Table of Contents PARENT HANDBOOK – 2015 ....................................................................................................................2 WELCOME .....................................................................................................................................................3 MISSION STATEMENT ....................................................................................................................................3 QUALITIES OF ANGELS ..................................................................................................................................3 HISTORY OF GUARDIAN ANGELS PARISH PRIMARY SCHOOL.........................................................................3 THE GUARDIAN ANGELS SCHOOL CREST ......................................................................................................3 GUARDIAN ANGELS SCHOOL STAFF ..................................................................................................4 SCHOOL LEADERSHIP TEAM 2015 .................................................................................................................4 TEACHING STAFF 2015 ..................................................................................................................................4 2015 CLASSES - GOLD, BLUE, MAROON, WHITE ...........................................................................................4 MAROON .......................................................................................................................................................4 SUPPORT STAFF .............................................................................................................................................4 THE SCHOOL DAY – IMPORTANT INFORMATION ..........................................................................5 SCHOOL HOURS .............................................................................................................................................5 TERM DATES 2015 ........................................................................................................................................5 HOURS OF DUTY AND SUPERVISION ..............................................................................................................5 PARKING AND VEHICLE ACCESS TO SCHOOL.................................................................................................5 MORNING DROP OFF ......................................................................................................................................6 PLAY BEFORE SCHOOL ..................................................................................................................................6 AFTERNOON PICK UP .....................................................................................................................................6 GENERAL INFORMATION .......................................................................................................................7 ABSENCE FOR FAMILY HOLIDAY ...................................................................................................................7 ACCIDENT INSURANCE ..................................................................................................................................7 ANGELS CHALLENGES – GUARDIAN ANGELS’ ALTERNATIVE TO HOMEWORK ...............................................7 ASSEMBLIES ..................................................................................................................................................7 ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL .............................................................................................................................7 BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT ..........................................................................................................................8 BUDDY PROGRAM .........................................................................................................................................8 CANTEEN .......................................................................................................................................................8 COMMUNICATION ..........................................................................................................................................8 CURRICULUM: .............................................................................................................................................10 DAY CARE - LONG.......................................................................................................................................10 DENTAL VAN AND COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES ...................................................................................10 DE PAUL VILLA ...........................................................................................................................................10 EXCURSIONS AND SCHOOL CAMPS ..............................................................................................................10 EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................................10 FEES AND LEVIES 2015................................................................................................................................11 HOUSE COLOURS .........................................................................................................................................13 LIBRARY RESOURCE CENTRE ......................................................................................................................13 MEDICAL INFORMATION ..............................................................................................................................13 MOBILE PHONES ..........................................................................................................................................14 NUT FREE SCHOOL - WE ENDEAVOUR TO BE...............................................................................................14 OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE (O.S.H.C.) ................................................................................................14 OUTREACH ACTIVITIES ...............................................................................................................................14 PARENTS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION .........................................................................................................15 Page 1/20 PARENTS SPORTING CODE OF CONDUCT .....................................................................................................15 PATRON PARENTS........................................................................................................................................16 PRIVACY UNDERTAKINGS ...........................................................................................................................16 REPORTING PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................................16 SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMS .........................................................................................................................16 SCHOOL BANKING .......................................................................................................................................16 STUDENT SUPPORT ...............................................................................................................................17 MACKILLOP CENTRE...................................................................................................................................17 GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR .............................................................................................................................17 SPORT........................................................................................................................................................18 SPORTING HOUSE CAPTAINS .......................................................................................................................18 