. There is no provision for them until 8:30am, no supervising teacher to look after them until 8:30am.

If you must come early, you are expected to supervise your children. Siblings of students attending activities before and after school must be supervised by an adult too.

Please do not bring your child/ren to school until 8:30am unless they are involved in a morning activity at school. If this is not possible, you must make other arrangements with a before school organisation.

I remind parents: there is NO teacher supervision for students before 8:30am. This is the most popular time for truck deliveries and building works in our grounds. Often, the grounds are being swept and cleaned with noisy machinery.

Please ensure you abide by the Department of Education and our safety guidelines on this matter

Reporting Student Absences and Change of Address

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Another good reason to download the SSPS School App: Student absences online via the School App – simply select: "Forms" from the Home Tabs and complete all fields with an "*"

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Online payment method –

Go to www.strathfies-p.schoolsnsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a GREEN ( * ) are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

Wangal People

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

In term 4 last year, Stage 3 entered a local council competition to encourage the community to gain a better understanding of our local Indigenous Australian history. Students carefully researched and constructed a presentation on our local Wangal people. We were sad to discover that there are no living survivors of the Wangal clan due to the Smallpox virus. Congratulations on the efforts of all students who worked hard on this project.

It is with great excitement and pleasure that we give a special mention to Desi Stamoulos, who is now enjoying her day in year 7, for winning the competition. Congratulations Desi, we know that you will take this valuable insight with you on your next adventure.

Ms Yet Foy – Stage 3 Teacher

Chess at SSPS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

With the success of chess involvement last year at Strathfield South Public School, we are happy to provide another fun filled year of chess.

This year we will once again be entering the NSW Junior Chess League's Primary Schools competition. This competition is organised on a regional basis, with each region divided into geographical zones for ease of access between schools. SSPS will be entering both a Championship and a Rookie team (years 3-6) to cater for players from experienced to novice levels. Matches will be scheduled on a home-and-away basis and are played on Fridays after school, commencing in term 2. Further details to come.

Every Monday and Thursday morning SSPS run a chess club with the Sydney Academy of Chess. The first half of each class consists of an interactive lecture from the chess coach. In the second half, students play games to put their newly learned strategies into practice. If you are interested in registering your child please contact Sydney Academy of Chess on (02) 9745 1170.

Due to the commitment of class hours required for the Primary Schools One-Day Chess Team Tournaments, we will not be endorsing these events this year.

Thank you,

Miss Bonifacio – Chess Coordinator

School Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Tuesday is Banking Day.

Kindergarten's first day for banking will be Tuesday 20.2.18.

Stationery requirements K-6 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We are pleased that SSPS has partnered with Winc for Back to School stationery requirements for 2018.

Visit winc.com.au/backtoschool
Enter our school ID 423290
Follow the prompts, no additional stationery is required.
Your order will be delivered to your address.

Uniform Shop - CHANGES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The New Day for the Uniform Shop is Monday.

The New Time for the Uniform Shop is 2 – 4pm.

This is a permanent arrangement.

SSPS String Ensemble Workshop Day Monday 19 March, 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Students are invited to participate if they have been learning a string instrument for at least ONE YEAR AND ARE CURRENTLY LEARNING from either tutors at school or from an external teacher. They will be placed in a level-appropriate group and given 2-3 pieces of music to prepare with their teacher beforehand. Please note, it is important that you provide us with an active email address below, as no hard copies will be provided.

Whole School Photo Day MONDAY 6.3.18

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

To order your students photo package and to make payment, please go to: www.theschoolphotographer.com.au

Access Code: X473EL39SS

PLEASE NOTE: There will not be any order envelopes sent home this year. Orders and payment can only be made online this year and cash or cheque payments will not be accepted.

Kindergarten 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

Dear Parent / Carers,

Please remember that students will continue to begin school at 9:30am and conclude at 2:30pm this week. Please drop off and pick up your child from their classroom.

This week will also continue to be a transition period for our new Kindergarten students as they become familiar with the school grounds, routines, school staff and their peers.

As a result, your child's current class may not be their permanent class. Permanent classes will be formed from week 4 onwards. If your child needs to change classes, we will inform you personally.

All our Kindergarten teachers are highly skilled and collaborate closely to ensure consistency across all classes.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Kindergarten Teachers

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

We inducted our House Captains and Vice Captains last week, with ‘a little help' from Sydney Swans players, Nick Smith and Buddy Franklin.

I am not sure WHO was the most excited; our students OR our staff!

The questions from our students were well received. Nick and Buddy discussed their careers, their schooling and how important education is. They proved they are excellent positive role models all our students and budding aspiring sport enthusiasts.

2018 CLASSES

Lessons are well underway in all our classes.

Kindergarten

KA Acacia Mrs Julie Ibrahim and Mrs Pat McMurtrie

KB Banksia Ms Serena Ridani

KE Eucalypt Ms Kristina Allen

KG Grevillea Ms Caitlin Barker

KM Myrtle Mrs Kiranjit Randhawa

KW Waratah Ms Grace Leva

Stage 1

1A Akuna Ms Luisa Mascitelli

1B Bondi Ms Elizabeth Lechlein

1C Coogee Mr Richie Kim

1E Ettalong Ms Sian Tutt

2G Gunnamatta Ms Thalia Ta

2M Maroubra Ms Meredith Weaver

2W Wanda Ms Tamara Dunlop

2Y Yowie Ms Tammy Tsang

Stage 2

3C Conjola Ms Natalie Gangi

3D Daintree Ms Yena lee

3F Franklin Ms Carmela Giamboi

3G Grampians Ms Symone de Sousa

4/3Y Yarra Ms Lisa-Marie Gainsford

4K Kakadu Mr Chris Matthews

4N Ningaloo Ms Jessica Bonifacio

4U Uluru Mrs Felicity Galvin and

Mrs Suzy Sadek

4W Wollemi Mrs Donna Hall

Stage 3

S3B Bancroft Ms Amy Yet Foy

S3D Drysdale Mrs Tracey Kostadinovski

S3L Lewin Mr Calvin Hua

S3M McCubbin Ms Safa Awad

S3N Nolan Ms Jessica So

S3O Olley Ms Kenix Pang

S3P Preston Mrs Simone Larkin

S3S Streeton Mr Matthew Godfrey and

Mr Eric Shen

As stated in 2017, in 2018 Stage 3 has two extension classes. All other classes are mixed ability, which is the world-wide and Australian recommendation. From 2019, all classes K-6 will be mixed ability.

I will introduce you to our support staff next week.

STUDENT SAFETY IS A CONCERN FOR EVERYONE

Managing driving and parking behaviour around our school can be a challenge. Issues of hazardous parking, illegal U-turns, traffic congestion and conflict with local residents during drop-off and pick-up times can be a constant source of frustration and a threat to student safety and the community in general.

Please pay strict attention to kiss and ride parking regulations, and be mindful of traffic congestion from 3:00pm–3:15pm particularly. Never approach discourteous drivers about their behaviour. This is the role of Strathfield Council traffic patrol and the police. You are best to ring them about such matters. The school cannot ring on your behalf. We can, however, address student safety issues, so please report these to our office by email or phone.

A gentle reminder: Strathfield Council perform routine traffic inspections at every school. Some drivers may believe they can park in the small access road off Telopea Ave, but this belief is incorrect. Council is aware that some of our parents are parking in this area.

Perhaps as role models, parents and staff alike should ‘practice what we preach'. Park a distance from our school gates and WALK; increase your steps! Be respectful of our neighbours and avoid parking over their driveways. Teach your children responsibility and citizenship.

Have a wonderful week of learning everyone.

Mrs K Mortimer – Principal

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" download the Free App

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

Reporting Student Absences and Change of Address

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Another good reason to download the SSPS School App: Student absences online via the School App – simply select: "Forms" from the Home Tabs and complete all fields with an "*"

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Online payment method –

Go to www.strathfies-p.schoolsnsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a GREEN ( * ) are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

BYOD @ SSPS 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

Strathfield South Public School values the need to ensure our teaching pedagogy and learning methods cater to the demands of an evolving global environment. By facilitating Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and offering further avenues that promote the meaningful integration of technology, Strathfield South Public School is working towards its vision to ‘empower all students with the skills required to become; successful learners, confident and creative thinkers and active and informed citizens'.

Our BYOD program also assists us in meeting the requirements of the new Australian curriculum where ICT (Information and Communication Technology) is a general capability that spans across all the KLAs (Key Learning Areas) at a one to one level.

In 2018, the BYOD model will be implemented to all Year 3 – 6 classes, as well as the expansion of BYOD classes in Year 2.

For more information about our policies and student agreement please see our school website.

School Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

School banking will recommence on Tuesday 6 February, 2018 for Years 1 – 6 only. Kindergarten will start at a later date.

Stationery requirements K-6 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We are pleased that SSPS has partnered with Winc for Back to School stationery requirements for 2018.

Visit winc.com.au/backtoschool
Enter our school ID 423290
Follow the prompts, no additional stationery is required.
Your order will be delivered to your address.

Uniform Shop - CHANGES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The New Day for the Uniform Shop is Monday.

The New Time for the Uniform Shop is 2 – 4pm.

This is a permanent arrangement.

Whole School Photo Day MONDAY 6.3.18

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

To order your students photo package and to make payment, please go to: www.theschoolphotographer.com.au

Access Code: X473EL39SS

PLEASE NOTE: There will not be any order envelopes sent home this year. Orders and payment can only be made online this year and cash or cheque payments will not be accepted.

Kindergarten 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

Dear Parent/Carers,

Welcome to Kindergarten 2018 at Strathfield South Public School. On Friday your child had a positive day with their allocated teacher. We trust they felt welcomed and cared for.

These next few weeks are a transition period for our new Kindergarten students as they become familiar with the school grounds, routines, school staff and their peers. This year there are six Kindergarten classes. The Kindergarten teachers have worked together very closely to create well balanced classes, considering a range of needs.

Over the next two weeks, we will observe the students and may make some changes to the current classes for the benefit of all students. As a result, your child's current class may not be their permanent class. Permanent classes will be formed from week 4 onwards. If your child will need to change classes, we will inform you personally. All our Kindergarten teachers are highly skilled and collaborate closely to ensure consistency across all classes.

Please remember that over the next two weeks, from Monday 5 February to Friday 16 February, students will begin school at 9:30am and conclude at 2:30pm. Please drop off and pick up your child from their classroom.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation.

Kindergarten Teachers

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

Welcome to our second newsletter for 2018. Each week, you will receive an emailed copy of the most up-to-date information we can provide about what matters most for the learning life of your children at Strathfield South Public School and beyond.

2031 SCHOOL GRADUATES BEGIN THEIR SCHOOLING LIFE

Student leaders Hannah and Amitis welcome Maryam and Mr and Mrs Syeed to Kindergarten 2018. Mrs Mortimer welcomes Ryan and Nhi Thao.

118 Kindergarten students began their 13 years learning journey with us officially last Friday. They will complete their Higher School Certificate in 2031!

I am pleased to report that they are enthusiastic and eager to learn. Our School Student Leadership Team and family support were pivotal in ensuring our new students felt relaxed, excited and confident when walking to their new classrooms.

Strathfield South Public School is so happy to be part of their learning adventures for their first 7 years.

How do you decide who goes into which class?

The teachers selected to teach your child are arguably some of the best in any school in NSW, Australia and in the world. They are hard-working, enthusiastic and engaging, collaborative in nature and eager to begin the task of facilitating your child's learning path for 2018. They participate in world-class professional learning, to ensure they are prepared to facilitate the most positive learning experiences for your children.

The task of placing the students into class groups takes significant time and planning. This year we have formed 8 Stage 3 classes (2 of these are extension classes, the final year of this program), 9 Stage 2 classes, 9 Stage 1 classes and 6 Kindergarten classes, a total of 32 classes. In such a large primary school learning environment, your children are offered a rich, ever-changing curriculum, based on the most recent teaching documents and the most recent research. Our teachers focus on the needs of EVERY student under their care.

Last week we used a holding pattern of classes, to take into account students who have left our school and also our new enrolments. We are confident that all the children have been placed appropriately, but we are continuing to monitor and will still make changes if appropriate.

If you have any concerns about your child's placement, please write a brief email to me through the school email address. I will ensure the most appropriate educator addresses your concern swiftly.

A FURTHER FAREWELL TO SOME OF OUR WONDERFUL STAFF MEMBERS

It is difficult to say goodbye to any staff members but for various reasons, some of our long-standing permanent and temporary teachers are moving on in 2018.

Mrs Marina Alexiou - will be joining South Coogee PS as Assistant Principal

Mrs Heidi Hare – will be joining Girraween PS as Assistant Principal

Ms Susan Lee - has gained a permanent teaching position closer to home

Ms Michelle Kaim - has gained a permanent teaching position closer to home

Signora Nicola Sternberg – is pursuing other teaching opportunities

Mr Patrick McColl – is pursuing other teaching opportunities

Ms Hye In No – will be joining another school closer to home

Ms Amal Mikhael - is pursuing other teaching opportunities

Mr George Athanassios - will be joining Chullora PS

Mrs Leanne Cullen - will be joining Dobroyd Point PS in the office

Mrs Karen Meers - will be joining Orange Grove PS as the Senior Administrative Manager

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome new staff for 2018 and some who are back after extended leave.

Mrs Simone Larkin – Stage 3 Assistant Principal and Stage 3 teacher

Ms Safa Awad – Stage 3 teacher

Ms Kenix Pang - Stage 3 teacher

Ms Jessica So - Stage 3 teacher

Mrs Jennie Ford – support teacher K-6

Signorina Laura Bergamin – Italian Community Language

Ms Jinyang Lee – Seon Saeng Nim (¿¿¿)

Ms Cynthia Rai – Teacher Librarian

Ms Kristina Allen – Kindergarten teacher

Ms Kathie Chang – office staff

Mrs Sally Burton – office staff

Our talented and dedicated Executive Leadership team are here to help you, listen and direct you to the best person to help solve your queries.

Deputy Principals:

Ms Monica Cidem

Mrs Belinda Hamilton

Ms Kylie Halliday

Assistant Principals:

Ms Serena Ridani – Kindergarten

Mrs Pina Meduri – Stage 1

Mrs Suzanne Kayello – Stage 1

Ms Angie Munns - Stage 2

Mrs Simone Larkin – Stage 3

I look forward to greeting as many of you as possible over the coming weeks, in the playground and at special meetings and events.

I am hoping to see many of you at our first monthly P&C meeting in the staff room on Monday 19 February at 7:30pm. If night meetings are not for you, we offer School Club meetings once a month, the first to be held on Wednesday 14 February at 9:15am in the library annex. Meet outside the office for this meeting. Please make a goal to attend either one of these community meetings each month. Parent input is vital to our decision making. We are all in this learning journey together.

Have a wonderful week of learning everyone.

Mrs K Mortimer – Principal

Welcome Back!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

Welcome to 2018 everyone! I hope your children have enjoyed their first day at school and families are set to get back into more settled routines.

I would like to extend a very warm welcome to all our Kindergarten children and other new students and their families, that have started from other schools.

We will be holding a Welcome to new families BBQ this term. Details will be distributed as soon as possible.

At present, your children are in holding classes whilst we secure our student numbers, allowing us to form permanent classes for 2018. This should not take too many days. In the meantime, this is a chance for our students to reconnect to school after such a long break, establish old friendships and make new friends, and meet new staff on a formal and informal basis.

As usual, the weather can be very hot at this time of the year. Rest assured our classrooms are air-conditioned and we keep student inside should the weather be extreme.

SURVEY RESULTS FROM 2017

At the end of 2017 I shared the Parent Google form survey results with P&C. The following is a synopsis for your information.

Classroom and playground enhancements – 62 responses

Analysis

Classroom – resources including books and digital (STEM) items

Playground - equipment enhancements for play

Leadership, special interest and performance opportunities – 100 responses

Analysis

98% belief such opportunities are important

Most popular activities – PSSA, recorder, gardening and choir

More of – visual arts, dance and drama opportunities

Communication between home and school – 51 responses

Analysis

45/51 accessed some or all options

The Scene, App and SeeSaw are the most popular.

Thank you to all parents who responded. You have given us guidance for our planning within the next three years.

Mrs K Mortimer – Principal

ALL ATTACHMENTS INCLUDING SPORT HOLIDAY CAMPS, COMMUNITY USERS INFORMATION, HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES etc

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

http://www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Go to the tab "Newsletters"

Go to All newsletters

You will see 2 entries for each Scene, choose "Attachments" for the week.

Little Ninja
Top Note Music
Mini Basketball
Soccer
Vocal Coach
Chinese Classes
Sofia's Ballet

Active Kids Rebate

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

https://www.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/news/how-to-claim-the-active-kids-rebate/

From 31 January 2018, parents and carers of school-aged children enrolled in an approved sport or fitness activity can receive a $100 voucher to cover registration and participation costs for that calendar year.

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" download the Free App

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

Reporting Student Absences and Change of Address

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Another good reason to download the SSPS School App: Student absences online via the School App – simply select: "Forms" from the Home Tabs and complete all fields with an "*"

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Online payment method –

Go to www.strathfies-p.schoolsnsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a GREEN ( * ) are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

BYOD @ SSPS 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

In 2018, the BYOD model will be implemented to all Year 3 – 6 classes, as well as two partial BYOD classes in Year 2.

For more information about our policies and student agreement please see our school website.

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Wednesday 31 January, 2018 8:30am – 9:30am.

School Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Will recommence on Tuesday 6 February, 2018.

Stationery requirements K-6 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We are pleased that SSPS has partnered with Winc for Back to School stationery requirements for 2018.

Visit winc.com.au/backtoschool
Enter our school ID 423290
Follow the prompts, no additional stationery is required.
Your order will be delivered to your address.

Reading Support in the Early Years

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

As your child begins their literacy development, it is important they have regular practice at their own level. This year, students in early Stage 1 and Stage 1 have benefited from early intervention reading and writing support. To maintain their gains, students should read and write every day.

How can you help at home…particularly over the summer holidays?

Visit your local library and borrow books. Read to your child every night.
Ask your child to help you to write a shopping list.
Help your child to write Christmas cards and tags.
Write and send a postcard.
Read road signs and billboards as you drive around.
Ask your child to find certain products on the supermarket shelf and read the box.
Cook from a simple recipe with your child.
Find the letters of the alphabet sequentially on car number plates when on long road trips. When someone spots an "A", everyone then looks for "B".
Keep a diary if you go away on holidays.
Colouring in strengthens pencil grip and it's relaxing.
Talking with your child - Speaking is the foundation skill of literacy.
Turn off the devices - have an adventure, go outside, play a board game together

Have fun!

Mrs Rouhliadeff and Ms CausleyTodd

Korean 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:45 AEDT

This year in Korean, our students were involved in many meaningful learning experiences. Students not only learnt about how to speak, read, listen and write Korean but were given many opportunities to immerse in the Korean culture. Students were involved in various role play activities, making cultural items such as kites and lanterns and learning about Korean history through studying traditional Korean stories and games. It has been a wonderful year for students learning Korean at SSPS!

Calling for parent Volunteers on the School Picnic Excursions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

Our SSPS end of year picnics to Clontarf Reserve are on Friday 8 December, 2017 K – 2 and Wednesday 13 December, 2017 for Years 3 – 6.

Would you like to come along and help cutting watermelon and distributing ice blocks? A great opportunity to meet friendly parents and enjoy a beautiful park with our children. Even when the day is hot and sunny, the sea breeze is refreshing.

Please speak to Hi Ching Su Baruah in the canteen, or test her on 0411 415 477. Thanking in anticipation.

Attention Year 6 Parents

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Year 6 Farewell, Monday 11 December, 2017 This year the Year 6 Farewell will be held at the Carnarvon Golf Club on Monday, 11 December, 2017. Carnarvon Golf Club is located on Nottinghill Road, Berala. We would like to welcome any year 6 parents who would like to assist with the decorations of this memorable end-of-year event. Please contact Hu-Ching Su Baruah Canteen Manager

Combined Christian Scripture Service

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

This will be held in the school hall on Thursday 30 November, 2017. This will be run by the Protestant, Catholic and Greek Orthodox scripture teachers and all children from these denominations will be attending.

Community Carols Night Wednesday 29 November 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Please bring a picnic and come along to celebrate our community and be entertained by our wonderful children in their bands, choirs and orchestra. Bring your picnic food, picnic rugs, fold up chairs or cushions.

We will also be collecting gifts for the Reverse Christmas Tree. Please bring a gift wrapped and labelled for a boy or girl with the appropriate age, it will be donated to the Salvation Army for children from families in need.

We will be selling gelato, drinks, glow sticks and dessert throughout the evening.

We are looking for volunteers. Please contact Nichola Beukes if you are able to help out with serving, selling, setting up or cleaning up on the night. Helpers needed 3 – 8pm. Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548 or sudafr@gmail.com with your available time.

Much appreciated – your assistance contributes to a wonderful family and community evening. P&C School Club

Coding Club

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Please take note that the last day for Coding Club will be Week 9, Monday 4 December, 2017. We would also like to invite you to come and see the work your child has been creating this semester. Please arrive at 3.45pm. A note will go home with students this week as a reminder.

Helpers Morning Tea Invitation

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

The staff at SSPS would like to say "Thank You" for your generous help at our school this year – it is invaluable and greatly appreciated. We would like to invite you to a morning tea to be held in the library on Thursday 30 November, at 11:00am We look forward to seeing you there

Stationery requirements K-6 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We are pleased that SSPS has partnered with Winc for Back to School stationery requirements for 2018.

1. Visit winc.com.au/backtoschool

2. Enter our school ID 423290

3. Follow the prompts, no additional stationery is required.

4. Your order will be delivered to your address.

Beginner Strings 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Beginning String classes for Violin, Viola and Cello are available in 2018 for NEW STUDENTS to the program from Kindergarten to Year 2. If you are interested in starting your child in this very affordable, exciting and engaging program in 2018, please return your enrolment form with fees to the School Office by 8 December, 2017. We would particularly like to encourage those interested in the cello to this program in 2018 with a special price for instrument hire. Please enquire for more details.

Ruth Choong, Beginning Strings Teacher

ruthchoong.strings@gmail.com

Mob: 0404 872 410

Watson Christmas Card Finalists

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Congratulations to our 3 finalists in the Watson Christmas Card Competition 2017.

Audrey Choi 1E

Ivy Kim 3G

Timothy Pham 4U

These student achievements were recognised at a very prestigious morning tea at Chullora Public School last Thursday. The competition is run through the office of Tony Burke MP

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers: I look forward to seeing all our families at our upcoming Community Christmas Carols Picnic this Wednesday 29 November, evening 2 from 5:15pm to 7:15pm. We have a host of wonderful entertainment to showcase. I look forward to sharing this fun-filled event with you.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ICAS MEDALISTS

Each year, some of our students choose to sit the external ICAS tests offered through our school. This year, Natalie Huynh and Nitya Nimalan have been awarded medals for gaining 100% in ICAS – Mathematics. Ms Lee (one of our coordinators) proudly went along to the ceremony, as of course some very proud parents. Thank you must go to Mrs Perestrelo for supporting Ms Lee in coordinating this event.

SCHOOL SPECTACULAR CHOIR

Every second year, we join the thousands of incredible performers to showcase the greatest celebration of Public Education. Our choir and their teachers, Ms Kaim and Mrs Perestrelo, were part of gruelling practices, early starts and late finishes, but had the ‘the best time of their lives'. What a magnificent event for Strathfield South PS to be part of!

WE HAVE NEW PLAYGROUND SIGNAGE

Our new additions have been so positively received by our school community. Thank you, Mrs Ibrahim and the Wellbeing Team, for coordinating this project in close consultation with our staff/parents & carers. We are all learning from your expertise. Come and have a look.

Have a wonderful week everyone.

Mrs K Mortimer Principal

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

NOVEMBER

13	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
14	Kindergarten & Years 1-6 Orientation 2018
20	K-2 Beginners String Concert 2-3pm
20	P&C
22	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
23	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
23	Last Day for Scripture
23-24	K-2 Healthy Harold
24&25	Schools Spectacular Performance
27-28	K-2 Healthy Harold
28	Year 6 Mini Fete
29	Carols Night
30	Combined Scripture
30	Volunteers Thank You Morning Tea
30 -1.12	K-2 Healthy Harold

DECEMBER

1	Summer PSSA Ends
4	ES1 Aboriginal Elders visit
4	Year 3 – 6 Presentation Morning
4	Directions in Music Contest 6:00pm
5	K – 2 Presentation Morning
6	Year 3 – 6 Creative Arts & Sport Presentation Morning
8	K-2 End of Year Picnic
11	Year 6 Farewell Dinner
12	Stage 2&3 Drama Club Performance
13	Year 3-6 End of Year Picnic
13	K-2 Talent Quest
14	Year 3-6 Talent Quest
15	Last Day for 2017

JANUARY

29	School Development Day – no students
30	Years 1 – 6 First Day 2018

Other News

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Return to School in 2018

Last week a note was sent home asking families to indicate whether their child/children would be returning to SSPS in 2018.

Please log onto www.schoolinterviews.com.au before Friday 24 November, 2017, enter the school code u3v66 and follow the instructions.

Coding Club

Please take note that the last day for Coding Club will be Week 9, Monday 4 December, 2017. We would also like to invite you to come and see the work your child has been creating this semester. Please arrive at 3.45pm. A note will go home with students this week as a reminder.

Selective High School - 2019

Applications opened online on Tuesday 10 October, 2017. All students in Year 5 were given "Information about applying for Year 7 entry to selective high schools in 2019" last week. Applications close Monday 13 November, 2017. The Selective High School Placement Test will be held on Thursday 15 March 2018. The centre the test will be held at will be emailed to you prior to the test.

Community Carols Night

Wednesday 29 November 2017

We will also be collecting gifts for the Reverse Christmas Tree. Please bring a gift wrapped and labelled for a boy or girl with the appropriate age, it will be donated to the Salvation Army for children from families in need.

We will be selling gelato, drinks, glow sticks and dessert throughout the evening.

We are looking for volunteers. Please contact Nichola Beukes if you are able to help out with serving, selling, setting up or cleaning up on the night. Helpers needed 3 – 8pm. Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548 or sudafr@gmail.com with your available time.

Much appreciated – your assistance contributes to a wonderful family and community evening.

P&C School Club

Library News

This is the last week of classes in the school library. Students will not be borrowing from the library from this week as we begin to prepare for end of year tasks and stocktake. Students will be reviewing how to access eBooks through the school iPads so that they can continue to read books until they return to school next year.

Please see the flyer in the attachments to the Scene to learn how to download the ePlatform app and login. Students need to use their DoE school login details to access the website. This is the same username and password that they use to login to the computers at school. Please include a number if your child has one in their username e.g. Username: firstname.lastname#

Ms A Yet Foy

Teacher Librarian

Overdue Library Books

Overdue notices have been sent out this week. The library is giving families the option (not compulsory) to replace the book that was lost or damaged with the same one or with another book from the Premier's Reading Challenge list. Check the Premier's Reading Challenge website for a list of suitable books and purchase at your own convenience at a store of your choosing.

In the past, families were asked to cover the cost of lost or damaged books, now we are giving families the option to purchase books themselves and donate them to the library instead. This process eliminates the need for sending money to the school as well as ensuring that we are able to maintain a wide selection of good quality literature for future library borrowers.

Parent Reading Group

Our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books meets for the last time this year on Thursday 16 November, 2017 in the school library office at 9am. Come along even if you have not read the November book and enjoy talking about reading with our children. Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers.

Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Combined Christian Scripture Service

School Payments

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

Reporting Student Absences And Change Of Address

Another good reason to download the SSPS School App: Submit student absences online via the School App – simply select: "Forms" from the Home Tabs and complete all fields with an "*"

How to get the SSPS School App

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" Download the Free App!

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

PSSA

SSPS travelled to Henley Park to face off against Croydon Park PS on a slightly overcast day. Due to the Year 6 Canberra Excursion a number of junior kindly agreed to step up to take the place of the absent seniors. The seniors performed to their potential scoring a resounding win whilst the juniors learnt many lessons about the importance of communicating, backing up and shot selection.

Seniors

SSPS: Won

Score: 88.5 – 45.5

Man of the March: Henry Mansfield

Junior

SSPS: Lost

Score: 49 – 114.5

Man of the Match: Angus Mansfield

ALL ATTACHMENTS TO THE SCENE CAN BE FOUND ON THE SCHOOL WEB PAGE:

http://www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Go to the tab "Newsletters"

Rubbish in the Classroom
Helpers Morning Tea invitation 2017
School Banking
Canteen News
HOOSH
Star House Music & Art Classes 2018
Star House

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

Last week was extremely sad, following the tragedy at Banksia Rd PS. It was also a time for us all to reflect on our practices when it comes to the most important item of all – our children's safety. Our school has considered our access point safety and all staff have been part of an extra discussion about vigilance in the playground. For our community, please hear my plea for supervision of your own children BEFORE 8:30am.

CONGRATULATIONS

We are very proud of our Ultimo Operational Directorate Primary Schools public speaking grand finalists for 2017, Nitya Nimalan (Stage 2) and Lavankhy Pakeerathan (Kindergarten). Further congratulations to Lavankhy for winning her section. When asked how she did it, Lavankhy replied, ‘I told myself I could do it, I looked straight at the audience'. Lavankhy was a very thankful for the preparation support she received from her cousins, her parents and Ms Lee.

SCHOOL HOURS

DO NOT COME TO SCHOOL BEFORE 8:30am

Many children are coming to school well before 8:30am yet again. There is no provision for them until 8:30am, no teacher to look after them until 8:30am. If you must come early, you are expected to supervise your own children. Siblings of students attending activities before and after school must be supervised by an adult too.

It seems many students are arriving early when brothers and sisters attend music classes Monday to Wednesday. I will be informing our Directions in Music director about this issue. Whilst musicians are in practice, brothers and sisters must be supervised by parents at home or under our COLA.

Please bring your child/ren to school after 8:30am unless they are involved in a supervised morning activity at school. If this is not possible, you must make other arrangements. HOOSH at Homebush has vacancies for before school care. 9764 1773 / 0424 224 264. Our office has details of additional before and after school organisations that have operated at this school for many years.

I remind parents: there is NO teacher supervision for students before 8:30am. This is the most popular time for truck deliveries and building works in our grounds. Please ensure you abide by the Department of Education and our safety guidelines on this matter.

REFLECTION TIME IS STILL ON

Thank you so much to the families who completed the survey about communication so far. This survey is still open for you to have your say. Please complete all three surveys as there is only one week to go before I share the summary findings with you.

All ideas are valued. We want to hear from you. Answers are confidential but will be collated and considered. Just control click and you are away! Or go to the App for an easy link on your phone.

Topic 3 is still open: communication.

https://goo.gl/forms/JM74zWLPj0ayYmg03

Topic 2 is still open: student leadership, special interest and performance opportunities.

https://goo.gl/forms/lTZ0keQ2tCNMlYOb2

Topic 1 is still open: Quality Learning Environment Improvements

https://goo.gl/forms/klcKd0gxNlZWRkN93

Have a wonderful week everyone.

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

Visit our Strathfield South Public 360 Virtual School Tour

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Library News

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

This week 4K and 2U enjoyed a buddy reading session in the library. Students thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity to get to know each other and share their favourite books. Everywhere you look you can spot an active learner.

ALL ATTACHMENTS TO THE SCENE CAN BE FOUND ON THE SCHOOL WEB PAGE:

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

http://www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Go to the tab "Newsletters"

Rubbish in the Classroom
Helpers Morning Tea invitation 2017
School Banking
Canteen News
HOOSH
Star House Music & Art Classes 2018
Star House

PSSA

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Seniors

SSPS: Won

Score: 88.5 – 45.5

Man of the March: Henry Mansfield

Junior

SSPS: Lost

Score: 49 – 114.5

Man of the Match: Angus Mansfield

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" Download the Free App!

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

Combined Christian Scripture Service

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Overdue Library Books

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Library News

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

Ms A Yet Foy

Teacher Librarian

Community Carols Night Wednesday 29 November 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

We will be selling gelato, drinks, glow sticks and dessert throughout the evening.

Much appreciated – your assistance contributes to a wonderful family and community evening.

P&C School Club

Selective High School - 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Coding Club

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Please take note that the last day for Coding Club will be Week 9, Monday 4 December, 2017. We would also like to invite you to come and see the work your child has been creating this semester. Please arrive at 3.45pm. A note will go home with students this week as a reminder.

Return to School in 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Last week a note was sent home asking families to indicate whether their child/children would be returning to SSPS in 2018.

Please log onto www.schoolinterviews.com.au before Friday 24 November, 2017, enter the school code u3v66 and follow the instructions.

REFLECTION TIME IS STILL ON

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

All ideas are valued. We want to hear from you. Answers are confidential but will be collated and considered. Just control click and you are away! Or go to the App for an easy link on your phone.

Topic 3 is still open: communication.

https://goo.gl/forms/JM74zWLPj0ayYmg03

Topic 2 is still open: student leadership, special interest and performance opportunities.

https://goo.gl/forms/lTZ0keQ2tCNMlYOb2

Topic 1 is still open: Quality Learning Environment Improvements

https://goo.gl/forms/klcKd0gxNlZWRkN93

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

CONGRATULATIONS

SCHOOL HOURS

DO NOT COME TO SCHOOL BEFORE 8:30am

Kindergarten Library

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

Every week Kindergarten students enjoy a 30 minute visit to our wonderful Kindergarten Library. During the Library lesson they return their borrowed books, browse for new books to borrow, enjoy reading a book to themselves and savor a picture book read to them by Mr Godfrey. In the book being read to the students here there was a galah hidden on every page. Kindergarten looked very carefully and found them all!

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

SUMMER PSSA TEAMS

To ensure PSSA teams receive early lunch orders please update your Summer PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

New Summer Menu

Please check the new Summer Menu for Term 4 and Term 1 2018. Winter menu items such as: Mashed Potatoes, Manouch and Koram Veg Curry with rice are NOT available in this term.

Summer Menu Items:

*Rice Paper Roll (Vegetarian or Chicken) $2.00 each with vermicelli noodle, carrot, lettuce, cucumber, mint leaves and fish sauce available on Tuesday.

*Sushi $3.20 (Vegetarian: Teriyaki Chicken & Cucumber) is on Tuesday and Friday.

*Garden Salad Box / Salad Wraps with your own choice of Cheese / Ham / Chicken / Eggs / Tuna or Beef Slice (Halal).

IMPORTANT NOTE

Please note that there is only ONE staff member serving breakfast from 8:30 to 9:00 and serving students for breakfast is always our first priority. Therefore, parents wishing to order lunch via the window or phone please do so between 9:00-9:30am. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Our canteen is operated by the P&C and needs volunteers so we can prepare fresh food and keep prices low. If you have a few hours once a week or even just once a term, we would love to hear from you. No experience is necessary. Please come to the canteen and put your name on the roster. Your help will be greatly appreciated by the students, parents and staff.

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 7 Nov	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 8 Nov	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 9 Nov	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 10 Nov	Joanne Khodary	9-2pm
Mon 13 Nov	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi	9-2pm

More information is available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Community Carols Night

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

P&C School Club is looking for volunteers for our SSPS Community Carols Night on Wednesday 29 November, 2017.

We are looking for helpers to barbecue, serve food, scoop gelato, sell drinks & glow sticks, and tidy up at the end of the night. Can you give an hour of your time between 3pm and 8pm? Please contact Nichola Beukes, School Club Convenor on 0435 413 548 or sudafr@gmail.com with your available time. We need at least 12 volunteers for this event, and so far no parents have stepped forward. Please consider giving some time. Much appreciated – your assistance contributes to a wonderful family and community evening. Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Return to School in 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Last week a note was sent home asking families to indicate whether their child/children would be returning to SSPS in 2018.

Please log onto www.schoolinterviews.com.au before Friday 24 November, 2017, enter the school code u3v66 and follow the instructions.

BounceBack

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Early Stage 1 and Stage 1 – Success. Being a STAR helps students to remember important messages about achieving their goals.

Stick with it and don't give up.

Think about yourself: What are you good at?

Always make a plan.

Remember to try hard, work hard and always have a go.

Stage 2 are working towards success as a CHAMP and Stage 3 are WINNERS (Refer to an earlier newsletter or ask your child what these mean).

Key messages to communicate to your child about being successful.

Stick with it and don't give up.

When something proves hard to do, stick to your plan and don't give up. If an obstacle gets in the way, see it as a problem that needs to be solved. Sometimes you may have to try a new way to solve the problem.

Mistakes help you to learn.

Everybody makes mistakes when they are trying to achieve their goals. Try to learn from mistakes that you make even if you don't feel too happy when you make them.

No one is good at everything. Everyone has different strengths.

Everyone has their own strengths. You need to keep looking for evidence about your character strengths (i.e. the kind of person you are) and your ability strengths (what you can do well).

Always make a plan.

To achieve a goal you need to make a plan before you start. A plan helps you decide the best steps to take to achieve your goal.

Remember to try hard and work hard.

Trying hard and working hard make it more likely that you will succeed at what you are trying to do.

Have a go and believe in yourself.

Even if something is hard to do and you wonder if you will be able to do it, believe in yourself, take the risk and ‘have a go'. You can't be successful if you don't try. You will not always succeed but at least you can say you have given it your best short.

Try to be well organised.

It's important to be well organised if you want to achieve your goals. Find good ways to remember the things you have to do, to find the things you need, and to be on time.

KidsMatter Team.

SYMPHONIA JUBILATE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

5^Th Birthday Concert Celebrations to be held on Saturday 18 November, 2017, 5:00 to 6:30pm at Marie Bashir Public School Hall, Albert Road, Strathfield. Tickets can be obtained from the school office or at the venue on the day.

Concession/Pensioners $5, Adult $10.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LATEST L3 GRADUATES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Strathfield South PS has made a commitment to strong literacy learning and for that reason our teachers have the opportunity to invest in strong literacy professional learning. L3, Literacy and Language Learning, is one such program. We are very proud of our latest graduates.

Pictured: Ms Sian Tutt, Ms Luisa Mascitelli, L3 Trainer Ms Danielle Hajinakitas, Ms Thalia Ta and Ms Tammy Tsang

State Athletics by Liyara Flavel

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

On Thursday 19 October, 2017 I was lucky enough to be a representative for the Sydney East Region at the State Athletics Championships. I had not reached this far before. I qualified for Zones and then Regional where I competed in four events. I am usually a runner so it was a huge surprise when I won in Long Jump, something I had not done before.

I was very nervous but also excited. I had not thought much about the competition until the last minute, then realised that I was very nervous, so I tried not to think about it. When we went to the Olympic Stadium, it was filled with kids from all over NSW, I did not really comprehend that until much later. I felt alone, as I did not know anyone – soon it was time to go to the marshalling area to have our names ticked off. Others were doing their warming up, but I was bit frozen, and was trying to focus, but was not very successful. All I could see was lots and lots athletes, and I wish I had a Harry Potter book to read.

There were forty competitors in the Junior Long Jump competition. We get three jumps and the best jump is used. I did not have a good first jump, my run-up was all wrong, so I thought I will do better in the next jump. It was warm and I did my best but I did not make a PB (personal best) like the previous competition – so I only made it to the top half of the 40.

Maybe next year……

Perhaps next year there will more SSPS students there, so that we can cheer each other on. J Doing athletics has made me fit and healthy. I hope YOU will join me in athletics soon because by just participating you learn new skills each time, keep fit and make new friends. Thank you to my class and Mr Hua for wishing me well before the competition.

"Mens sana in corpore sano" is a good motto to follow, always: ("A healthy mind in a healthy body")

Selective High School - 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

BounceBack

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Early Stage 1 and Stage 1 are continuing their lessons on how humour helps us to stay healthy and feel better but should never be used to hurt someone's feelings.

Stage 2 and Stage 3

What can you do to help your child learn the skills that underpin success?

Encourage your child to set a goal and to plan what they need to do to achieve. For young children goals need to be simple, specific and very short term (e.g. reading to you for ten minutes each night for two weeks, making their bed every day for a week, improving their knowledge of specific number facts). Help them to think about what they did to achieve their goal (ask them, "What steps did you take? What was hard for you to do? How do you now feel now that you have managed to do it?"
Provide lots of opportunities for your child to take on challenges that they initiate and to do (mostly) by themselves (e.g. make a cubby, bake a cake, make and sell birthday cards or organise a game). Only give them help when they ask.
Encourage your child to make, do or organise something a bit complicated and challenging that may be frustrating but will be rewarding when completed (e.g. making a pop-up card or advent calendar, organising an outing or completing a challenging word or number puzzle). Congratulate them on their persistence.
Do a challenging jigsaw puzzle with them to show them how to stick with it until it is finished.
Avoid doing things for your child that they are capable of doing for themselves (e.g. making phone call, making their bed, packing/unpacking their school bag, preparing their breakfast).
Share your own stories about how you achieved a goal that was important to you, stressing how you made a plan, worked hard and persisted despite obstacles or mistakes.
Help your child to look for and collect evidence that tells them what their strengths are. Evidence could include feedback from other people, ongoing improvement in their ‘personal bests' (e.g. in a sport or in music exams) or a comparison with similar products produced by others of the same age (e.g. paintings, written stories).
Give your child more feedback on effort than on ability e.g. "well done, you really worked hard on that project and did not give up when some bits proved to be frustrating'). Then your child learns that successfully achieving a goal happens mainly through hard work, persistence and believing in yourself and is not just based on ability.
Encourage your child to be organised, and provide material that helps them to do this (e.g. colourful folders, labelling devices, and containers). Show them how to organise their things, pack up their games and toys before bedtime, identify and collect what they will need for school each day, keep their school bag in order, and (for an older child) help them to regularly block out some time for homework.
Play "Beat the timer". Use a timer and encourage them to complete an activity such as cleaning up their toys, getting dressed or setting the table before the timer goes off.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

REFLECTION TIME

Thank you so much to the 78 families who completed the survey about our student leadership special interest and performance opportunities. This survey is still open to have your say.

All ideas are valued. We want to hear from you. Answers are confidential but will be collated and considered. Just control click and you are away!

This week we would love to hear from you on the topic of communication (let's hope it works first time this week; apologies for the last two weeks).

https://goo.gl/forms/gXNE0pZHQUKX5jlj1

All ideas are valued. We want to hear from you. Answers are confidential but will be collated and considered. Just control click and you are away!

Topic 1 is still open: Quality Learning Environment Improvements

https://goo.gl/forms/2osb50imEowgn2ox1

Topic 2 is still open: student leadership, special interest and performance opportunities.

https://goo.gl/forms/2t1m04JGmJVhg9c33

IT'S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018 -

GET IN FAST

Kindergarten orientation begins tomorrow Tuesday 31 October, 2017 9am – 11am. If you have not done so already, it is time to enrol your child for Kindergarten 2018. Please see the office for further details.

ENROL NOW! If relevant, remind your neighbours, family and friends to enrol their child.

Have a wonderful week everyone.

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

Future Events

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

OCTOBER

23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
27	Stewart House Clothing Pick Up
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

1	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
2	Stage 2 Band Expo
2 & 3	Year 6 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In
6	String Ensemble Workshop
7	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
7	Choral Concert
8	School Club
10	School Remembrance Assembly
9 & 10	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
13	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
14	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
20	K-2 Beginners String Concert 2-3pm
20	P&C
22	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
23	Schools Spectacular Rehearsal
23	Last Day for Scripture
23-24	K-2 Healthy Harold
24&25	Schools Spectacular Performance
27-28	K-2 Healthy Harold
28	Year 6 Mini Fete
29	Carols Night
30	Combined Scripture
30	Volunteers Thank You Morning Tea
30 -1.12	K-2 Healthy Harold

DECEMBER

1	Summer PSSA Ends
4	ES1 Aboriginal Elders visit
4	Year 3 – 6 Presentation Morning
4	Directions in Music Contest 6:00pm
5	K – 2 Presentation Morning
6	Year 3 – 6 Creative Arts & Sport Presentation Morning
8	K-2 End of Year Picnic
11	Year 6 Farewell Dinner
12	Stage 2&3 Drama Club Performance
13	Year 3-6 End of Year Picnic
13	K-2 Talent Quest
14	Year 3-6 Talent Quest
15	Last Day for 2017

JANUARY

29	Staff Development Day – no students
30	Year 1 – 6 First Day 2018

Reporting Student Absences And Change Of Address

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Another good reason to download the SSPS School App: Submit student absences online via the School App – simply select: "Forms" from the Home Tabs and complete all fields with an "*"

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

IMPORTANT NOTE

Canteen Red Day is on Tuesday 31 October, 2017

To accommodate Halloween Day, the canteen will have "Red Day Food" this Friday.

Potato Wedges with sour cream $3.00
Pluto Pups $2.50
Doughnut $2.00
Trick or Treat. Please come to the canteen and enjoy the food.
SUMMER PSSA TEAMS
To ensure PSSA teams receive early lunch orders please update your Summer PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

New Summer Menu
Please check the new Summer Menu for Term 4 and Term 1 2018. Winter menu items such as: Mashed Potatoes, Manouch and Koram Veg Curry with rice are NOT available in this term.
Summer Menu Items:
*Rice Paper Roll (Vegetarian or Chicken) $2.00 each with vermicelli noodle, carrot, lettuce, cucumber, mint leaves and fish sauce available on Tuesday.
*Sushi $3.20 (Vegetarian: Teriyaki Chicken & Cucumber) is on Tuesday and Friday.
*Garden Salad Box / Salad Wraps with your own choice of Cheese / Ham / Chicken / Eggs / Tuna or Beef Slice (Halal).

Please Take Care of Class Lunch Bags
All the Class Lunch Bags have been washed. They are fresh and clean therefore please look after your own class lunch bag.

Important Reminder: For Year 6 students leaving this year (except students with siblings in other years at SSPS) please use all the money in your Munchmonitor account and close it before the end of the year.
No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.
To prevent lost tokens from the lunch bags, we are removing all frozen items from our online pre-ordering system. All frozen items can only be purchased from the window counter via MunchMonitor account or cash. Apologies for the changes. Old tokens can still be used.

Helper Needed - Can you help?
Our canteen is operated by the P&C and needs volunteers so we can prepare fresh food and keep prices low. If you have a few hours once a week or even just once a term, we would love to hear from you. No experience is necessary. Please come to the canteen and put your name on the roster. Your help will be greatly appreciated by the students, parents and staff.

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 24 Oct	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 25 Oct	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 26 Oct	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 27 Oct	Joanne Khodary	9-2pm
Mon 30 Oct	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi	9-2pm

More information is available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

School Payments

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.
OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

Parent Reading Group and Stitch and Chat Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Parent Reading Group

Stitch and Chat Group

Please note that in Term 4 we have a new meeting time of Friday 2 – 3pm. This term we are learning how to crochet flowers, but feel free to bring along any stitching work of your own and join us for a good chat. Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548

Stewart House Used Clothing Appeal

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

This week Stewart House Collection Bags will be given out to students. If you have clean, used clothing, accessories or sheets/towels etc that are no longer wanted, please fill the bags and donate to this charity. Any plastic bags may be used.

Stewart House provides care and support for around 1800 public school students annually from all over NSW. Opportunities are provided for activities and excursion, medical help and counselling all in a safe environment. SSPS has been a proud supporter of this charity for many years. Please return bags to the school on Wednesday 25 October. These bags are to be left outside the hall.

We hope you will support this worthwhile charity.

Mrs P McMurtrie

(On behalf of the Stewart House Clothing Appeal)

Community Carols Night

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

P&C School Club is looking for our SSPS Community Carols Night on Wednesday 29 November, 2017.

We are looking for helpers to barbecue, serve food, scoop gelato, sell drinks & glow sticks, and tidy up at the end of the night. Can you give an hour of your time between 3pm and 8pm? Please contact Nichola Beukes, School Cube Convenor on 0435 413 548 or sudafr@gmail.com with your available time. Much appreciated – your assistance contributes to a wonderful family and community evening.

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class - NEW TIME

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL in the library and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 1 – 2:30pm during school hours for the convenience of parents. Please Note This Is A New Time

LEADER: In Term 4, a qualified English teacher leads the class in a formal English class. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information.

Australian Girls Choir Open Day

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Congratulations to girls who recently took part in the AGC assessment workshop at school. By now you should have received your personalised assessment report – either posted to your home or via your school. Everyone is welcome to come along to an Open Day on either Saturday 28 October (Miranda) or Sunday 29 October (Beecroft or Waverley), which will give girls the opportunity to try a complimentary class and attend an information session. Phone 1800 338 142 for more information or visit www.ausgirlschoir.com.au

String Ensemble Workshop 6.11.17

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Following from last term's exciting String Ensemble Workshop and concert, we will be holding another whole day String Workshop on Monday 6 November, 2017. This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to participate in small and large group rehearsals while developing musical listening and team building skills, and reinforcing techniques they have been learning with their private tutors. Parents are invited to attend the concert from 2-3pm.

This workshop is open to all year 1-6 students currently learning String for over a year (not suitable for Beginner Strings). Permission form and $12 fee must be paid by this Wednesday 25 October, 2017.

Selective High School - 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Applications opened online on Tuesday 10 October, 2017. All students in Year 5 were given "Information about applying for Year 7 entry to selective high schools in 2019" last week. Applications close Monday 13 November, 2017. The Selective High School Placement Test will be held on Thursday 15 March 2018. The centre the test will be held at will be emailed to you prior to the test.

BounceBack

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Early Stage 1 and Stage 1

Humour:

What can you do to help your child learn about humour?

Share funny songs or movies and TV shows with your child. This is a great way to connect and enjoy each other's company.
Read funny stories or poems to your child and enjoy the humour together.
Share riddles and jokes that don't rely on put-downs or insulting humour.
Help your child learn how to tell a riddle or joke well.
Encourage your child to make a funny card, drawing or banner to cheer up a family member or a friend who is sick or having a difficult time.
Create opportunities for your child to have fun and some laughs with their friends (e.g. when you child has friends around to play you could show a funny movie, encourage a joke-telling session, play silly or fun games, provide funny dress-ups or encourage them to put on a funny skit).
Point out to your child when they are using humour in an inappropriate way (e.g. to put down someone such as their younger brother or sister, or to trivialise something important, or to deny a problem or a feeling they are having). Discuss this with them.

Stage and Stage 3 – CHAMPS and WINNERS -
Success:
Helping your child to experience success.
Teaching your child how to set goals and achieve them by making a plan, working hard, solving problems and not giving up helps them to build life skills that are important for their future. These life skills build their self-confidence and motivation and the ability to persist when they find things difficult. An important starting point is to help your child identify their particular character strengths and ability strengths. Character strengths are personal attributes like being brave or kind, or being a hard worker or a good organiser. Ability strengths are things that they do well such as writing stories, drawing cartoons, playing sport, playing a musical instrument or understanding and working with animals.

2018 CLASS ORGANISATION

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

The Senior Executive (Ms Cidem, Miss Halliday, Mrs Hamilton, Mrs Pensabene and myself) have begun the complex procedure of organising staffing and classes for next year. At this point in time, we anticipate 30 to 31 classes for 2018, as per normal. Kindergarten and new local enrolments will determine this number. Staff changes, as in every year, are anticipated. The NSW Department of Education industrial agreement ensures that many of our permanent vacancies should be filled. For 2018, we will have six new permanent teachers on board.

Have a wonderful week everyone.

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018 - GET IN FAST

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

Kindergarten orientation begins next week on Tuesday 31 October, 2017. If you have not done so already, it is time to enrol your child for Kindergarten 2018. Please see the office for further details.

ENROL NOW! If relevant, remind your neighbours, family and friends to enrol their child.

SunSmart RENEWAL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

SSPS has renewed its SunSmart status with the NSW Cancer Council. The school completed a checklist of compliance and fulfilled all necessary priorities. We will receive updated resources to use in classrooms and will display our ‘SunSmart' stickers in the school with pride.

What can you do?

Many students are in need of a badged school hat; they are UV protected and allow us to identify our students. Please ensure your child has their hat in their bag EVERY day.

ICAS CONGRATULATIONS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Every year our students in Year 3-6 have the opportunity to test their mathematics, English and science skills, against same age students nationally.

Congratulations to our students who competed this year. As usual our results have been outstanding. Our school achieved 2 medals for attaining 100% in mathematics. Congratulations to those two students. A special presentation will be held by ICAS at a date to be advised.

TERM 4 IS REFLECTION TIME

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

Thank you so much to the 37 families who completed the survey about our quality learning environment improvements. This survey is still open so ‘have your say'.

This week we would love to hear from you on the topic of student leadership, special interest and performance opportunities

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/171IViE0AGM4DHUN5eeT6Y9D-WToZujeMDnyVpyIVZJg/edit

Each week I will provide you with a short survey. Please complete this. All ideas are valued. We want to hear from you. Answers are confidential but will be collated and considered. Just control click and you are away!

Last week's tops is still open: Quality Learning Environment Improvements

https://goo.gl/forms/M7pTNMrmC2faYpO83

S3 Preston

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

The students in S3Preston have spent many weeks collaboratively building and experimenting with robots. Over the last two weeks, the students have designed and constructed their own robotics 'maze' in small groups. The groups have needed to learn and use the Mindstorms app on their devices in order to program their robots to move around the maze, following the directions set out. It has been a tricky task - grit, determination and problem solving skills have all been necessary during the moments where "nothing is going right". Well done S3P - keep trying hard and working together!

PSSA

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

PSSA softball started the term off with some amazing results. Well done to the senior and junior girls' teams who both came away with a win. Both senior and junior boys' team had a Bye.

SOFTBALL – SSPS vs Mortlake

Senior GIRLS: Won 19-15

Player of the Match: Estella Pham

Junior GIRLS: Won 22 – 17

Player of the Match: Carmela Kolopeaua

A tough week facing a well skilled Abbotsford in both matches. All students gave it their best go with the juniors being commended for their sportsmanship by the opposition coach. A great outfield catch by James Knight on the final ball was a highlight.

CRICKET – SSPS vs Abbotsford

Seniors: Lost 84 – 39.5

Players of the Match: James Knight and Matthew Vickery

Juniors: Lost 162 – 53.5

Player of the Match: Zak Ammar

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" Download the Free App!

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL in the library and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 11:45am during school hours for the convenience of parents.

LEADER: In Term 4, a qualified English teacher leads the class in a formal English class. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information.

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

IMPORTANT NOTE

SUMMER PSSA TEAMS

To ensure PSSA teams receive early lunch orders please update your Summer PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

New Summer Menu

Please check the new Summer Menu for Term 4 and Term 1 2018. Winter menu items such as: Mashed Potatoes, Manouch and Koram Veg Curry with rice are NOT available in this term.

Summer Menu Items:

*Rice Paper Roll (Vegetarian or Chicken) $2.00 each with vermicelli noodle, carrot, lettuce, cucumber, mint leaves and fish sauce available on Tuesday.

