News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:50:04 AEDT

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

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

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 12:54:31 AEDT

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

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

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

You’ll find:

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

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:08:00 AEDT

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

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

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

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

Travel health

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

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

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

2019 Christmas Card Competition

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 13:42:42 AEDT

Thanks to those who voted in Julie Owens' Christmas Card Competition this year. Hundreds of students participated and the job of selecting fifteen finalists was not easy.

"Congratulations to Heidi from St Mary's Primary School in Rydalmere for her gorgeous drawing - I think it is truly representative of Christmas in Australia! Our runner up, Sidhvik from Westmead Public School, gets an honourable mention - because Santa should wear thongs!"

Julie would like to thank all finalists, including Nishi from Westmead Public School.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:36:59 AEDT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Join Westmead's School Band!

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 14:16:47 AEDT

IMPORTANT CHANGES TO ENROLMENT POLICY

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 14:33:11 AEDT

Dear Parents and Carers,

Our school has increased enrolments to the point where we are reaching or exceeding a capacity to accommodate our students in permanent classrooms. The revised Department of Education Enrolment Policy implemented as of 22 July 2019, will have an impact on the manner in which we process non-local enrolments over coming years.

All students who reside within our local intake area will continue to be offered places at our school, however non-local enrolment applications can only be considered by schools that can accommodate new enrolments below their designated enrolment buffer level. A buffer is calculated by our school to allow the enrolment of local students who arrive throughout the year.

The impact of this requirement is that our school may not be able to enrol non-local students from 2020. To assist with the transition to this new requirement it has been agreed that non-local siblings of current students will be permitted to enrol in 2020.

Effective from the 2020 school year holders of Temporary Visas will not be able to enrol at Westmead Public School, irrespective of their local address. This does not affect students currently enrolled at the school. The next available school that has capacity to accommodate students is Bayanami Public School located at 3 Marist Place, Parramatta.

Please contact Bayanami Public School on telephone number 9890-8169.

As from 2021 the school may only be able to enrol local students.

The school will continue to have a non-local application process in place to prioritise any applications that may be considered exceptional circumstances or for any places that may become available if the school enrolment falls below the designated cap.

Please contact me if you wish to discuss these changes further on 02 9635 7793.

David Jenkins
Principal

Tooraweenah Happy Packs

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 10:32:12 AEDT

After receiving all the generous donations, Miss Pearce delivered individual HAPPY PACKS to the students of Tooraweenah Public School in the October school holidays.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 11:05:18 AEDT

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

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

This year's events will feature:

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

Group bookings

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

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

Tickets for you and your family and friends

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

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Selective High School Applications 2021

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 11:58:24 AEST

Selective High School Applications for 2021

Selective high schools cater for academically high potential and gifted students who may otherwise be without sufficient classmates of their own academic standard. Selective schools help these students to learn by grouping them with students of similar ability, using specialised teaching methods and materials.

Selective high schools are unzoned so parents can apply regardless of where they live. Applications for selective high school placement are considered mainly on the basis of the Selective High School Placement Test results and school assessment scores. The Selective High School Placement Test will be held on Thursday 12 March 2020.

If you would like to have your child considered for Year 7 selective high school entry in 2021, you need to apply on the internet using a valid email address (not the student’s email address).

Detailed instructions on how to apply online will be available from late-September 2019 at https:// education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-7 .

The application website opens at that link on 8 October 2019 and closes at 10pm on 11 November 2019. You must apply before the closing date.

There are no paper application forms. If you do not have internet access, you could apply at a public library. If you have a disability that prevents you from using a computer, you can contact the Unit for assistance after 8 October 2019.

You must submit only ONE application for each student.

Gilgai Public School

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:06:52 AEST

Westmead Public School community donated items for Happy Packs to show our support to our NSW farmers and their families. What started out as a conversation between three teachers who grew up in rural communities became one of the most generous and benevolent events at Westmead this year. We would like to thank the parents and students who donated to this worthy cause.

After receiving all the generous donations we delivered 50 individual HAPPY PACKS to the students of Gilgai Public School. Mr Jenkins, Miss Hughes, Miss Pearce and Mrs Campbell personally delivered the donations to Gilgai Public School in Week 8.

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:32:35 AEST

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

Have your say today on before and after school care.