TOYS AT SCHOOL ........................................................................................................................................18 UNIFORM .....................................................................................................................................................18 UNIFORM SHOP.......................................................................................................................................19 VISITORS SIGN-IN PROCEDURES........................................................................................................20 PARENT HANDBOOK – 2015 Page 2/20 Welcome Welcome to Guardian Angels Parish Primary School. We are proud of the fact that ours is a “great family school”. Parents are always welcomed and encouraged to participate as much as they can in the excitement of their children’s primary education. By taking the time to read this booklet, you will discover not only some of the great things in which your children will be participating, but also, ways in which you, the parents and friends of our school, can get involved to make this the educational experience of a lifetime for you and all your family. Mission Statement Guardian Angels is a rich environment conducive to the growth and development of children for the future. We bring alive, through our actions, the mission of Jesus in our world. Our core is our faith and spirit, supporting a community of learners that is connected through rich relationships and continuous learning. At Guardian Angels we shape, enrich and care for our universe by nurturing the gifts and potential of each person. Qualities of Angels Our Qualities of Angels are an integral part of the life of Guardian Angels School. The three areas of Spirit, Relationships and Knowing are constantly referred to in the daily life of the school and serve to provide a concrete measure of how everyone in the school community lives the mission of Jesus. Students learn what the Qualities mean, what they look like when people exhibit them and how they can live the Qualities at school and at home. History of Guardian Angels Parish Primary School 1898 saw the Sisters of Mercy commence teaching in Southport. Many years of hard work from dedicated people saw the emergence of Star of the Sea Convent, Guardian Angels Church and Guardian Angels Parish Primary School. The traditions that have made Guardian Angels Parish Primary School what it is today stem from the dedication and love of the Sisters of Mercy. Guardian Angels Parish Primary School was originally incorporated into Star of the Sea. By 1958 Guardian Angels had gained its own identity. The appointment of lay teachers in 1977 saw the Sisters of Mercy fulfilling other pastoral roles within the church, and handing over the spiritual and academic life of the school to the lay ministers. The locale at Scarborough Street, Southport grew too small. With the foresight of the Vincentian priests, principal, teachers and parents, the school was relocated to Edmund Rice Drive, Ashmore in 1986. This proved beneficial as the parish intended to move the centre of its activities to Ashmore. Now included in this campus is Mary Immaculate Church, De Paul Villa Aged Care Facility, Outside School House Care (OSHC), Aquinas College, Parish Office and the Presbytery. At its new site, Guardian Angels started a new phase in the school’s history with the school becoming co-educational from Years One to Seven. It joined the Aquinas College campus which now caters for Years Seven to Twelve. The Guardian Angels School Crest The Guardian Angels School crest consists of four major symbols: The lamb shows Jesus who poured out His life for us and set us free. The Cross behind the lamb is a symbol of Christ’s love for us. The angels are a symbol of God’s love and protection for us. The word Misericordia means Mercy. Page 3/20 GUARDIAN ANGELS SCHOOL STAFF School Leadership Team 2015 Principal: Mr Terence Gimpel - Dip Teach; B Ed St, Grad Dip RE, M Ed Admin, JP (Qual); MQJA Assistant Principal Administration (APA): Mr John Cameron – B Ed Primary; M Ed Leadership Assistant Principal Religious Education (APRE): Mrs Shandel Flynn – Dip Teach; B Ed, M Ed Leadership Teaching Staff 2015 All staff are employed by the Director of Brisbane Catholic Education on behalf of the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Brisbane. 2015 Classes - Gold, Blue, Maroon, White Gold Blue White Michelle Cahill Maroon Lee-Ann Brooks Prep Rebecca Lester Year 1 Irene Sealey Lauren Costello Elizabeth West Cherie Hill Year 2 Leigh-Maree Hayes Carla Nash Paula Veivers, / Derani Dowling Wendy Volep Year 3 Brenton Edwards Margaret DiStasio Tina O'Keefe Year 4 Karen Callaghan / Rosemary Hines Dennise Connolly Christine Toll Kim Middleton Year 5 Kathy O'Brien Jeremy Cleverly Sarah Hanley/ Terence O'Brien Kellie Moore / Jo Makin Year 6 Danielle Bagraith Zac West Physical Education Curriculum Support Support Teacher Inclusive Education (ST:IE) Learning Support MacKillop Centre Martin McGregor Jo Makin Helen Morgan Tricia Gimpel Sara Probyn (ESL) Vanessa Williamson Amy Mangan Susan Hawkins Teacher Librarian Drama LOTE Music Anthea Trencher Rita Monteith Sally Carroll Graham Harley Catharina Kemp Guidance Counsellor Ainslie Wheeler Support Staff The school is very fortunate to have the services of a number of dedicated support staff. These people play an important role in the effective running of our school. School Officers Secretarial Financial Education Support Library Special Ed Unit Kombumerri Centre Prep Ancillary Grounds person Canteen Manager ICLT Manager Maureen Magee and Vicki Wakefield Robert Fraser and Helen Mills Ellen Ball, Rachael Hendry, Bree Gourley, & Elise Milliner Maria Dias Janette Lingard Elise Milliner Kim Dell, Melissa Dear, Melisa McDonald, Liz McDiarmid Steven Sherlock Kerry Withington Josh Smith Uniform Manager Pool Manager Rachael Hendry Anthony Heath Page 4/20 The School Day – Important Information School Hours School hours are as follows: Supervision commences Classrooms open All classes First Break Second Break Finish 8:00am 8:15am 8:30am 10:30am to 11:15am 1:15pm to 1:35pm 2:45pm Term Dates 2015 School commences in Term 1 on Wednesday 29 January for all pupils - N.B. Monday 27 Jan is Australia Day holiday. Commence Finish Pupil Free Days Term 1 28 January 04 April 19,20,21,22,23 & 27 January Term 2 22 April 27 June Term 3 14 July 19 September Term 4 07 October 05 December Mon 19 October A Pupil Free Day is a day legislated for staff professional development without children being present. Hours of Duty and Supervision School commences at 8.30am daily. Children are asked NOT to come onto the school premises before morning supervision at 8.00am unless they intend going to Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) or are involved in before school sporting activities, as duty does not commence before this time. Unless specifically requested to remain behind for some school related event (sports training, music or drama tuition), or unless going to OSHC for After School Care, all children are asked to leave the school grounds as soon as they are dismissed at 2.35pm, or as soon as their bus or car arrives. Parking and Vehicle Access to School Parking for parents visiting the school is available on the street and parking bays in the drive through access road. Parents may also park in street, the church car park or the car park located near the Prep rooms. All parking areas are clearly signposted. Please note these carefully. These areas are NOT for parent parking: School access road (running beside the pool) Staff car park (next to the pool). Bus turnaround is also not to be used as a drop off - pick up zone. Driveway On grass In Parish Staff allocated car parks Page 5/20 Morning drop off Parents can park in designated areas if they wish to enter the school, but may use the drive through ‘kiss and go’ to drop their children quickly and safely in the mornings. If you choose to use the drive through option adults must remain in your car. Play Before School It is school policy that, upon arriving at school (from 8.00am), the children are free to walk around their immediate class