Kahibah Public School - Information Handbook


	Kahibah Public School .... Information Handbook ....

Welcome to
Kahibah Public School 2008
Working together to be
the best we can be.

Thank you
for choosing our school.

The information presented in this booklet is intended to be helpful to you as your child enters our school.

We look forward to a pleasant, co-operative relationship with the school and home in harmony to provide a happy learning environment and where every child feels safe and secure.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome General Information Belief Statements Vision Statement, School Pledge, School Song	I Infectious Diseases	R Religious Education/Scripture Repetition of Students Reporting to Parents
A Annual Presentation Appointments with Staff Assemblies Asthmatics Attendance Awards & Commendations	J Jewellery	S School Caplain School Contributions School Counsellor Student Representative Council Sun Screen
B Bicycles Book Club Budget Committee	K Key Learning Areas	T Travel To and From School
C Canteen Captains and School Leaders Change of Address Clothing Pool Communication Computer Education Custody Arrangements	L Leaving/Transferring Procedures Library Lunches Lost Property	U Uniforms
D Discipline	M Medication Mobile Phones	V
E Emergencies/Evacuations Entrances Excursions	N	W Web Page
F First Aid	O OOSH (out of school hours care) Out of bounds	X
G	P Parent Helpers Parent Organisations Parent/Teacher Interviews Playground Supervision Photographs Presentation Day	Y / Z
H Home School Liaison Officer Homework House System	Q	APPENDIX Infectious Diseases School Map Otitis Media Information

WELCOME TO KAHIBAH PUBLIC SCHOOL

Our handbook is designed to give information to parents, our community and students about our school and how it operates.

We believe our school is the best school in Australia and in 2004 we won a National Quality School Award for being a safe and caring school. We also have 2 members of staff who have won National Excellence in teaching awards, with one being selected as the best teacher in Australia in 2004.

Kahibah Public School is a community school where all people are regarded as equal, each with a different job to do. Our school is committed to adding value to every child's learning experience, working in harmony with parents and the wider community. We believe that meaningful relationships are at the heart of how we operate as a school. We believe that open and honest dialogue helps us to connect to each other. We believe that when a child feels connected to a school and feels that he/she really belongs and matters, then real learning takes place. We are staffed by a team of dedicated teachers who provide quality service and teaching for all children. We all share the same philosophy.

To support our beliefs in catering for individual differences in our students, we have instituted a wide variety of programs providing diverse opportunities for students to develop their potential. Such initiatives, which cover each key learning area, include:-
* Sound teaching of Basic Skills
* Expert art tuition from leading specialist
* Explicit Teaching of Values
* Individual/group music lessons
* Bi-Annual Operetta/Theatrical
* Dancing/Starstruck/Drama
* School Choir
* Debating
* Public Speaking - Kinder to Yr 6
* Specialist Computer instruction
* A variety of sports
* Environmental projects
* Camps
* Excursions

An 'open door' policy operates at our school. We actively encourage parental participation and we welcome parental involvement in any number of activities. We regularly seek comment from parents and encourage input regarding programs we implement. We believe in a three-way partnership where every person is a valued member.

HISTORY OF KAHIBAH PUBLIC SCHOOL

The name "Kahibah" is an Aboriginal word meaning "quick, active and eager," - from Threlkeld's dictionary of Aboriginal words. While there is still evidence that a large Aboriginal work area and campsite existed near the entrance to Glenrock Lagoon, there are also signs of activities along Flaggy Creek where grooves in the stone banks show where weapons were sharpened.

Kahibah Public School commenced in 1938 with 1st and 2nd classes and was housed in the Kahibah Memorial Hall. The first teacher was Miss Elizabeth Mead, who, in February 1938, had 33 students. Finally, in October, 1954, a building of 4 classrooms was erected at a cost of Ł7,540 (middle section of our present building). A further 2 classrooms (eastern side) were built at a cost of Ł3,529 and occupied in November, 1955. In 1960 another 2 classrooms (western side) were added at a cost of Ł6,190.

THE PRESENT SCHOOL

The existing buildings consist of the original school building which has 8 classrooms, library, Principal's office and various other rooms. In addition there are three demountable classrooms and a demountable administration block. All are surrounded by environmentally pleasing tree-studded grounds. The school has 11 classrooms, plus a library, a large hall, a visual arts room, a computer laboratory, an administration area and a canteen. There are generous playing areas and the continual development of the grounds and planting of trees provide a very pleasant setting for the school.

Parents have built a coop which houses our poultry. The whole program is run by the students. The eggs are used by the canteen. Students are rostered to care for the birds during school holiday periods and they are very fastidious with this responsibility.

We also have a greenhouse which was built by parents and we have 2 vegetable gardens, planted and tended by children.

Students are also involved in a paper recycling program and this is run by a team of conscientious students.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Phone Number:	(02) 49434501
Fax:	(02) 49422590
e-mail:	Kahibah-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
Web page:	www.kahibah-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Address:	Frith Street, Kahibah 2290

SCHOOL HOURS
Supervision of the playground commences at 8.35am. Any children who arrive prior to this time are asked to remain seated on the steps near Room 1 until supervision begins.