*Sushi $3.20 (Vegetarian: Teriyaki Chicken & Cucumber) is on Tuesday and Friday.

*Garden Salad Box / Salad Wraps with your own choice of Cheese / Ham / Chicken / Eggs / Tuna or Beef Slice (Halal).

Please Take Care of Class Lunch Bags

All the Class Lunch Bags have been washed. They are fresh and clean therefore please look after your own class lunch bag.

Important Reminder: For Year 6 students leaving this year (except students with siblings in other years at SSPS) please use all the money in your Munchmonitor account and close it before the end of the year.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

To prevent lost tokens from the lunch bags, we are removing all frozen items from our online pre-ordering system. All frozen items can only be purchased from the window counter via MunchMonitor account or cash. Apologies for the changes. Old tokens can still be used.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 17 Oct	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 18 Oct	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 19 Oct	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 20 Oct	Joanne Khodary	9-2pm
Mon 23 Oct	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

We use online ordering system called MunchMonitor. The MunchMonitor account works similar to a prepaid telephone. You can top up your account online using your credit card or with cash at the canteen. Once you have set up a MunchMonitor account (see below: How to sign up) you can use the credit in your account for lunch orders or over the counter purchases with the "snack tag"

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information is available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Student Banking resumes, Tuesday 17 October, 2017. Parent volunteers are needed between 9am and noon to cash in deposits and keep deposit books up to date. We would love your help. Come to B Block, Room 12 (the demountable behind the School hall) any time on Tuesday mornings and we will be delighted to train you up.

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

SAFETY AT SCHOOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Please note that there is NO Pedestrian access through the driveway gate at the top of Telopea Avenue. This entrance is for staff cars and deliveries only. Students and parents are not to enter the school via this gate. Please use the entrance further down which is a designated pedestrian entrance. We ask that you consider your safety and that of your children when entering the school. In addition we ask that cars do not use this entrance to enable u-turns.

Stewart House Used Clothing Appeal

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We hope you will support his worthwhile charity.

Mrs P McMurtrie

(On behalf of the Stewart House Clothing Appeal)

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The uniform shop is situated behind the Library and is open Wednesdays, 8.30 – 9.30am. To make your order easier and quicker, log onto MunchMonitor: Username "ssps" and Password "munch2136".

This site can be used to order lunches from the school canteen and uniform items. The uniform order will be filled on a Wednesday, given to your student's teacher, who will pass onto your child.

P&C School Club Meeting This week

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Come and help plan Kindergarten Orientation and the Year 6 Farewell.

Date: Wednesday 18.10.17

Time: 9 – 10am

Venue: B Block Room 12, behind the School hall.

All are welcome – we hope to see you there.

School Club is a daytime parent group active in supporting the teachers and students of SSPS through activities and fundraising events. A member of the School Executive will be present to answer any questions. This is a great opportunity to meet and get to know staff and other parents and find out what is happening at school. Any questions to Nichola Beukes, Convenor 0435 413 548.

Stitch and Chat Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books will meet this Thursday 19 October, 2017 in the school library office at 9am. We are reading THE HOBBIT by JRR Tolkien, WOMBAT STEW by Maria Vaughan & Pamela Lofts and DIARY OF A WOMBAT by Jackie French & Bruce Whatley. Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers. Come along even if you have not read the books.

Selective High School - 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Applications opened online on Tuesday 10 October, 2017. All students in Year 5 were given "Information about applying for Year 7 entry to selective high schools in 2019" last week. Applications close Monday 13 November, 2017. The Selective High School Placement Test will be held on Thursday 15 March 2018. The centre the test will be held at will be emailed to you prior to the test.

BounceBack

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Early Stage 1 and Stage 1

Humour: Enjoying a laugh with others is a unique human bond that helps us connect. Finding something funny about a difficult situation can also help us to feel more hopeful. Humour helps us to gain a sense of perspective on our problems, because it can throw a little light on an otherwise dark situation. It reminds us that life goes on. It allows us to release the tension created by strong and uncomfortable feelings such as sadness, disappointment anxiety and anger. Having a laugh also helps us to stay healthy and well because of the changes that laughter creates in our bodies. The use of laughter in children's hospital wards is an example of how humour can help us cope and deal with hard times.

Key messages to communicate to your child about humour

Humour helps us to stay healthy

Laughter helps our body to fight disease and illness. Humour is like exercise for our mind and our feelings.

Humour can help you to feel better

Having a laugh and finding the funny side of a situation can help you feel a little bit better when you are feeling unhappy, sad or worried, or when things are difficult.

You can use laughter and humour to help someone else feel a little bit better

You can cheer someone up when they have a problem, or they are feeling sad or worried, by being funny in a nice gentle way. Stop doing it if they don't like it.

Humour should not be used to pretend that you don't feel sad or worried

Even though laughter can help you feel better when you have a problem, you still need to try to solve the problem, or deal with the unhappy feeling. Laughter does not make problems go away. It just helps you to cope with them a little better.

Humour should not be used to hurt someone's feelings

It's unkind to laugh at someone else's problems or bad luck, or make fun of the way another person looks, thinks, speaks or acts.

Stage 2 are learning to be a CHAMP

Challenge yourself, set a goal and make a plan

Have a Go! Take a risk!

Always look for and use your strengths

Mistakes help you to learn. Don't be afraid to make them.

Persist and put in effort. Don't give up.

Stage 3 will be WINNERS

What are your strengths?

Interesting mistakes will happen

No effort, no results.

Never give up.

Ethics and honesty must be the rule.

Risk-taking is sometimes necessary.

Smart goal-setting help you plan and succeed.

More information about being a CHAMP and WINNERS in future weeks.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

TERM 4 IS REFLECTION TIME

What we say to a child becomes their inner voice…

At this time of the year, teachers are busy considering your child's progress in 2017, as they carefully write each student's Semester 2 progress report.

But this is not the only evaluation that occurs in a school.

We are preparing to write our 2017 Annual Report and are gathering factual information in order to prepare our 2018-2020 School Plan.

With this in mind, I am asking you to share your thoughts and opinions over the coming weeks. Each week I will provide you with a short survey. Please complete this. All ideas are valued. We want to hear from you. Answers are confidential but will be collated and considered. Just control click and you are away!

This week's topic: Quality Learning Environment Improvements

https://goo.gl/forms/fgl321cG2F7ColTr1

IT'S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018 -

GET IN FAST

If you have not done so already, it is time to enrol your child for Kindergarten 2018. We have commenced interviews for all ‘in area' and ‘out of area' students.

Spaces are LIMITED for ‘out of area enrolments' for 2018, so please let friends, neighbours and relatives know to complete enrolment documentation immediately to be considered.

If you live ‘out of area', but have siblings at our school already, you must complete the ‘out of area' paperwork to be accepted for enrolment in 2018. Siblings have high consideration but the paperwork must be in order.

Our enrolment committee will meet in Term 4, to establish how many spaces K-6 we can offer, after local enrolments and ‘out of area' siblings are accounted for. Please see the office for further details.

ENROL NOW!

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

3 Grampians

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:31 AEDT

3 Grampians have been learning about Area in Mathematics. We took our learning outside and tried to find the area of the Tennis courts using our knowledge of one squared metre. We worked collaboratively to measure and draw out our areas.

WELCOME BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

A warm welcome to Term 4 to all our families! I trust your vacation break was exciting but relaxing. Term 4 promises to be filled with classroom and extracurricular activities that will culminate the 2017 year of learning for our students.

We are in the preparation stage for our new School Plan 2018-2020 and we will need your help. We will be asking you to evaluate programs from this year and give us your thoughts in terms of priorities for the next three years.

We have had some exceptional achievements to be proud of since we wrote the 2015-2017 School Plan and we want to make the next three years even more successful for our students. Watch out for further details on ways you can help.

PSSA

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

PSSA student played their second game of the summer season on Friday 22 September. SSPS played tough matches with some close results. All students displayed wonderful sportsmanship regardless of the outcome. Well done SSPS.

SOFTBALL – SSPS VS SUMMER HILL

Senior Girls: Won 16 - 4

Player of the Match: Elia Malgioglio

Junior Girls: Lost 26 - 12

Player of the Match: Liyara Flavel

Senior Boys: Lost 12 - 11

Player of the Match: Markell Itaoui

Junior Boys: Lost 18 - 8

Player of the Match: Adam Craft

CRICKET – SSPS VS ABBOTSFORD

Senior – Lost 84 – 39.5

Player of the Match: James Knight and Matthew Vickery

Juniors – Lost 162 – 53.5

Player of the Match: Zak Ammar

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL in the library and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 11:45am during school hours for the convenience of parents.

LEADER: In Term 4, a qualified English teacher leads the class in a formal English class. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information.

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

SUMMER PSSA TEAMS

To ensure PSSA teams receive early lunch orders please update your Summer PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

New Summer Menu

Please check the new Summer Menu for Term 4 and Term 1 2018. Winter menu items such as: Mashed Potatoes, Manouch and Koram Veg Curry with rice are NOT available in this term.

Summer Menu Items:

*Rice Paper Roll (Vegetarian or Chicken) $2.00 each with vermicelli noodle, carrot, lettuce, cucumber, mint leaves and fish sauce available on Tuesday.

*Sushi $3.20 (Vegetarian: Teriyaki Chicken & Cucumber) is on Tuesday and Friday.

*Garden Salad Box / Salad Wraps with your own choice of Cheese / Ham / Chicken / Eggs / Tuna or Beef Slice (Halal).

Please Take Care of Class Lunch Bags

All the Class Lunch Bags have been washed. They are fresh and clean therefore please look after your own class lunch bag.

Important Reminder: For Year 6 students leaving this year (except students with sliblings in other years at SSPS) please use all the money in your Munchmonitor account and close it before end of the year.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 10 Oct	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 11 Oct	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 12 Oct	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 13 Oct	Joanne Khodary	9-2pm
Mon 16 Oct	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information is available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

There will be NO School Banking today 10.10.17.

School Banking will recommence on

Tuesday 17 October, 2017

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

SAFETY AT SCHOOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Please note that there is NO Pedestrian access through the driveway gate at the top of Telopea Avenue. This entrance is for staff cars and deliveries only. Students and parents are not to enter the school via this gate. Please use the entrance further down which is a designated pedestrian entrance. We ask that you consider your safety and that of your children when considering entering the school. In addition we ask that cars do not use this entrance to enable u-turns.

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The uniform shop is situated behind the Library and is open Wednesdays, 8.30 – 9.30am. To make your order easier and quicker, log onto MunchMonitor: Username "ssps" and Password "munch2136".

This site can be used to order lunches from the school canteen and uniform items. The uniform order will be filled on a Wednesday, given to your student's teacher, who will pass onto your child.

Stitch and Chat Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

We have finished our meetings for Term 3 and will meet again in Term 4, beginning in the second week, on Friday 20 October, 2017. Please note that in Term 4 we have a new meeting time of Fridays 2 – 3pm

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books meets next on Thursday 19 October, 2017 in the school library office at 9am. We are reading THE HOBBIT by JRR Tolkien, WOMBAT STEW by Maria Vaughan & Pamela Lofts and DIARY OF A WOMBAT by Jackie French & Bruce Whatley. Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers.

Ultimo Operational Directorate Primary Schools Public Speaking Competition

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

Congratulations to the following students who represented our school at the Strathfield Network Final of the Ultimo Operational Directorate Primary Schools Public Speaking Competition which was

held on Thursday 21 September, 2017.

Early Stage 1 – Lavankhy Pakeerathan KB

Stage 1 – Natalie Khanh 1A

Stage 2 – Nity Nimalan 4U

Stage 3 – Dhrti Suresh S3L

The students have done exceptionally well to progress this far in the competition and delivered another outstanding performance of their prepared and impromptu speeches. Lavankhy Pakeerathan and Nitya Nimalan were the overall winners of their stage and we wish them the best of luck as they progress onto the Grand Final in Term 4.

Thank you to all the teachers and parents for always supporting our students to develop their public speaking skills.

Miss S Lee

Public Speaking Coordinator

Selective High School - 2019

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Applications open online on Tuesday 10 October, 2017. All students in year 5 will be given "Information about applying for Year 7 entry to selective high schools in 2019" this week.

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018 - GET IN FAST

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

If you have not done so already, it is time to enrol your child for Kindergarten 2018. We have commenced interviews for all ‘in area' and ‘out of area' students.

Spaces are LIMITED for ‘out of area enrolments' for 2018, so please let friends, neighbours and relatives know to complete enrolment documentation immediately to be considered.

ENROL NOW!

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:55 AEDT

Complete the Tell Them from Me Survey Partners in Learning before Friday 13 October 2017.

Follow the link to complete: https://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/ssps2017

The Tell Them from Me survey system is intended to assist Principals and school leaders in making informed decisions.

You may remember that our students participated in a Tell Them from Me student survey in Term 1 this year. Asking students to complete the survey allows us to identify trends in student responses as well as track engagement and motivation across the school year.

This term, our school will be participating in the Partners in Learning parent survey, another part of the Tell Them from Me suite of surveys (student, teacher and parent surveys) on student engagement. The survey asks parents and carers questions about different factors that are known to impact on student wellbeing and engagement.

Running this survey will help our school understand parents' and carers' perspectives on their child's experience at school. These include: communication between parents/carers and staff, activities and practices at home and parent/carer views on the school's support of learning and behaviour. This valuable feedback will help our school make practical improvements.

The survey is conducted entirely online on smartphones, iPad, tablets, laptops or computers. The survey will typically take 15 minutes or less to complete and is completely confidential. The parent survey will be conducted until 13 October. Although participating in the survey is entirely voluntary, your responses are very much appreciated.

What can I do to help?

Complete the survey promptly. Let's get as many responses as possible before the cut-off date.

SSPS Great Fete Fun Facts

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Congratulations and thank you!

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who attended and contributed to the Fete. All contributions, donations and efforts raised $53 000, which will fund future STEAM learning ventures for the students at SSPS.

A particular THANK YOU to the endlessly dedicated convenors, Nichola Beukes and Natalie MacDonald, who moved mountains to create a special day for so many members of our school and wider community.

Here are some Fun Facts from the day...

S3 Drysdale

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Drysdale's SMART Goals

This week, Drysdale set some SMART goals that they are trying to achieve by the end of this term. They made their own ‘memes' to illustrate the importance of setting goals. Students had to choose goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely. We look forward to achieving our goals!

PSSA

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Summer PSSA restarted last Friday 15.9.17, with the softball and cricket teams playing their first game for the second half of summer PSSA. SSPS had some wonderful results, with even better sportsmanship demonstrated by all students.

Softball – SSPS vs Homebush West PS

Senior Girls: Won 20 to 6

Player of the Match: Jaseena Al Helo

Junior Girls: Won 15 to 4

Player of the Match: Arani Posener

The Senior and Junior boys played a tough game against each other as Homebush West did not have boy teams. The Senior team won 15 to 2, however all boys enjoyed the opportunity for an additional training session.

Senior Boys Player of the Match: Jaymes Craft

Junior Boys Player of the Match: Yousef Adra

Cricket – SSPS vs Homebush PS

Both the junior and senior matches were close games, with both coming down to the last pairing. Great improvements were seen with team work, particularly from the juniors.

Senior – Lost 75.5 to 63.5

Player of the Match: Afzal Firdous-Mahamed

Juniors – Lost 87 to 72

Player of the Match: Ali Ghanam

Western Suburbs Zone PSSA Zone Cricket Trials

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

A student account:

A fortnight ago I went to trials for regional cricket. I was really excited to represent my school. There were 66 people representing their schools and districts who had been selected from district trials a couple of weeks earlier. In these trials however the selectors could only choose 12 people to go forward for the state team.

Firstly the selectors wanted to reduce the number of people to 24, then have a discussion about which 24 will make the team. I started off bowling and felt really confident because I was bowling accurately and fast. After I had batted, I went outside to practise my throwing and catching. This was the best part of the day! Soon the selectors called us in to name the 24 that they had chosen. Fortunately they called my name and I felt really happy.

The selectors made us bat and bowl again until they came down to their final discussion. I did not make the state team, but I had a wonderful experience and had a lot of fun. It was a great opportunity to play against so many talented cricketers my age from all around Sydney.

By Milind Kumar S3L.

SPORTING SCHOOLS NSW K-2 CLINIC

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Thanks to Sporting Schools NSW, K-2 students will be participating in a football clinic. Each class will participate in four 30 minute sessions run by NSW Sydney FC. Please ensure that students come to school in sports uniform on the following dates – Friday 8 September, Friday 15 September & Friday 22 September.

Thank you,

Ms L Mascitelli & Ms S Tutt

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL in the library and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 11:45am during school hours for the convenience of parents.

LEADER: In Term 4, a qualified English teacher leads the class in a formal English class. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information.

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

Attention Year 6 Parents – Year 6 Farewell Video

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

We would like to start collecting photos for organising Year 6 video for the Farewell.

Photos can be from Kindergarten to Yr 6.
Photos must be from school activities such as book parade, Easter hat parade, costume parade, sports events, music events fete, etc. Please do not send any other photos, e.g. personal birthday party photos.
Group photos are preferred.
If any student joined SSPS in Year 1 or after, please forward a portrait photo from your child's kindergarten year.
Please provide us the photos on a USB and mark your child's name and class if you want the USB to be returned. The USB will only be returned after the video is compiled.
Please drop off the USB at the Canteen.
OR send the photos via email: huiching.baruah@det.nsw.edu.au
Please provide all photos by end of Term 3, 22 September, 2017.

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

IMPORTANT NOTE

Please note that there is only ONE staff member serving breakfast from 8:30 to 9:00 and serving students for breakfast is always our first priority. Therefore, parents wishing to order lunch via window or phone please do so between 9:00-9:30am. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Thank you to the following volunteers for last week, your time was invaluable and much appreciated: Joanne Khodary, Suzane Saba, Paheerathi Uthayaseelan, Liza Ko, Lisa Ho.

"Eat Fresh & Win" canteen campaign – starts 7.8.17 to 29.9.17

To promote eating fresh fruit and vegetable for kids, Sydney Markets runs "Eat Fresh & Win" canteen campaign program and offers each student the opportunity to win great prizes

1^st prize: Home entertainment unit (TV & DVD player)

2^nd prize: iPad mini 16GB

3^rd Prize: Gift Pack (Back Pack, Lunch Bag, Drink Bottle)

4^th Movie Voucher

How To Enter:

Buy snacks/meals from the canteen containing fresh fruit and/or vegetables to receive a "Fresh for Kids" sticker and "Eat Fresh & Win" entry form.
Collect 2 stickers and stick them on the entry for.
Submit your completed entry form to the canteen you will be rewarded with one "Fresh for Kids" key ring.
You can enter as many times as you like before Friday 29.9.17 for a chance to win.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 19 Sept	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 20 Sept	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 21 Sept	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 22 Sept	Joanne Khodary	9-2pm
Mon 25 Sept	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information is available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

There will be NO School Banking the last week of Term 3 tomorrow 19.9.17 or the first week of Term 4 10.10.17.

School Banking will recommence on

Tuesday 17 October, 2017

SAFETY AT SCHOOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Please note that there is NO Pedestrian access through the driveway gate at the top of Telopea Avenue. This entrance is for staff cars and deliveries only. Students and parents are not to enter the school via this gate. Please use the entrance further down which is a designated pedestrian entrance. We ask that you consider your safety and that of your children when considering entering the school. In addition we ask that cars do not use this entrance to enable u-turns

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The uniform shop is situated behind the Library and is open Wednesdays, 8.30 – 9.30am. To make your order easier and quicker, log onto MunchMonitor: Username "ssps" and Password "munch2136".

Stitch and Chat Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books meets next on Thursday 19 October, 2017 in the school library office at 9am. We are reading THE HOBBIT by JRR Tokien, WOMBAT STEW by Maria Vaughan & Pamela Lofts and DIARY OF A WOMBAT by Jackie French & Bruce Whatley. Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers.

Year 6 Peer Support BBQ, Wednesday 20 September, 2017 12-1pm.

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

We are looking for volunteers to help set up, cook, serve food and tidy up for the BBQ.

EARN & LEARN IS BACK (THANKFULLY)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

Thank you to all the people who have brought in completed sheets of Earn and Learn stickers and thank you to the people who have brought in one sticker. EVERY SINGLE sticker is very important and enables SSPS to be entitled to more learning resources from Modern Teaching Aids.

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018 - GET IN FAST

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

If you have not done so already, it is time to enrol your child for Kindergarten 2018. We have commenced interviews for all in area and ‘out of area' students.

Spaces are LIMITED for ‘out of area enrolments' for 2018, so please let friends, neighbours and relatives know to complete enrolment documentation immediately to be considered.

ENROL NOW!

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS – LENDLEASE DAY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Last Thursday we had the pleasure of 36 LendLease staff working in our gardens. Each year LendLease encourages staff to create or participate in community day projects throughout Australia, Asia, UK and America.

Having the opportunity for a business organisation to engage with our school and make such an outstanding contribution is so important.

So many tasks were completed. LendLease volunteers focused on the library area. They removed weeds, cut back overgrown trees, mulched around needy garden spaces to define spaces between plants, and generally made our gardens around the library look so much neater and aesthetically pleasing.

Our Student Leadership Team presented them with certificates as a memento.

Thank you to Kyan Gillon, Office manager, Southern Civil and Barclays Compound (Zayd in KG) for organising this volunteering opportunity, and for Ms Halliday and Ms Ridani for ensuring the success of the day.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

Term 3 is almost over and this is hard to believe. Much as happened; so much learning, so much community involvement, so many new opportunities for our students to be engaged in. I wish all our students and staff a very restful holiday break.

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

SEPTEMBER

13	School Club
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
20	Peer Support BBQ
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
27	Stewart House Clothing Pick Up
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In
7	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
7	Choral Concert
8	School Club
10	School Remembrance Assembly
9 & 10	Year 6 Canberra Excursion
14	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
20	P&C
23	Last Day for Scripture
23-24	K-2 Healthy Harold
27-28	K-2 Healthy Harold
28	Year 6 Mini Fete
29	Carols Night
30	Volunteers Thank You Morning Tea
30-1.12	K-2 Healthy Harold

STRING WORKSHOP GALLERY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

The Tell Them from Me survey system is intended to assist Principals and school leaders in making informed decisions.

This term, our school will be participating in the Partners in Learning parent survey, another part of the Tell Them from Me suite of surveys (student, teacher and parent surveys) on student engagement.

The survey asks parents and carers questions about different factors that are known to impact on student wellbeing and engagement.

Please use the link below to access the Partners in Learning parent survey.

https://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/ssps2017

What can I do?

Complete the survey promptly. Let's get as many responses as possible before the cut-off date.

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

IMPORTANT NOTE

Please note that there is only ONE staff member serving breakfast from 8:30 to 9:00 and serving students for breakfast is always our first priority. Therefore, parents wishing to order lunch via window or phone please do so between 9:00-9:30am. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Thank you to the following volunteers for last week, your time was invaluable and much appreciated: Joanne Khodary, Suzane Saba, Paheerathi Uthayaseelan, Liza Ko.

"Eat Fresh & Win" canteen campaign – starts 7.8.17 to 29.9.17

To promote eating fresh fruit and vegetable for kids, Sydney Markets runs "Eat Fresh & Win" canteen campaign program and offers each student the opportunity to win great prizes

1^st prize: Home entertainment unit (TV & DVD player)

2^nd prize: iPad mini 16GB

3^rd Prize: Gift Pack (Back Pack, Lunch Bag, Drink Bottle)

4^th Movie Voucher

How To Enter:

Buy snacks/meals from the canteen containing fresh fruit and/or vegetables to receive a "Fresh for Kids" sticker and "Eat Fresh & Win" entry form.
Collect 2 stickers and stick them on the entry for.
Submit your completed entry form to the canteen you will be rewarded with one "Fresh for Kids" key ring.
You can enter as many times as you like before Friday 29.9.17 for a chance to win.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 5 Sept	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 6 Sept	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 7 Sept	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 8 Sept	Joanne Khodary Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Mon 11 Sept	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi, Tina Martino,	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

We use online ordering system called MunchMonitor. The MunchMonitor account works similar to a prepaid telephone. You can top up your account online using your credit card or with cash at the canteen. Once you have set up a Munch monitor account (see below: How to sign up) you can use the credit in your account for lunch orders or over the counter purchases with the "snack tag"

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

EARN & LEARN IS BACK (THANKFULLY)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

This year SSPS are participating in the Woolworths Earn & Learn sticker collection. It is the 5^th year our children will be benefiting from the equipment that comes from Modern Teaching Aids because of the amount of stickers our community brings in. We encourage parents to collect the stickers and either put in the collection box in the office foyer or take a sticker sheet and affix the stickers.

Competition finishes on 19.9.17 or when stickers run out in your local store.

2017 Strathfield South High School Mathematics Competition

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

On Wednesday 30 August, 2017, six students from Year 5 attended a Mathematics competition hosted by Strathfield South High School. During the morning session SSPS students, along with three other local primary school, participated in a range of engaging hands-on activities facilitated by Year 10 students. The day culminated in an exciting competition requiring students to work together and solve a range of complex and critical thinking challenges. The SSPS students performed marvellously and were awarded first place from SSHS principal Mr S Paterson.

Well done!

Miss M Weaver (Stage 3 AP)

Inter-School Chess Competition Team

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Congratulations to the Friday afternoon Inter-School Chess Competition Teams. The competition has ended for the year and our students finished the competition proudly.

In the closing rounds, our rookie team placed 2^nd, whilst our championship team placed 1^st and progressed to the final round.

After a tie breaker and a re-match, our championship team finished 2^nd to Emanuel School.

I would like to thank the parent volunteers, who drove the teams between schools and helped to support the home matches. This competition would not have succeeded without your invaluable support and participation.

I hope to see many of you again next year.

Miss Bonifacio Chess Co-Ordinator.

RESPONSIBLE MOBILE PHONE USAGE REMINDER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

Please remember that we understand that your child may need to bring a mobile phone to school to contact purposes outside school hours. However, ALL phones must be brought to the office before school in a plastic clip lock bag with the student's name and class, turned to silent. They will be stored safely and returned to students at the end of the school day. Students are reminded that using their phones within our school grounds is strictly forbidden. Communication between students and parents should be through our school office until students are offsite.

IT’S TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018 - GET IN FAST

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

If you have not done so already, it is time to enrol your child for Kindergarten 2018. We have commenced interviews for all ‘in area' and ‘out of area' students. Spaces are LIMITED for ‘out of area enrolments' for 2018, so please let friends, neighbours and relatives know to complete enrolment documentation immediately to be considered.

ENROL NOW!

ROAD SAFETY REMINDER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

We are currently experiencing significant issues with parents picking up students from Liverpool Rd. Liverpool Rd has over 30,000 cars travel on it each day and this unsafe practice is not only causing traffic congestion but placing drivers and children in great risk of harm. Liverpool Rd is a No Stopping Zone as well as a Bus Zone. Please ensure that you are following the road rules and setting good examples for your children. Remember, student safety is paramount!

IT’S SASS RECOGNITION WEEK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Every year at this time we especially thank our office staff, our support staff and our general assistant for their wonderful dedication to our school and their ongoing contribution towards the success of our students. Please join with me in thanking them this week. If you see a SASS member, smile and say, ‘thank you'.

BOOK WEEK CELEBRATIONS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

What fun our school had on Friday, dressing up as their favourite book characters. And our staff members certainly love dressing up as well! Look for Ms Yet-Foy's report about our fantastic Book Week celebrations.