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

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

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

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:19:21 AEST

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

Get involved at home

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

Join in from the classroom

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

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

Take the Book Swap Challenge

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

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

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

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

Duration: 0:38

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

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:37:05 AEST

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

You and your child can find information on:

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

A toolkit to empower you and your child

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

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

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

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

Keep your child safe and happy online

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

Education Week Stem Athon

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:28:02 AEST

Link to note

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 13:59:02 AEST

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

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

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

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:32:06 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:18:46 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:02:09 AEST

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

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

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

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:06:02 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

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

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

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

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Earn and Learn

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 12:52:03 AEST

We are excited to be taking part in the 2019 Woolworths Earn & Learn program.

During the previous campaign, we were able to purchase some great resources with the points we earned, thanks to you.

From now until June 25th 2019, you can collect stickers at Woolworths that go towards Earn & Learn points. For every $10 you spend at Woolworths (excluding the purchase of tobacco, liquor and gift cards), you will receive a sticker. These stickers can then be given to your children to collect on a special sticker sheet. Once it is completed, they can simply bring it back here to school or you can drop them into your local Woolworths collection box.

The more points we earn, the more we can redeem from a choice of over 10,000 educational resources including mathematics and English resources, art & crafts materials and much, much more!

We are grateful for your support and look forward to a successful program. If you have any questions, please ask at School.

Anzac Ceremony

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 10:58:36 AEST

On Thursday the 11th April, Mr Bryan West of the Parramatta Sub-branch and Corporal Terry Field of the 1st/15th Royal NSW Lancers attended our Anzac Ceremony. Both men spoke of the Anzac Spirit and what Anzac Day meant to them. Student leaders diligently lead the ceremony and the Year 3-6 students showed reverence throughout.

Over the last few weeks students have had the opportunity to experience history first hand through the Australian War Memorial Box. The box contained both authentic and replica items from the World War I period, allowing them to make a deeper connection to this solemn occasion.

We would like to again thank all of the Westmead Community for their support during the Support the Troops Campaign.

Mrs Campbell and Mrs Forbes

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:09:46 AEST

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

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

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

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

Children born in Australia

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

Adults born in Australia

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

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

Visualisation of our school plan

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 14:57:06 AEDT

Thank you, Andrew On Yi Lai for your visualisation of our school plan as a reference for our school community!

Terracycle Recycling

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 14:23:45 AEDT

The very generous staff at Australian Plastic Fabricators in Silverwater made the fantastic new perspex box for us as a donation. It is worth $429 so we are very lucky!

The oral care waste competition has started for this year, we had a very successful collection last year and hope to be in the top 5 participating schools this year. We earn 10 points for every item of oral care waste and 1 point for every vote.

You can vote once a day, every day!

Vote here: https://www.terracycle.com.au/en-AU/contests/colgategardenvoting (Select Westmead with a capital 'W')

Please take a moment to view the accepted waste shown here (scroll down to bottom of page):

Oral care: https://www.terracycle.com/en-AU/brigades/colgategarden

Beauty products: https://www.terracycle.com/en-AU/brigades/beauty-products-recycling-program

Supporting the Troops

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 12:51:56 AEDT

In the lead up to Anzac Day, Westmead Public School has participated in the Support the Troops campaign, run by the Department of Defence and Returned Services League (RSL). The school community was asked to donate items that could be put together in care packages, for Australian men and women who are currently serving in the defence force overseas. As a school, Westmead took up the challenge and an overwhelming amount of non-perishable food and personal items were donated. Student leaders and members of Year 5 and 6 helped to pack the 78 donation boxes ready to be mailed off by Goodwill Mail.

This engagement with the wider community has allowed the students to become more aware of the role that defence personnel play in the protection of the way of life we enjoy here in Australia as well as connecting this younger multicultural generation to the memory of the Anzacs. As there were so many donations, the school community has also been able to support Foodbank NSW, by donating items that did not fit into the original boxes.

Clean Up Australia Day 2019

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 14:16:04 AEDT

Westmead Public School is participating in Clean Up Australia Schools’ Day between Monday 1 April to Thursday 4 April 2019. This is a great opportunity to educate our students about waste and its harmful impact on the environment.

Students will need to bring a pair of gardening or thick gloves to participate safely and responsibly in this valuable initiative.

Harmony Day 2019

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 10:13:46 AEDT

21st March is Harmony Day. Harmony Day is a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home - from the traditional owners of this land to those who have come from many countries around the world.

Every year Westmead celebrates Harmony Day. Check here for more information about this exciting event.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:13:18 AEDT

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

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

1. Be alert and aware

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

2. Hold hands

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

3. Choose a safe crossing

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

4. Set a good example

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

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

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

Practise makes perfect

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

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

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

Applying for Extended Leave

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 11:00:18 AEDT

Please complete this form if applying for extended leave (more than 5 school days) for your child. This can also be found under "Parent Information" on this website. Travel documents must be attached to this form which can then be emailed to the school or dropped in at the office.

