B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

P A R E N TI N F O R M A T I O N

B O O K L E T

2 0 2 1

03 Welcome to Balgowlah Heights

05 Key events

06 School organisation

10  Communication

12 Your child's health and safety

16   Learning at our school

28 Parent | Teacher communication

30 Wellbeing

36 Student leadership

38 Getting to and from school

40 Contributions and funding

42 Service provided to families

44 Uniform shop

46 Parent involvement

48 School map

CONTENTS

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P A G E 0 3P A G E 0 3

Welcome to CountryWe would like to acknowledge the connection of Aboriginal people to the land on whichwe meet. The land we stand on holds the memories of the traditional owners through theoceans, sandstone cliffs and skies of our country. We would like to pay respect to theAboriginal peoples and Elders who hold the culture, stories and spirits of this land withthem today and for generations to come. Our country is alive and talks to us if we listen.

David ShusterPRINCIPAL

WELCOME TO

BALGOWLAH HEIGHTS PUBLIC SCHOOL

Welcome to our school. We wish you and your family a very happy association withBalgowlah Heights Public School - a caring school dedicated to providing excellenteducation and enriching opportunities for your child.This information booklet is aimed at helping you become acquainted with the schooland how it functions. We also extend an invitation to you to become involved in thelife of our school.Please remember there are many people available to help you and your child in theirorientation to our school. Please contact us if we can be of assistance

School historyIn 1916 a parcel of land was reserved at Balgowlah Heights or North Harbour as thearea was then known, for Public School purposes.  In 1929 the land was cleared andsurveyed and on 6 July 1932 an order to begin construction was issued.  A singleportable building with two “closets” was completed on 18 January 1933 at the totalcost of 384 Pounds.  The school was opened eventually as an infants' school on4  March 1933, with Miss Annie Florence Williams as the teacher, with twenty Year 1and nine Year 2 students.  It retained this classification until 1946 when it became aone-teacher school.  At present the school has an enrolment of over 700 students. The school is housed in Lewis Street on a split site.

(Sung to the tune of Waltzing Matilda)

Let's all sing together

Raise our voices high and clear

We'll tell the world that Balgowlah Heights is here

We will do our very best

To have the school that leads the rest

Balgowlah Heights and our future is bright,

Balgowlah Heights, Balgowlah Heights

This is our school and we're proud to belong

For we're caring and sharing

Parent, students, teachers, friends

Balgowlah Heights and we're proud to belong

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SCHOOL SONG

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School Development Day 1 and 2 (SDD)

Band auditions on SDDSummer PSSAKindergarten Best Start interviewsClass information meetingsParent-teacher interviewsSchool photographsSchool swimming carnivalBand campYear 5 Narrabeen campSelective high school placement testRecognition assembly

Scripture serviceGrandfriends' day

(students do not attend first 2 days of school)

(last Monday of term)

Term 1 Term 2

Term 4Term 3

KEY EVENTS

School Development Day 1 (SDD)

Winter PSSASchool cross countryYear 6 Canberra campNAPLAN (Years 3 and 5)Sydney North Dance (Years 3 to 6)Multicultural public speakingcompetitionSemester 1 student reportsRecognition assembly (last Monday of term)

(students do not attend)

School Development Day 1 (SDD)

Winter/Summer PSSAOpportunity class placement test (Year 4)Athletics carnivalEducation weekBook weekSydney North DramaPremier's Reading Challenge concludesRecognition assembly

(students do not attend)

(last Monday of term)

Summer PSSAYear 2 swim schemeKindergarten orientation programYear 5 opportunity class orientationmorningP&C annual general meetingYear 2 band auditionsVolunteers thank you breakfastBand performance nightRecognition assembly (second last Monday of term)School talent questChristmas carols and Year 6 playSemester 2 student reportsYear 6 farewellSchool Development Day (SDD) (students do not attend)

school's website

Skoolbag App andThe Heights Newsletter emailed weekly.

Information about what is happening atschool is published on:

balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au

SCHOOL ORGANISATION

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PrincipalDeputy Principal Years K to 2Deputy Principal Years 3 to 6Assistant PrincipalsClassroom TeachersTeacher LibrariansEnrichment TeacherLearning and Support TeachersJapanese TeacherMusic TeacherScience TeachersWellbeing TeacherSchool Counsellor

Staffing

School Administrative ManagersSchool Administrative OfficersSchool Learning Support OfficersSchool Administrative Officer - LibraryGeneral Assistants

Term 1 - first 2 days of termTerm 2 - day 1Term 3 - day 1Term 4 - last day of term

School development daysThe NSW Department of Education directs the inclusion of School Developmentdays in the school year. School Development days permit schools to focus onpriority areas for professional learning of staff. Students do not attend school onthese days.

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Bell timesTeachers are on duty at 8.35am and it is requested that students do not arrivebefore this time. Before School Care and After School Care is available on site.

Monday – Thursday8:45am9:00am - 11:00am11:00am - 11:25am11:25am - 12:45pm12:45pm - 1:45pm1:45pm - 3:05pm

Suggested arrival timeSession 1*RecessSession 2LunchSession 3

Fridays8:45am9:00am - 10:20am10:20am - 10:45am10:45am - 12:45pm12:45pm - 1:45pm1:45pm - 3:05pm

Class organisationKindergarten - Years 1 and 2 - Years 3 and 4 -Years 5 and 6 -

Early Stage 1Stage 1Stage 2Stage 3

Opportunity classOpportunity classes are available for academically gifted and talented students inYears 5 and 6.