WAKAKIRRI

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

The Wakakirri group performed our dance story "Inside Out at School" at the Riverside Theatre on 23 August. Through colour and movement, our dance-story explores various emotions (happiness, sadness, anxiety and anger) experienced by a new student at school. This student begins to understand her emotions and nurture her own wellbeing and sense of belonging.

The dancers practised for twelve weeks to develop team work, self-confidence and personal expression. We performed alongside four other Sydney Primary schools. We pursued the theme of sustainability and won two awards on the night; one for the "most creative reuse of material for costumes" and the other for the "best minimal use of sets, props and costumes". A successful night was enjoyed by students, parents and staff. Congratulations to all our young performers for their dedication, persistence, artistic talent and engaging stage performance!

Future Events

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

AUGUST

28	SSPS Strings Workshop & Concert
28-30	Library New Book Donation Sales
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
30	Yr 6 Kokoda Excursion
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

1	Super Duper Library Incursion K - 6
5	FOIM Strings Concert
7	K-6 Indigenous Incursion
13	School Club
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
27	Stewart House Clothing Pick Up
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In
7	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
7	Choral Concert
8	School Club
9 & 10	Year 6 Canberra Excursion
14	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

FATHERS’ DAY STALL – Helpers needed

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

This year's Fathers' Day Stall is on Thursday 31 August, 2017. We will need help from 9am – 2pm on the day. Do you have a spare half hour? It would be nice to have a rota of volunteers so that no one has to stay all day. Parents, make new friends while assisting the children.

Help will also be needed with the layby sales & Tidying up on Friday 1 September, 2017 8:15am – 10am.

We will also have a preparation day on Monday 28 August for pricing and packaging. Come to B Block (behind the school hall) if you can assist.

Contact Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548 if you can help.

Peer Support

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

In this week's final session of the Peer Support module Moving Forward children will reflect on what they have learned over the past seven weeks. The student will make a cube to remind them to draw on their strengths, achievements and people who support them when faced with challenging situations. These protective factors promote confidence and motivate students to approach new situations where they can then apply the Pause, Plan, Proceed Model.

Mrs M Alexiou

Stage 3 AP

SAFE PARKING

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

The senior Executive of our school is in regular dialogue with NSW Road Safety and Strathfield Council about our congested road situation, especially on special event days. School Club and P&C are very aware of the never-ending issues around road safety that we are asked to respond to. We met with the newly appointed Strathfield Council Road Safety Education Officer, Usha Arvind last week to discuss road safety education for parents and students. Miss Barker (KG) attended a K-6 professional learning road safety education course recently too. We also regularly consult our neighbours, in an effort to support them with any road safety concerns.

You can help:

Park responsibly, following the streets signs
Be patient, knowing your child CAN wait – it's okay, they are safe
Never ever approach another driver to complain or make a point, raise an issue or try to resolve a traffic issue yourself – ring 000 or Strathfield Council
Kiss n' Ride has rules attached – please follow them!

LOST PROPERTY UPDATE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

At our latest meeting, P&C endorsed the idea to actively improve the state of our lost property. Ideas put forward that will be addressed in the near future will be:

Uniform items that have names will be returned to appropriate classrooms wherever possible, in a timely fashion.
Uniform items that are unnamed will be washed after two weeks and placed in the pre-loved sales items of the uniform shop.
Lunch boxes and drink bottles will be disposed of hygienically after two weeks.
The cages will be removed from near the K-2 COLA area and hall area.

In the near future, I look forward to more lost property being claimed, more student responsibility for their uniform and food items, and generally a more tidy entrance to our school from the High St and Telopea Ave entrances.

You can help:

Purchase Smart Tags from the uniform shop to attach to hats and clothing.
LABEL your child's uniform items and regularly CHECK the label can be read clearly.
Remind your child that it is not appropriate to take an article of clothing from lost property that does not belong to them. This is actually called stealing, and is not a good action to encourage. Honesty and respect please everyone. If a child has forgotten their jacket, they should go to the office for help. If they have forgotten their hat, they should sit in the shade at break times.

STRING WORKSHOP TODAY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

The academic benefits of a music education are well known. Today our school embarked on another innovative way of expanding the academic opportunities of our students, with some music immersion.

Our first ever string workshop was held today. Congratulations to the students who took part in this incredible learning and performance opportunity. Students practised their musical notation, mathematical problem solving skills and their 21 Century learning skills of creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking.

Thank you to our expert string music specialists Ruth Choong, Danny Rosenbaum and Brian Sim for sharing their incredible talent with our rising stars. Thank you to Kylie Halliday, Sandra Zhang and Belinda Hamilton for their organisational and musical support.

Our vision is to give our rising pool of budding string players further opportunities to work as an orchestra, with a concert performance for our community offered as well. We look forward to offering such incredible workshops to our string players again soon.

Parents, if your child missed out on this workshop today, please seriously consider this valuable learning experience next time.

WAKAKIRRI SENSATION

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Recently I had the pleasure of enjoying ‘Inside Out at School', a story dance performed by our school at the Riverside Theatre.

The evening was thoroughly entertaining for the audience from five schools. Our students performed with grace and drama. One of the main focus areas the organisers asked the dancers to commit to was the idea of sustainability. Our dancers received an award for this and another award.

Congratulations to Mrs Randhawa and Ms CausleyTodd, our teacher organisers, and the Wakakirri choreographer Kirra. This was certainly another opportunity for our students to shine!

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

AUGUST

21	P&C
22	Primary Proms Rehearsal
23	Wakakirri Performance
25	Premier's Reading Challenge finishes
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
28	SSPS Strings Workshop & Concert
28-30	Library New Book Donation Sales
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
30	Yr 6 Kokoda Excursion
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

1	Super Duper Library Incursion K - 6
5	FOIM Strings Concert
7	K-6 Indigenous Incursion
13	School Club
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
27	Stewart House Clothing Pick Up
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In
7	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
7	Choral Concert
8	School Club
9 & 10	Year 6 Canberra Excursion
14	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

IMPORTANT NOTE

Please note that there is only ONE staff member serving breakfast from 8:30 to 9:00 and serving students for breakfast is always our first priority. Therefore, parents wishing to order lunch via window or phone please do so between 9:00-9:30am. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Thank you to the following volunteers for last week, your time was invaluable and much appreciated: Joanne Khodary, Suzane Saba, Paheerathi Uthayaseelan, Liza Ko, Tina Martino and Lisa Ho.

"Eat Fresh & Win" canteen campaign – starts 7.8.17 to 29.9.17

To promote eating fresh fruit and vegetable for kids, Sydney Markets runs "Eat Fresh & Win" canteen campaign program and offers each student the opportunity to win great prizes

1^st prize: Home entertainment unit (TV & DVD player)

2^nd prize: iPad mini 16GB

3^rd Prize: Gift Pack (Back Pack, Lunch Bag, Drink Bottle)

4^th Movie Voucher

How To Enter:

Buy snacks/meals from the canteen containing fresh fruit and/or vegetables to receive a "Fresh for Kids" sticker and "Eat Fresh & Win" entry form.
Collect 2 stickers and stick them on the entry for.
Submit your completed entry form to the canteen you will be rewarded with one "Fresh for Kids" key ring.
You can enter as many times as you like before Friday 29.9.17 for a chance to win.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 22 Aug	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 23 Aug	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 24 Aug	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 25 Aug	Joanne Khodary Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Mon 28 Aug	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi, Tina Martino,	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

We use online ordering system called MunchMonitor. The MunchMonitor account works similar to a prepaid telephone. You can top up your account online using your credit card or with cash at the canteen. Once you have set up a Munch monitor account (see below: How to sign up) you can use the credit in your account for lunch orders or over the counter purchases with the "snack tag"

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

BOOK WEEK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Book Week celebrations will commence on Monday 28 August (week 7). The theme for 2017 is "Escape to Everywhere".

Students will have the chance to donate books to the library in a sale from 8:30-9:00am and 3:00-3:00pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in the Library.

On Friday 1 September, students will take part in the ‘Super Duper Performance' & ‘Book Character Costume Day' where they can come to school dressed as their favourite book character.

There will also be a K-2 Book Cover Design and 3-6 Comic Book Competition.

Please note, we will not be having a formal costume parade this year. See the attached note for further information.

Ms K Halliday

Deputy Principal

Earn & Learn is Back (thankfully)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

This year SSPS will be participating in the Woolworths Earn & Learn sticker collection. It is the 5^th year our children will be benefiting from the equipment that comes from Modern Teaching Aids because of the amount of stickers our community brings in. We encourage parents to collect the stickers and either put in the collection box in the office foyer or take a sticker sheet and affix the stickers.

SPORTING SCHOOLS NSW K-2 CLINIC

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Thanks to Sporting Schools NSW, K-2 students will be participating in a football clinic. Each class will participate in four 30 minute sessions run by NSW Sydney FC. Please ensure that students come to school in sports uniform on the following dates – Friday 25 August, Friday 8 September, Friday 15 September & Friday 22 September.

Thank you,

Ms L Mascitelli & Ms S Tutt

JUNIOR GIRLS SOCCER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

The Junior A Girls Soccer team are proud winners of the WSPSSA (Western Suburbs Primary Schools Sports Association) competition for 2017. The successful team members are Alana Ghany (S3D), Aya Abdul-Rahman (S3P) Mariyam Abdul-Rahman (4N) Shakira Abdul-Rahman (3F), Carmela Kolopeaua (3G), Dania Radwan (S3D) and Mya El Rahim (S3B). The girls played Dobroyd Point Public School in the Grand Finals and won 5-0.

The Junior B Girls Soccer team won the Preliminary Grand Finals against Croydon winning 2-0 and are placed second in the competition.

The Senior team played their personal best throughout the season and have been great supporters of the Junior teams.

Congratulations to all our players.

Mrs Kiranjit Randhawa (Girls Soccer Coach)

ZONE ATHLETIC CARNIVAL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

Last Tuesday 15 August, the SSPS Athletics Team attended the Western Suburbs Zone PSSA Athletics Carnival. The team of 53 students represented our school with pride in a variety of track and field events. We had a number of students and relay teams make it into the finals.

I would like to make special mention of Liyara Flavel, who won the 10 years 100m and 200m track events as well as coming second in the Junior Girls Long Jump. Her amazing efforts resulted in her being named the Junior Girls Age Champion for the WSPSSA Zone Carnival.

Luna Cano also came in third for the Junior Girls Discuss and Isaiah Kolopeaua came third in the 12 years Boys Shot Put. A big thank you to Ms Perestrelo, Ms Bonifacio and Mrs Alexiou for helping on the day.

Mr Matthews – Carnival Coordinator

IT IS TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Enrolments for 2018 are welcome. Please bring to the office the relevant paperwork to obtain the enrolment form. If you do not reside in the local catchment area, please note that it is a requirement to complete an "out of area" application.

VALUABLES at SCHOOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

There is rarely a time that bringing valuables to school is a good choice for our students. In any primary school, the chances of such an item being lost or broken can be high and the disappointment for a child can be great.

You can help:

If your child asks to bring something special to school to show their friends, say NO gently but firmly. If a teacher requests items brought in, then you can be assured that there are special safety measures in place for our students to keep their items safe.

LOST PROPERTY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

Our Rag Tagd P&C initiative has been working well for our lost property BUT there are still too many items of clothing and personal belongings in our playground unclaimed for weeks at a time. Our Senior Executive Team (Mrs Hamilton, Ms Cidem, Ms Halliday and myself) are discussing ways to manage lost property. Mrs Hamilton and I will be discussing this topic at the P&C meeting on tonight.

You can help:

Please label all your child's clothing clearly. Be diligent in ensuring that your child takes responsibility for looking for lost items of school clothing. Help them in their quest for success in their endeavours.

CIVICS and CITIZENSHIP at SSPS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Our new History syllabus states that ‘students engage with the fundamentals of the nature of community and citizenship'.

So what does it take to be a good citizen? Students should:

Follow our rules of active learning, respect and safety,
Demonstrate good character and
Be respectful of school and personal property.

It has come to my attention that there have been some incidences of theft occurring at our school.

Honesty and dependability are of such importance, at school and at home.

You can help:

Please discuss the value of honesty with your child, please model honesty in your words and your lifestyle, and please let your children know that you place more importance on their honesty than on punishment for dishonest behaviour.

Rest assured, our teachers will be working very hard over the next few weeks to ensure that students have lessons about the value of honesty.

4 Uluru

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:32 AEDT

We are 4 Uluru and we decided to research Uluru and then create some artworks. To create our marvellous artworks, we used water colours, coloured pencil and oil pastels. We hope you like our artwork.

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

AUGUST

15	Zone Athletics Carnival
16	ICAS Mathematics
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms Rehearsal
23	Wakakirri Performance
25	Premier's Reading Challenge finishes
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
28	SSPS Strings Workshop & Concert
28-30	Library New Book Donation Sales
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
30	Yr 6 Kokoda Excursion
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

1	Super Duper Library Incursion K - 6
5	FOIM Strings Concert
7	K-6 Indigenous Incursion
13	School Club
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
27	Stewart House Clothing Pick Up
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In
7	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
7	Choral Concert
8	School Club
9 & 10	Year 6 Canberra Excursion
14	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

IMPORTANT NOTE

Please note that there is only ONE staff member serving breakfast from 8:30 to 9:00 and serving students for breakfast is always our first priority. Therefore, parents wishing to order lunch via window or phone please do so between 9:00-9:30am. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

Thank you to the following volunteers for last week, your time was invaluable and much appreciated: Joanne Khodary, Suzane Saba, Paheerathi Uthayaseelan, Liza Ko, and Lisa Ho.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 15 Aug	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 16 Aug	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 17 Aug	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho	11-2pm
Fri 18 Aug	Joanne Khodary Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Mon 21 Aug	Suzie Saba, Paheerathi, Tina Martino,	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

We use online ordering system called MunchMonitor. The MunchMonitor account works similar to a prepaid telephone. You can top up your account online using your credit card or with cash at the canteen. Once you have set up a Munch monitor account (see below: How to sign up) you can use the credit in your account for lunch orders or over the counter purchases with the "snack tag"

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Tuesday is Banking Day.

Are you ready for an amazing augmented reality adventure?

For those Student Bankers who banked last week should have received a flyer introducing the Future Games competition to be run during Term 3, Monday 14 August 2017 and ending in Term 4, Friday 10 November 2017. A flyer will be redistributed to those Student Bankers who bank this week if they did not receive one last week. This is an exciting competition with some incredible games to be played with some incredible prizes. To be in the running to win some amazing high tech prizes, all you have to do to enter is to make three or more School Banking deposits during the competition period for you chance to win, additionally play the Future Savers game and compete the online entry form during the competition period to win the game's master prize. Learn more at commbank.com.au/futuregames.

Also don't forget to keep banking for your chance to win an unforgettable family trip to Tokyo Disneyland with the Future Savers Grand Prize Competition. Student bankers will need to have made 15 or more School Banking deposits before the end of Term 3 for their chance to win. Find out more at commbank.com.au/schoolbanking.

This term there are two new exciting rewards available – the Smiley Emoji Keyring and the Volt Handball. Other item rewards still available to order are the 3D Chalk Set, Colour Change Markers, Cyber Handball, Outback Pat Tag Bag and the Tablet Case.

There is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who may be interested in the role of Student Banking Co-ordinator at Strathfield Public School. For more information about this role, please contact Lisa Kovac on 0422 535 742 or alternatively via the email address listed below.

May you all have a fabulous week!

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

Stitch & Chat Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

All stitchers are welcome – bring along your current project in knitting, crochet or sewing. We are happy to teach beginners. No experience necessary. Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers. We meet weekly in the school library on Friday, 9-10am. Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Join our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books. Our next meeting is Thursday 17 August, in the school library office at 9am. Our August focus is on Judy Blume's recently re-issued "Fudge" series, starting with the very funny Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. For younger readers, we are looking at the "Lighthouse Keeper" series by Ronda & David Armitage. I have a limited number of copies left, so please contact me if you would like one.

Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers. We are meeting monthly (every 3^rd Thursday of the month), except during school holidays. There is no charge. Please join us. English language learners welcome. Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

THE DRAMA TOOLBOX

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

On Monday 21 August three classes at Strathfield South will be given the opportunity to participate in a 50 minute social and emotional learning drama workshop run by The Drama Toolbox. The K-2 classes will be randomly chosen and will trial the program before deciding whether it aligns with our strategic directions for following years.

Ms S Tutt

SPORTING SCHOOLS NSW K-2 CLINIC

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Thanks to Sporting Schools NSW, K-2 students will be participating in a football clinic. Each class will participate in four 30 minute sessions run by NSW Sydney FC. Please ensure that students come to school in sports uniform on the following dates – Friday 25 August, Friday 8 September, Friday 15 September & Friday 22 September.

Thank you,

Ms L Mascitelli & Ms S Tutt

STRINGS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Strathfield South PS is offering a String Ensemble Workshop day on Monday 28 August to give string students from Years 1-6 (one year minimum experience required) the opportunity to play in ensemble groups with experienced tutors and conductors.

Throughout the day, there will be small group rehearsals as well as combined ensemble groupings. The day will conclude with a concert at 2:30pm which parents are invited to attend.

The permission note return date has been extended until this Friday 18 August. Please send the attached note and $12 directly to the school office to secure your child's place in this amazing opportunity.

Ms K Halliday

Deputy Principal

IT IS TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

DATE CHANGE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

Please take note of the date change for the ICAS Mathematics Test. The students will sit this test on Wednesday 16 August, 2017 and Not Tuesday 15 August, 2017.

ROAD SAFETY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

We are currently experiencing significant issues with parents picking up students from Telopea Ave and High St. Many cars travel around our school each morning and afternoon and some unsafe practices are not only causing traffic congestion but placing drivers and children in great risk of harm. Please ensure that you are following the road rules and setting good examples for your children. Remember, student safety is paramount.

STAFF UPDATE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Welcome back from 12 months leave to Mrs Belinda Hamilton (Deputy Principal). Mrs Hamilton is working on Mondays until the end of the year.

We must say goodbye to Mrs Sharon Lambkin who will not be returning to Strathfield South Public School, and is leaving permanent classroom teaching for personal reasons.

We are also saying goodbye to Mrs Emily Tsailis, who has accepted an Instructional Leadership role in the Smithfield area until the end of the year.

Fond farewells this term have been extended to Ms Ellen Blinco and Mr Grant Mason.

Please welcome our new teachers; Ms Natalie Gangi, Ms Rebecca Smith, Mr George Athanassios, Ms Cynthia Rahme and Mr Eric Shen.

SSPS GREAT FETE WHAT FUN IT WAS!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

The sun was shining brightly; winter forgot what season it was! What an exceptional day! Our 2017 Great Fete held last Saturday was an amazing feat; one we should all be proud of.

To all of you; my heartfelt congratulations and a huge thank you. What a splendid example of a community working together to provide such a day of fun, with the added bonus of additional funds being raised to serve our students' education.

There are far too many people to thank as the parent and community support involved hundreds of people, although the time and effort given willingly by parents and staff was extraordinary.

I am sure that everyone was delighted with the day and everything the fete provided. The organisation behind the scenes was amazing and a credit to all of our parents, students and staff.

At this stage, we have no idea about the total funds raised but will let you know as soon as we can. In the coming weeks we will provide updated information about our STEAM learning ventures, which were the catalyst for this year's fundraising.

A huge thank you must go to everyone that attended the day and contributed to this great fundraiser.

I fully appreciate that Ms Nichola Beukes and Mrs Natalie MacDonald do not seek credit or public recognition for their outstanding involvement in school matters. However, I must say Nichola and Natalie - you and your army of helpers are MEGA-SUPERSTARS!!

Now let's rest and look forward to other fabulous events we have planned for 2017.

NB: To all those who volunteered their hard-earned cash to have me kiss one of the gorgeous, cuddly animals at the petting zoo – the evidence of this is in this newsletter. What a cute, silky soft baby goat it was…with a very wet mouth!

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

AUGUST

9	School Club
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms Rehearsal
23	Wakakirri Performance
25	Premier's Reading Challenge finishes
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
28	Book Character Parade
28-30	Library New Book Donation Sales
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
30	Yr 6 Kokoda Excursion
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

1	Super Duper Library Incursion K - 6
5	FOIM Strings Concert
7	K-6 Indigenous Incursion
13	School Club
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
27	Stewart House Clothing Pick Up
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In
7	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation
7	Choral Concert
8	School Club
9 & 10	Year 6 Canberra Excursion
14	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

High School Open Day

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

North Sydney Boys High School

Cnr Falcon & Miller Sts

Crows Nest

Phone: 9955 4748

Tuesday 29.8.17

9:15am – 12pm

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" Download the Free App!

Username: community

Password: strathfieldsthps

Wakakirri Rehearsal Week 4

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Wakakirri Rehearsal this Thursday morning the 10th August. Students are asked to come to the School Hall from 8am to 8.50am.

Students will rehearse once more on the 17th August before their Riverside Theatre Dress Rehearsal and Performance on the 23th August.

P&C School Club Meeting This Week

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Give us your feedback on the Fete and come and help plan the Father's Day Stall.

Date: Wednesday 9.8.17

Time: 9 – 10am

Venue: in B Block Room 12, behind the School Hall.

All are welcome – we hope to see you there.

School Club is a daytime parent group active in supporting the teachers and students of the SSPS through activities and fundraising events. A member of the school executive will be present to answer any questions. This is a great opportunity to meet and get to know the staff and other parents and find out what is happening at school. Questions? Nichola Beukes, School Club Convenor 0435 413 548.

Post – FETE Fire Sale!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

This Thursday 10.8.17, from 2 – 3pm in the K-2 COLA Area. Come and get some great bargains before it's too late!

Anyone available to help with setting up and selling please come to P Block (behind the library and opposite the quiet area) at 1.30pm on the day and speak to Nichola Beukes.

IT IS TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Think of Others’ Awards reminder

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The presentation of a Think of Others award is a very proud moment for our students and their parents. Our goal is for all students to achieve such an award within the year. Kindergarten students have already begun these presentations. How exciting!

Recall of Term 2, Week 10 The Scene mistake

3 Think of Others' certificates = 1 x Principal Award

Please note: students ONLY receive one in a school year.

Congratulations to students who have already received a Principal's Award. I look forward to congratulating many more awardees in 2017.

UPDATE ON TENNIS COURT RENOVATION

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

With our focus on the Great Fete, I have not updated you lately on our progress for a complete tennis court renovation, which was made possible due to your generous support of THE BIG WORKOUT last year.

This renovation project is complex, but I am pleased to announce, all going well, that we will have our renovation by the beginning of the 2018 school year. There are many areas to consider in this renovation.

Our progress thus far:

1. Rebuilding of the retaining wall – approved by the Department of Education: envisaged to be completed alongside the court and fence renovation, building company confirmed

2. Building of a gate to Homebush Rd – approved by the Department of Education: envisaged to be completed after the Fete, building company confirmed

3. New fence, asphalt rectification, surface covering and playground markings – commencing tender process in the coming weeks, no building company confirmed until after the tender process.

WHAT WILL OUR PROJECT LOOK LIKE?

1. asphalt rectification - preparation of the broken surface in readiness for synthetic grass.

2. new, even synthetic grass surface of a very high quality with markings for tennis and netball; a possible option for futsal soccer too

3. court perimeter fencing - remove and dispose of old rusted fencing, 1201m of 3600mm high fencing, black powder coating, black PVC coated chain mesh, 2 x single gates and 1 x double gate

4. supply and install 2100mm high crimped spear security gate.

5. construction of a retaining wall adjacent to the tennis court, ensuring no mud and water entering the court as it does at the moment

Perhaps your children or your friends have been asking questions about the timeframe of this extensive project? Please assure them that we are working within the guidelines of the DoE. Every proposal point had to have three quotations BEFORE we could apply for permissions. Every proposal area had to have a permission sign off from more than one DoE representatives. The fence, asphalt rectification and surface installation have to go through a tender process, under DoE project management, as did the canteen renovation.

Countless conversations, phone calls and emails have had to be made. We are proposing improvements to Crown Land; this means many extra layers of compliance.

Rest assured, I have been regularly updating our P&C and School Club at meetings, as appropriate.

This is a very exciting project, but be patient. A quality outcome takes time.

SELECTIVE HIGH SCHOOL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Congratulations to all of our students that have been offered placements in a variety of Selective High Schools. This is a reward for your hard work, dedication and commitment. The large number of students being offered positions also highlights the quality teaching taking place as the children move through their learning journey from Kindergarten to Year 6 at Strathfield South Public School. Best wishes to all of the students on waiting lists.

Wakakirri at The Great Fete

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Our very own Wakakirri Dance Group will be performing at our Great Fete this Saturday 5th August, 2017. The students have been working hard throughout each rehearsal in order to perform for you. Catch a glimpse of the amazing talent and hard work that goes into Wakakirri by joining us at 2.15pm under the 3-6 COLA. Don't miss it!

3 Franklin

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:31 AEDT

3F conduct weekly debates. Our debates help us to meet the outcomes for speaking and listening, such as formal presentations and impromptu speeches. We use our exposition writing samples and develop our communication and collaboration skills when we prepare our arguments in small groups.

We enjoy writing for an intended audience. In our BYOD class we have designed picture books to be published by reading to our Kindergarten friends.

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Tuesday is Banking Day.

Student Banking would appreciate it if parents could please ensure that their child's deposit slip is filled out and in the correct manner as it does become a timely process for our volunteers and that it does open for any possible discrepancies with your child's banking. It is also important that the money is secured in the sealed section of your child document wallet. New deposit books are issued to students when their old book has been finalised as well as the yellow document wallets if damaged. Please note that you cannot submit any foreign coins as the bank does not accept them.

We are in the third week of term, do not forget to keep banking for your chance to win an unforgettable family trip to Tokyo Disneyland with the Future Savers Grand Prize Competition. Student bankers will need to have made 15 or more School Banking deposits before the end of Term 3 for their chance to win. Find out more at commbank.com.au/schoolbanking. Additionally, there is the Commbank's Future Games Competition which will start in two weeks on Monday, 14 August. We will give you more information next week.

The CommBank Youth app is the new banking tool that helps bring money skills and the school banking program to life, giving our youth visibility of their account balance and School Banking token. To download the app, or for more information, visit commbank.com/au/schoolbanking.

May you all have a fabulous week.

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

PSSA rescheduled

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Jnr & Snr Girls Soccer 4.8.17 Timbrell Pk, Five Dock

Jnr & Snr AFL 4.8.17 Picken Oval, Ashbury

Athletics Carnival Year 3 – 6 Tuesday 25.7.17

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

What a fantastic day we had at the Sydney Olympic Park Warm-Up Athletics Arena for our SSPS Athletics Carnival. The day was a huge success thanks to all the students, teachers and parents that attended. There were 3 school records broken this year, which might be a record in itself. Congratulations to Tremaine Hinckson (11 years boys high jump) and Liyara Flavel (junior girls long jump and 10 years 100m sprint) for breaking our school records. A big thank you to the volunteer helpers from the canteen for supporting our teachers. Lastly to the athletics carnival team of Mrs Perestrelo, Ms Halliday, Mrs Kostadinovski and Ms Gainsford, the day would not have been the success it was without your help. Thank you for your assistance in setting up the events and transporting equipment.

IT IS TIME TO ENROL FOR 2018

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Enrolments for 2018 are welcome. Please bring to the office the relevant paper to obtain the enrolment form. If you do not reside in the local catchment area, please note that it is a requirement to complete an "out of area" application.

KISS and RIDE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:45 AEDT

Please be considerate and follow the rules.

You may drop off or pick up children for a maximum of 2 minutes.