precinct (with a hat), or they may bring a small ball to school and play handball. They are NOT permitted to play running games around the classrooms or on the oval. However, they are allowed on the play equipment from 8.00am when a teacher is on duty. They must remain in their year level play area, until their classroom is opened at 8:15am. Please reinforce these rules with your children. Afternoon pick up Unless there is an acceptable pre-arrangement (Aquinas, OSHC, Swimming, etc.) all children are escorted to the pick up area each afternoon by their teacher and supervised until collected. Afternoon pick up for parents who wish to park and get out These parents should come to the collection area and personally collect their child. Parents are asked to collect their children and move away from the pick up area promptly. Afternoon pick up for parents who wish to drive through After school, we operate a drive through system for collecting children. Each afternoon, children being collected by car are gathered together undercover beside the Year 2 classrooms and called to the internal road as their parent’s car arrives. Drivers should: a) Display their surname clearly on the passenger sunshield. b) Queue patiently outside the school on the internal road. After 3.25pm children who have not been collected will be escorted to the front office where their parents are contacted. Afternoon pick up with siblings at Aquinas After school, children with older brothers and/or sisters at Aquinas are permitted to walk up to Aquinas at 3:00pm (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday) and 2:45pm (Thursday) to wait with them for parents. This privilege is given under the condition that these children are well behaved and respect Aquinas' school rules and property. Please notify the school in writing if you wish your child to walk to Aquinas. Afternoon pick up by bus A teacher supervises children until the last bus departs. Buses from Surfside service the school. For details contact 5571 6555. Page 6/20 GENERAL INFORMATION Absence for Family Holiday We understand that sometimes opportunities for family holidays will fall outside of school holiday breaks. We encourage children going on a family holiday to maintain a journal of their travels. We will not set formal written activities for students on holiday. It is important that families intending on being away from school for any period of time will notify their child’s teacher. Accident Insurance The school has taken out personal accident insurance on each child’s behalf with Catholic Church Insurances (1300 655 001). This is included in your school fees. Please note that this cover is for 24 hours per day, is world wide, and is designed to pay parents specific amounts of money for injuries that result in broken bones or teeth. This is regardless of your private medical cover and where or when the injury was sustained. The insurance also covers the costs of medical transport where the incident is as a result of an accident. Angels Challenges – Guardian Angels’ alternative to homework Our school has a ‘no homework’ policy. Instead, at Guardian Angels we encourage all our pupils to take on a number of challenges that we will acknowledge and recognise at school. These are called Angels Challenges in Years 3 to 6 and Junior Angels Challenges in Prep to Year 2. Growing evidence shows that children benefit more from being involved in family related and social activities after school. The Angels Challenges program picks up on this theme and offers children a means to record and report on the huge variety of activities they are involved in during and outside school time. Go to the Guardian Angels Website and click on the link that explains the challenges and gives hints and suggestions. This is your starting point in finding out more about the program. http://www.gaps.qld.edu.au/students/angels-challenges/ Assemblies The whole school gathers at 8:30 am each Monday and Friday, for whole school assemblies. The Monday assembly is a Prayer Assembly, where the Quality for the Week is the focus. Each class leads these Prayer Assemblies in turn where the children present liturgies based on their Religious Education program. Friday assemblies are General Assemblies, where amongst other things, Student of the Week Awards are presented. Parents are always welcome at these school gatherings and occasions. Morning tea with the leadership team is occasionally offered afterwards. Attendance at School In accordance with the requirements of the Education Act parents are encouraged have their children attend regularly. Generally, each day’s work is built upon the previous day’s work and loss of time may upset the teaching/learning process for the pupil and teacher. However, a child who is ill or disturbed through family trauma does not participate well and should be kept at home to receive the care needed for recovery. If a child is not well enough to attend classes, there is little likelihood that any great worth will result from ‘extra work’ being sent home from school. Children who arrive after 8:30am must report to the front office to receive a “late slip” which they present to their teacher. For many reasons, teachers are concerned if a child is absent from school and no explanation is received. To protect the school and safeguard the well being of the child, the school should be notified of the child’s absence by telephone (5510 0055). If no contact is made with the school by 9:00am the school will endeavour to contact parents/carers. When a child returns to class, a note of explanation should be presented to the class teacher. Where a child is absent, and the school has not been informed, you will be contacted. Page 7/20 Behaviour Management As members of a Christian community, we are called to be the face and hands of Jesus in our relationships with one another. Guardian Angels has detailed Student Welfare and Management Policies. These policies aim at safeguarding the rights of teachers to teach and the rights of children to learn in a safe, supportive environment. The main objective is that pupils will accept responsibility for their own behaviour and for the natural and logical consequences that flow from it. At Guardian Angels, every child has the right to feel safe, and the responsibility to ensure that all others feel safe and secure. To achieve this we endeavour to create an environment within the classroom that is warm, encouraging and consistent. We strive also for a consistent approach when dealing with behaviour issues. Wherever possible, and certainly in matters considered serious, parents are included in the resolution process. Our school believes that, together, “we can work it out”. Buddy Program Each year, all our classes buddy up. Buddies are a good means of helping new children to settle quickly into their new school, and, at the same time, allow the older children to provide good leadership. Buddy classes engage in mutually beneficial activities. Not only is this a great way to build confidence and selfesteem in the older child but also it provides an excellent role model for the younger children. Prep Yr. 1 Yr. 2 Yr. 4 Class Gold Blue Maroon White Gold Blue Maroon White Gold Blue Maroon White Gold Yr. 5 Yr. 6 Yr. 3 Yr. 4 Buddy Class Gold Blue Maroon 4W Gold Blue Maroon 4M Gold Blue Maroon White Blue Many of our pupils also buddy with the elderly residents of De Paul Villa. Canteen The Canteen is run by the school, which employs a manager to run the shop with volunteer help. Canteen hours are between 8:20am – 1:45pm. All Canteen orders are made online to make ordering of lunches easier and more convenient. To order online go to www.flexischool.com.au and click “Register Now” in the login box. Then enter your child’s name, school and class and add funds (say $50) into a prepaid account. Orders can be placed until 9am on the day of the order. As purchases are made, the funds are taken from your pre-paid account. The account can be topped up again in the same way, or set to automatically top-up via credit card when the balance falls below a pre-set minimum. Each order is sent automatically to the Tuckshop. At lunchtime, students simply receive their lunch with all the others in the lunch box – so easy! There is an App for Flexischool. Communication At Guardian Angels we value good, open communication between school and home. The school believes that it is most important that parents with questions concerning any school related matter should seek clarification with the school itself. Everyone should feel comfortable with the education that is offered at Guardian Angels. Page 8/20 Website: The school maintains an up-to-date website www.gaps.qld.edu.au with information pertaining to all aspects of the daily operation of the school. In addition to this, teachers maintain wikis for students and parents to access information. These electronic media provide a plethora of information, which answers most questions relating to the day-to-day operation of classrooms, photos of class events and information relating to the curriculum. Emails: Staff will check their emails daily, on school days and respond as promptly as possible. Parents will not normally receive a response to emails during weekends or holidays. Please check relevant sources before emailing questions which may be easily answered by looking at the website or class wiki. Staff email addresses are located on the website. Newsletter (“The Guardian”) Our School Newsletter is called “The Guardian” which is issued weekly on a Tuesday. It carries a Principal’s report and a variety of notices. It is a major form of communication between school and home. The school’s newsletter is a vital vehicle of official communication from the school to the parents. The newsletter is prepared each week and is sent via email on Tuesday afternoons. Parents who do not have email access should contact the school to arrange a printed copy. Newsletters are also available on the school website via the Newsletter link. Parent Teacher Evenings At the commencement of each school year we invite the parents to the school to hear, from the teaching staff, their major plans for the year. This year this meeting takes place on Thursday 19th February: Prep 5:30pm – Drama Room – Kombumerri Centre Year 1 6:00pm – Hall Year 2 6:15pm – Library Year 3 6:30pm – Drama Room – Kombumerri Centre Year 4 6:45pm – Hall Year 5 7:00pm – Library Year 6 - 7:15pm - Drama Room – Kombumerri Centre Contact details – keeping current The school will always endeavour to contact you in the event of illness or accident. It is most important that all our information regarding your child is up to date and accurate. A form is sent home at the commencement of each year to ensure our records are up-to-date. Any changes to your family address, phone number, employment etc. must be communicated in writing to the school. Contacting the School Teachers are unavailable for phone calls during class time. In the event that you need to speak to your child’s teacher, please contact the office and your child’s teacher will return your call at their earliest convenience. You may also contact your child’s teacher via email. In the case of an emergency, the school secretary will pass the message immediately to Administration who in turn will contact the class teacher. Grievance Procedures Our school recognises that, on occasions, concerns will arise about issues concerning a child or family. This is part of being in a "school family". In the first instance, parents are encouraged to make their first approach on any matter of concern, to the teacher concerned. In most instances this will be the child's teacher, and in most instances, this initial contact will clear up any misunderstandings. Should this not be the case, the Principal will offer mediation to help resolve the situation. Page 9/20 Curriculum: Guardian Angels, as a Catholic Christian community, educates all to live the gospel of Jesus Christ as successful, creative and confident, active and informed learners empowered to enrich and shape our world. At Guardian Angels we follow the Australian Curriculum and the Brisbane Catholic Education Religious Education Curriculum. Learning Areas: Religious Education English Mathematics Science History Geography The Arts Technology Health and Physical Education Japanese Guardian Angels staff members attend regular professional development in current educational theory and practice. The vast range of experience of our teachers enhances this new professional learning. Your child will be involved in a variety of opportunities that reflect best practice in a safe and enjoyable learning environment where students are encouraged to take risks, ask questions, collaborate and create as members of the Guardian Angels school community. Day Care - Long Guardian Angels School does NOT administer the Long Day Care facility situated on the grounds of the Guardian Angels School. Centacare runs it independently. Phone Brenda on 5564 8937. Dental Van and Community Health Services A school dentist visits the school periodically. This service has been most successful in diagnosing dental problems. Treatment is only given after parental consent. If your child requires treatment, please contact the Oral Health Call Centre 1300 300 850. De Paul Villa The school has a close relationship with the residents of De Paul Villa (Aged Care). Nominated classes visit their ‘buddies’ on a regular basis with the aim of developing relationships and sharing life experiences. Excursions and School Camps Excursions and school camps are important learning and socialising experiences and are therefore compulsory parts of our school curriculum. At Guardian Angels, any class may be involved in an excursion at some time during the year. However, school camps will only be planned for Years 4-6. Class teachers will advise you when an excursion or camp is being planned. All details about the nature of the program, requirements, transport etc. will be provided. As the learning experiences on these occasions form part of the class curriculum, any child who does not attend may be disadvantaged. It is therefore expected that all children will attend any class outing, in-school event or camp. The final decision, however, rests with the parents. Extra Curricular Activities Qualified instructors using the school’s facilities offer a variety of extra curricular activities. Parents make arrangements directly with these people including payment for lessons. Activities offered are updated regularly on the school website. Wherever possible these lessons will be held outside of class times. Page 10/20 Fees and Levies 2015 School Fees and Levies for 2015 have been set as follows. Parents are reminded that these fees represent the total fees and levies that you will be charged for your child’s education for 2015. Families with more than one child will notice that the school offers considerable discounts for second and subsequent children attending our school. School Fees and Levies 2015 Prep to Year 6 1 Child Fees $2300 Levies $1138 Capital Levy $110 Total $3548 2 Children $3448 $2276 $110 $5834 3 Children $4026 $3414 $110 $7550 4 Children $4310 $4552 $110 $8972 *Music Instrument hire per year (Year 4 to 6 students) $330 – non-refundable *Computer Insurance (Year 4 to 6 students) $155 with a $250 excess on all claims. FEES AND LEVIES – AN EXPLANATION Guardian Angels Parish Primary School has the same school fee and the same levy for each child from Prep to Year 6. The school is keen to make the fees as transparent as possible for parents, with a fee that is all-inclusive. As well, we are keen to reduce the amount of administration time teachers need to spend administering the collection of money for regular outings and school events. Fees being charged in 2015 are all-inclusive. There will be no other requests for money apart from charitable fundraising projects and for school uniforms. The fees will be collected over the first 3 terms. There will be incentives for early payment, and there is also the option of paying the full year’s fees and levies over 40 weeks through direct debit. This is a free service, and is designed to have the year’s fees and levies paid with regular fortnightly deductions from your bank account or credit card, with the total annual fee being completed by November. As well, fees may be paid using BPay. Enrolment at Guardian Angels requires not only a faith commitment but also a financial