Each year the school has an intake of 30 Year 5 students. To qualify for this intakestudents must sit an external academic examination in Year 4 and be selected toattend the class.

Parents and carers of Year 4 students receive information about applying onlinetowards the end of Term 1. Placement outcome information is sent mid October.Successful students and their parents and carers are then invited to attend anorientation information morning prior to commencing school the following year.

The opportunity classes are integrated into the Stage 3 program and leadershipstructures.

For more information visit the website:

education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-5

Suggested arrival timeSession 1*RecessSession 2LunchSession 3 Sport for Yrs 3 to 6

Students have a vegetable or fruit snack and drink of water (provided by theirparent or carer) during Session 1.

*

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O LEnrolmentStudent eligibility for enrolment is determined under the NSW Department ofEducation zoning regulations. Where eligible, a student can be enrolled inKindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn five on or before 31July of that year. They must be enrolled by their sixth birthday. Visit our website forthe enrolment process.balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/about-our-school/enrolment.html

be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent residentlive in the local enrolment area of this school.

STEP 1: Apply online. Our new online enrolment process makes it easier and faster to enrol your child atyour local school. To apply online, you must:

COMMUNICATION

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Proof of student’s residential address as per 100 point check.Birth certificate and proof of citizenship by way of passport.Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) Immunisation History Statement.

STEP 2:Collect the following documents which are required to support your child’senrolment at our school:

In addition any other documents required as per the checklist on page 15 of theApplication to enrol.

Special Religious Education and Special Education in Ethics Participation letter

STEP 3:The following documents must also be provided to the school at the enrolmentappointment:

P&C class communication permission note

Please book an enrolment appointment at www.schoolinterviews.com.auEnter the event code: ne6vaPlease bring all completed documents to this appointment.

STEP 4:

If you are not eligible to use the online form or prefer not to, you can download theApplication to Enrol in a NSW Government school form

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

Website

Skoolbag App

Newsletter

Interviews

Email

Class communication coordinator

The class communication coordinator is a volunteer whomanages a class contact/email list for the purpose ofcommunicating school and parents and citizens (P&C)information. The distribution list is not used for social purposesor to promote personal business or fundraising information. Theydistribute the ‘In the Loop’ weekly P&C newsletter via email.

Communication with the schoolThe school promotes open communication, respect, fairness and positiverelationships.

Contacting the School - A guide for parents and carersThis guide is to assist you in contacting our school if you have an enquiry.   In mostinstances your child’s teacher would be your contact point and be pleased to assist.

balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/b/balgowlaht-p/forms/Contacting_the_School.pdf

General information about the school including school calendarbalgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/

Real time notifications about school events. For instructions onhow to install our Skoolbag App visit:moqproducts.com.au/skoolbag/installation-instructions

Information about what is happening at the school along withschool community activities and initiatives. It is distributedelectronically via email and hard copies of the newsletter areavailable from the Western Campus Administration Office. TheHeights newsletter is emailed and uploaded to the website andSkoolbag app every Wednesday.

Interviews can be requested if required via Skoolbag App,emailing or calling the school.

Newsletter, Statement of Account, excursion, incursions andgeneral messages.

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O LAbsences: general | sick | holidaysParents and carers are required to explain the absences of their children from schoolwithin seven days from the first day of absence to the school.

For absences of 1-14 days, an email should be sent to the school via the Skoolbag appor school email advising the reason for the student's absence or a note can beprovided to the teacher upon the student's return.

For absences of 15 or more school days, the Application for extended leave – travelwhich is available on the school’s website should be completed and submitted to thePrincipal with a copy of your travel documents and/or itinerary prior to the absence.Please remember to inform your child’s class teacher of your travel arrangements.

balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/b/balgowlaht-p/forms/Application_for_Extended_Leave.pdf

COMMUNICATION

Absences: late arrivals | early pickupsAll late arrivals/early pickups must be completed at the Western Campus Office only.This must be done at the office first in order to receive the computer generated slipthat is then taken to the classroom teacher. This partial absence is automaticallynoted on the class roll. An adult MUST present to the Administration Office to eitherlog a student as arriving late or if early pickup is required.

Emergency contact detailsEmergency contact details are to be provided at time of enrolment. In the event of anaccident the school will use this information to inform either parents/carers or theiremergency contacts. Please inform the Administration Office via email or theSkoolbag App of any changes to your contact details.

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High school placementsLocal high school placement is affected by a zoning system and Expression ofInterest forms are distributed to all students in Year 6 in February/March.

A selective high school Information  email is distributed to Year 5 students inOctober. The selective high school placement testing is conducted in March of thefollowing year and parents and carers are notified early July of the outcome.

Lost propertyA lost property collection box is located on each campus and lost property is keptuntil the end of each term. Unclaimed items remaining at the end of term that arenot labelled are laundered and placed in the second hand section of the uniformshop. Non-uniform items are placed in a recycled clothing bin.