Application for extended leave 2019

High School Applications

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 13:23:32 AEDT

High school application forms will be handed out for Year 6 students at the Yr 6 Meet the Teacher afternoon on Tuesday 26 February 2019.

The afternoon will begin at 3.15pm in your child's classroom and will then continue from 3.35pm to 4.30pm in the Lecture Theatre. During the lecture theatre session, all of your high school application questions will be answered.

If you are unable to attend, your child will receive their application form the following day.

Classroom Requisites 2019

Sat, 02 Feb 2019 15:31:37 AEDT

In preparation for a busy year of learning, your child needs to have access to a range of basic items. It's also important to check with your child regularly as many of these items will not last the entire year. Please visit the appropriate link below in your preferred language to see what your child requires.

Kindergarten Classroom Requisites 2019

Years 1-6 Classroom Requisites 2019

Extra Curricular Programs 2019

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:17:06 AEDT

Students are invited to participate in extra-curricular activities provided by public schools in NSW. These activities are extra to the curriculum provided by classroom teachers and as such participation is optional. Not all students will be successful in being selected for a group.

PAYMENT

● Every extracurricular group will have a cost.

● The cost covers equipment, costumes, bus/train travel and tuition. Payments made to private providers for tuition in violin and keyboards are not included.

● A note will be sent home with your child once they have been selected for a group.

● Please do not send payment until you have received this note. More information regarding cost will be provided if your child is selected for a group.

AUDITIONS

● Auditions are conducted for most groups. It is your child’s responsibility to know when the audition is on.

● There will be no reminders. There are no further auditions.

REHEARSALS

● Students are required to commit for a full year in order for each program to be successful.

● No refunds are offered if a child discontinues the program. Fees are due by the end of Term 1.

● It is your child’s responsibility to listen to the announcements at morning assemblies and to turn up to their group on time. Failure to attend could mean that your child misses out on participating in end of year performances.

If you have any questions regarding the extra-curricular groups please email the school at:

westmead-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Full details of auditions can be found here:

K-2 Extra Curricular Activities AUDITIONS

3-6 Extra Curricular Activities AUDITIONS

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 14:50:39 AEDT

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

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

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:21:18 AEDT

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

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

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

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Changes to Fun Day 2018

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 14:20:53 AEDT

Traditionally Westmead Public School holds a fun day for all students towards the end of term 4. With increased numbers of students and greatly reduced playground space due to building programs we will not be able to hold one Fun Day for all students. Instead each grade will host its own version of a ‘Fun Day’. The P&C will still run the Fun Day Raffle and this will be drawn on Wednesday 5th December. The proposed dates are:

Is your child leaving Westmead Public School?

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 13:16:11 AEDT

We are currently reviewing our staffing for 2018. In order to do this effectively we need to know student numbers for 2019.

Please advise the school in writing on the form attached by Friday 23 November 2018, if your child will be leaving Westmead PS in 2018 to enroll at another school, move overseas or move interstate.

Form

Strong Minds

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 13:03:35 AEDT

Dear Parents/Carers

Our school vision includes, ‘Our school community is dedicated to providing every student with the opportunity to grow and achieve their personal best’, and as part of our commitment to achieving this vision we are implementing a wellbeing program called ‘Strong Minds’.

Strong Minds is a program that strives to empower teachers, students and parents to flourish in their daily lives. It is a whole school approach that is fully researched and evidence based to support improvements in wellbeing across the whole school community. Further to this, it complements our schools existing expectations for Positive Behaviours for Learning through a shared language for staff, students and families. Strong Minds is based on Positive Psychology strategies that strengthen individual wellbeing and learning. This supports our whole school community in further developing our school culture of inclusiveness and resilience.

Strong Minds is based on developing twenty- four scientifically validated ‘Character Strengths’ that are the distinctive qualities, which are the best in us. They reflect what is important to us and what we value. When we know and live our strengths we can improve everything that we do. For children, it allows them to see difference as strength. Research into character indicates that when we know and apply our specific character strengths our wellbeing and life satisfaction improves.

If you are interested, you can find out your Signature Strengths by completing the free VIA Survey at: https://www.viacharacter.org/survey/account/register

Westmead PS staff have participated in extensive professional development opportunities to develop their knowledge of Character Strengths and how it applies to the development in children of primary school age. Over Term 3 and Term 4, students will engage in lessons that explicitly draw on identifying specific strengths in themselves and others. An overview is provided on the back.