Hint: If your child is not waiting in the afternoon, drive around the block, or park in another area, walking back to collect them. Get your steps up!

The driver must remain within 3 metres of the car.

Hint: You can get out to help your child with their bag but cannot walk into the school grounds.

Please abide by the rules. Fines are steep and unnecessary. Minimum penalty $165 and 2 demerit points.

Please be patient and use this area wisely.

For further information, go to;

https://www.strathfield.nsw.gov.au/assets/Files/Documents/0247-120712-07-Kiss-and-Ride-Zone-Parking-Flyer.pdf

ROAD SAFETY REMINDER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

EDUCATION WEEK 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

I Learn, We Learn.

Welcome to Education Week 2017!

Every year, Education Week highlights the achievements of public education and our local school, shining the spotlight on our students, our educators and the communities that support them. What an incredible example of this - our Great Fete will be; the whole community working together, culminating in a day full of fun for our students and the wider community.

Of course there are some special activities leading up to our Great Fete. The recorder ensemble is performing at the Opera House and we are launching our recycling drive.

All in all; a week where we will be learning.

Future Events

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

JULY

24	Yr 1 & 2 Gymnastics program commences
25	Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival
26	OC Test
31	FOIM Recorder Concert
31-4	31.7.17 – 4.8.17 Education Week
31-11	31.7.17 - 11.8.17 Swim School

AUGUST

1	ICAS English Test
2	K-6 Recycling Launch
5	The SSPS GREAT FETE 10am – 4pm
9	School Club
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms Rehearsal
23	Wakakirri Performance
25	Premier's Reading Challenge finishes
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
30	Yr 6 Kokoda Excursion
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

1	Library Supa Doper Incursion
5	FOIM Strings Concert
7	K-6 Indigenous Incursion
13	School Club
14	Stage 2 Taronga Zoo Excursion
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In

Art News

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

We would like to congratulate Ivy Kim from 3G as she is currently a finalist for the very prestigious Young Archie Award 2017. With over 2,000 entries this year, being chosen as one of the top 20 in the state is an incredible achievement!

Please watch Channel 7's Sunrise this Thursday 27 July as Ivy has been invited to talk about her artworks and achievements.

Ivy's work, along with the other finalists, will be on display at the Art Gallery of New South Wales until 22 October, 2017 – entry is free.

To view the other finalist and for further information, please follow these links from the Art Gallery website and ABC News.

Art Gallery of NSW

https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/prizes/young-archie/2017/

ABC News

http://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-21/young-archie-2017-portraits-shows-australia-art-future/8727646

Congratulations

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

Congratulations to Sienna El-Hakim who represented Strathfield South Public School and Western Suburbs Netball in the Sydney East netball gala-day. It was huge a day consisting of 6 games across 11 zones to select the Sydney East netball team. Western Suburbs placed 8^th in the competition. Well done Sienna.

Beginner Strings Program

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Would you like your child to learn the Violin, Viola or Cello? SSPS is offering fun, exciting and affordable classes for K-2 students to learn these instruments, as well as introductory musical concepts (Own instrument is required).

Limited number of new places – please see the School Office for an enrolment form.

Thank You Student Banking Team

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

What an amazing effort from EVERYONE associated with Student Banking. Our school has received $4,554 from the Commonwealth Bank as our commission for the last financial year.

Thank You!

Parents - for encouraging students to develop good saving habits through weekly banking.
Students - for bringing in their money and remembering to hand to the teacher each Tuesday.
Volunteer parents – for the hours spent each Tuesday checking each deposit book for correct entries and entering the amount through the internet.
Commonwealth Bank - for offering this service.

Our school receives $5 for every new account and 5% on every deposit (to a maximum of $10 per individual deposit).

NEW LIGHTS IN THE HALL TOILETS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Our students have come back to improved lighting in the toilets attached to our hall. This is the first of a staged renovation for this area. Thank you to the students and parents who raised the issue of dim lighting in this toilet block. Your care and concern has allowed us to improve this space. P&C have agreed to financially support this improvement and renovation.

Future Events

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Future Events

JULY

18	First Day Term 3
24	Yr 1 & 2 Gymnastics program commences
25	Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival
26	OC Test
31	FOIM Recorder Concert
31-4	31.7.17 – 4.8.17 Education Week
31-11	31.7.17 - 11.8.17 Swim School

AUGUST

1	ICAS English Test
1	Ned Show K-6
2	K-6 Recycling Launch
5	The SSPS GREAT FETE 10am – 4pm
9	School Club
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms Rehearsal
23	Wakakirri Performance
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
30	Yr 6 Kokoda Excursion
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

1	Book Week Open Library
5	FOIM Strings Concert
7	K-6 Indigenous Incursion
13	School Club
15	Summer PSSA Begins
18	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
18	P&C
19&20	Yr 2 Australian Museum Excursion
19	Primary Proms Concert
21	Kindergarten Room on the Broom
22	Last day Term 3

OCTOBER

9	First day Term 4 for Staff and all Students
11	Kindergarten Gym Commences
18	School Club
23	K – 2 Athletics Carnival
23	P&C
31	Kindergarten 2018 Orientation

NOVEMBER

2 & 3	Year 5 Canberra Excursion
2	Music Count Us In

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

Thank you to the following volunteers for last week, your time was invaluable and much appreciated: Joanne Khodary, Suzane Saba, Paheerathi Uthayaseelan, Rena Akram, Liza Ko, Tina Martino and Lisa Ho.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Update Winter PSSA Team member names:

To ensure PSSA Teams receive early lunch orders please update your Winter PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 18 July	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 19 July	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 20 July	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho (Helper Needed)	11-2pm
Fri 21 July	Joanne Khodary Suzie Saba	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

We use online ordering system called MunchMonitor. The MunchMonitor account works similar to a prepaid telephone. You can top up your account online using your credit card or with cash at the canteen. Once you have set up a Munch monitor account (see below: How to sign up) you can use the credit in your account for lunch orders or over the counter purchases with the "snack tag"

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The uniform shop is situated behind the Library and is open Wednesdays, 8.30 – 9.30am. To make your order easier and quicker, lodge onto MunchMonitor: Username "ssps" and Password "munch2136".

This site can be used to order lunches from the school canteen and uniform items.

The uniform order will be filled on a Wednesday, given to your student's teacher, who will pass onto your child.

Entertainment Books

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

The new 2017/2018 Entertainment Membership are available now and packed with thousands of up to 50% and 2-for-1 offers. For just $70, you will receive over $20,000 worth of valuable offers. Plus, from every Entertainment Membership we sell, 20% of the purchase price goes towards our school fundraising.

If you would like to purchase an Entertainment Membership, an order form has been sent home with all students. Additional forms are available in the school office. There is also an Entertainment Digital Membership which puts the value of the book into your iPhone or Android smartphone. To purchase the digital membership or make payments for traditional books online, visit: https://www.entbook.com.au/204r274.

These books are great way to save money and easily pay for themselves. For example you can save 5% on all shopping at Woolworth, Big W and Caltex. If you are going on holiday there is discounted accommodation, airline tickets, car hire and savings on entry to many tourist attractions. There are also many great discounts at a variety of restaurants and many of the popular take-away outlets.

As 20% from every book sold goes towards your child's school please also encourage family and friends to buy a book.

When making online orders or payments, could you please include your child's name and class to facilitate with the distribution of the books.

For any further details contact Ranjini Ganesh: Ph 0412 267 226 or email rmagesan@hotmail.com.

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Tuesday is Banking Day.

Welcome back and welcome to Term 3. Last term was very exciting with the introduction of the CommBank Youth app. This new banking tool helps bring money skills and the school banking program to life, giving our youth visibility of their account balance and School Banking tokens. To download the app, or for more information, visit commbank.com/au/schoolbanking.

Term 3 brings exciting games and prizes with the Commbank's Future Games Competition. This competition will start next month and we will tell you more about this in the next few weeks.

Do not forget to keep saving for a chance to win a trip to Tokyo Disneyland. Simply make 15 or more School Banking deposits before the end of Term 3, 2017 and you will automatically receive an entry into the competition for your chance to win. Find out more at commbank.com.au/schoolbanking.

We are always looking for volunteers to assist with school banking. The energy and commitment that volunteers bring does play a vital role in the success of the program. We meet in the office foyer every Tuesday morning at 9.15am. It is wonderful thing to be able to get involved with your child's school and fabulous opportunity to meet other parents.

May you all have a fabulous week.

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments from now.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

School Student Transport Scheme NSW Gov.

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Attached is new information regarding free student transport scheme.

Travel Update (pdf 109 KB)

Wakakirri Performance

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Stage 2 and 3 students in the Wakakirri dance group will be performing their dance story named "Inside Out of School" at the Riverside Theatre in Parramatta on Wednesday 23 August 2017. In the story, an eleven year old girl joins a new school and needs to learn to recognise and understand emotions in herself and others to develop her own well-being and sense of belonging. Her journey is symbolised using colour in this performance which elicits various emotions – anxiety, sadness, happiness and anger. The students have been practising every Thursday morning before school in the hall and we wish them all the best for the performance. To catch a glimpse of the wonderful work that students have been doing you will be able to see them dance at the Fete.

PSSA rescheduled

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Jnr & Snr Boys Soccer 21.7.17 Henley Park 2, Enfield

Jnr & Snr Girls Soccer 21.7.17 Centenary, Croydon

Jnr & Snr Girls Soccer 28.7.17 Centenary, Croydon

Jnr & Snr Girls Soccer 4.8.17 Timbrell Pk, Five Dock

Jnr & Snr Netball 21.7.17, Cintra Park, Concord

Jnr & Snr AFL 21.7.17 Picken Oval, Ashbury

Jnr & Snr AFL 28.7.17 Picken Oval, Ashbury

Jnr & Snr AFL 4.8.17 Picken Oval, Ashbury

Peer Support

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

This week we introduce a 3 step model to encourage resilient responses; Pause, Plan, Proceed. The children take part in an activity to identify their feelings and the immediate effects on their bodies e.g. butterflies in their stomach. The normalcy of feelings is acknowledged and the importance of being proactive is stressed. The children learn that pausing when they are emotional is helpful. They can do this by being still, taking a deep breath or counting to ten. Pausing gives children space to see a situation more accurately before planning a response. Ask your child to describe the 3 steps of the model and what is involved in each one.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

BUDDY BENCH

Children play, socialise and laugh together on the playground but they can also feel lonely or experience anti-social behaviour. At Strathfield South Public School, the teachers are always asking: What can be done to make every student feel included on the playground?

The Buddy Bench is a place where students can sit when they do not have anyone to play with. It plays an important role in supporting students to feel a sense of belonging and connectedness to the school community. It is a real and tangible solution for students to take towards resolving feelings of playground isolation and will help reassure parents that children have options available to assist with playground concerns.

As part of the BounceBack program and the KidsMatter Framework, students have been learning and will continue to learn about inclusivity, acceptance, dealing with emotions and what being a good friend means. Please go back and discuss the KidsMatter topics published each week in the Scene, with your child.

KidsMatter Team

EDUCATION WEEK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

Education Week is officially held from 31 July to 4 August. The week highlights the achievements of public education, putting the spotlight on our students, educators and school communities. This year's theme is I Learn, We Learn and celebrates our commitment to system-wide improvement with high expectations for all focusing on personalised student learning, wellbeing and creating strong ties with local communities.

Our school celebrations will include:

1 August Ned Show for K-6

2 August K-6 Recycling Launch

5 August the SSPS Great Fete

More information will be shared about the Ned Show and the Recycling launch as the dates become closer.

We will celebrate further Education week style events later in the term during Book Week. Watch out for some exciting offerings for your children and for our community.

The Great Fete 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

Welcome to the 2017 GREAT FETE!

On SATURDAY 5th AUGUST 2017 from 10AM till 4PM we will see our wonderful school and community come together for what we know will be a GREAT FETE! Free Entry All Day!

Come Along & Join the Fun!

Rides, Auctions, Plants, Cakes, Craft, International Food, Animal Farm, Entertainment, Guessing Competition, Chocolate Wheel, Toy Hospital, Face Painting & FREE ENTRY.

Our Fete committee is working hard to ensure our Fete is a wonderful fun filled day for family, friends, teachers, students and the wider community.

This week, in place of the Fete Newsletter, all students will receive a note home about their own year stall. It would be GREATLY appreciated if you could complete and return this note to the school office, indicating that you are able to assist with this particular stall.

GET IN TOUCH

sspsfete@gmail.com

Instagram: @sspsfete

Facebook: Strathfield South Public School Fete

#sspsgreatfete

Nichola Beukes – 0435 413 548

Natalie MacDonald – 0422 700 033

3 Daintree

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

In History, year 3 have explored the significant contributions to our local community made by Mei Quong Tart. As part of our unit, 3D have enjoyed creating their own realistic portraits of Mei Quong Tart with a focus on the proportions of human faces. We have used a variety of media such as pencils, oil pastels and paint to create our masterpieces.

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

JUNE

26	FOIM Recorder Rehearsal
26	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
26-30	Parent / Teacher Interviews
28	FOIM Strings Rehearsal
30	Year 1 to Lennox Theatre
30	Last Day Term 2

JULY

17	Student Free Day
18	First Day Term 3
24	Stage 1 Gymnastics program commences
25	Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival
26	OC Test
31	FOIM Recorder Concert

AUGUST

1	ICAS English Test
5	The SSPS GREAT FETE 10am – 4pm
9	School Club
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms
23	Wakakirri Performance
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

5	FOIM Strings Concert

Korean

6¿ (June)
26	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿/¿¿¿
26	¿¿ ¿¿¿ 6.30pm
26-30	¿¿¿/¿¿¿ ¿¿ (Interviews)
28	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿/¿¿¿
30	1¿¿ Lennox Theatre ¿¿
30	Term 2 ¿¿¿ ¿
7¿ (July)
17	Student Free Day ( ¿¿¿¿¿ ¿¿ ¿¿ ¿)
18	Term 3 ¿¿
24	1-2¿¿ ¿¿ ¿¿¿¿ ¿¿
25	3-6¿¿ ¿¿/¿¿¿¿
26	O.C ¿¿
31	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿¿
8¿ (August)
1	ICAS ¿¿ ¿¿
5	SSPS ¿¿¿ (¿¿ 10¿- ¿¿ 4¿)
9	¿¿ ¿¿
15	ICAS ¿¿ ¿¿
15	Zone¿¿/¿¿¿¿ (3-6¿¿)
21	P&C ¿¿
22	Primary Proms
25	¿¿ PSSA ¿¿¿ ¿
31	¿¿¿ ¿¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿ ¿ ¿¿ ¿¿
9¿ (September)
5	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿¿

Chinese

¿¿ (June)
26	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
26	Direction in music ¿¿¿ ¿¿¿
26-30	¿¿¿
28	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
30	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
30	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
¿¿ (July)
17	¿¿¿¿
18	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
24	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
25	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
26	OC¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
¿¿ (August)
1	ICAS ¿¿¿¿
5	¿¿¿¿¿: ¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
15	ICAS¿¿
15	Zone ¿¿¿
21	P&C ¿¿
22	¿¿¿
25	¿¿PSSA¿¿¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿¿¿

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

No Frozen Items Available From Online Pre-ordering.

Update Winter PSSA Team member names:

To ensure PSSA Teams receive early lunch orders please update your Winter PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

Helper Needed - Can you help?

Canteen Roster:

Date	Helpers	Time
Tues 27 June	Joanne Khodary, Suzie Saba	9-2pm
Wed 28 June	Paheerathi Uthayaseelan Rena Akram	9-2pm
Thurs 29 June	Liza Ko, Lisa Ho (Helper Needed)	11-2pm
Fri 30 June	Joanne Khodary Suzie Saba	9-2pm

ORDER ONLINE – MUNCH MONITOR

We use online ordering system called MunchMonitor. The MunchMonitor account works similar to a prepaid telephone. You can top up your account online using your credit card or with cash at the canteen. Once you have set up a Munch monitor account (see below: How to sign up) you can use the credit in your account for lunch orders or over the counter purchases with the "snack tag"

How to Sign Up:

Simply go to www.munchmonitor.com
Enter on the Home Page:

- Username – "ssps"

- Password – munch2136

Click "Sign Up" or contact 1300 796 190
There is a $3.50 account keeping fee per term (per family)

More information available from the Canteen window or by visiting the website above.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The uniform shop is situated behind the Library and is open Wednesdays, 8.30 – 9.30am. To make your order easier and quicker, lodge onto MunchMonitor: Username "ssps" and Password "munch2136".

This site can be used to order lunches from the school canteen and uniform items.

The uniform order will be filled on a Wednesday, given to your student's teacher, who will pass onto your child.

Entertainment Books

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

As 20% from every book sold goes towards your child's school please also encourage family and friends to buy a book.

When making online orders or payments, could you please include your child's name and class to facilitate with the distribution of the books.

For any further details contact Ranjini Ganesh: Ph 0412 267 226 or email rmagesan@hotmail.com.

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

It is the end of another highly successful term for Student Banking at SSPS. Thank you for your continued support so far this year.

Please note that Student Banking will resume in Term 3 on Tuesday, 25 July, 2017.

Next term there will be another two new exciting rewards to gear up for – the Smiley Emoji Key Ring and the Volt Handball, for all those students bankers who have rallied up 10 tokens or more will now be able to order these. Other item rewards available are the 3D Chalk Set, Colour Change Markers, Cyber Handball, Outback Pat Tag Bag and the Tablet Case.

We are always looking for volunteers to assist with school banking. The energy and commitment that the volunteers bring plays a vital role in the success of the program. We meet in the office foyer every Tuesday morning at 9.15am. It is a wonderful thing to be able to get involved with your child's school and a fabulous opportunity to meet other parents.

Wishing you safe and happy holiday

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments from now.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 11:45am during school hours for the convenience of parents.

LEADER: In Terms 2 & 3, a volunteer supports an informal conversation style group. In Term 4, a qualified English teacher leads the class in a formal English class. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information.

Wakakirri Performance

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Stage 2 and 3 students in Wakakirri dance group will be performing their dance story named "Inside Out of School" at the Riverside Theatre in Parramatta on 23.8.17. In the story, an eleven year old girl joins a new school and needs to learn to recognise and understand emotions in herself and others to develop her own well-being and sense of belonging. Her journey is symbolised using colour in this performance which elicits various emotions – anxiety, sadness, happiness and anger. The students have been practising every Thursday morning before school in the hall and we wish them all the best for the performance. To catch a glimpse of the wonderful work that students have been doing you will be able to see them dance at the Fete.

Sport Photos

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

All photos can be viewed and paid for at www.theschoolphotographer.com.au. Code to purchase: 17S176EL38ST. Photos are on display in the office noticeboard and can be ordered and paid for in the correct cash, envelope provided. Last day to purchase Thursday 29.6.17. Prices - 1x $16, 2x$30, 3x $42, 4x $52, 5x $60.

PSSA rescheduled - Girls & Boys Soccer

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Boys:

30.6.17 Queen Elizabeth Park 1, Concord

21.7.17 Henley Park 2, Enfield

Peer Support

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

This week in Peer Support children will revise what they have learnt about resilience and discuss the people who show them support. Through a story the children identify where the character has used her personal qualities, strengths and skills to help her overcome challenges. They identify times when she needed support to continue. The children discuss a range of challenges and determine the best person to approach for support. The children consolidate the protective factors for resilience by revising their own strengths and skills and identifying 5 people they can go to for support. Remind your child of their qualities and skills and encourage them to ask for help in challenging situations.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 10: Emotions

Kindergarten – Mixed Emotions. Talking with your child about their mixed feelings will help them to make sense of their different feelings (e.g. they can feel pleased about being given a part in the school play but also nervous).

Stage 1 – You need to ask "Did they really mean it?"

Stage 2 – Unhelpful thinking makes you feel worse.

Unpleasant feelings can get worse because of the unhelpful things you say to yourself about them. No person and no event makes you feel a certain way. Sometimes it is understandable that you feel angry or sad because of what has happened but that event or person has not made you have that feeling. One of the best ways to be in control of your feelings is to use more helpful thinking and ‘self-talk'

Stage 3 – In order to understand others, you need to learn to work out how they are feeling. This is called empathy. Trying to understand others people's feelings and letting them know that you do understand and care – this is important for making and staying friends and for supporting other people.

KidsMatter Team

Term 2 Vacation Coming Up

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:55 AEDT

Warm wishes to everyone for a relaxing vacation break. We have had so much to celebrate in Term 2. Please enjoy the Term 2 celebration attachment.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

Think of Others Awards

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

5 Think of Others' certificate = Principal Award. Congratulations to students who are close to receiving a Principal's Award. I look forward congratulating awardees personally at assembly in the near future.

Wakakirri Term 2 Week 10

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Dear Wakakirri Dancers,

Please remember to be at the Hall before school this Thursday 29th June. Your dance rehearsal will start promptly at 8am.

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

JUNE

19	P&C Meeting
20	Year 2 to Lennox Theatre
26	FOIM Recorder Rehearsal
26	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
26-30	Parent / Teacher Interviews
28	FOIM Strings Rehearsal
30	Year 1 to Lennox Theatre
30	Last Day Term 2

JULY

17	Student Free Day
18	First Day Term 3
24	Stage 1 Gymnastics program commences
25	Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival
26	OC Test
31	FOIM Recorder Concert

AUGUST

1	ICAS English Test
5	The SSPS GREAT FETE 10am – 4pm
9	School Club
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

5	FOIM Strings Concert

Korean

6¿ (June)
19	P&C ¿¿
20	2¿¿ Lennox Theatre ¿¿
26	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿/¿¿¿
26	¿¿ ¿¿¿ 6.30pm
26-30	¿¿¿/¿¿¿ ¿¿ (Interviews)
28	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿/¿¿¿
30	1¿¿ Lennox Theatre ¿¿
30	Term 2 ¿¿¿ ¿
7¿ (July)
17	Student Free Day ( ¿¿¿¿¿ ¿¿ ¿¿ ¿)
18	Term 3 ¿¿
24	1-2¿¿ ¿¿ ¿¿¿¿ ¿¿
25	3-6¿¿ ¿¿/¿¿¿¿
26	O.C ¿¿
31	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿¿
8¿ (August)
1	ICAS ¿¿ ¿¿
5	SSPS ¿¿¿ (¿¿ 10¿- ¿¿ 4¿)
9	¿¿ ¿¿
15	ICAS ¿¿ ¿¿
15	Zone¿¿/¿¿¿¿ (3-6¿¿)
21	P&C ¿¿
22	Primary Proms
25	¿¿ PSSA ¿¿¿ ¿
31	¿¿¿ ¿¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿ ¿ ¿¿ ¿¿
9¿ (September)
5	FOIM ¿¿¿ ¿¿¿

Chinese

¿¿ (June)
19	P&C ¿¿
20	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
26	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
26	Direction in music ¿¿¿ ¿¿¿
26-30	¿¿¿
28	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
30	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
30	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
¿¿ (July)
17	¿¿¿¿
18	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
24	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
25	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
26	OC¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
¿¿ (August)
1	ICAS ¿¿¿¿
5	¿¿¿¿¿: ¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿
15	ICAS¿¿
15	Zone ¿¿¿
21	P&C ¿¿
22	¿¿¿
25	¿¿PSSA¿¿¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿¿¿
31	¿¿¿¿¿¿

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

We are almost at the end of another term and we would like to thank you for your continued support. Term 3 is just around the corner and there will be another two exciting new item rewards to gear up for – the Smiley Emoji Keyring and the Volt Handball.

It is important to note that Kindergarten student bankers will receive a Dollarmite's silver token every time they bank. Student bankers in Years 1-6 will receive a Dollarmite's gold token once they have reached a total of 10 banks. Student bankers are able to pre order their reward item when their token tally has amounted to 9. Item rewards may take up two weeks to receive.

We would like to thank you for your continued support in making this program successful.

May you all have a wonderful week ahead.

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Join our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books.

Our next meeting is Thursday 20 July, in the school library office at 9am. Our July focus is on the great children's classic THE SILVER SWORD by Ian Serrailler, as well as the wonderful range of books by writer and illustrator Beatrix Potter.

I have a limited number of copies left, so please contact me if you would like one.

Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers. We meet monthly (every 3^rd Thursday of the month), except during school holidays. There is no charge. Please join us. English language learners welcome. Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 11:45am during school hours for the convenience of parents.

Please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au for any further information.

Uniform Shop

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

The uniform shop is situated behind the Library and is open Wednesdays, 8.30 – 9.30am. To make your order easier and quicker, lodge onto MunchMonitor: Username "ssps" and Password "munch2136".

This site can be used to order lunches from the school canteen and uniform items.

The uniform order will be filled on a Wednesday, given to your student's teacher, who will pass onto your child.

Entertainment Books

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

As 20% from every book sold goes towards your child's school please also encourage family and friends to buy a book.

When making online orders or payments, could you please include your child's name and class to facilitate with the distribution of the books.

For any further details contact Ranjini Ganesh: Ph 0412 267 226 or email rmagesan@hotmail.com.

School Payments

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments from now.

Preferred payment method:

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk are mandatory.

OR: cash or cheque (SSPS) in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box annexed to the brick wall outside the office.

Sport Photos

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

PSSA rescheduled - Girls & Boys Soccer

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

Girls:

23.6.17 Timbrell Park, Henley Marine Drive Five Dock

Boys:

23.6.17 Henley Park 3, Short Street, Enfield

30.6.17 Queen Elizabeth Park 1, Concord

21.7.17 Henley Park 2, Enfield

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 9: Emotions

What can you do to help your child become more able to understand and manage feelings?

Teach your child how to manage their strong feelings.

Use the following five steps to help your child when their emotions are ‘hot' such as when they are sad or angry. These five steps provide an opportunity to be close to your child and teach them how to manage strong feelings:

Take notice when your child is feeling sad, angry or upset.
Listen to your child and show them you understand how they are feeling.
Name the emotion in words your child can understand.
Help your child with problem solving within acceptable limits.
Finish with a helpful or optimistic statement that they can do something to help make things feel better.

Help your child to correctly name their feelings.

Sometimes children make a mistake about how strong the feelings is – for examples, they say that they are really angry or absolutely furious when they are just annoyed. Help them to use more low-key language like ‘cross' instead of ‘furious', and ‘down' instead of ‘depressed'. Children also make mistakes about what they are feeling. For example, they may say they are angry when they are really scared because the sensations in their body are similar. Say ‘perhaps you are also feeling...' as a prompt.

Help your child to understand and experience positive feelings.

Identity times when you can help your child to notice and ‘savour' pleasant feelings that arise from a positive experience (e.g. such as feeling proud, excited, satisfied, relieved, joyful and hopeful). Name the feeling that would be associated with the experience and ask them questions to help them to re-live the positive feelings they are experiencing.

Help your child to learn to change a bad mood into a good mood.

When they are feeling down, help your child choose something to do that would make them feel happier such as drawing, reading, watching a funny DVD, playing a game, doing something nice for someone else, asking a friend over or playing a physical game outside.

KidsMatter Team

BOOK YOUR PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS ONLINE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Can I remind you that you have the opportunity to book your parent teacher interview online?

At the touch of a button, you can book in your preferred times and dates for discussions about your child's progress.

Please support this valuable communication opportunity by booking in promptly with your child's classroom teacher.

We recommend that your child, where possible, is at this meeting, especially if your child is in Years 3-6. Student voice is extremely important. Including your child in the interview session allows you to negotiate learning goals together. What a wonderful opportunity!

2 Yowie

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:29 AEDT

2Y has been learning all about games and toys from the past and the present. We used our skills of collaboration and creativity to design a variety of games, including obstacle courses, mazes and coordination games.