Parents/carers are requested to clearly label all items, including second handitems, so that they can be returned to their owners.

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH AND SAFETY

ImmunisationNSW Health recommends that all children entering school be fully immunised andhave booster shots against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Whooping Cough),Polio, Measles, Mumps and Rubella prior to school enrolment.

At enrolment the school will request an  immunisation history statement to beprovided. In cases where this cannot be provided, the child will be enrolled butwill be excluded from school during those periods where there are a number ofstudents infected with the above diseases.

DISEASE PERIOD OF EXCLUSION FROMSCHOOL

Chicken Pox

Conjunctivitis

COVID-19

German Measles

Head Lice

Ringworm

Viral Hepatitis

Whooping Cough

7 days after the first spots appear or when scabs have fallen off.

Exclude until discharge from the eyes has ceased.

Not to attend with mild cold/flu like symptoms. Negative COVID-19test required to return to school.

7 days after appearance of rash.

Parents/carers of students affected will be contacted by theschool. When a case is detected the school will also notify allstudents in the affected class. No exclusion from school.

Exclude until all evidence has disappeared.

Exclude until medical certificate of recovery has been received.

Infectious children are restricted from going to school until thefirst 5 days of special antibiotic has been taken.

First aidStudents with minor injuries are treated by school staff. Parents and carers or anominated contact person, will be notified if medical attention is necessary.Please ensure the school always has a current telephone number for emergencycalls.

Infection, disease and exclusion periodsThe NSW Department of Education requires that students with infectious diseasesare excluded from school.

For more information please refer to the NSW Government website on infectiousdiseases at:health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/childhood.aspx

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

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Food allergiesWhile the school strives to be a ‘nut free’ environment, the school cannotguarantee it is free of allergy producing products.

The school urges students, parents and carers not to send high risk foods toschool. All parents and carers are required to provide accurate, current medicalinformation to the school, including medical plans for the management of severefood allergies.

Staff are informed as to the medical conditions of potential anaphylactic and othersevere food allergic students and are trained in anaphylaxis awareness, includingthe use of Epi-Pens.

MedicationMedication to be administered during school hours should be given to theWestern Campus Administration Office with a Permission to administermedication form. The prescribed medication must be contained in a pharmacylabelled container detailing the student’s name and the prescribed dosage.

All medical forms are available at the Western Campus Administration Office or onthe school website:

balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/supporting-our-students/student-health-and-safety/medication.html

Medication not prescribed by a doctor will NOT be administered at school. Theschool will not receive any medication without a signed form.

Students are not permitted to keep medication with them or to self-medicate. 

Medical historyIf there are any changes to your child's medical history and/or treatment, pleaseadvise the Western Campus Administration Office in writing.

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

YOUR CHILD'S HEALTH AND SAFETY

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SunsmartThe school implements the Cancer Council's recommendations includingdeveloping positive attitudes towards skin protection, lifestyle practices whichcan help reduce the incidence of skin cancer and taking personal responsibility fordecision-making about skin protection. The school expects students to wear thebroadbrim hat all year round. Students who do not have their hat will be requiredto play under the covered outdoor learning area (COLA).

There is no playing on the fixed equipment before 9.00 am and after 3.05pm.Staff remain with students until students leave, or are collected. If a student isnot collected by 3:15pm they are taken to the Western Campus AdministrationOffice.

Supervision of studentsTeachers supervise students from 8:35am at school in Area A on the WesternCampus and under the COLA on the Eastern Campus.

All students are expected to leave the playground at 3.05pm unless engaged in anactivity conducted under the auspices of the school.

Where there has been some urgent or unforeseen circumstance, arrangements forcollection of the student will be made by the school with one of the nominatedcontact adults. Families are advised to register their child with Arabanoo  (Beforeand After School Care) in case of urgent or unforseen circumstance.

Playground equipmentPlayground equipment is for the students' use only during school hours underteacher supervision. Please do not allow your children to play on the equipmentwithout a teacher present. The school does not accept responsibility if a child(student or non-student) injures themselves on the play equipment withoutsupervision by a teacher.

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

EnglishMathematicsHuman Society and its Environment (History and Geography)Science and TechnologyPersonal Development, Health and Physical EducationCreative Arts

CurriculumInformation regarding the K to 6 syllabuses can be found on the National EducationStandards Authority’s (NESA) website at:

educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/home

The six key learning areas (KLAs) in primary school are:

Japanese

Library

Additional curriculum programs

Students from Years K to 6 attend weekly Japanese lessons with a specialistteacher as part of the school's Languages Other Than English program (LOTE).

The Library is the resource centre of the school and is open Monday to Friday. Itaims to develop a passion for reading through literature lessons and assist in thedevelopment of information skills throughout the school.

Each class has a weekly literature lesson during which time students borrow andreturn books. Students need a library bag to protect books during transit fromschool to home. Loans are for one week only. The cost of damaged or lost booksare required to be reimbursed to the school.

The library is open for borrowing before and after school. For more informationvisit our website:balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/learning-at-our-school/library.html

LEARNING AT OUR SCHOOL

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

Music

Technology

Students from K to 2 classes have music lessons with a specialist teacher, as partof the school's Creative Arts program.

Students have access to a wide range of technology in both the classroom and thelibrary. Students have access to iPads and laptops to support them in theirlearning within the classroom.