We encourage you to discuss these character strengths with your child and look for examples of when they put their strength into practice. Your child may also be very interested to know what your signature strengths are. These types of discussions can help to build relationships, self-esteem, and promote strengths based language within our school community.

To further support parents and carers in understanding the benefits of the Strong Minds program at Westmead PS, we will be holding information sessions on Tuesday 19 September. More information about booking for the workshop will be distributed in week 6.

On behalf of all staff at Westmead PS, thank you for supporting our school with the Strong Minds wellbeing initiative.

David Jenkins Sam Pillay and Mark Roberts

Principal Assistant Principals (Relieving)

Below is an overview of the Character Strengths students will be explicitly learning about in their classrooms over the next two school terms.

Creative Arts Night 2018 - Westmead's Hidden Treasures

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 13:04:41 AEDT

WESTMEAD’S HIDDEN TREASURES – CAPA NIGHT

Westmead Public School is hosting an evening show of entertainment on Monday 24 September 2018 at 6:30pm at Riverside Theatre, Parramatta. This spectacular performance will showcase the fabulous creative arts groups running at the school and give students the chance to demonstrate their skills and talents on the big stage for their friends and family. Come along to discover the amazing hidden treasures within our school.

Tickets

Tickets are available from https://boxoffice.riversideparramatta.com.au – enter ‘Westmead’ in the search box. Alternatively you can call or attend the box office at Riverside Theatre between Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm.

DVD

DVDs of the whole performance will be available to purchase prior to the show. Please note, purchasing is only available during the times below – no purchases can be made through the office.

When: 17-21 September and 25 September

Time: 8:30am till 8:55am

Where: Bottom of the 3-6 COLA

Cost: $20

How to order: Bring the completed DVD slip and correct cash to the 3-6 COLA on the days above

Open Day Wednesday 22 August 2018

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 13:05:47 AEDT

Education Week is a statewide event held to celebrate NSW public education. The week communicates the achievements of public schools, their students and the value of public education. The theme for 2018 Education Week is: Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world.

It celebrates how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing, globalised world.

This year, Westmead Public School will be celebrating Education and Book Week together on Wednesday 22 August 2018.

Timetable of events is as follows:

9:10am - 9:50am 3-6 Concert

10:10am - 10:50am K-2 Concert

11:30am - 12:50pm Walk-a-thon

1:00pm - 2:00pm Family Book Picnic

2:00pm - 2:25pm Open Classrooms K-2

2:25 - 2:55pm Open Classrooms 3-6

There will be prizes for participation in the Walk-a-thon and for the most money raised. Please refer to newsletters, this website and notes sent home for further details

Changed school enrolment boundaries for Kindergarten students 2019

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 10:24:37 AEST

Changed school enrolment boundaries for Kindergarten students 2019

Due to increased student enrolments in and around the Parramatta area, the Department of Education will open a new school called O'Connell Street Public School (name to be determined) in 2019.

During its first year, the new school will be open for Kindergarten students from within the school's enrolment area. Click here to see a map of the O'Connell Street catchment.

The O'Connell Street site is currently providing temporary accommodation for Parramatta Public School students while their school is being redeveloped. Parramatta Public School will relocate to their new school on Macquarie Street in 2019. Applications can be lodged at O’Connell Street Public School from Monday 3 September 2018.

In 2020 O'Connell Street Public School will be open for students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

To establish a new enrolment area for O'Connell Street Public School, we have reviewed the current enrolment areas for Westmead Public School, Parramatta North Public School and Parramatta Public School.

The changes come into effect for new Kindergarten enrolments for the 2019 school year. The changes do not apply to students who:

have a sibling enrolled in our school

Before enrolling your child in Kindergarten in 2019, you should check that you live within the Westmead Public School enrolment area which can be viewed here: WPS Enrolment Boundary Map.

The new changes for O’Connell Street Public School can be found by contacting Westmead Public School. We cannot accept enrolments from students outside of the area.

Westmead's war against waste

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 14:48:12 AEST

Every year Australia sends 30 million toothbrushes to landfill which equals to 1000 tonnes of waste. This waste will remain in landfill indefinitely. Help WPS in the war against waste and donate all your used oral care to be recycled!

WPS are entering TerraCycle's Colgate Community Garden Challenge. Prizes include a community garden set worth over $7000!

We will send your used and empty oral care items to TerraCycle, a company which recycles these items and makes them into new things like park and school play equipment. The program accepts any brand of oral care (not just Colgate!). Make sure you squeeze all the toothpaste out of the tube first!