one. School fees are set by the Principal in consultation with the School Finance Committee, and are ratified by the Parish Finance Committee. The School Fee itself covers such things as wages for ground staff, cleaners, school officers, costs associated with cleaning, repairs, maintenance, electricity, phone, office consumables, ground work, insurance, rates etc. The Levy charge covers all sporting events, all day trips, visiting performers, camps (including Year 6 Southern Trip), textbooks, library and classroom resources, art and craft supplies, stationery, school photos and accident insurance for every child. Points to note about payment of school fees. A school fee account will be mailed to each family in the first week in Terms 1, 2 and 3. Families not wishing to pay by term may make arrangements for fees to be paid by direct debit. If the entire fee and levy for the year is paid within the first five weeks of school (i.e. paid by Friday 27 February 2015), there will be a 7.5% discount off the school fee and levy. We, at Guardian Angels Parish Primary School are committed to providing a Catholic education to all Catholic children whose parent/s or guardian/s desire it. We are also aware that some parents or guardians find themselves in financial difficulties from time to time. In spite of this, we will always endeavour to ensure that no Parish student will be denied a place at our schools because parents are genuinely unable to pay fees. We have in place a system of fee support that is available on application. The level of support is determined on the basis of a just and equitable formula. Any fee support is looked at in terms of financial needs of the family concerned, their responsibility to full-fee paying parent/s or guardian and the efforts they make to meet their commitments. Page 11/20 Family Discounts Where a family has more than one child at Guardian Angels, the second and subsequent children will all attract a discounted school fee. Full Year and Term School Fees Payment Discount If the entire fee and levies for the year is paid within the first five weeks the school year (ie. paid by Friday 27 February 2015), there will be a 7.5% discount off the school fee and levy component. If the entire fee and levies for the term is paid by the required date per term a 5% discount off the school fee and levy component will apply. Late Enrolments Families enrolling children at Guardian Angels from or after the commencement of a school year are expected to pay the fees that the school will expend on their child on school camps for that year. The School Fee has two essential components: the school fee and the levy (both are explained earlier) For a child enrolling from or after the commencement of a school year, the family is expected to pay a prorata school fee and levies (the number of weeks left to attend divided by 40). As well, for the year of enrolment, if a child is entering Years 4 to 6, they will be expected to pay for that year’s excursion. The reason for this is that the other children in those particular years have been paying towards these trips since preschool. New families with students starting in 2015 - Year 4 camp fee of $500 - Year 5 camp fee of $800 - Year 6 excursion (Southern Trip) fee of $1000 Pupils Leaving Before the End of Year Families departing the school at any time, apart from the end of a school year, need to inform the school a term in advance of their departure (exceptional circumstances excepted). At enrolment, families and the school enter into a mutual agreement in good faith. The school makes a commitment to the enrolled child to provide all of the materials required for that child for the whole year. As well, camps, excursions and incursions are booked and paid for based on the numbers in the year level. The family makes a commitment in good faith to enrol their child for the year and to pay all school fees and levies. Should a child be withdrawn before the end of a year, the school is financially disadvantaged as the cost for all materials, camps, excursions etc. are paid for based on a particular enrolment figure. This can be a financial disadvantage to the school. The school will charge a family leaving before the end of the school year a prorata amount for both fees and levies. (the number of weeks left attended divided by 40). Holding a Position Where an enrolment has been accepted, and a family, for whatever reason needs to delay arrival, the school will (for a reasonable period of time) hold a position for a child upon the payment of fees and levies from the date of acceptance. Instrument Hire Children learning a musical instrument through the school program receive tuition for free. For children in Year 3, instrument hire is also free. For all other children learning a musical instrument through the school program there is a $330 instrument hire fee for the year. Computer Insurance In 2015 Guardian Angels are providing 1 to 1 laptop computers to students in Years 4 to 6 with the option of students taking those computers home overnight, on weekends and over the holidays at a cost of $155 per year to cover insurance. This fee fully insures the computer against loss or accidental damage. For more information follow this link. Page 12/20 House Colours Upon enrolment at Guardian Angels each child is placed into one of the four sporting houses. Families are placed together in houses with names recognising our links with the local indigenous Kombumerri people. The Kombumerri people have lived on the Gold Coast for thousands of years. These names have been chosen because they draw on the colours used at GA for our teams and speak to us of the natural beauty of the school surrounds. Name Allunga Colour Gold Symbol The Sun Meaning Allunga means gold and the sun and reminds us of where the Gold Coast’s name had its origins. The sun is a source of warmth and light so necessary for our lifestyle and the many beautiful plants and animals that surround us. Jingella Green Green mossy grass Jingella means the green land. The Nerang River flows through our Gold Coast region and fills our canals and waterways. The green banks of the river are a source of many beautiful parklands, which we enjoy and make our lifestyle so desirable Wambiri Blue Falling Water/ Sea/Coast Wambiri means the blue sea and reminds us that the oceans and rivers are a source of food, recreation and enjoyment not only for the aboriginal people but also for all of us. Kimba Red Bush fire / Burnt earth Kimba means red fire and reminds us of the aboriginal people and how they used fire to help rejuvenate the land and the power of lightning and storms that sweep across the hinterland with awesome power. Library Resource Centre Guardian Angels Resource Centre has a large collection of fiction and non-fiction reading and ICLT resources, available to students, parents and teachers. Students can come to read, work at tables, play chess or engage in online educational activities. The Kombumerri Centre houses all of the take home reading material, guided readers and class sets. Medical Information Administering Medications at School The following is a summary of the procedures for administering medication to children as outlined in detail by Brisbane Catholic Education. The medical practitioner who has treated your child must provide written authorisation and information for administering the medication prescribed. The parent or legal guardian must Fill out a written request for school staff to administer any medications. Keep the medication in a container labelled by a pharmacist showing the name of the drug, the ‘use by’ date, the name of the child’s medical practitioner and the child, the dosage and the frequency of administration. In the case where it is necessary for the child to keep medication in his/her possession (e.g. asthma puffers) the parent or guardian must have given this instruction. Teachers or other persons on the school staff must not administer oral medication such as analgesics and over-the-counter medication that has not been authorised by the child’s medical practitioner unless written authorisation is given by parents. Teachers or other volunteers must not give intravenous injections. Procedures and guidelines are in place