Use of the internet and online communication services provided by the NSWDepartment of Education is intended to provide a secure and safe environmentfor communication and for research and learning.

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Sustainability and environmental educationThere is a strong emphasis with on sustainability and environmental education.The school is diligent in recycling paper, hard/soft plastics and e-waste. Thestudent sustainability monitors run the waste management program. A whole-school approach reinforces what students learn in classrooms.

The school's Discovery Trail Boardwalk located on the Eastern Campus providesstudents with a unique opportunity to learn about the environment while theschool's garden clubs and various initiatives ensure environmental education andsustainability remain a focus at the school.

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

LEARNING AT OUR SCHOOL

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Learning and supportThe school runs specialised programs for students requiring additional support with their  classwork. Programs include individual, group and whole class  supportwith a specialist learning and support teacher. Programs are personalised tosupport students literacy, numeracy and social skills development. Specific evidencebased programs include; Macquarie University literacy intervention programs(MiniLit, MultiLit and MacqLit), QuickSmart Maths and the Bounce Back social skillsprogram. The learning support programs are monitored by the school's Learningand Support team.

School counsellorThe School Counsellor assists with programs for students with additional needs andspecial school placements. All appointments with the School Counsellor are madethrough the Learning and Support team.

Differentiated lessonsEnrichment programMathematics mentoring programParticipation in arts festivals, dance groups and music, drama and debatingcampsEnglish, mathematics, writing, spelling and science competitionsTournament of the MindsDistrict and state competitions including sport, creative arts, poetry and debatingSpecial interest groupsTalent questsInvolvement in and support of out-of-school hours classes and workshops

High potential gifted educationThe school caters for the needs of gifted and talented students in a variety of ways,including:

For more information visit:education.nsw.gov.au/teaching-and-learning/high-potential-and-gifted-education

Enrichment programThe Enrichment program is provided for students of high mathematical ability. Theprogram supports the school's differentiated, mathematics curriculum. Studentsattending the Enrichment program learn higher order thinking skills and problemsolving strategies in mathematics.

Excursions | IncursionsExcursions/Incursions provide stimulus and enrichment for class learning programs.They are organised by teachers and always have the approval of the Principal. Theassistance of helpers during class excursions is greatly appreciated. As required,teachers will request volunteers to assist with excursion organisation.

Prior to each excursion or incursion, a permission note explaining the nature of eachexcursion|incursion and cost is emailed to parents and carers.

Unless otherwise stated, students must wear full school uniform when attending anexcursion/incursion.

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SportSport is an integral part of the school’s Personal Development, Health and PhysicalEducation (PDHPE) curriculum and students of all ability levels are catered forthrough the school’s sport programs.

The school is a member of the Manly Primary School Sports Association (PSSA). Thisassociation consists of 12 local Public Schools and organises zone carnivals andcompetitions including the Friday afternoon competitive sports program forstudents in Years 4 to 6. Students not involved in PSSA competitions participate inthe school sport program. The program emphasises games skills training andencourages a positive attitude towards sport.

School carnivals are held during the year for Swimming, Cross Country andAthletics. Winners from school carnivals proceed to Manly Zone carnivals then toSydney North Regional carnivals and finally to State and National championships.

Students are grouped into four sport ‘houses’. Siblings are placed in the same house. The four houses are:

BLIGH COOK FLINDERS PHILLIP

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

LEARNING AT OUR SCHOOL

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Year 2 swimmingStudents in Year 2 attend a two week intensive swimming program during Term 4.

HomeworkThe school supports the concept of homework for all ages. In the beginning stagesof schooling most activities will be based on home reading and simple activitiesrelated to gathering information for class discussions. Activities are age dependentand become more structured as the student moves through the different stages oftheir education.

Most homework activities will be related to the areas of English and mathematics.However, students will receive homework from other key learninig areas onoccasions.

Home reading programHome readers are provided to students in Years K to 2. The home reading programallows students to practise reading skills learnt in class. It is designed to improvestudents' fluency and expression through exposure to texts which the students canread independently. Parents and carers are encouraged to support the homereading program by listening to their child read on a regular basis.

CatholicProtestantGreek OrthodoxEthics

Special religious education and special education in ethicsclassesTrained volunteers visit the school for half an hour each week on Tuesday andparents and carers are asked to indicate which class they would like their child toattend when they enrol. Currently, classes are offered in: 

A non-scripture group is also available for students whose parents and carers preferthey be exempt.

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

Band

Junior bandSenior bandConcert bandStage band

Extra curricular activities

The school's band program comprises of four bands open to students in Years 3 to 6:

Each of the bands has a Band conductor, a paid professional who oversees themusical development of the Band.

At the beginning of each year all players undergo an assessment to determineinstrument/s for which they are most suited.

Students who wish to participate in band must be prepared to devote out of classtime to tutorial lessons for their instrument as well as band rehearsals. The bandsrehearse twice a week, either before or after school or during lunchtime.

The bands perform at school events, during assemblies, Education Weekperformances and the school's performance evening along with a number ofcommunity based concerts.