1 item = 10 points

You can vote for WPS for extra points at

https://www.terracycle.com.au/en-AU/contests/colgategardenvoting

Anyone can vote - as long as they have an email address.

Competition closes October 31st 2018.

For more information, go to

https://www.terracycle.com.au/en-AU/brigades/colgategarden

Learning English as an additional language (EALD)

Tue, 29 May 2018 20:59:24 AEST

Many students in Australian schools are learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D).

EAL/D learners are students whose first language is a language other than Standard Australian English and who require additional support to assist them to develop English language proficiency. The PDF linked below has been created to tell you more about the EAL/D program at Westmead and how you can support your child.

Learning English as a second language

Term 2 parent information letters

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 15:12:04 AEST

Find out what is happening in your child's classroom this term by reading our Parent information letters.

Early Stage 1 (Kindergarten) Parent Information - Term 2 2018

Stage 1 (Years 1 & 2) Parent Information - Term 2 2018

Stage 2 (Years 3 & 4) Parent Information - Term 2 2018

Stage 3 (Years 5 & 6) Parent Information - Term 2 2018

Welcome to the new Westmead Public School website

Tue, 29 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

Westmead Public School would like to welcome you to our new website. The Department of Education is changing its school website platform to ensure it is future proof and accessible to all users.

The new platform is is more customisable and has some great features. You may have noticed that our new web address is http://www.westmead-p.schools.nsw.gov.au

We are among the first schools to go live with this new website platform. We ask you to please bear with us as we build this site and develop our proficiency.

Extra Curricular Activities 2018

Tue, 22 May 2018 19:12:36 AEST

Extra Curricular Programs Note Years 3-6 2018 (pdf 286 KB)

Extra Curricular Programs Note Years K- 2 2018 (pdf 114 KB)

Year 7 Selective High School Applications

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:41:38 AEDT

Dear Year 5 Parents,

Applications for Year 7 selective high school placement in 2019 must be submitted online between 10 October 2017 - 13 November 2017. If you have any questions please see Mr Roberts or Mrs Smith.

CAPA Spectacular 2017!!!

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:41:37 AEDT

Westmead PS presents

CAPA SPECTACULAR 2017

Thursday 14 September 2017 – 6:30pm

Westmead Public School is hosting a spectacular evening show of entertainment on Thursday 14 September 2017 at 6:30pm at Riverside Theatre, Parramatta.

This performance will showcase the fabulous creative arts groups running at the school and is intended as a thank you to parents whose support allows CAPA to flourish at Westmead Public School.

Tickets are now on sale at:

https://boxoffice.riversideparramatta.com.au/WEBPAGES/EntaWebShow/ShowDatesCombo.aspx

Adults: $20 Children (under 16): $10

Please Note: Children performing will NOT need a ticket

Thank you for your continued support. Funds raised will contribute to further enhancing the CAPA programs at our school.

E Walker and M Roberts, Co-ordinators

Teddy Bear Picnic

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:41:37 AEDT

On Tuesday 8^th November Kindergarten had a Teddy Bear Picnic day where teddies were cuddled and taken on some fun adventures. Students from 5F led the exciting activities involving craft, teddy games, a disco and sick teddies even went to the Teddy Bear Hospital for treatment. A fun day was had by all and there were many tired teddies going home at the end of the action packed day. You can view more pictures in the gallery on this website.

Westmead Public School is now on Twitter!!!

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:41:38 AEDT

Twitter @ Westmead PS

As part of our ongoing commitment to Strategic Direction 3- our school community will be inclusive, informed and engaged we have launched Twitter at our school.

This will be used to update you of any events and to inform you of important information and changes (e.g sports carnivals or PSSA cancellations due to bad weather, students arriving back late from excursions, reminders for fundraisers and whole school events, updates from Stage 3 camp).

Click here for full details Twitter (pdf 147 KB)

GET YOUR NEWSLETTER via EMAIL

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:41:37 AEDT

Westmead Public School offers interactive, graphically rich, full colour professional electronic newsletters delivered directly to your inbox every fortnight.

We have partnered with Austnews to provide this service free of charge to the school, with the kind support of our local businesses.

To sign up for our eNewsletter, please click here:

http://goo.gl/Hjf78F

Then complete the subscription for and click SUBMIT to confirm your subscription.
If you do not receive the eNewsletter, please check your JUNK and SPAM folders.

As part of our school's commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and impact on the environment, our school is no longer offering paper copies of our newsletter.

We invite you to subscribe to receive our eNewsletter via email or to visit our school website to get the latest version of our fortnightly newsletters. Thank you for your understanding.

Megan Bridekirk

Relieving Principal