for administering other types of injections and are available upon request. In order to ensure that all correct documentation is used, we ask that you use the forms, which are available at the office. Page 13/20 Illness / Accidents For injuries of a minor nature, first aid will be administered at school. Should a serious illness or accident occur, every effort will be made to contact parents. However, it may be necessary to seek immediate medical service. It is therefore essential that school records are kept accurate. Parents are expected to keep the school informed of emergency contact numbers and all other pertinent medical information. If parents so desire, the school will, after speaking with the parents, contact the ambulance. Exclusion from school If a child is unwell, it is better to leave them at home for the day. This allows them a better chance of a quicker recovery, and reduces the risk of some illness spreading throughout the child’s class. Please don’t send sick children to school and then ring to see how they are doing. Infectious Diseases If a child is suffering from something that may be contagious please keep them at home and seek a medical clearance before they return to school. Illnesses like conjunctivitis, school sores, measles and mumps are most contagious and a child presenting with any of these should not be at school until medical clearance is obtained. Mobile Phones Children in primary schools do not need mobile phones. Consequently they are not permitted at school. If an occasion arises where a child MUST bring a mobile phone to school, it is to be turned off, left in the front office and collected at the end of the day. A mobile phone not handed in at the front office will be confiscated and a parent/guardian will need to come and collect the phone. Nut Free School - We Endeavour to be For the safety of a number of children enrolled at our school who suffer from severe life threatening peanut allergies our school strives to be a “nut free” school. This means that we exclude foods containing nuts and nut products from the school premises. In the instance of products contain the warning “…product processed on a line that also processes products containing tree nuts,” the school has determined that items containing this message are quite suitable for children (without allergies) to bring to school, therefore only items that list nuts and nut products as ingredients are not to be brought in. Outside School Hours Care (O.S.H.C.) The Outside School Hours Care facility situated on the grounds of the Guardian Angels Primary School is run independently by the Southport Parish and is managed by Centacare Child Care Services for and on behalf of the Catholic Parish, in agreement with Catholic Education at Archdiocesan Schools. The Guardian Angels Outside School Hours Care is comprised of three programs: Before School Care, After School Care and Vacation Care. We are guided by the National Framework for School Age Care – ‘My Time, Our Place’ , which supports us to provide children with opportunities to maximise their potential and develop a foundation for future success in life. The Framework is part of the National Quality Framework which was introduced across Australia in 2012. It recognises the importance of social and emotional development and communication in learning through play and leisure, and forms the foundation for ensuring that children in all school age care settings engage in quality experiences for rich learning personal development and citizenship opportunities. Before School Care hours: 6:30am to 8:15am Breakfast provided up to 8:00am After School Care hours: 2:30pm to 6:00pm Afternoon tea provided Vacation Care hours: 7:00am to 6:00pm Breakfast and afternoon tea provided Coordinator: Kylie O’Hara Ph: 55 391 301 Mobile: 0409 612 291 Outreach Activities As a Catholic school, we at Guardian Angels try to live the Gospel value of service. In our outreach activities we not only pray for the spread of the Good News, we commit ourselves to action. Such charitable works will include fundraising, collection of food and blankets, and visitations. Some projects will have a whole school emphasis, e.g. Project Compassion and Catholic Mission, while other projects will be year level based. Page 14/20 Each year level is committed to raising funds through school-based activities at some time through the year for a nominated charity. They may research the charity, invite guest speakers or arrange a fundraiser. Such charities as Rosie’s, Cancer Council, Angels Kitchen, St Vincent de Paul and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation have been supported. Parents and Friends Association All parents who enrol children at Guardian Angels are considered members of the Parents and Friends Association. The role of the Association is not only as a fundraising body but also as an avenue for parents to suggest improvements, voice concerns, communicate with administration, teachers and other parents, interact with each other and work together for the betterment of Guardian Angels Primary School. Fundraising is necessary to cover the purchase of computers, library and classroom resources, playground equipment, musical instruments, etc. The P&F also organises social events for the school community, events such as a Trivia evening and a school fete. You are encouraged to attend P & F meetings, which are held once a month – dates, are on the school calendar. The Executive Committee is made up of a President, Secretary, Treasurer, and at least two other parents, all nominated at the A.G.M. held in October. This committee looks after the day to day running of the organisation. The Principal is an ad hoc member of all the above committees and, as such, is in attendance if available. Parents and Friends Executive – 2015 President Penny White Vice-President Kate Tuivasa Secretary Alana Laundy Treasurer Amanda McCoy Parents Sporting Code of Conduct As a parent, you play a special role in contributing to the needs and development of your children. Through your encouragement and good example, you can help assure that all the boys and girls learn good sportsmanship and self-discipline. At Guardian Angels Primary School, young people learn to work together, to sacrifice for the good of the team, to enjoy winning and deal appropriately with defeat - all the while becoming physically fit and healthy. Best of all, they have fun. Support your child Supporting your child by giving encouragement and showing interest in his/her team is very important. Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game. Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than victory - that way your child will always be a winner despite the outcome of the game! Always be positive Parents serve as role models for their children. Become aware of this and work to be a positive role model. Applaud good plays by your child’s team as well as good plays by the opposing team. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from youth sports activities. Remember: Your child wants to have fun Remember that your child is the one playing/competing, not you. It’s very important to let children establish their own goals - to play the game for themselves. Take care not to impose your own standards and goals on them. Don’t put too heavy a burden on your child to win games. Children play for the fun of playing. Reinforce positive behaviour Positive reinforcement is the best way to help your child achieve his/her goals and overcome the natural fear of failure. Nobody likes to make mistakes. If your child does make one, remember it’s all part of learning, so encourage your child’s efforts and point out the good things your child accomplished. Don’t be a sideline coach or referee Coaches and referees are usually teachers or parents just like you. They volunteer their time to help make your child’s sporting experience a positive one. They need your support too. That means refraining from coaching or refereeing from the sidelines. In Years 4-6, the children will bring home a player and parent code of conduct. This is to be signed by both parents /guardians and the child. Page 15/20 Patron Parents At Guardian Angels we value every effort to make all members of our