More information about the band is available on the Balgowlah Heights Bandwebsite: bhpsband.com

LEARNING AT OUR SCHOOL

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ChessChess club is open to all students in Years 3 to 6. Tuition is provided by SydneyAcademy of Chess and there is a fee to cover the cost of coaching. For moreinformation see:sydneyacademyofchess.com.au

Choir

Stage 1 choir (Years 1 and 2 students)Stage 2 choir (Years 3 and 4 students)Stage 3 choir (Years 5 and 6 students)

The school has three stage-based choirs:

The choirs are not audition based and students who enjoy the experience ofchoral singing are encouraged to join.

Students who are a member of a choir are required to attend weekly rehearsalsand perform throughout the year at a number of school functions includingassemblies, Education Week performances and the school's ensemble evening.Students who are members of Stages 2 and 3 choirs may also be given theopportunity to participate in choral festivals.

Dance ensembles

Junior dance ensemble for students in Years 3 and 4Senior dance ensemble for students in Years 5 and 6

The school has two dance ensembles:

Annual auditions are conducted for places in both ensemble programs.Throughout the year the ensembles perform at school programs, communityevents and audition for the Sydney North Dance Festival.

DebatingStudents in Years 5 to 6 are able to participate in the school's debating program.Students who demonstrate an aptitude and express an interest in debating mayalso be selected for interschool competitions such as the NSW Premier's DebatingChallenge Competition.

For more information see:artsunit.nsw.edu.au/speaking-competitions/debating

Tuition is provided by Masters Academy and there is a fee to cover the cost ofcoaching. For more information see:mastersacademy.com.au

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

LEARNING AT OUR SCHOOL

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Public speakingStudents in Years 3 to 6 are given the opportunity to participate in school andinterschool public speaking programs and represent the school annually in theBear Pit Speaking Competition and the regional Multicultural Public SpeakingCompetition.

String ensembleThe school has two string ensembles. The Beginner Strings comprises of studentsfrom Year 1 and the Junior Strings comprises of students from Years 2 to 6. Bothensembles rehearse weekly.

Recorder ensembleThe school has a recorder ensemble comprising of students from Years 3 to 6. Therecorder ensemble rehearses weekly.

Tech clubStudents in Year 2 are provided the opportunity to become technology  mentorsby participating in a lunchtime Tech club. Students learn how to navigateiPad/computer applications and learn simple coding using Bee-bot robots.Students apply the skills learnt in Tech club to support the use of technology inthe classroom.

Extra curricular activities

DramaThe school provides opportunities for interested students to laugh, create,improvise and perform. Performance opportunities vary each year and studentsare required to audition for parts. Some groups may audition for the Arts AliveDrama festival.

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

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Early Stage 1 Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

Student reportsStudent reports are  provided at the end of Term 2 (Semester 1) and Term 4(Semester 2). These report assess a student's performance over the semester inspecified outcomes in each key learning area.

Reports are based on a student's development within a stage:

- Kindergarten

- Years 1 and 2

- Years 3 and 4

- Years 5 and 6

Term 1Term 2Term 3Term 4

Parent-teacher meetingsParent-Teacher meetings are held on a regular basis at the school.

Parents and carers may request an interview at any time. 'Request an interviewwith class teacher' form via the Skoolbag App or the school website.

- Class information night / Parent-teacher interviews - Student reports - Teacher interviews on request - Student reports

Class information nightEarly in Term 1 parents and carers are invited to attend a class information meetingwhich provides an opportunity to meet the teacher and other class parents. Theteachers will provide an overview of the curriculum, an activity calendar specific toyour class and answer your questions. These meetings form an importantcommunication link between the home and the school.

Term overviewsTerm overviews are emailed at the beginning of each term. The overview details thetopics and concepts the students will be studying that term. The overview is a guideand the topics and concepts may vary.

PARENT | TEACHER COMMUNICATION

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

WELLBEING

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Student wellbeingBalgowlah Heights Public School's student wellbeing framework reflects theDepartment's commitment to creating quality learning opportunities forstudents to build on their individual strengths enabling them to Connect,Succeed and Thrive in their lives.

be actively connected to their learning, have a positive and respectfulrelationships and experience a sense of belonging to their school andcommunitybe respected, valued, encouraged, supported and empowered to succeedgrow and flourish, thrive and prosper.

The school is committed to providing a safe, secure and happy environmentwhich encourages each student to:

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

school-wide expectationsformal instruction in social skillshelping students to regulate their own behaviourpro-active supervision in all areas of the schoolregularly rewarding positive student behaviours.

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)Underpinning the school’s student wellbeing framework is the PositiveBehaviour for Learning program. The program is a school-wide system fordefining, teaching and supporting students. The program supports a positiveenvironment in which learning and student engagement is enhanced throughconsistent expectations. It incorporates a continuum of practices that include:

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

WELLBEING

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The PBL program is designed to develop positive behaviours through conceptsof resilience, self-discipline, responsibility, good judgement and interaction.

Students who display the PBL values in an exceptional way earn MeritCertificates. When they collect the required number of Merit Certificates theywill receive a Bronze, Silver and Gold Award respectively. The system will reset atthe beginning of each school year.

Anti-bullying planStudents attend school to participate in quality education that will help them tobecome self-directed, lifelong learners who can create a positive future forthemselves and the wider community. We do not tolerate bullying in any form.