We presented our games to our peers through explanations and demonstrations. Then we had a go at playing each others' creations - it was so much fun!

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

JUNE

14	School Club Meeting
19	P&C Meeting
20	Year 2 to Lennox Theatre
26	FOIM Recorder Rehearsal
26	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
26-30	Parent / Teacher Interviews
28	FOIM String Rehearsal
30	Year 1 to Lennox Theatre
30	Last Day Term 2

JULY

17	Student Free Day
18	First Day Term 3
24	Stage 1 Gymnastics program commences
25	Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival
26	OC Test
31	FOIM Recorder Concert

AUGUST

1	ICAS English Test
5	The SSPS GREAT FETE 10am – 4pm
9	School Club
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms
25	Winter PSSA Last Day
29	FOIM Recorder Concert
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

SEPTEMBER

5	FOIM String Concert

Fathers’ Day Staff 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

P&C School Club is looking for parents interested in organising the Fathers' Day Stall on Thursday 31.8.17. We would really like it to go ahead this year but will need a group of people to organise it, as we are running low on available volunteers. Our regular members are all involved in the Great Fete organisation and planning for the Fathers' Day Stall needs to start now. Are you the right person? Perhaps you and some friends would like to take this on together? A team of organisers would be best.

The role involves:

Stock take and pricing of gifts already purchased
Assessing whether further purchases are necessary
Advertising
Running the stall on 31.8.17
Tidying up and stock take after the sale

School Club will mentor you into the role and assist with recruiting volunteers to help on the day. Interested?

Please call/text Nicola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Thank you so much.

Entertainment Books

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

As 20% from every book sold goes towards your child's school please also encourage family and friends to buy a book.

When making online orders or payments, could you please include your child's name and class to facilitate with the distribution of the books.

For any further details contact Ranjini Ganesh: Ph 0412 267 226 or email rmagesan@hotmail.com.

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

For any student who would like to get involved with the Commonwealth Bank's Student Banking program, please collect a Parent Pack from the school's office, which will provide all the information you need to know to get your child set off on their savings adventure. The School Banking program is designed to encourage children to get into the habit of making regular savings no matter how small the deposit is. Not only is it a great fundraiser for the school, but for every deposit, the school received $5 for every account activated via the program and 5% of every deposit made at school (up to a maximum of $10 commission per individual deposit).

Student Banking would appreciate it if parents could please ensure that their child's deposit slips are filled out and in the correct manner, and that the money is secured in the sealed section of your child's document wallet. It is also important to note that you do not submit any foreign coins as the bank does not accept them. New deposit books are issued to students when their old book has been finalised as well as the yellow document wallets if damaged.

We are always looking for volunteers to assist with school banking. The energy and commitment that the volunteers bring does play a vital role in the success of the program. We meet in the office foyer every Tuesday morning at 9.15am. It is a wonderful thing to be able to get involved with your child's school and a fabulous opportunity to meet other parents.

Reward items available to order are the 3D Chalk Set, Colour Change Markers, Cyber Handball, Outback Pat Bag Tag and the Tablet Case. It is important to note that reward items allocated for Terms 3 and 4 cannot be ordered until that term starts.

We would like to thank you for your continued support in making this program successful.

May you all have a wonderful week ahead.

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

Head Lice

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

It is apparent that nits/head lice are present in the hair of some students. Please check your child's hair for nits/lice tonight using the methods recommended in information from NSW Health. http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/headlice/treatment/index.html

If you find any eggs or lice please commence treatment as recommended.

It is recommended that students with long hair have it tied back and braided. Further information on head lice is available on the NSW Health website (details above) or through the Department's website at http://tstwww.schools.nsw.edu.au/studentsupport/studenthealth/conditions/headlice/index.php

Stage 2 to Stage 3 Public Speaking Competition

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Congratulations to all our school finalists in this year's Public Speaking Competition for their exceptional speeches. The contestants informed, persuaded and entertained the audience. Our students have continued to set a high standard in the arena of public speaking. Strathfield South strives to improve leadership skills through such competitions.

Special congratulations to our Stage Winners Nitya Nimalan (Stage 2) and Dhrti Suresh (Stage 3). They will both be representing ours school at the Ultimo Operational Directorate Primary Schools Public Speaking competition.

The 2017 Winners are:

Kaitlyn Giang 3F, Nitya Nimalan 4U, Dhrti Suresh S3L,

Kayelyn Labrakis S3N

2017 Highly Commended:

Alaina Ray Ho 3D, Zuha Siddiqui 3C, Maria Zoabi 4U,

Arjan Ganesh 4N, Alex Andronico S3P, Aileen Kim S3N, Lael Sakalauskas S3N, Sophiya Zoabi S3B.

P&C School Club Meeting this Week

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

TEN Numeracy Presentation at School Club

If you have heard you K-2 child talking about the new daily Maths program they are participating in called TEN, then you are probably wondering what it is all about. Come and hear how it works and how you can support your child at home with their numeracy development. Miss Ridani and Mrs Hare will give a short presentation about TEN at this week's School Club meeting on Wednesday 14 June, 2017. We hope to see you there.

School Club is a daytime parent group active in supporting the teachers and students of the SSPS through activities and fundraising events. We warmly invite all parents, grandparents and carers to our meeting at 9am THIS Wednesday 14.6.17. We will meet in the demountable classroom (B Block) behind the school hall.

Nichola Beukes, School Club Convenor 0435 413 548.

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

All schools in Australia participate in the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability. The national data collection is an annual collection that counts the number of school students with disability and the level of reasonable educational adjustment they are provided with. This information is useful to best help students with disabilities to take part in all aspects of school. Please read the attached leaflet for more information.

PEER SUPPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

This week in Peer Support children will discuss skills and how to communicate their feelings and needs to others. The children will discuss skills they use when participating in a variety of activities. When children understand they already have many of the skills needed to succeed, they can feel more confident when trying something new. The children are asked to identify events which trigger different feelings.

Encourage your children to remember the skills they have used in one activity when trying something new. Also encourage your child to communicate their feelings and needs.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 8: Emotions

Correctly naming your feeling can help you to manager to better.

Being able to name your feeling helps you to feel more in control. For example if you know that you are feeling angry, then you also realise that you need to calm yourself down and speak up for yourself in a calm but strong way. If you can correctly name what you are feeling as ‘disappointment' rather than ‘anger', then you realise that it is not helpful to feel so upset and it is easier to calm down.

Do not let yourself be ‘hijacked' by your feelings.

‘Hijacked' means that your feelings have taken you over and you are no longer in charge. If your feelings are taking over, you need to go to a quiet place or do something that will help you calm down (e.g. throw a basketball through a hoop, play music or play with a pet). If you do not calm down, you cannot think of the best way to deal with how you are feeling. Your anger should never be expressed in a way that hurts others, property or yourself.

You can change a bad mood into a good mood.

It is normal to sometimes feel sad, lonely, disappointment, angry or worried. You can help yourself feel a little better if you do something physical (e.g. walking or sport), something that creates positive feelings (e.g. playing with your pet, making or drawing something or looking at photographs taken on a holiday) or do something kind or helpful for someone else.

KidsMatter Team

PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS TERM 2, 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Please find attached the details to book an appointment with your child's teacher. Bookings are online and close Friday 23 June, 2017 at 5.00pm.

SEMESTER TWO REPORTS ARE ALMOST READY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

Student Reporting is the process of communicating information about student learning—including a student's level of attainment and the progress they have made. The fundamental purpose of assessment and reporting is to improve student learning.

Our teachers have been concentrating on writing student reports this term. They will invite you to meet with them to discuss your child's progress. I look forward to seeing every family at our school for these meetings.

HEALTH REMINDER: SCHOOLS ARE SMOKE-FREE SPACES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Smoking on school premises, including school buildings, gardens, sports fields and car parks, is prohibited. This includes students, employees, visitors and other people who use school premises, including community groups. If you notice a community member smoking on our school site, please inform our office immediately. Please do not approach the community member. The school will do this. Please see the following link to more information from the NSW government about smoke-free locations.

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/#/view/act/2000/69/full

GRAND FINALISTS IN PUBLIC SPEAKING

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Congratulations to 2017 Public Speaking Grand Finalist winners Nitya Nimalan (4U) and Dhrti Suresh (S3L). Congratulations to all finalists. The topics were incredibly innovative and the students displayed exemplary oral communication skills. Further information about this extraordinarily entertaining competition will be

VOLUNTEER FOR THE GREAT FETE ONLINE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

In this every changing world of technology we are very lucky to be able to connect through various communications. I encourage you to connect, get social and be a part of the SSPS GREAT FETE.

Can't find the notes? no time to fill in your notes? – NO NEED TO WORRY… This year you have the opportunity to volunteer ONLINE, it only takes 2 minutes!

Click this link https://goo.gl/forms/9DAN227PYrKfEwLp2 to join the fete fun.

Everyone is welcome and I would encourage you to take part!

2 Gunnamatta

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:28 AEDT

In 2 Gunnamatta we are learning how to use efficient math strategies to help us add and subtract numbers. This week 2G have been using dominoes in different ways to practise addition.

Our favourite strategies to use are the jump and split strategies.

We can't wait to learn more strategies so we become mathematicians!

2 Wanda

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:29 AEDT

This term has been very exciting for 2 Wanda as we have begun the BYOD program. We have also been learning about toys from the past and the present as a part of our history unit. Students in 2 Wanda designed and made their very own unique game. The class then decided to share their games on the app Seesaw by taking photos, filming videos and recording voice memos of their games.

Entertainment Books

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

If you would like to purchase an Entertainment Membership, an order form will be sent home with all students soon. There is also an Entertainment Digital Membership which puts the value of the book into your iPhone or Android smartphone. To purchase the digital membership or make payments for traditional books online, visit: https://www.entbook.com.au/204r274.

As 20% from every book sold goes towards your child's school please also encourage family and friends to buy a book.

When making online orders or payments, could you please include your child's name and class to facilitate with the distribution of the books.

For any further details contact Ranjini Ganesh: Ph 0412 267 226 or email rmagesan@hotmail.com.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 7: Emotions

Experiencing a lot of pleasant feelings can help children become more resilient and bounce back more quickly from a difficulty or setback.

But unpleasant feelings are also important too. Without unpleasant feelings as warnings (e.g. fear, worry and anger) we would be less able to protect ourselves from possible danger or to stand up for ourselves. Some unpleasant feelings (e.g. embarrassment, disappointment and sadness) also motivate us to think deeply about some of the difficult and challenging situations we sometimes have to cope with (e.g. failing loss and rejection). This type of reflection helps us to learn from our experiences and become more able to make good decisions and problem solve.

KidsMatter Team

THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL LANGUAGE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

We often discuss how important public speaking and debating skills are for students to learn. But perhaps it is the everyday oral language opportunities that are not discussed as often as necessary.

If you are multi-language user, it will be no surprise to you that oral language is learned more easily, and used more often, than reading or writing. To learn any language, English included, one must communicate by speaking and listening, reading and writing. Individual students should have opportunities to share, expand and clarity their own thinking.

Some helpful ways to support your child in improving their oral language are:

Give your child TIME TO THINK before they answer (the 30 second rule seems long, but really is necessary for many children0
Encourage your child to SAY MORE:

‘Can you say more about that?'

‘What do you mean by that?'

‘Can you give an example?'

CONSOLIDATE…So, Are You Saying…?:

‘Let me see if I have got what you are saying. Are you saying…?' (always leave space for your child to agree or disagree and say more).

Try to ask questions that are open-ended e.g. ‘What has been happening since we last saw each other?' instead of ‘How was your day?' Encourage longer, more complex answers such as ‘good'.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

PUBLIC SPEAKING AT ITS BEST

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

‘A clear confident speaking voice is an essential life skill that fosters self-esteem and personal confidence'.

The staffroom, the classrooms and the playground have had a certain buzz of late; all have been discussing the public speaking program we have conducted lately. The range of topics was incredibly varied and the students were extremely well-prepared.

Students effectively communicated their speeches with confidence and clarity, entertaining the audience and allowing them to imagine, learn, dream and ponder. Thank you to the families who have supported this class learning program.

For tips on improving your child's public speaking skills, go to: http://www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au/homework-and-study/English/English-tips/public-speaking-in-primary-school

FETE NEWSLETTER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

Each Thursday the purple paper Fete Newsletter is distributed to all the students in the school, uploaded to our school app and website. Each newsletter has a listing of the items needed for the drive for the next week and further information regarding the Fete. Please ensure to look for this Newsletter each Thursday afternoon.

Links for the Fete:

Email: sspsfete@gamil.com

Follow the Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sspsfete/

Like & Share the Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/sspsfete/

Or:

Call or SMS

Nichola Beukes – o435 413 548

Natalie MacDonald – 0422 700 033

Head Lice

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

If you find any eggs or lice please commence treatment as recommended.

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

Thank you to the following volunteers for last week, your time was invaluable and much appreciated: Joanne Khodary, Suzane Saba, Paheerathi Uthayaseelan, Rena Akram, Liza Ko, Lydia Song and Ghada Nouh.

No Frozen Items Available From Online Per-ordering.

Update Winter PSSA Team member names:

To ensure PSSA Teams receive early lunch orders please update your Winter PSSA in Munchmonitor as soon as possible.

Helper Needed - - Can you help?

School Captains & Prefects and Year 6 Muck Up Photos

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

If you would like to order either of these photos - $16:00 each, order online www.theschoolphotographer.com.au Access Code: 17S176EL38ST OR collect a correct – CASH ONLY envelope from the office. NO Cheques

The original photos are displayed in the noticeboard near the front office.

Fathers’ Day Staff 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

The role involves:

Stock take and pricing of gifts already purchased
Assessing whether further purchases are necessary
Advertising
Running the stall on 31.8.17
Tidying up and stock take after the sale

School Club will mentor you into the role and assist with recruiting volunteers to help on the day. Interested?

Please call/text Nicola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Thank you so much.

K-2 Public Speaking Competition

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

Public Speaking Competition, who once again performed exceptionally well. The standard of speeches each year continues to impress us all.

A special congratulations to all the Kindergarten finalists, who showed great courage speaking in front of a large audience for the first time.

The 2017 Winners:

Lavankhy Pakeerathan KB

Natalie Khanh 1A

Christopher MacDonald 2W

2017 Highly Commended:

Hayden Hadjicosta KB

Akshayan Jeyaganesh KW

Yolanda Chen 1C

David Kim 1C

Qanit Mubarak 2W
Josephine Doan 2U

Miss S. Lee and Mr R. Kim

K-2 Public Speaking Coordinators

THE BIGGEST MORNING TEA REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

Cancer is a disease that touches most families at some stage. For this reason we consider our donation drive for the Cancer Council a very important community fundraiser.

This year we had an exceptional response to our annual biggest morning tea with so many people contributing by baking, selling & buying. In fact, we raised more money this year than in the past, reaching a total donation of over $3 000. We thank you all for assisting us raise this incredible amount.

It was especially wonderful to see so many families and students having a good time on the day and I was personally overwhelmed by the number of parent and community volunteers. Once again, thank you for your support.

SSPS Great Fete #sspsgreatfete

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

The FETE needs your Support & Action

HOW……Donate NOW!

What can you Donate?

A holiday
A Notebook or Tablet
A weekend away
Tickets to a show or sporting event
Making a cash donation

Sponsorship & Donations of major prizes are for the raffle, live auction, silent auction or chocolate wheel.

HOW can you Donate?

Complete the Sponsorship & Donation Form at the end of The Scene and return to the office
Provide the name of a business to ask for sponsorship. Our Sponsorship Team will make contact.

Not sure what to DONATE …… CALL or SMS NOW – 0422 700 033 Or CLICK: sspsfete@gmail.com

2 Umina

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:28 AEDT

Year 2 students have been learning about past and present toys this term as part of their history unit. Students from 2U have looked at toys from the past and compared them to toys in the present. During Learning Centres this week, students are to re-enact what playing was like in the past. We can't wait to do further research on the history of toys!

2 Tamarama

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:28 AEDT

In 2T we are learning to be brave. They explained what types of actions they would do to keep themselves calm and help them to confront their fear. We learnt that being brave isn't about being a hero and that sometimes being a hero gets you into harm's way.

2T is also learning about past and present games. We started off our new unit by learning about how to play with the toys and were extremely excited to identify the difference between past and present toys. We also learnt that some of the games from the past are still around today.

FUTURE EVENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

MAY

30	ICAS Science Test

JUNE

12	Public Holiday - Queen's Birthday
14	School Club Meeting
19	P&C Meeting
20	Year 2 to Lennox Theatre
26	FOIM Recorder Rehearsal
26	Directions in Music Concert 6:30pm
26-30	Parent / Teacher Interviews
28	FOIM String Rehearsal
30	Year 1 to Lennox Theatre
30	Last Day Term 2

JULY

17	Student Free Day
18	First Day Term 3
24	Stage 1 Gymnastics program commences
25	Yr 3-6 Athletics Carnival
26	OC Test
31	FOIM Recorder Concert

AUGUST

1	ICAS English Test
5	SCHOOL FETE
15	ICAS Mathematics
15	Zone Athletics Carnival
21	P&C
22	Primary Proms
31	Choral Rehearsal
31	Father's Day Stall

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 6: Looking on the Bright Side

Three Good Things in Your Day

At the dinner table, as your child, "What were three good things that happened for you today?" With younger children you can do this just before they go to sleep. If they cannot think of anything ask them some prompting questions (e.g. Did you have any laughs? Did you enjoy being with anyone? What did you do well?)

The Positive Tracking Game

Challenge everyone in the family to identify the three best things about your family, your home, your holiday, your suburb, about being their age, about this time of the year etc.

Showing gratitude

Encourage your child to say thank you to someone who has done something nice for them (e.g. by sending a note or card, text, email or by ringing them).

Modelling

Let your child see and hear you using positive tracking, showing gratitude, saying "things will get better soon' and expecting that good outcomes are possible.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

BOUNCE BACK

Week 5: Looking on the Bright Side

If you think optimistically it means that you expect things to mostly turn out well and you focus on the positives rather than the negatives in a situation. It also means that you understand that setbacks and difficult times happen to everyone but that things get better after a while. Teaching your child to be optimistic will help them to be better equipped to ‘bounce back' when they face difficulties, frustrations and problems. It means that when they are faced with a problem they will be more likely to look for solutions rather than giving up and not trying.

Looking on the bright side.

This means being positive and expecting that things will work out well or get better. When you look on the bright side you believe that good things CAN happen and you do not give up easily.

It is good to be a positive tracker.

A positive tracker looks for and points out the good things in themselves, in others, and in what happens in their life. They are more fun to be with the others like them more and want to be their friend.

Be thankful and grateful.

Being thankful for the nice things people do for you and the good things that happen in your life can help you to feel happier. Letting people know that you are thankful or grateful for how they have supported you and cared about you also makes them feel happy too.

KidsMatter Team

RESPONSIBLE PHONE USAGE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:50 AEDT

COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

If you wish to discuss your child's progress, please make an appointment. Our teachers cannot have meetings with parents in learning time and this begins when the morning bell goes. Teachers wish to comprehensively answer your queries and questions; and this requires a quiet space. To make an appointment, please phone or email our school.

Very shortly we will be communicating with you about our upcoming parent – teacher interview opportunities. Please ensure that you take advantage of this opportunity to share in your child's learning with their 2017 teacher.

STAFF NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

Congratulations to our staff member Patricia Michaelopoulos (Ms Patty to the students) who just recently represented Australia in the TransTasman Touch Football Series 2017, playing in the Women's Open Division. Her team won convincingly with a score of 3 – 0. In fact, Australia won all 9 games of touch. Ms Patty has her sights on continuing playing for Australia in the lead up to the World Cup in 2019. Ms Patty co-coaches our three PSSA touch football teams and is involved in their training and Friday games.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 4: Courage

What can you do to help your child feel brave?

-Talk about when you have felt scared and what you did to overcome your fears and be brave. Give examples of times in your life of when you tackled your fears and ‘had a go' at something that was difficult. Stress how pleased you felt afterwards.

-Discuss the gains that being brave can bring (e.g. self-respect, confidence, skills).

-Look for examples of courage, heroism and foolhardiness in the media and discuss them with your child to help them to understand the differences between courage, heroism and foolhardiness.

-Encourage your child to have the courage to do what they believe is ‘the right thing' even if others do not agree with them.

-Remind your child about the things that took courage for them to do when they were little but now seem easy to them. Explain that things that take courage for them to do now will seem easier and less scary as they get older.

-Stress that throughout life there will always be new challenges requiring courage. Facing our fears is one of the ways we become stronger.

KidsMatter Team

Public Speaking Competition 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

The annual SSPS Public Speaking Competition has commenced this term. Individual class presentations will occur throughout weeks 1 to 4. The Stage Finals will be held during Week 5. Parents of successful candidates will be invited to the Grand Final during Week 6. Please refer to the note sent home last term for further information.

SSPS Public Speaking Team

Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

The P&C School Club will be running a 'Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea' on Thursday 25 May at 11am. All proceeds will go to help the excellent work of the Cancer Council.

Parents, Grandparents and extended family are all welcome to join us for this special occasion.

Please see the attached flyer for further information!

Cake donations and volunteer helpers greatly needed. Please contact Meera 0414 440 381 or Kerry 0408 119 187.

IF MY CHILD’S TEACHER IS NOT ON CLASS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Sometimes regularly and sometimes irregularly, teachers have events, tasks and responsibilities that require them to be out of the classroom during class time.

Parents may sometimes wonder where their child's teacher is, if they are not on class for one or more days.

There are many things that could be happening.

Teachers could be:

having their weekly class preparation time away from face-to-face teaching.
involved in professional learning off site.
involved in professional learning on site.
completing executive duties.
mentoring and supporting other teachers.
assessing students individually
on leave eg sick or emergency leave – this is confidential and only the teacher can share this information.

Please ask your child's teacher for more information about our professional learning plans to improve whole school learning and your child's success.

YOUR 2017 NEW SCHOOL CLUB EXECUTIVE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

Thank you to the 2017 – 2018 School Club Executive for volunteering their services to supporting our school in such a strong way. They are:

Convenor: Nichola Beukes (Kavitha)

Vice-Convenors: Ranjini Ganesh (Arjan) and Natalie MacDonald (Matthew & Christopher)

Accounting Officer: Kerry Vickery (Matthew)

Assistant Accounting Officer: Lena Malki (Mariam, Teresa & Simon)

Administrative Officer: Eva Plakias (Christopher & Nicoletta)

Assistant Administrative Officer: Olivia Hadjicosta (Hayden)

School Club meets in every second Wednesday morning of the month. Everyone is welcome.

A GREAT SCHOOL FETE PREPARATIONS ARE UNDERWAY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

Our School Fete, every two years, is a wonderful community event that our students truly look forward to. But it cannot be successful without YOU. Please support our hardworking P&C this term in readiness for our biennial fete. They will be asking you to give time, energy and bring great ideas to their planning. A communication letter from me has been sent out. Please read it and activate your family to help. Save the date and read the Scene each week to find out more.

Student Representative Council (SRC)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

The SSPS SRC completed their training on Monday 1 May 2017. The students were involved in team building, communication and problem-solving activities to develop skills necessary for leadership. They brainstormed project ideas to implement in 2017 and are looking forward to working together throughout a productive and positive year.

Below are the few reflective student quotes about the training day:

"I was feeling shy at first, but now I feel more confident to make new friends" Yousef

"The most important thing that I learnt was to work together and listen to others opinions" Sally

"I learnt to talk to different people that I did not know before" Yewon

"I felt that everyone has been encouraging us to express what we think" Alexandra

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Join our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books!

Please note that we will have no meeting in April due to the school holidays. Our next meeting is Thursday, May 18th, in the School Library at 9am. Our May focus is on the fabulous series of books by Laura Ingalls Wilder (starting with LITTLE HOUSE IN THE BIG WOODS), covering her childhood years growing up in America 150 years ago. Children are fascinated with how different life was with no electricity, no running water, few shops and a time where you grew your own food and made your own clothes - very different from life in Sydney today! Many of the books in this series won the Newbery Medal (awarded every year by the American Library Association for "the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children").

We are also reading any titles by the Nigerian writer Atinuke. The ANNA HIBISCUS books are available in both picture book and chapter book form. The series focuses on a wonderful large extended family living in Lagos. Atinuke also has another series, The No. 1 Car Spotter. If your child is a beginner reader do explore her books as they are highly suitable for this ability level. There are also YouTube videos of her reading her books aloud and telling stories.

I have a limited number of copies left, so please contact me if you would like one.

Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers. We meet monthly (every 3rd Thursday of the month), except during school holidays. There is no charge. Please join us. English language learners welcome! Questions? Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548.

Attention Year 6 Parents

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

This year the Year 6 Farewell will be held at the Carnarvon Gold Club in December. We would like to welcome any year 6 parent who would like to assist with the organisation of this memorable end-of-year event.

As parents of year 6 students (and School Club) we are also responsible for the following events throughout the year:

Year 6 T-shirts
Collection and collation of photographs for the Farewell
Peer Support BBQ
Signature bears and balls
Farewell cake
Photo booth for Farewell
THE YEAR 6 FAREWELL etc.

Year 6s Farewell Video

We would like to start collecting some photos to add to the Year 6 farewell video. We would like to include:

Photos from Kindergarten to year 6,
Photo from school activities such as Book parade, Easter Hat parade, Costume parade, Sports, Music, Fete, etc. (please do not send any other photos, e.g. personal birthday party.
Group photos are preferred).
Kindergarten portraits - if your child joined SSPS in year 1 or after, please forward a portrait photo from their kindergarten year.
Please provide us the photos on a USB and mark your child's name and class if you want the USB to be returned. The USB will only be returned after the video is compiled.

Please drop off the USB at the Canteen.

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Student Banking has got off to a great start this year with many committing to banking on a regular basis. Do not forget it does not matter how small the deposit, it is getting into the habit of regular banking that will offer long time rewards.

We would like to advise that there has been a delay with some of the reward orders late last term. This has been now rectified and will be forwarded to students over the next 1-2 weeks. Reward items available to order are the 3D Chalk Set, Colour Change Markers, Cyber Handball, Outback Pat Bag Tag and the Tablet Case. It is important to note that reward items allocated for Terms 3 and 4 cannot be ordered until that term starts.

The Commonwealth Bank would like to enhance your School Banking experience with the CommBank Youth app. This is now available to download fromt eh App Store on any IOS device (version 8.0+). This is exciting news from CommBank to introduce this innovative digital banking tool that will complement the School Banking experience and improve the way young Australians learn real-life money skills in an increasingly digital world.

With the CommBank Youth app. Children can:

-Check the balance of their YouthSaver account

-View School Banking deposits in their transaction history

-Track the number of Dollarmites tokens they collect

-Set up savings goals and monitor their progress

-Create a list of chores they can do for pocket money

Student will need a NetBank client number and password to log on the use the CommBank Youth app. If they do not already have one, parents can set this up by simply visiting a branch with identification documents, like your driver's licence and your child's birth certificate. Note, only one child can log on per device.

To down load the app. or for more information, visit commbank.com/au/schoolbanking

We would like to thank you for your continued support in making this program successful.

May you all have a wonderful week ahead.

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

New Full Winter menu (including mash potato and fried rice) will start from this term.

Please check the new Winter Menu for Term 2 & 3 which is attached. Sushi is no longer available on the winter menu.