community feel welcome and special. One way in which we endeavour to do this is through our Patron Parents program. This important support for parents, especially those new to the Guardian Angels community, is established anew at the beginning of each year. The Patron Parents are intended as a point of contact for new families. They organise occasional “get togethers” and support the school P&F where possible. Privacy Undertakings Information we collect Our school collects and records personal, sensitive and health information from students and parents/ guardians before and during the course of a student’s enrolment at our school. Purpose of collection The primary purpose of collecting and recording this information is to enable the provision of quality Catholic education. In addition, some of the information we collect and record is to satisfy the school’s legal obligations, particularly to enable the school to discharge its duty of care to students and parents/guardians. This information may also be used for appropriate parish purposes. Disclosure of information This information may be disclosed by us for administrative and educational purposes to others including, but not limited to, personnel within Brisbane Catholic Education Centre, other systemic schools, medical practitioners, people providing services to schools, such as specialist visiting teachers and consultants. Our privacy position Brisbane Catholic Education is bound by the Privacy Amendment (Private Sector) Act 2000, and has adopted the ten (10) National Privacy Principles. A privacy statement detailing Brisbane Catholic Education’s practices and procedures for the use and management of the personal, sensitive and health information it collects and records can be accessed on the BCEC website: www.bne.catholic.edu.au Alternatively a hard copy of the statement may be provided on request. Information required If we do not obtain the personal, sensitive or health information referred to above, we may not be able to enrol or continue to enrol your son/daughter. All families are asked to sign a Media Consent Form allowing the school to photograph and film the children for school publications. By completing the school enrolment form you have confirmed your understanding of and agreement with the above. Reporting Procedures Formal written reporting to parents takes place twice per year, (in Term Two and Term Tour). The Term Two written report is enhanced by an interview with parents and teachers. Informal reporting between parent and teacher should be regular and occurs at all stages of the student’s learning. The relaying of pertinent information, which supports each student’s learning, is vital. This open communication, whether in writing or by interview, has proven a paramount factor in the creation of a positive learning environment for Guardian Angels students. Parents are always invited to discuss their child’s progress with their teacher. To do this, simply make an appointment with the teacher. Please note that reports are not written for children arriving in Term 4 of the school year. Parents requiring duplicate reports need to make this request to school administration in writing each semester. Sacramental Programs The sacramental program is coordinated through the parish. The school actively supports the Parish Sacramental Team, along with parents and families, in their responsibility in preparing the children to celebrate the sacraments of Penance, Confirmation and First Eucharist. Please contact the Southport Catholic Parish for further information about the sacramental program School Banking The Commonwealth Bank conducts banking every Thursday with a “Dollarmite” Account, which is a coupon style of account. It is free of account-keeping fees and government charges. Interest is calculated on minimum balance each calendar month and credited to each account on the first working day in June. New account forms are available from the office. Page 16/20 STUDENT SUPPORT Students with Special Needs (previously identified). Students enrolling at Guardian Angels with previously identified special needs of Intellectual Disability (ID), Physical Impairment (PI), Hearing Impairment (HI), Visual Impairment (VI), Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Social Emotional Disorder (SED), or Speech Language Impairment (SLI) are supported through a range of programs, services and activities based on the model of inclusive education. Classroom teachers of these newly enrolled students are made aware of their individual special needs. The Support Teacher :Inclusive Education (ST:IE) works collaboratively with the classroom teachers and/or the MacKillop teacher to ensure the implementation of inclusive practices, which value the diversity of all students. Together they work towards meeting the educational and social needs of the student. Support for Students having learning difficulties in the classroom (not previously identified). Students found to be experiencing difficulties in the classroom are referred to the ST:IE by their teacher or parents. Information about the student's learning is gathered from a variety of sources including previous school records and teachers, information from parents, current teachers. The ST:IE may convene a Student Support Meeting with the class teacher, parents, and which may include a member of Administration, Guidance Counsellor, and other necessary personnel to determine the best course of action. These meetings are held on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons. A proposal for support or intervention will be determined at this time. Written parental consent must be obtained before formal counselling or other specialist interventions occur. In some cases, parents are asked to seek professional specialist advice from outside speech pathologists, vision and hearing specialists, occupational therapists, pediatrician, psychologist or psychiatrist. Through a process called ‘verification', some students may qualify for funding under the categories of Intellectual Disability (ID), Physical Impairment (PI), Hearing Impairment (HI), Visual Impairment (VI), Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Social Emotional Disorder (SED) or Speech Language Impairment (SLI). In these cases, an Educational Adjustment Profile is determined which analyses the impact of the disability in the classroom and the adjustments, which need to be made by the classroom teacher to ensure that the student is supported. An Individual Education Program with specific goals is formulated with input from the parents, classroom teacher and the learning support team. MacKillop Centre Guardian Angels has the MacKillop Centre that provides support for children diagnosed with intellectual disability. These children are enrolled as students of Guardian Angels NOT students of the MacKillop Centre. The MacKillop program provides individual needs based support so that these students more fully participate in their learning journey. The children are encouraged to participate in some mainstream classes each day and attend specialist lessons e.g. religion, the arts, PE etc. The MacKillop program aims to develop functional academics, daily living skills, social skills and positive behaviours, which enhance each student’s inclusion into the general school community. The MacKillop Centre also plays an important role in developing an environment that promotes tolerance and acceptance. To be eligible for placement and support via the MacKillop Centre, students must meet criteria set down in the Enrolment Support Guidelines. A referral booklet can be obtained from the school office. Guidance Counsellor The school has the services of a Guidance Counsellor from the Catholic Education Office three days each week, usually Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The role of the Guidance Counsellor is to be available to parents, pupils and teachers who seek advice or help with social, emotional or behavioural problems. It is also a proactive role wherein the Guidance Counsellor develops programs for classes or year levels in conjunction with other staff. The Guidance Counsellor advises school leadership regarding available programs and is involved in the development