Any inappropriate behaviour that hinders teaching and learning at the school andinterferes with the wellbeing of students cannot be accepted. Students, teachers,parents, carers and members of the wider school community have a sharedresponsibility to create a safe and happy environment, free from all forms ofbullying. All students have the right to feel safe and be respected as equally asunique human beings.

The school is proactive in its approach to building a happy, safe, friendly climatewhere all students work towards the common goal of learning and tolerance in asafe environment. This is reflected in the school’s ‘Student Welfare’ policy and theteachers’ active and on-going commitment towards thorough supervision,professional development, classroom management and teaching.

For more information on anti-bullying strategies for NSW public schools refer tothe department’s  Bullying: Preventing and Responding to Student Bullying inSchools Policy. education.nsw.gov.au/policy-library/policies/bullying-of-students-prevention-and-response-policy

Cyber safetyThe internet provides an opportunity to enhance students’ learning experiences byproviding access to information. Online communication also links students to acollaborative learning environment. When accessing the internet students areexpected to adhere to the NSW Department of Education Online CommunicationServices: acceptable usage for school students.

policies.education.nsw.gov.au/policy-library/policies/pd-2020-0471

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The school also teaches students theinformation and communication skillsnecessary to use the internet effectivelyand appropriately including how to becyber safe using the Digital Citizenshiptoolkit digitalcitizenship.nsw.edu.au toempower your child to understand howtheir online behaviour affects themselvesand others. Students are asked to completea Digital Citizenship contract:

balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/b/balgowlaht-p/forms/2020/K-6__Digital_Citizenship_Contract.pdf

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

WELLBEING

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play games togetherwrite and read stories togetherart and craft activitiescombined technology lessonsgardening together

BuddiesA class 'buddy' system operates between classes to support younger students anddevelop leadership skills in older students. Buddy classes meet once a term to do avariety of activities:

AssembliesK to 6 school assemblies acknowledge students who demonstrate the schoolexpectations. Years K to 2 and Years 3 to 6 assemblies are held on Mondays at1:45pm. Recognition Assemblies are held on the last Monday morning of Terms 1, 2and 3 and the second last Monday of Term 4.

Information about school assemblies is published in the school newsletter. Parentsand carers are welcome to attend each of our assemblies.

The phone must be turned off at the school gate and put away immediately.The phone must be off all day and only be turned on when leaving the schoolgrounds or when the parent/carer has assumed responsibility of their own child.The school will not take responsibility for any loss or damage of the phone whileat school.

Mobile phonesMobile phones are the only items of electronic equipment to be brought to school.

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

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conducting assembliesorganising Student Representative Council (SRC) meetingswelcoming and thanking visitorsassisting staff performing school duties e.g. supervision of canteen lines andlost propertyassisting staff and executive with special days and ceremonies.

School leadersThe school’s Student leadership program is aimed at providing extensiveopportunities for all Year 6 students to develop skills of cooperation andteamwork to enhance personal confidence, promote high self-esteem and developa sense of pride in oneself and the school. In Year 6, 12 School Leaders are electedby their peers and perform duties such as:

Class patronsAnother opportunity for student leadership for Year 6 students, who are notSchool leaders, is the role of Class patron. Class patrons are chosen through anapplication process and are allocated classes from Years K to 2 as helpers for theyear. Class patrons also play an active role in SRC meetings by assisting their classrepresentatives during the meeting.

House captainsHouse Captains are elected by the Sporting Houses in the school. There are twoHouse Captains and two House Vice Captains per house and they perform dutieson special sporting days and carnivals. House Captains also organise sportingequipment, lunchtime activities and games.

MonitorsStudents in Year 6 are given the opportunity to fill a variety of alternate andinclusive leadership roles with the school. These roles includes Library Monitors,Flag Monitors, Sound Monitors and Sustainability Monitors. As a Monitor studentsare given the opportunity to develop the skills, values and attitudes needed foreffective student leadership, to learn new skills, to work with others and tocontribute to their school in a meaningful way.

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Community care and charityGrounds and environmentSport, health and safetyCulture, leisure and technology

Student Representative Council (SRC)The SRC is run by the 12 school leaders and provides a forum where students K to6 can have a voice in the organisation and running of the school. Three leaders arein charge of each of the SRC committees:

Every class in the school is represented by two SRC members who are electedfrom their class. The members attend meetings in the hall where they discuss andvote on suggestions made from the school student body.

Each year the school supports a selected number of charities and holds variousfundraising activities. In addition to the charities chosen by the students theschool also supports Stewart House, a residential school at South Curl Curl Beach.

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

GETTING TO AND FROM SCHOOL

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Kiss and DropThe school is located in a 40km school zone where a 40km speed limit applies forthe hours of 8:00 – 9:30am and 2:30 – 4:00pm on school days. There are ‘NoStopping’ signs either side of the children’s pedestrian crossing and bus zones inLewis Street and either side of the children’s crossing in Radio Avenue and thepedestrian crossing in Ernest Street. A School Crossing Supervisor monitors theLewis Street crossing before and after school.

There are limited car parking spaces available in Lewis Street and Radio Avenueand further along in Ernest Street. Kiss and Drop Zones are located outside theschool in Lewis Street and Radio Avenue where parents/carers are allowed to stopfor no more than 2 minutes to drop their children off and drive away. Please notedrivers must stay with their vehicle at all times.