- Fried rich (meat or Vegetarian)

- Mash Potatoes (Chicken Wings, Sausage or Fish) Halal

- Manouch (Zaytar, Cheese or Meat - Halal

- Mix Vegetable Korma Curry with Rice

- Lamb Meatball Wrap – Halal

CHATTERBOX CAFÉ - Adult English Conversation & Skills Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

WHAT: Chatterbox Café is a weekly class focused on improving English skills in a fun and friendly way.

WHERE: Come along to STRATHFIELD SOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOL and make new friends with people from the Strathfield area.

WHO: Adult members of the community who would like some additional opportunities to learn and converse in the English language.

WHEN: Classes are on TUESDAYS at 11:45am during school hours for the convenience of parents.

LEADER: In terms 2 & 3, a volunteer supports an informal conversation style group. In term 4, a qualified English teacher leads the class in a formal English class. All classes focus on English grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking.

Registrations are essential, please contact Strathfield Council on 9748 9999 or at council @strathfield.nsw.gov.au

Walk Safely To School Day – Friday 19 May, 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

Walk Safely to School Day is an annual event which occurs nationally. This initiative encourages parent/carers to walk to school with their child, reinforcing safe pedestrian behaviours and encouraging healthy habits. Strathfield Council will be supporting this initiative by providing bottled water and stickers. You are asked to help us on this day by either walking to school with your child or if you usually drive, perhaps you could consider parking a couple of blocks away and walking the rest of the distance.

Please help make this a fun and worthwhile event by walking to school 19 May, 2017.

P&C School Club Meeting

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

School Club is a daytime parent group (a sub-committee of the P&C) active in supporting the teachers and students of the SSPS through activities and fundraising events.

We warmly invite all parents, grandparents and carers to our meeting at 9am THIS Wednesday 10 May 2017. We will meet in the demountable classroom behind the School Hall. A member of the school executive will be present to answer any questions. There will be a discussion about the Stage 3 stage-based classes rationale. This is a great opportunity to meet and get to know the staff and other parents and find out what is happening at school. Any questions to Nichola Beukes, School Club Convenor 0435 413 548.

BOUNCE BACK

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Week 3:

Kindergarten and Stage 2 – Fear and courage are different for different people. Some people pretend they never feel scared but everyone does. Different things scare different people. One person might feel nervous about learning to dive but not about acting on stage. For someone else it might be the opposite.

Stage 1 and Stage 3 – How to find our own courage. We all need to use a lot of ‘everyday courage' in our lives. Everyday courage is shown when you try to do something that is ordinary that still makes you feel a bit nervous such as giving a talk to the class, trying out for a part in a play, sleeping over at a friend's house or going to camp.

KidsMatter Team

Opportunity Class

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

The Year 5 2018 Opportunity Class information booklet was handed out to all year 4 students on Wednesday 26 April 2017.

Application can only be made online:

https://education.nsw.gov.au/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year5

Key dates:

Wednesday 26 April 2017

Application website opens

Friday 12 May 2017

Application website closes

Late applications will not be accepted

Wednesday 12 July 2017

Test authority letter by mail and email (all other correspondence is sent by either mail or email)

Wednesday 26 July 2017

Opportunity Class Placement Test

Mid-October 2017

Placement outcome information

Please read the booklet carefully before applying.

Public Speaking Competition 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

SSPS Public Speaking Team

Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

The P&C School Club will be running a 'Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea' on Thursday 25 May at 11am. All proceeds will go to help the excellent work of the Cancer Council.

Parents, Grandparents and extended family are all welcome to join us for this special occasion.

Please see the attached flyer for further information!

Cake donations and volunteer helpers greatly needed. Please contact Meera 0414 440 381 or Kerry 0408 119 187.

NAPLAN INFORMATION

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

We will be conducting the national Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for Years 3 and 5 this week. For this reason, class timetables will be different. For further information about this national assessment, please refer to the link below.

https://www.nap.edu.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/naplan-2017-information-brochure-for-parents-and-carers.pdf?sfvrsn=2

SAFE DROP OFF and PICK UP

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Take your time; ensure all our children are safe.

Kiss and Ride IS TWO MINUTES ONLY – (no time to check phones or sms anyone).
Double parking is strictly forbidden – please do not call your child onto the road. This is extremely unsafe.
Take your turn in the line that forms from Liverpool Road into Telopea Ave. Do not take over the bus area, and be mindful of buses needing to pull out.

A good rule of thumb everyone – if there is no space, go around the block! Take your time; ensure all our children are safe.

HOUSE CAPTAIN INDUCTION CEREMONY

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Our school had the opportunity to officially induct their Sport House Captains for 2017. What an honour for these students pictured to have their badges pinned on by their parents. Thank you to Ms Munns and Mr Matthews for their organisation. I look forward to hearing about the further leadership opportunities that are planned to include and grow these captains and vice-captains.

CROSS COUNTRY EXCITEMENT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

Our annual cross country carnival was hugely successful. Congratulations to all our students who participated in this annual healthy sporting event, supporting physical endurance, resilience and mental health.

We will send a team of runners to the Zone Cross Country Carnival on Wednesday 24 May. Thank you to Mr Matthews and his organising team of teachers and office staff for organising such a fun-filled, glorious morning out in the autumn sunshine.

SSPS Fete 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:52 AEDT

The 2017 SSPS Great Fete

On Saturday 5th August 2017 we will see our wonderful school and community come together for the SSPS Great Fete.

We hope that every family within our school community can join us to enjoy a fun-filled day AND help to make our Fete successful by raising our target amount of $60,000.

What can you do to help? See the attached files (also sent home today with students) for more information.

Fete - Principal's Letter (pdf 132 KB)

Fete Donation Form (pdf 1446 KB)

1 Ettalong

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:27 AEDT

This week 1 Ettalong has been learning about the importance of being kind in what we say and do. We worked on being "bucket fillers" by writing nice notes to one another and have been spreading kindness around our school. In addition, students in 1E listened to the story ‘Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley' by Aaron Blabey, and have been writing detailed descriptions of the characters. We focused on using interesting adjectives and connectives in our writing.

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Join our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books!

I have a limited number of copies left, so please contact me if you would like one.

Student Banking

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Welcome back to Student Banking for Term 2. Student Banking will officially start tomorrow Tuesday, 2 May 2017.

This term there are another two exciting reward items available to order – the 3D Chalk set and the Tablet Case, do not forget you need to make 10 School Banking deposits to redeem your reward. To redeem your reward, simply complete and take the reward coupon along with 10 silver or 1 gold Dollarmite token to school on Student Banking day. Please note that it may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive your reward item.

All student bankers in Kindergarten will receive the Dollarmite silver token for every bank done through the school. Student bankers in Year 1-6 will only receive a Dollarmites gold token once they reach a total of 10 banks to prompt them to order their reward item.

For any student who would like to get involved with the Commonwealth Bank's Student Banking program, please collect a Parent Pack from the school's office, which provides all the information you need to know to get your child set off on their saving adventure. The School Banking program is designed to encourage children to get into the habit of making regular savings no matter how small the deposit it is. Not only is it a great fundraiser for the school, but for every deposit, the school receives $5 for every account activated via the program and 5% of every deposit made at school (up to a maximum of $10 commission per individual deposit).

We would like to thank you for your continued support in making this program successful.

May you all have a wonderful week ahead.

Lisa Kovac – SSPS Student Banking Coordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

Beware Parents

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

Online streaming and easy access to the internet has provided our children and ourselves with hours of interesting and enjoyable entertainment. However, recent media releases have reminded us to be mindful that not all available programs are suitable for children and may in fact be harmful for young viewers. Parents and carers need to carefully monitor children's viewing, take time to watch programs with them and encourage them to communicate about any inappropriate content that they may come across.

Public Speaking Competition 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

SSPS Public Speaking Team

Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

The P&C School Club will be running a 'Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea' on Thursday 25 May at 11am. All proceeds will go to help the excellent work of the Cancer Council.

There will be cake stall for the children to buy a cake for morning tea. Most cakes will be $2 so please send some money with your child/children so that they can enjoy the morning tea and support the Cancer Council.

Parents, Grandparents and extended family are all welcome to join us for this special occasion.

Please see the attached flyer for further information!

Cake donations and volunteer helpers greatly needed. Please contact Meera 0414 440 381 or Kerry 0408 119 187.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

GLOBAL EDUCATION ENGAGEMENT

FINLAND PRINCIPALS' TOUR

Mrs Mortimer visits the Finnish School System

During the past holidays I was part of the ‘2017 Leading Educators around the Planet Australian Principals Study Tour' to Finland, an incredible learning experience for myself and fellow Principals and academics from NSW. This was a true learning experience for me; educationally, culturally and socially. I have brought back many ideas and will share these with you in due course.

SRC INDUCTION CEREMONY

It is not our abilities that show what we truly are… it is our choices.

Dumbledore, from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Our Year 2-Year 6 classes have had the opportunity to elect their SRC member for 2017. What an honour for these students pictured. Thank you to Ms Kaim, Mr Mason and Ms Ta for their incredible organisation. I look forward to hearing about the success of the leadership workshop these students will embark on in the near future.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

BIG CANTEEN NEWS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

We are now serving from the new canteen.
New Full Winter menu (including mash potato and fried rice) will start from this term.

Please check the new Winter Menu for Term 2 & 3. Sushi is no longer available on the winter menu.

- Fried rich (meat or Vegetarian)

- Mash Potatoes (Chicken Wings, Sausage or Fish) Halal

- Manouch (Zaytar, Cheese or Meat - Halal

- Mix Vegetable Korma Curry with Rice

- Lamb Meatball Wrap – Halal

Public Speaking Competition 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:49 AEDT

The annual SSPS Public Speaking Competition will commence this term. Individual class presentations will occur throughout weeks 1 to 4. The Stage Finals will be held on Wednesday of Week 5 (24.05.17) for Stage 2 and Thursday of Week 5 (25.05.17) for Stage 3. The Grand Finals will be on the following Friday, Week 6. Please refer to the note sent home last term for further information.

SSPS Public Speaking Team

NAPLAN

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Welcome back everyone! We all hope you had a restful holiday break and are primed and ready to work hard this busy term.

As you are aware, the school will be conducting the National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) commencing in week 3. Students from Year 3 and 5 will sit these tests each morning beginning Tuesday 8 May and concluding on Thursday 11 May.

The school receives a lot of important diagnostic data which we as a team analyse to celebrate our successes and improve on any weaknesses. Although these tests are important for the school as well as parents, it is vital that we do not place any additional pressure on the students to perform well.

Ms M Cidem

Deputy Principal

ANZAC COMMEMORATION

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

During the last week of Term 1, we remembered the day the ANZAC soldiers landed at Gallipoli – 25 April 1915. Student and teacher representatives spoke and each class laid a wreath at this special ceremony. Representatives from Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 also attended this Year 3-6 assembly, laying their special wreaths to honour those who lost their lives for our country. Our student leadership team, Mrs Alexiou, Ms Weaver and other students and family members, attended the Dawn Service at Burwood RSL on ANZAC day, laying some of our homemade wreaths and a specially purchased wreath.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Mrs K Mortimer

Principal

Attention Year 6 Parents

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:34 AEDT

As parents of year 6 students (and School Club) we are also responsible for the following events throughout the year:

Year 6 T-shirts
Collection and collation of photographs for the Farewell
Peer Support BBQ
Signature bears and balls
Farewell cake
Photo booth for Farewell
THE YEAR 6 FAREWELL etc.

Year 6s Farewell Video

We would like to start collecting some photos to add to the Year 6 farewell video. We would like to include:

Photos from Kindergarten to year 6,
Photo from school activities such as Book parade, Easter Hat parade, Costume parade, Sports, Music, Fete, etc. (please do not send any other photos, e.g. personal birthday party.
Group photos are preferred).
Kindergarten portraits - if your child joined SSPS in year 1 or after, please forward a portrait photo from their kindergarten year.
Please provide us the photos on a USB and mark your child's name and class if you want the USB to be returned. The USB will only be returned after the video is compiled.

Please drop off the USB at the Canteen.

A Lunch Invitation for all Year 6s Parents – Wed 19 April 1pm

We wish to extend a warm invitation to all Year 6 parents to come and have lunch at Carnarvon Golf Club on Wednesday 19 April at 1pm. This will be the venue for the Year 6 Farewell. We will be discussing decoration ideas and food menu for the evening and other roles to help organise this event.

This is an informal lunch and all are most welcome. Please note that this lunch will be at your own expense.

Carnarvon Golf Club is located at Nottinghill Road, Berala. Could you please RSVP by 17th April so we have an indicative number of parents attending in order to book a table at the bistro.

Should you be interested in getting involved or would like to know more, please contact HuiChing Su Baruah on 0411 415 477. Or huiching.baruah@det.nsw.edu.au

HuiChing Su Baruah

2017 UNSW ICAS Competitions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

The 2017 UNSW ICAS Competitions will be taking place throughout Term 2 & 3 for students in years 3-6.

These are non-compulsory assessments and cost $10 for each competition.

Competition Dates

Science: Tuesday 30 May, 2017

English: Tuesday 1 August, 2017

Maths: Tuesday 15 August, 2017

Payments and permission notes need to be placed into the Fee Dropbox in the office by THIS Friday 7 April. Extra notes can be collected from the office and unfortunately no payments will be accepted after this date. Please ensure you have clearly specified which assessments you would like your child to sit on these notes.

Thank you,

Ms Y Lee & Mrs R Perestrelo

ICAS Coordinators

Library News

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

Dear SSPS families and community,

On behalf of all the dedicated staff here at SSPS I would like to thank you for supporting our very successful book fair last week. We made a total of $1417.30 commission that can now be used to purchase additional library resources.

The most rewarding part for me was seeing all the enthusiastic faces, glowing as we discussed our favourite books and practised our money handling life skills.

I will continue to work with SSPS students to keep their excitement for reading alive and purchase resources that our students are interested in reading. We already have copies of new and upcoming book series that I will be announcing to students next week!

Finally, I acknowledge that a few parents were concerned about the price of some books however please be reassured that this will always be a consideration. The company used for this particular fair support local Australian book sellers, publishers, authors and illustrators and offer the school commission on all sales. I am happy to continue to take your feedback on the book fair, and you are always welcome to drop on and have a chat before and after school.

Thank you again for all of your continued support in the library and I wish you a safe and happy school holidays.

Ms Yet Foy

Teacher Librarian

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

Congratulations to the entire school community your outstanding contribution and commitment in Term One.

A huge thank you to all staff who have continued to develop their skills & knowledge through rigorous professional learning programs. Being a teacher is sometimes a thankless, but a very rewarding job. Thank you to all classroom teachers, support staff, Community Language teachers, SLSOs, our school counsellor and specialist teachers for the passion and enthusiasm they demonstrate on a daily basis.

Thank you to the super-efficient administration staff for their daily organisational practices. Effective communication within our school community plays a vital role. The daily notes, messages, newsletters, phone calls, emails and letters sent keep our large school community well informed.

Thank you to Jim, our GA who spends endless hours maintaining our grounds. His work also ensures that our school site is a safe and compliant workplace, particularly important this term with all the renovations and building construction.

Thank you to our effective leadership team of Assistant and Deputy Principals who support student and staff wellbeing and oversee strong teaching and learning programs.

Finally, our parental support continues to have a profound effect on student learning outcomes. Whether the support involves assisting your child with their schoolwork at home, assisting in classrooms, attending School Club meetings or P&C meetings etc. any parental support and involvement has an immeasurable positive effect.

1 Bondi

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:27 AEDT

Term 1 ended with a fantastically colourful Easter hat parade, where children were lucky enough to receive a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Term 2 begins with the commemoration of ANZAC Day. Year 1 has explored the significance of a number of important traditions. We have investigated why people remember with poppies, the reason for one minute silence and why flags are lowered to half mast. We also created a wreath to present at our school remembrance service. Having an understanding of the cost of war and the traditions that surround ANZAC day put us in a better position to show respect for those that fell.

STUDENT BANKING

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

A volunteer request form was distributed late last week to all students in K-2. We invite any parent/carer who would like to come along even if it is just for an hour. Please fill out the form and return to the school office. The energy and commitment that volunteers bring does play a vital role in the success of the program. We meet in the school office foyer very Tuesday morning at 9.15am. It is a wonderful thing to be able to get involved in your child's school and a fabulous opportunity to meet other parents.

This week all students bankers will receive a note from Student Banking reminding you that it is very important that your child's deposit slip is filled out and in the correct manner. We are finding many deposit slips are not completed or not filled out at all. With the amount of deposits that we receive each week, banking already is a time consuming task. It is also important to note that the money is secured in the sealed section of your child's yellow document wallet. Student Banking will replace any yellow document wallets should they have any tears. By following these simple steps it will assist us greatly and to avoid any possible discrepancies with your child's banking. We would appreciate your assistance in regard to this matters.

School Banking is inviting student on a saving adventure into the future. For any student who would like to get involved with the Commonwealth Bank's Student Banking program, please collect a Parent Pack from the school office, which provides all the information you need to know to get your child set off to their saving adventure. The School Banking program is designed to encourage children to get into the habit of making regular savings no matter how small the deposit is. Is it a great fundraiser for the school as each deposit enables 5% of that deposit to the school and when a new account is established $5 is given to the school.

May you all have an amazing week ahead. Any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Lisa Kovac

SSPS Student Banking Co-ordinator

E: sspsstudentbanking@gmail.com

Year 6 2017 Memento Shirts

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

Year 6 class of 2017 memento shirt order forms have been distributed.

Please note that Friday, March 31 is the last day to:

Double-check that the spelling of your name in the class list is correct. The names will be printed on the shirt, so please review this carefully
Try on sample shirts if you are not sure about sizes. Please go outside the front office between 8:30 – 9:15am Thursday 30 March 2017 to do a fitting if needed. This is the last day to try sizes.
Submit your completed order form and cash only payment. No cheques or online payments.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Hui-Ching: 0411 415 477 or Vivian: 0414 646 106

BYOD @ SSPS 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

BYOD @ SSPS 2017

This year we will be extending the BYOD model this year to all Stage 2 & 3 classes with the possibility of one or two Year 2 classes once again in 2017.

Over the last few weeks we have sort external and internal DEC support to test the capacity of our network to ensure we can cater for the expansion of this initiative. We intend on allowing students to bring iPad's early next term after each class has conducted a thorough induction program to ensure appropriate procedures and routines are established.

For further information regarding iPad specifications and our BYOD rationale please attend one of our morning or evening BYOD parent session next Wednesday 5 April.

In the meantime, click the image below to view a quick video that may provide you with some of the logic behind why BYOD is such a growing trend among schools worldwide.

Ms Angie Munns

R/Deputy Principal

K-2 EASTER HAT PARADE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

This year, our Easter Hat Parade for K-2 will be held on Friday 7 April from 9:30am to 11:00am in the K-2 playground.

We look forward to seeing you at the parade.

K-2 Teachers

KIDSMATTER BOUNCE BACK! Week 10 – People Bouncing Back

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

"Our greatest glory is not in ‘never failing', but in rising every time we fall." (Confucius)

Kindergarten: Family Changes – Change happens in everyone's life and that's normal. We can learn to accept change and live with it.

Stage One: Learning from Mistakes and Problems - No one is perfect. We all make mistakes and there are some things we can't do well. A mistake or problem is an opportunity to learn.

Stage Two: Setbacks - Now and then, everyone has difficult or unhappy times. Things always get better, even though sometimes it may take longer to improve than you would like. It is important to stay hopeful and expect things to get better.

Stage Three: Other people can help if you talk to them - You will feel better and gain new ideas about what to do if you talk to someone you trust by telling them what's worrying or upsetting you.

Five more ideas to help your child bounce back:

Don't fight all your child's battles. Children need to experience some difficult times so they learn how to bounce back.
Model the effective navigation of life's hurdles by talking through your thinking or the strategy you will use for solving the problem aloud (when age appropriate). Review different solutions to a problem and the possible consequences of the different solutions.
Avoid offering ‘quick fixes' or ‘feel good' options when things get tough. Rather than distracting them with a movie or treats, let them absorb the tough feelings, with the knowledge that you care that they are hurting, but that this is something they have to experience and grow from, not escape.
Help your child to take responsibility for what happens. When something doesn't work out for them, draw up a pie chart with them of:

How much was due to me?
How much was due to others?
How much was bad luck and circumstances (i.e. being in the wrong place at the wrong time)? Also encourage them to consider the situation from the other person's viewpoint.

When something bad happens for your child, help them to keep things in perspective by asking them:

Does this really matter? Are you getting upset over very little?
On a scale from 1 to 10, how important is this to you?
What's the worst thing that can happen? Do you think you can handle that?
Encourage your child to think about the parts of their life that are still really good (e.g. they lost a friend but they still have other friends in their team, in the street to play with, their school work is going well, nothing has changed at home).

These prompts help your child to stop catastrophising or becoming too upset over things that will naturally get better or improve in time.

KidsMatter Action Team

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers:

Last week we had a very special event that epitomised our school motto ‘Think of Others'. Harmony Day was held on Tuesday to celebrate our cultural diversity and respect for everyone who calls Australia home. The students participated in many different activities where they learnt how all Australians from diverse backgrounds equally belong to this nation and enrich it.

NAPLAN tests for Year 3 and Year 5 will begin on Tuesday 9 May and conclude Thursday 11 May. Please ensure your child is present on these 3 days. If your child is absent due to sickness a catch-up day on Friday 12 May is available. Tests will be administered by classroom teachers and will begin at 9am. It is extremely important students arrive to school on time on all of the test days.

Our school has been fortunate to have amazing volunteers who educate our students about different religions and cultures. If you would be interested in teaching Ethics to our students, please contact me on 9642 1359. Ethics is a branch of philosophy that examines ethical concepts and issues, asking what is right or wrong in different circumstances.

We wish the Year 6 children a happy, safe and fun 3 days at Camp this week. A huge thank you to the staff that are leaving their homes and families to give this amazing opportunity of experiential learning and team building to our Year 6 students.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Ms Monica Cidem

R/Principal

1 Akuna

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:27 AEDT

This week the students in 1A were very excited to welcome iPads into our daily classroom activities. We've loved exploring various apps that support literacy development in learning centres. Our integrated learning centres allow us to consolidate a range of concepts in various ways. We enjoy playing our addition board games that allow us to use a variety of addition strategies to solve the questions. In addition, students in 1A listened to the story 'King Pig' by Nick Bland and have been busy challenging themselves to write a descriptive retell of the story. This week in sport, we have been practicing our Fundamental Movement Skills with other Year 1 and Year 2 classes.

K Wattle

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

KW was very excited by the arrival of our chicken eggs this week. There has been an atmosphere of genuine eagerness to not only see the eggs hatch and baby chicks grow but also one of excitement towards learning by becoming engaged in shared and concrete learning experiences along the way. KW was very lucky to be observing the eggs when one hatched in front of them. As a result students were able to concentrate on their fine motor development as they created their artwork. This experience has formed a key part in the initial exploration of living things which we will delve further into later on.

K Eucalypt

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:43 AEDT

In KE, we have enjoyed spending time with our new furry friends. We observed the eggs and watched the chicks hatch. They have been growing stronger in the warm incubator. We even got to hold them.

This week we visited our year 1-6 library. We love our cosy Kindergarten friendly library, but also enjoyed spending time in a different learning space. Look at all those books being sold at the book fair. There are so many to choose from!!!

K Acacia

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

What an exciting start to the year KA has had! Here are some photos of the students having fun while collaboratively learning during numeracy and literacy groups.

KA are currently experiencing the Living eggs program, were they watch chicks hatch, grow and develop in their very own classroom!

The children of KA also like visiting neighbouring classes to perform what they have read in stories such as the "The Little Red Hen."

K Myrtle

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:43 AEDT

K-Myrtle students have listened to the fairy-tale "Little Red Riding Hood" and are busy making Little Red Riding Hood.

Students in K Myrtle have been challenging themselves in reading at the L3 literacy table. They have also been working hard to learn their weekly sight words.

K Banksia

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:42 AEDT

This week KB were introduced to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and worked collaboratively to develop their problem solving skills. They were set a challenge to build a house for the Three Little Pigs using any material of choice- blocks, straws, matchsticks, paddle pop sticks and playdough. Their houses were tested to see if it would survive the Big Bad Wolf's huff and puff using a hairdryer! Despite the difficulties, the students stayed positive, did not give up and made changes to improve their house.

KB learnt that it is okay to make mistakes because they help us to grow and we are excited for our next STEM challenge!

K Grevillea

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:43 AEDT

This week, KG participated in a STEM activity which incorporates Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. Our challenge was to build a STRONG house to keep the Three Little Pigs safe from the Big Bad Wolf! We made sure to use our Growth Mindset so that even when our house got blown down, we never gave up and kept trying.

Parent Reading Group

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Join our SSPS Reading Group for adults reading children's books!

I have a limited number of copies left, so please contact me if you would like one.

SCHOOL PAYMENTS

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:51 AEDT

Due to the recent change in the school's finance system we will no longer be accepting EFTPOS payments from Term 2.

Preferred payment methods are cash or cheque in an envelope with the child's name, class and what the payment is for into the fees box or online payment.

Online payment method -

Go to www.strathfies-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Select Make a payment
Follow the prompts. NOTE: only the fields marked with a green asterisk () are mandatory

2017 UNSW ICAS Competitions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

The 2017 UNSW ICAS Competitions will be taking place throughout Term 2 & 3 for students in years 3-6.

These are non-compulsory assessments and cost $10 for each competition.

Competition Dates

Science: Tuesday 30 May, 2017

English: Tuesday 1 August, 2017

Maths: Tuesday 15 August, 2017

Payments and permission notes specifying which assessments you would like your child to sit will need to be placed into the Fee Dropbox in the office by Friday 7th of April. Extra notes can be collected from the office and unfortunately no payments will be accepted after this date.

Thank you,

Ms Y Lee & Mrs R Perestrelo

ICAS Coordinators

Harmony Day 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

Harmony Day is held each year on 21 March. It's a day to celebrate our cultural diversity. It's about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. The message of Harmony Day is everyone belongs.

Harmony Day has always been a community celebration. Since 1999, more than 70 000 events and activities have been held across the country, from the smallest childcare centres to the largest businesses.

Harmony Day coincides with the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Did you know?

Almost half of Australians were born overseas or have a parent who was.
People from more than 200 countries make up our Australian community and 300 languages are spoken in our homes.
Apart from English the most common languages spoken in Australia are Mandarin, Italian, Arabic, Cantonese, Greek, Vietnamese, Tagalog/Filipino, Spanish and Hindi.

Tomorrow students will be reflecting on the Harmony Day message and what it means to us as a school community within their classroom with targeted lessons.

Ms A Munns

R/ Deputy Principal

Library – BOOK FAIR Reminder

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

The Book Fair will commence this week on Thursday 23 March and run until the following Thursday 30 March.

Different mornings and afternoons will be available for students and their families to purchase books.

Students can also purchase books during their library lesson.

Please refer to the note brought home today for more information. We look forward to seeing you all there!

Ms Yet-Foy

Librarian

Parent Information Mornings

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

Click below links to access each presentation

Early Stage One - https://goo.gl/zlvIMh

Stage One - https://goo.gl/4BJ95o

Stage Two - https://goo.gl/gpzOP0

Stage Three – https://goo.gl/VWm5cu

Class Parent Representative – Induction Sessions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Invitations will soon be sent home to parents who have nominated themselves to be their child's Class Parent Representative for the Class Communication Program. These parents will be invited to attend an Induction Presentation to learn about the role and to further discuss the protocols for the program. There will be two identical sessions run at different times of the day. Tea and coffee will be provided.