of whole school policies such as Behaviour Management and Anti-Bullying. Parents may request an interview with the Guidance Counsellor through the school administration. Teachers may, at times seek support for a student from the Guidance Counsellor, in which case parents will be asked to sign a parental permission from available through the Guidance Counsellor. All parents are contacted before their child sees the Guidance Counsellor for any necessary assessments. Page 17/20 The Guidance Counsellor teams with the APA, the ST:IE, the classroom teacher and parents to form a Student Support Team. SPORT Guardian Angels School offers a variety of sports and recreational activities through its Physical Education Program and Summer and Winter Sport Programs. Our staff are enthusiastic in assisting in the coaching and teaching of all sports offered with many holding coaching accreditations in their designated sports. Inter School Winter Sport Rugby League, Girls & Boys Soccer, Netball, Girls Touch. Basketball Intra-School Sport Swimming, Track & Field, Ball Games, Cross Country, Aquathon Summer Sports (Term 4) Surfing, Baseball, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Self Defence, Basketball, Ten Pin Bowling, AFL, Gymnastics, Throughout the year the school books professional development officers to come in and offer their programs to the students. The following organisations are used; Suns AFL program, Gold Coast Titans. Qld Soccer program Every child from Years 4-6 also participates in inter-school sport. Guardian Angels participates in the Gold Coast Catholic Friday afternoon competitions during the winter seasons. Many children are also involved in interschool competitions. Our main focus is the Catholic Sports, which is a competition between all the Gold Coast Catholic Schools. Catholic carnivals are jointly organised and managed across the schools. As well, some children from 10 – 12 years are chosen to participate in the District Sports. These carnivals are the first of the representative selection trials. We are part of the Gold Coast Hinterland District and thus compete against all schools (State, Independent and Catholic) at these carnivals. From the District Sports, children who gain various placings are selected to represent Gold Coast Hinterland at the Regional Carnivals. Gold Coast Hinterland District is part of the South Coast Region, which encompasses a number of districts, south and west and north of us. From here, children are selected to represent Queensland at National Championships. The Parents and Friends Association may support children gaining representative honours in school sports financially upon request (see school website). Sporting House Captains Sports House Captains and Vice-Captains, who are selected at the end of each year, hold the position for the next school year and are presented with their badges at the House Spirit day. Students strive towards these special positions in the school. Toys at School Children are asked NOT to bring toys to school. Our school is very well resourced. Uniform The children attending Guardian Angels are required to wear the school uniform, the details of which are set out below. All items on the list, with the exception of footwear, are available for purchase through the school’s Uniform Shop. Boys Day Uniform Girls Day Uniform Years P-3 Years 4-7 Short sleeve, light blue checked shirt with navy trim and school logo. Navy knee length shorts and navy quarter socks with light blue and maroon trim. Short sleeve, light blue checked blouse with navy trim and school logo. Navy culottes and navy turnover socks with light blue trim. Navy tights may be worn on cold days. Short sleeve, light blue checked blouse with navy trim and school logo. Navy skirt and navy turnover socks with light blue trim. Navy tights may be worn on cold days. Page 18/20 Unisex Sport Uniform Sport Shoes Hat School Rashie School Swimmers Swimming Cap School Bag Library Bag Swimming Bag Hair Ties Navy and house coloured sport shirt, navy shorts with school logo and navy/white “Guardian Angels” embroidered sport socks. Black leather lace up shoes. Velcro is required for Prep. No boots, buckles or black sandshoes are acceptable. White sandshoes. Velcro is required for prep. A small amount of colour is acceptable Navy bucket style with school logo. Long sleeved navy and maroon chlorine resistant. Navy and maroon with school logo -optional except for interschool representation. House colour-compulsory. Navy backpack with school logo, available in small or large. Navy satchel style with school logo. Navy PVC bag with school logo. A selection of navy and white hair ties are available in the uniform shop. Winter Jumper Cardigan Tracksuit School navy V-neck with logo. School navy button up with logo (Girls Only) Navy, maroon and white jacket with school logo and plain navy track pants. School Shoes Tracksuits are to be worn with the sports uniform only. It may be worn as a combination or as separate pieces. Wearing of Jewellery Watches and earrings are the only forms of jewellery to be worn. All students (female and male) who choose to wear earrings are required to wear one (only) at the base of the each ear lobe. For Health and Safety reasons, only studs are to be worn. Other external piercings present safety risks and are considered inappropriate for school-aged children. It is understood that some jewellery the children would like to wear may have significant sentimental or fashion value, but in the interests of justice and security there will be no exceptions. Please offer us your support in this matter. Make up Unless a class teacher has given approval for the purposes of a play, dramatic presentation or similar event, no makeup (or nail polish) is to be worn to school. Hairstyles In all cases, safety takes priority over fashion. Certain hairstyles will not be allowed if, by their very nature, the school hat subsequently cannot be worn e.g. gelled, spiked hair. Hairstyles and other alternative fashion statements will vary from time to time. Some hairstyles will be discouraged if they pose a safety risk to the child, or pose a health risk to others, or prevent a student from fully engaging in the school curriculum (e.g. “I can’t attend my swimming lesson today because Mum spent an hour spiking my hair before school!). It is best to check with the class teachers or the principal or leadership team before adopting alternative hairstyles. Loud, obvious and dramatic dyed hair colours are most inappropriate for young school-aged children. Hairstyles that draw undue attention to a child are to be avoided. In the interests of hygiene and safety, shoulder length hair (or thereabouts) worn by either gender needs to be tied back away from the face. Hair bands need to be navy or white or school fabric. Parents of children with hairstyles that are deemed unacceptable will be contacted. Hats In the interests of sun safety, hats must be worn whenever a student is outdoors (including sheltered and shaded areas). This rule applies before, during and after school. As it is part of the school uniform, the school hat must be worn to and from school. If a child presents to school without a hat, at break times the child is required to go to the Resource Centre. UNIFORM SHOP Page 19/20 The school runs a Uniform Shop where all items of uniform may be purchased. Trading hours: Monday and Wednesday: 8.00am – 10:30am Thursday 2:00pm – 3:30pm The Uniform Shop opens the week before school commences each year. Profits made by the Uniform Shop go towards the purchase of resources for the school. The Uniform Shop operates an online purchasing facility and all uniforms are sent home with students. This is the quickest and easiest way to purchase uniform items. Please note this is not part of flexischools. We have our own online store with the link being found on the school website under Uniform Shop VISITORS SIGN-IN PROCEDURES Visitors to the school must sign in and out at the front office. This does not apply for parents/visitors dropping children off, but applies to occasions when there would be reason for a prolonged visit, e.g. assisting in the classroom, canteen and library. This is for safety and student protection reasons. Page 20/20