Bus routesTravelling by bus

State transit buses accommodate school students. For further information,please contact State Transit INFOLINE 131500 or visit their website:transportnsw.info/school-students

Stay safe rangersThe Stay safe rangers are volunteer students from Year 5. Their role is to monitorand report behaviour, as well as time cars parking in the 'Kiss  and Drop' zones.They report their findings to a school forum run by a Year 5 teacher. Hazards arediscussed and referred on to the School Executive and the NSW Roads andMaritime Service.

Bus conductStudents are expected to abide by the rules of Transport for NSW Code ofConduct relating to travel on buses and follow the directions of the bus driverwhen getting on the bus, travelling on the bus or getting off the bus.

TIME

8:46am and 3:13 pmARRIVAL /DEPARTURE BUS NO .

Lewis street West side 132

Bus passesFor information on eligibility and guidelines, please visit:transportnsw.info/tickets-opal/ticket-eligibility-concessions/child-student-concessions/primary-secondary-school

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Route 1 - Ernest St to BHPS (Wednesday morning) Route 2 - Willawa St to BHPS (Tuesday and Wednesday morning) Route 3 - Corner White/Wanganella Streets (Monday morning).

Walking busThe P&C operate the walking school bus. If you are interested pleaseregister at bhpswalkingbus@gmail.com. Further information isavailable on our website:balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/supporting-our-students/walking-bus.html

Bicycles | scootersParents and carers are responsible for students who ride their bicycles to school.Students who travel to school by bicycle must wear the approved safetyequipment and bicycles must be in roadworthy condition. It is also expected thatstudents travelling by bicycle will wear full school uniform except for the schoolhat.

For the safety of all students, bicycles are not to be ridden in the schoolplayground at any time. During school hours bicycles are to be stored in the bikeracks provided.

The NSW Department of Educationrecommends that students under 10 years ofage do not ride bicycles to or from schoolunless accompanied by an adult. For furtherinformation please refer toeducation.nsw.gov.au//road-safetyy-education

Emergencies

Early pickup by another adult

Change of normal pickup procedure

Please call the Administration Office on 9948 2225 if an emergency changes thenormal pickup procedures for your child. If the emergency occurs in the afternoonbefore pickup time, students will be encouraged to wait for collection in theWestern Campus Administration Office.

If your child is being collected early by someone other than yourself, please emailor call the school office on the morning of the early departure, giving yourpermission, the name of the person collecting your child and the approximatetime of collection.

If a situation arises during the day which necessitates a change of arrangements,please contact the Administration Office to inform them of the changes.

B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

CONTRIBUTIONS AND FUNDING

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The NSW Department of Education provides an annual allocation of funds to assistthe school to manage the costs associated with its operation.

Participation in additional or co-curricular activities provided to enrich the teachingand learning programs are not necessarily covered in this allocation and incuradditional costs. Therefore, the school asks parents and carers to assist with fundingthese activities to ensure students benefit from a well-rounded education.

Preferred method of paymentThe school’s preferred method of payment is online through the school’s website.Where it is necessary to forward money to school it should be in an envelopemarked with your child’s name and class, as well as the purpose for the payment.

Please note school receipts issued should be kept as proof of payment and foreligible taxation claims (refer Australian Taxation Office).

School and other contributionsSchool contributions are collected for the purpose of funding general classroomequipment and specific resources for each of the key learning areas.

Each term the school will ask all families to pay a school contribution whichprovides funding for additional materials for use in the classroom, technologycontribution, sport contribution and additional programs.

At the beginning of each term the cost of your child’s participation in specificactivities is invoiced on a cost-recovery basis. Specific activities may includecompetitions, excursions, incursions, dance, choir and drama participation costs,sporting opportunities and visiting artists.

Parents and citizens (P&C) voluntary contribution | donationThe majority of funds raised by the parent community is via a voluntary contributionwhich is included in the school statement of account. The voluntary contributionfunds the  Learning and Support and Enrichment programs, technology and libraryresources.

There is a 'tax deductable' donation to the school's Building Fund which iscommunicated to parents and carers by the P&C. (Note this is different to the voluntary contribution.)

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O LBefore and after school care centre - ArabanooArabanoo is located on the school's Western Campus. It provides both permanentand casual care for students and offers vacation care programs during the schoolholidays and on School development days.

The hours of operation are Monday – Friday, except Public Holidays:Before School Care 7:30am - 9:00amAfter School Care 3:05pm - 6:30pm

The centre is a non-profit service run by a Director and parent managementcommittee. For more information, please contact Arabanoo staff by phone on 029948 6722 email admin@arabanoo.com or visit their website arabanoo.com

SERVICES PROVIDED TO FAMILIES

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Banking program for studentsStudents have the opportunity to participate in a banking program.

Book clubThe volunteer book order coordinators send home a  catalogue once a termadvertising a range of educational books and resources. You have the option topurchase and in so doing make a donation to the school. This is an optional activity.

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K to 2 lunches are collected from under the Eastern Campus COLA by lunch ordermonitors and distributed to the class. Lunch orders for students in Years 3 to 6 arecollected from the canteen by lunch order monitors and distributed within class.