Session 1: Thursday 30 March 2017, 8:15-9:00am

Session 2: Thursday 30 March 2017, 2:15-3:00pm

Thank you for volunteering your time to assist with this program.

Ms Kylie Halliday (Deputy Principal)

Mrs Dilum Dassanayake (Parent Contact)

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Principal's Report

Dear Parent and Carers,

Last week 29 Strathfield South students competed at the Western Suburbs PSSA Zone Swimming Carnival. Nineteen schools from across the zone were represented at the carnival with over 400 students participating on the day. Congratulations to all 29 students who represented the school with such distinction on the day. A huge congratulations to Sonia Lee, Christian Toia and Luke Toia who represented our district at the Sydney East PSSA Swimming Championships. To our super strong swimmers, Christian and Luke Toia, congratulations for making it through to the State Swimming Championships. We wish you all the very best.

A huge thank you to our School Club for hosting the Welcome BBQ for our new parents and their children. It was a warm, welcoming community atmosphere that celebrated the strengthening partnership between the school, students and parents. Thank you also to our School Prefects, who supported the evening, helping out in many ways.

On Friday our school was notified by the Principal at Strathfield South High School that there was an incident that morning with a male trying to take a female student from out the front of their school. The man was dressed in a black tracksuit with white strips.

Following this phone call, all teachers conducted an explicit Child Protection lesson and the school gates were locked for the whole day. At times, this is necessary to ensure the safety of our students and staff. If the gate is ever locked, please call the school and we will give you access.

As parents, it is really important that you have conversations with your children about stranger danger, without instilling fear. Discuss and role-play with your children possible strategies that could be used should they be approached by a stranger.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Monica Cidem

R/Principal

Speech And Occupational Therapy Parent Information Session

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:39 AEDT

This is our 4^th year using the services of the Speech Pathologist from Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists in the Educational Speech Pathology & Therapy. Anastasia Karagiannis and her team bring to our school, years of experience working with school children to support and enhance their academic skills, build self-esteem, persistence, resilience and social skills.

At this stage, all Kindergarten students are involved in the program in both whole class and small group activities. Kindergarten students with more specific needs will be part of a more intense program that Anastasia will facilitate.

This is our first year where Sophie Mansour, an Occupational Therapist from Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists in the Educational Speech Pathology & Therapy will work with our Stage 1 teachers and students once a fortnight. These practical, rigorous and proven intervention approaches, allow for action based learning, which brings about sustainable change that teachers and SLSOs (Student Learning Support Officer) can apply in their teaching.

If you would like to know more about this program, Anastasia and Sophie will be conducting a parent information session on Friday, 24 March at 8.15am in the library. All parents are welcome to attend this session as the strategies discussed may also be suitable for your child at home.

Ms M Cidem

Deputy Principal

Class Parent Representative – Induction Sessions

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Session 1: Thursday 30 March 2017, 8:15-9:00am

Session 2: Thursday 30 March 2017, 2:15-3:00pm

Thank you for volunteering your time to assist with this program.

Ms Kylie Halliday (Deputy Principal)

Mrs Dilum Dassanayake (Parent Contact)

Zone Swimming Carnival

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

What a fantastic day we had last Wednesday! Twenty-nine Strathfield South students made their way to Ashfield Pool to compete in the Western Suburbs Zone PSSA Swimming Carnival. The students had a wonderful day, represented the school with pride and competed to their best of their ability. Their efforts resulted in Strathfield South placing fourth overall in the zone. Christian Toia, Sonia Lee and Luke Toia will be representing Western Suburbs at the Sydney East Regional Carnival this afternoon; we wish them the best of luck.

Thank you to Ms Bonifacio and Mrs Kostadinovski for assisting on the day and a big congratulation to Ms Munns for convening the entire Zone event.

Also in other swimming news, please be aware that the senior Strathfield South Carnival ribbons will be handed out during this week's assembly and the winning house will be announced.

Mr Matthews

Swimming Carnival Coordinator

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:48 AEDT

Dear Parent and Carers,

SSPS - SUBSTANTIAL GAIN IN NUMERACY; ACARA REPORTS

This has been an exciting week for our community, in connection with our learning programs and the media.

Our school has been identified by ACARA as having achieved significant gains in NAPLAN results, with significantly above average gains in numeracy.

http://www.smh.com.au/national/education/my-school-the-naplan-big-improvers-revealed-20170306-gus4wx.html

A photo of Ms Halliday and some students were published in The Australian newspaper last Wednesday 8 March.

In addition, interviews were held with students, Mrs Kerry Vickery (parent) and Ms Alexiou for the ABC news. Ms Cidem and I were interviewed by phone. This segment went to air last week on Channel 2 on the 7pm news. The link is: https://youtu.be/zd34PnoZIn4

I would like to thank everyone for participating in promoting our school. I am so proud of the SSPS staff, students and community, for 'stepping into the spotlight' so quickly and so professionally. There is never a dull moment in an educational setting and we have certainly risen to the occasion!

WHILST I AM ON LEAVE

I will be taking personal leave from my role as Principal until the end of Term 1. In my absence, Ms Cidem will be relieving as Principal. During this time, I will be completing a Principal study tour of Finland. I will share this interesting educational experience on my return.

I look forward to seeing you all in Term 2.

Have a wonderful week everyone,

Karen Mortimer

Principal

P&C SCHOOL CLUB MEETING/AGM

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

School Club is a daytime parent group (a sub-committee of the P&C) active in supporting the teachers and students of the School through activities and fundraising events.

We warmly invite all parents, grandparents and carers to our meeting at 9am, THIS Wednesday 8th March 2017. We meet in the office inside the School Library. A member of the school executive will be present to answer any questions. We will have a short presentation on last year's "Tell Them From Me" Survey. We would love to see new faces. This is a great opportunity to meet and get to know the staff and other parents and find out what is happening at school.

This meeting is also our AGM. Nomination Forms and position descriptions are available in hard copy from the School Office spinner. All School Club positions are mentored, so do consider joining the executive, even if you are new!

Any questions to Nichola Beukes 0435 413 548

School Club Convener

SWIMMING CARNIVAL 2017

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

What a wonderful day we had last Monday at our swimming carnival. It was great to see so many students take part in the events held that day. While coming first is excellent, participation is equally important and we had more swimmers this year than in 2016. We wish all students participating in the Zone Carnival on Wednesday the best of luck.

Mr Matthews

Swimming Carnival Coordinator

SSPS TWITTER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

For those of you within our school community that you have tapped into the world of Twitter, you're not alone - we have too! In an attempt to increase engagement with our school programs we are now sharing short videos, images and links to keep you connected and informed.

Our first must see links this year will be of our PARENT INFORMATION SESSIONS running over the next two weeks by our dedicated SSPS staff. Later in the year we aim to progress this platform further with opportunities for live streaming sessions and twitter chats. Our account is @StrathfieldSPS - join the conversation!

CODING CLUB

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

The SSPS Coding Club would like to thank the community for the support we have received this year. Due to overwhelming popularity, the Semester 1 Coding Club is now full and no more expressions of interest can be taken at this time. Places will become available in Term 3 for students interested in enrolling in the Semester 2 Coding Club. We look forward to hearing from you then.

Ms Ellen Blinco

SSPS Coding Club

KIDSMATTER BOUNCE BACK! Week 7 Unit: Core Values

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

What can you do to help your child develop and live by good values?

Here are 4 more ideas:

Give your child regular chores and give them positive feedback when they do these without being reminded. Stress that people will trust and respect you more when you behave responsibly.
Model cooperative behaviours for your child by working with them on a project (e.g. building a model) or task (e.g. tidying up the garage). Comment on how and why things went well (e.g. you both did a good share of the work, each did the part they were good at and each respected what the other person did).
Provide opportunities for your child to socialise with their extended family, neighbours and friends, and participate in community groups such as clubs and sporting teams.
Emphasise the importance of being friendly and accepting differences in people and discuss with your child how they might do this in each situation. Show them by example too.
Never give up! Sometimes there is a ‘sleeper effect' and values that your child didn't seem to ‘take up' at an earlier age pop up in their behaviour when they are older.

Kindergarten: Being Responsible - Being responsible means not letting people down. It means doing the things that you have to do without being reminded. It also means choosing sensible behaviour instead of silly or unsafe behaviour.

Stage 1 and Stage 2: Cooperation - Cooperating means working together with someone to achieve something that you both want. It requires sharing ideas and resources, listening, encouraging each other, making sure that both of you have a say, doing your share of the work, and making decisions together that are fair to both of you.

Stage 3: Friendliness and Inclusion - Being friendly means being kind and welcoming to others and trying to include people (even if they are not your close friends or they are people who are sometimes hard to like). This means looking in their eyes and smiling, saying hello, being kind and inviting them to join in games and conversations. Being friendly towards strangers is not a good thing to do until you are very sure they are safe people.

LIBRARY WELCOME

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

Library Operation

We will begin our lessons in the Library this week and I would just like to give everyone an overview of our guidelines for using the library this term.

Library lessons will run from K-6 Monday – Thursday.
Students are required to have waterproof library bag to be able to borrow, this helps us to protect our precious school resources.
Bags can be purchased from the uniform shop if you need one.
Books are on loan for 1 week, returning on their next library lesson. Please bring books back if they are not finished and they will be renewed for you.
If a book gets lost or damaged please send a note with your child to let me know.
Library lunch time –

The library will be open at 2^nd half of lunch time starting this week. Welcome and many thanks to those students who have willingly signed up to be a library monitor. Please see your teacher for the timetable if you put your name down.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Dear Parents

My name is Virginia Villar and I am a Home School Liaison Officer who monitors attendance at Strathfield South Public School. Section 22 of the Education Act (1990) states that it is the duty of the parent of a child of compulsory school-age to cause the child:

(a) to be enrolled at, and to attend, a government school or a registered non-government school, or

(b) to be registered for home schooling with the Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES) and to receive instruction in accordance with the conditions to which the registration is subject.

1.2 All students who are enrolled at school, regardless of their age, are expected to attend that school whenever instruction is provided.

Below is some information and facts that are relevant to your child's partial and whole day absences from school.

When a child misses:

3 days per term over 7 years at Primary school = almost ½ a year of school

10 days per term= 40 days in a year = almost 1 term missed

Over 7 years of Primary School this equals 280 days or 1 ½ School Years missed

20 minutes late on a regular basis, translates to up to 1 hour of lost effective learning time. Lateness can throw children out of routine for the entire day.

Children with a high numbers of days absent and lateness from school have difficulties adjusting to school routines, and can fall behind in their school work as they lose valuable learning time.

Children with a high number of days absent and lateness from school can also find it difficult to make or keep friends and may feel socially isolated from their peer group and classroom routines.

Being at school every day and on time is important. It teaches children:

To be Punctual.

To be Respectful.

To become strong and confident learners

The importance of routine.

To be Responsible

To form strong friendships

A note should always be provided for absences within 7 days from that absence. If a note is not provided within that time frame it is recorded as unjustified and remains on the student's record.

Children are our future and in order for them to be successful in adult life we must teach them good routine, responsibility and the importance of education at a young age.

If families need support or have any queries I can be contacted through the school.

Kind Regards

Virginia Villar

Home School Liaison Officer

KIDSMATTER BOUNCE BACK!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

Week 5 Unit: Core Values

Our values are statements about how we think we should behave and what we believe is important. Our values are our moral map, which guide our behaviour and actions. Acting on these values can increase your child's sense of being a decent, worthwhile person and help them to be more resilient.

Here are some key messages to communicate to your child to follow on from their Bounce Back! lesson this week about values.

Kindergarten: Not Cheating – Being honest and fair means following the rules and not cheating; it means giving things back when they belong to someone else and ‘owning up' when you have done the wrong thing.

Stage 1: Being kind and supportive to people we don't know - Being kind means caring about other people and their wellbeing, and showing support and thoughtfulness to others, whether we know them or not.

Stage 2: What is fair? - Being fair means following the rules and not cheating; it means returning favours and kindnesses, and helping others to get justice and a fair deal.

Stage 3: Respect - Being respectful means treating others as you would like them to treat you. It means thinking about other people's feelings and rights, being polite and using good manners, and not insulting or hurting others or their property. If you want people to respect your rights, then you have to respect their rights.

KidsMatter Action Team

CLASS PARENT COMMUNICATION PROGRAM

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:36 AEDT

Due to it`s huge success in 2016, we are eager to implement the Class Parent Communication program again this year. It is a voluntary initiative whereby parents agree to share their contact details with other parents in the class. Once parents have indicated their preference, the nominated Class Parent Representative/s for each class, will circulate the class contact list. Please note, your details will not be circulated without your consent.

In addition, the Class Parent Representative`s role will be to act as a link between the class/school and families. It will involve a weekly or fortnightly email with messages from the teacher or school as required and information about any upcoming events, such as the Fete, concerts etc. It can also be used to organise social events for the class such as social get-togethers or play-dates and in particular, to welcome new families to the class.

This communication opportunity is for positive news, updates and feedback only. It is not intended, under ANY circumstances, to be used for parents with concerns to communicate with other parents. Any concerns, in line with school policy, should be addressed through the office or the classroom teacher. Furthermore, anything of a commercial or business nature should not be sent within the group. It is fundamental that all involved respect the privacy of all families on the class list.

The Class Parent Communication Program aims to facilitate teacher/parent communication and enhance community interactions and involvement at Strathfield South Public School. Classroom teachers will be seeking permission from you to be placed on the class contact list during Meet the Teacher parent interviews in week 7and 8 this term. Interest in the Class Representative Role can also be expressed at this time.

Further information regarding an induction program for the self-nominated Class Representative/s will be advertised shortly.

Ms Kylie Halliday (DP)

Dilum Dassanaayake (Parent Contact)

STUDENT SAFETY IS A CONCERN FOR EVERYONE

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

Please pay strict attention to kiss and ride parking regulations, and be mindful of traffic congestion from 3pm – 3:15pm particularly. Never approach discourteous drivers about their behaviour. This is the role of Strathfield Council traffic patrol and the police. You are best to ring them about such matters. The school cannot ring on your behalf. We can, however, address student safety issues, so please report these to our office by email or phone.

BEING SAFE BEFORE SCHOOL

In order to ensure student safety we encourage all children to be seated at the 3-6 silver seats prior to 8:30am. Please do not sit down and wait with your child in the K-2 area prior to 8:30 when a teacher is officially on duty in the K-2 playground. We have found other young children become confused if they see children in the K-2 Cola area before 8:30am.

Karen Mortimer

Principal

STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:54 AEDT

The Civics and Citizenship guidelines for Primary Schools aim to build students' active participation Australia's diverse and dynamic society. Congratulations to all those students who have joined a civics and citizenship activity since we started school this week. Our school is noted for offering so many opportunities, supporting a lifelong sense of belonging to and engagement with civic life as an active and informed citizen. Some of the activities we have offered so far include representing our school at

PSSA summer sport
Stage 3 senior choir
Stage 2 junior choir
Symphonia Jubilate community of schools orchestra
K-2 strings program
Recorder consort

2017 CLASSES

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

Apologies for the teacher omissions in last week's Scene. Class names and teachers are complete this week.

Kindergarten –Flora theme

KA – Acacia – Mrs Julie Ibrahim and Mrs Pat McMurtrie

KB – Banksia – Ms Susan Lee

KE – Eucalypt – Ms Serena Ridani

KG – Grevillea – Ms Caitlin Barker

KM – Myrtle – Mrs Pina Meduri

KW – Wattle – Ms Grace Leva

Stage 1 –Beach theme

1A – Akuna – Ms Luisa Mascitelli

1B – Bondi – Ms Elizabeth Lechlein

1C – Coogee – Mr Richie Kim

1E – Ettalong – Ms Sian Tutt

2G – Gunnamatta – Ms Thalia Ta

2M – Maroubra – Ms Ellen Blinco

2T – Tamarama – Mrs Fatima Hamad

2U – Umina – Mrs Sharon Lambkin

2W – Wanda – Ms Tamara Dunlop

2Y – Yowie – Ms tammy Tsang

Stage 2 –National Parks / Landmarks theme

3C – Conjola – Mr Grant Mason

3D – Daintree – Ms Yena lee

3F – Franklin – Ms Carmela Giamboi

3G – Grampians – Mrs Rebecca Perestrelo

4K – Kakadu – Mr Chris Matthews

4N – Ningaloo – Ms Jessica Bonifacio

4U – Uluru – Ms Joan Kennedy

4W – Wollemi – Mrs Donna Hall

Stage 3 – Artist theme

S3B – Bancroft – Ms Emily Tsailis (Mrs Christalla Haili until March 13)

S3D – Drysdale – Mrs Tracey Kostadinovski

S3L – Lewin – Mr Calvin Hua

S3N – Nolan – Ms Meredith Weaver

S3O – Olley – Mrs Kiranjit Randhawa

S3P – Preston – Ms Michelle Kaim

S3S – Streeton – Ms Lisa-Maree Gainsford

STITCH & CHAT GROUP

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:53 AEDT

P&C School Club invite you to join our SSPS Stitch and Chat group! Bring your creative work (knitting/crochet/needlework) along to this informal self-led group. We each work on our own projects. If you are a beginner we will teach you! Join us to take your first steps. If you would like to learn to knit bring along some chunky wool and 6mm or larger needles. If you would like to learn to crochet bring along some double knit 8 ply wool and 4mm hook. We will show you the rest. Open to all SSPS parents, grandparents and carers. We meet weekly in the School Library on Fridays 9am – 10am. There is no charge. Beginners welcome. Questions? Nicola Beukes

0435 413 548

How to get the SSPS School App

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Search the Apps Store for "Strathfield South Public School" Download the Free App!

Username: Community

Password: StrathfieldSthPS

KIDSMATTER

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:44 AEDT

Under the guidance of the KidsMatter Framework, our SSPS KidsMatter Action team has done extensive research on the various Social and Emotional programs available to schools. It is very difficult to choose 1 program to implement but after a 6 month journey, SSPS is excited to announce that we are introducing Bounce Back to the school community. This program has nine curriculum units: Core Values, People Bouncing Back, Courage, Looking on the Bright Side, Emotions, Relationships, Humour, No Bullying and Success. We will continue to give you updates on Bounce Back as well as the KidsMatter journey.

Thank you

KidsMatter Action Team

Learning Management Business Reform (LMBR)

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

Please Note: the school office will be closed every day for Term 1 from10:00-11:00am for training.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we transition to our new finance system.

If you have any questions, please contact the school office on 9642 1359.

P&C School Club

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:47 AEDT

A warm welcome to all new families and returning parents, grandparents and carers to SSPS. School Club is a daytime parent group active in supporting the teachers and students of the School through activities and fundraising events. We warmly invite all parents, grandparents and carers to our first meeting at 9am NEXT Wednesday 8 February 2017. A member of the school executive will be present to answer any questions. We would love to see new faces. This is a great opportunity to meet and get to know the staff and other parents and find out what is happening at school.

Please contact Nichola Beukes on 0435 413 548 if you have any questions.

Canteen News

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

Canteen Renovations are still in progress and it is anticipated that it may be finished by the end of February.

Lunch orders are to be placed through Munchmonitor only.

During this period of time:

Only limited menu will be available for orders
Lunch will be online order only

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding for the inconvenience you may face during this time.

UNAVAILABLE ITEMS DURING RENOVATION:

NO BREAKFAST MEALS AVAILABLE DURING RENOVATIONS
All Burgers
All Sandwiches
All Wraps
Fried Rice
Dumplings
Butter Chicken
Pizza
Pasta Bolognese
Rice Paper Roll

LIMITED ITEMS DURING RENOVATIONS:

From Monday 30 January 2017 to

28 February 2017

Corn Cobbett
Spinach & Cheese Roll
Chicken Nuggets
Chicken Wedges
Sweet Chilli Tender
Pizza Pie
Junior Pie
Sausage Roll
Cruiser Pie
Halal Pie
Potato Pie
Manouche - Monday & Wednesday only
Sushi - Tuesday & Friday only

Important Dates and Changes to Canteen due to renovations:

Canteen has relocated to the staff common room for start of Term 1
Daily Special Hot Food (such as, fried rice, dumpling, rice paper roll, butter chicken and Bolognese will be UNAVAILABLE.

Hui-Ching Su Baruah

Canteen Manager

Welcome Back

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:58 AEDT

Dear Parents and Carers:

Welcome to 2017 everyone! I hope your children have enjoyed their first day back at school and families are set to get back into more settled routines.

I would like to extend a very warm welcome to all our Kindergarten children and their families, and also to those new students that have started in other school years.

We will be holding a Welcome BBQ this term.

Details will be distributed as soon as possible.

At present your children are in a holding class whilst we secure our student numbers, allowing us to form permanent classes for 2017. This should not take too many days. In the meantime this is a chance for our students to reconnect to school after such a long break, establish old friendships and make new friends, and meet new staff on a formal and informal basis.

Stay as cool as possible everyone in this predicted heatwave. Rest assured our classrooms are air-conditioned and we keep students inside should the weather be extreme.

Have a wonderful week.

Karen Mortimer

Principal

LAST

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:46 AEDT

Students from LAST working really hard in the library room to improve their literacy skills.

Korean

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:45 AEDT

Italian

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:41 AEDT

Throughout the year children have learnt about the Italian language and culture. They have studied various artists, buildings, and inventors from Italy as well as many grammatical and linguistic structures involved in Italian.

Congratulations also to Zoe and Carmela from year 2 on receiving an Italian Certificate for outstanding work in Italian

Signora Valente-Spina

Implementation of STEM Robotics in Year 6

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

Students use Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics to construct an EV3 Lego Mindstrom robot and program the bot to race on a track designed by them. This requires students to develop and use their knowledge of proprietary programming language. The process of design thinking is used to develop a solution for a real-world problem that can be solved using mobile robots.

Electrifying Energy in 6F!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:37 AEDT

6F have started off Term 4 with some scientific thinking and experimentation on electric circuits. The students in 6F have discovered how energy and heat creates light on a smaller scale by building their own circuits using wires, batteries and light bulbs. There has been a lot of prediction, measuring and recording of results.

I think there may be some future scientists lurking in 6F!

We Are All Born Free! 5G

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:57 AEDT

This term 5G have been developing their understanding of how Australia is connected to the world. We began our topic by introducing Human Rights and discussing Australia's role in maintaining them as global citizens. 5G produced some creative work to showcase their understanding of what Human Rights are and why they are important.

4B Pen Licences!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:32 AEDT

Students in 4B have been working consistency during handwriting lessons with the aim of receiving their much anticipated pen licence. These students have shown their handwriting has reached a certain level with accuracy and neatness. Congratulations to Fiona Liu, Chloe Chiu, Kiana Chiu, Grace Gao, and Matthew Ng on graduating to writing in ink. Miss Bonifacio is very proud of your effort.

Term 3 Fun in 3K!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:56 AEDT

What a busy term we have had in 3K. We really enjoyed our Olympic Day games especially the tug of war. We celebrated Book Week by dressing up as various book characters. In the photo you can probably spot Harry Potter, Mrs Trunchbull and The Cat in the Hat. What a great day we had!

4A- Full STEAM ahead in STEM!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:32 AEDT

Students have been working collaboratively on their STEM program this week in 4A.

STEM involves Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and our class have been thoroughly enjoying the new approaches to common topics within these dynamic learning activities. Here are just a few of their comments so far;

"It was definitely VERY fun!" - Matthew

" Everything involves group tasks, working together which is very fun." - Richard

They've been very reflective during the process also with comments like;

" We had a few difficulties when the ramp was too steep..." - Edmund

" Communication was key!" - Eizar

" Our teams really had to work together... " - Josiah

And we learnt some valuable lessons and key knowledge centring around friction, gravity and force. We can't wait to do more!

Lots of learning in 3T!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:32 AEDT

In 3T we explored ‘Area', students estimated and then constructed a square metre using newspaper. The teams were very close; one team was only 10 centimetres bigger on one side.

We also celebrated NAIDOC week by creating dot paintings. Students traced their hands and also choose an Aboriginal symbol; the symbol in this artwork represents a campsite.

BYOD in 2T!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:35 AEDT

2T has been engaging in collaborative learning using our iPads in geography. We are developing inquiry skills through our research project on Australian landmarks. Working together in small groups, we are creating informational posters and oral presentations to communicate and share our knowledge with our peers. We are learning so much about places such as the Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef and Ayers Rock!

2M and 3D Shapes!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:30 AEDT

2M and 3D Shapes!

In 2M we have been learning about 3D objects. Students worked in small groups and used hands-on activities to learn about the properties of 3D objects.

A week in the life of a 1L minion!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:33 AEDT

On Monday, 1L had a visit from ‘Money Girl'. She taught us all about the Australian currency and how to distinguish between ‘needs' and ‘wants' when we go to the shops.

On Wednesday, we celebrated Luka turning 7 – we were so excited!

This week in learning centres, the 1L minions have been very busy. Some of the learning centres that we got to choose from included; post-card writing, ‘Story Box' on the computers, ‘Groups of…' bingo and making letters on pin boards.

IT’s Schoolyard Safari!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:40 AEDT

1T have had a great start back to term 2 and are settling back into the routine of school. This term in science we will be studying animals that live in our school environment and learning about what allows them to move, feed and protect themselves.

We were all very excited to start our schoolyard safari. We found lots of interesting creatures and recorded our findings. We searched high and low for different animals and we even found a cricket! When we returned to class we drew pictures of the animals that we found. We can't wait to go exploring again.

Fun in KL

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

We are working hard in KL to add and subtract numbers. We are learning how to use counters and ten frames to help us check our work. We are even writing them in number sentences!

Look at the Easter Hats we made in class. We can't wait for the Easter Bunny to visit our class.

We have been sharing our favourite pieces of art during news this week. This is David with his artwork. He drew a map of Australia and flags of the world.

A busy week with KS super stars!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:32 AEDT

KS have been practising their sight words every day and are quickly growing into confident readers. Our favourite literacy activity is Sight Word Fishing. Look at how many fish we have caught!

We had our first visit from the Year 6 buddies this week and we are so excited to continue reading with them every Monday.

KS are learning about the properties of two-dimensional shapes in Maths. We found many 2D shapes in our classroom, playground and at home. We used the shapes to create pictures on the Interactive Whiteboard and had fun guessing what they were.

In our Science lessons we have been going outside daily to observe and record the ever-changing weather conditions. We have also predicted the forecast using weather reports.

KS also participated in the Clean Up Australia Day with the whole school. We had our hands full sorting through different types of rubbish. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn about the importance of recycling and keeping our playground tidy. Way to go KS!

Fun in KG!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:38 AEDT

KG made monkey masks for Speaking and Listening lessons using " I am" and "I like" sight word sentences with their friends.

KG used their Inquiry Learning skill of Observation for Science lessons on the weather. We later drew our observations of the sky.

KG used all the water colours of the rainbow to create artworks for the Year of the Monkey.

KG are learning to Count On using number lines.

KR have been busy bees!

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 03:55:45 AEDT

KR have been busy bees!

KR have had a wonderful start to Kindergarten. We are getting used to our new routine and have discovered how amazing reading is! We particularly love having our daily fruit break while we listen to a story. Another thing we love about school is visiting the library with the wonderful Mrs Kobeleff.

We had our first assembly this week, which was an exciting experience. Of course we were overjoyed when we won Big Ted for our outstanding behaviour. He is spending the week in our classroom and has even visited the library with us!

We are discovering how fun learning can be. One of our favourite activities is Maths groups. We play lots of fun and interactive, games and use lots of hands on, concrete materials. We have been learning to count forwards and backwards to and from 20.

We look forward to all the new and exciting learning experiences we will have in KR.