A roster system is in place between 9:00am until 2:00pm to support the operation ofthe canteen. If you would like to volunteer in the canteen please see the canteensection of the school website.balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/about-our-school/canteen.html

CanteenThe school canteen is situated on the school’s Western Campus. The canteen isopen every day and orders can be placed through FlexiSchools online atflexischools.com.au

PhotographsClass, individual and special group photographs are taken by a photographer oncea year. Payment directly to the photographer online or through an envelopesystem prior or on the day is required for all photographs.

Parents and carers give media consent at the time of enrolment  as part of theenrolment application form.

Photographs and videos are also taken by the staff at a range of school activities.Parents and carers may amend their consent at any time.

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Uniform shopThe school encourages students to wear the appropriate school uniform. Summeruniform is worn in Terms 1 and 4 and winter uniform is worn in Terms 2 and 3.

GIRLS UNIFORM BOYS UNIFORMSEASON

SUMMERUNIFORMTERMS 1&4

BHPS blue check dress or BHPS short with White polo shirt withschool emblemShort white socks with cuff (above ankle)Broadbrim school hatNavy jumperBlack shoes*Blue shorties for under summer dressBHPS check hairband, scrunchie, bobblesor royal blue ribbon.

Grey school shortsSchool blue shirt orblue polo shirt with

Short grey sockswith royal stripeBroadbrim schoolhatNavy jumperBlack shoes*

school emblem

WINTERUNIFORMTERMS 2&3

Peter pan collar long sleeve sky blueblouseGrey plaid skirt (years 3-6 only) or Greyplaid, princess-line tunic or BHPS navytrousersNavy jumper or Polar fleece jacketShort white socks with cuff (aboveankle) or Grey school tightsBlack shoes*Broadbrim school hatBHPS check hairband, scrunchie,bobbles or royal blue ribbon

Grey school shortsSchool blue shirt orblue polo shirt with

Short grey sockswith royal stripeBroadbrim schoolhatNavy jumperBlack shoes *

school emblem

SPORTUNIFORM

School sports royal blue shortsNavy tracksuit pants (K-2 only)Sports t-shirt with school emblemWhite socksJoggers*Broadbrim school hat

Note: Items marked (*) are not available from the Uniform Shop.The Uniform Shop provides all the student’s uniform clothing, including schoolbags and library/excursion bags, at cost competitive prices.

The shop is open on Tuesdays  8:30  to 9:30am and on Thursdays  2:30  to 3:30pm.Orders can be placed online through flexischools.com.au for current studentsonly.More information about the Uniform Shop is available on the school’s website:balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/about-our-school/uniform-shop.html

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B A L G O W L A H H E I G H T S P U B L I C S C H O O L

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

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Parents and citizens (P&C) associationThe school has an active Parents and Citizens Association. The association meetstwice a term and provides a forum where parents and carers can participate indiscussing matters of interest and work with staff to make key decisions about theschool.

The Annual General Meeting is held in Term 4 and notices of meetings are providedthrough the school’s newsletter and through the class network.

Fundraising

Grants

Services

The P&C raises funds which are used to implement additional school programs andpurchase resources in the following ways:

The majority of funds raised by the community is via a financial contribution.There is a 'tax deductible' option (this is different to the school contribution). Thefunds raised through this voluntary contribution system go into the P & CGeneral Fund and are used to support learning programs, purchase of newtechnology or other resources and upgrades to school grounds. Families can alsosupport the school by making a tax-deductible donation to the P & C BuildingFund which can only be used to support school building projects.

The P&C actively look for appropriate grants to apply for which will assist withfunding of projects dependent upon the grant criteria and the school's priorities.

Parent and community volunteers operate and manage services provided toschool families such as Canteen, Uniform Shop, Student Banking, Arabanoo andBand.

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VolunteeringThe school welcomes volunteers. Opportunities for volunteering are regularlycommunicated through the newsletter. Opportunities to volunteer also exist inthe school's canteen, uniform shop, class activities, school carnivals, gardeningand working bees, P&C organised activities and class coordinators.

Class communication coordinatorEach term, one or two parents of students in each class will volunteer to be a ClassCommunication Coordinator. Their role is to keep you informed about classactivities which may include messages from the teacher, class social events andinformation about parent and community activities. These parents are also a greatsource of information about the school generally and are there to assist you withsettling into the school.

The Class Communication coordinators form a class contact/email list so they cancommunicate class/school fundraising information to you.

They distribute the P&C newsletter ‘In the Loop’ weekly via email.

The department requires volunteers to complete the following form: policies.education.nsw.gov.au/policy-library/associated-documents/child-related-work-volunteers-contractors-declaration-wwcc.pdf

Volunteers are required to show one government-issued photo identity document withfull name, date of birth and current residential address and, if relevant, one change ofname document. The Department may verify any document with the issuing authority.

Contacting the P&CFor more details on these volunteer positions, please go to the P&C section of ourschool website:balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/supporting-our-students/parents--carers-and-the-community.html

CONTACT INFORMATIONBalgowlah Heights Public School9B Lewis Street Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093Phone: 9948 2225

Email: balgowlaht-p.school@det.nsw.edu.auWeb: balgowlaht-p.schools.nsw.gov.au

Produced October 2020