8.35am - 9.00am	Playground Supervised
9.00am - 11.00am	Morning Lessons
11.00am - 11.20am	Recess - supervision by rostered teachers
11.20am - 12.50pm	Lessons
12.50pm - 1.00pm	Lunch with supervising teacher
1.00pm - 1.40pm	Supervision by rostered teachers
1.40pm - 1.45pm	Afternoon Assembly
1.45pm - 3.00pm	Afternoon lessons

For the first five weeks, Kindergarten children may be collected at 2.30pm under the COLA.

BUS STUDENTS:
* Children who attend OOSH after school are escorted by Staff onto their bus.
* Frith St - Children who catch the bus, or leave by this entrance, line up at the top of the hall stairs and are escorted to the pedestrian crossing or bus stop.

ENROLMENT PROCEDURES:
Children who turn 5 years of age before 31st July 2008, are eligible to enrol in 2008.
"Application for Enrolment" form is completed, and proof of age (e.g. Birth Certificate) is to be presented. Immunisation details are also requested. Other forms which need to be completed for school administration purposes are available from the office.

Dates for 2008:-
Tuesday, 29th January - Staff Development Day for teachers.
Wednesday 30th January - Students from Yr 1 to Yr 6 return to school.
Thursday 31st January - New Kindergarten children start school.

Members of Staff:

Principal	Pam Richardson
Assistant Principals	Maggie Killick
	Jennifer Connolly	Ian Davies
Staff	Melinda Horgan	Carol Callen
	Dennis Velich	Julie Curry
	David Lyddiard	Kendy Nicholas
	Melanie Davis	Megan Gray
	Louise Hislop	Yvonne McLardy
	Beth Filipo	Kelly Bruce
	Janelle Fidler	Yvonne Peters
Teachers Aides	Sue Tripet	Simone Groeneveldt
	Tina Thompson	Aaron Wells
School Administration	Heather Wand	Loretta Boyle
		Leigh Williams
General Assistant	Ray Hogan
Cleaner	Janice Line

BELIEF STATEMENTS

* As a school community we can make a difference in the life of each child, working together as a team in a needs satisfying, safe, friendly and healthy environment.

* For a quality school we believe in clear, open, honest communication among all members of the school community.

* We believe every individual is responsible and accountable for his/her own behaviour and learning.

* We encourage the development of social and academic life-long learning.

* We believe that the culture at Kahibah Public School strives to be consultative, supportive and inclusive, having empathy and respect for the rights of individuals while being mindful of the needs of others.

* We believe that a quality school is peopled by highly motivated and responsible teachers, parents and pupils working together on a meaningful curriculum where all are encouraged to value learning.

VISION STATEMENT
"Working together to be the best we can be".

SCHOOL PLEDGE
This is our school.
Let peace dwell here
Let the rooms be full of contentment
Let love abide here;
Love of one another
Love of mankind
Love of life itself
And Love of God.
Let us remember, as many hands build a house,
So many hearts make a school.

SCHOOL SONG
Verse 1
I came from the dreamtime, from the dusty red soil plains.
I am the ancient heart, the keeper of the flame.
I stood upon the rocky shores, I watched the tall ships come.
For forty thousand years I'd been the first Australian.
Verse2
I came upon the prison ship bowed down by iron chains.
I cleared the land, endured the lash, and waited for the rains.
I'm a settler, I'm a farmer's wife, on a dry and barren run.
A convict, then a free man, I became Australian.
Chorus
We are one, but we are many,
And from all the lands on earth we come.
We'll share a dream and sing with one voice:
I am, you are, we are Australian.
Verse 4
I'm a teller of stories, I'm a singer of songs.
I am Albert Namatjira and I paint the ghostly gums.
I am Clancy on his horse, I'm Ned Kelly on the run.
I'm the one who waltzed Matilda, I am Australian.
Verse 5
I'm the hot wind from the desert, I'm the black soil of the plains.
I'm the mountains and the valleys. I'm the drought and flooding rains.
I am the rock, I am the sky, the rivers when they run.
The spirit of this great land, I am Australian.
Chorus

A
ANNUAL PRESENTATION TO PUPILS
The School recognises the scholastic, social and sporting achievements of all its students at the Annual Presentation Day held in December each year. Class awards and school awards recognise both excellence and effort in a variety of categories, including citizenship and leadership.

Awards may be given under the following headings in each class: Academic; Most Consistent; Most Improved; Cultural; Encouragement and Citizenship. The Dux of the School is awarded to the top academic student in Year 6. Sporting awards are given to our champions in Athletics, Swimming and our PSSA teams.

APPOINTMENTS WITH STAFF
When a parent wants to meet with their child's teacher to discuss their child's progress, etc., an appointment can be made by contacting the front office or seeing the teacher before school, at lunchtime or after school throughout the year.

Appointments with the Principal should be made through the front office where possible.

ASSEMBLIES
Outdoor assemblies are held after lunch to inform children of the important matters of the day and coming events, as well as reminding children of the rules that apply regarding expectation of behaviour and values. Formal assemblies are held once every two weeks in our school hall providing the opportunity for classes to give reports and present items. Parents are welcome to attend these occasions.

ASTHMATICS
Parents of children who are asthmatics are required to complete a form regarding the details of their child's asthmatic condition. This enables us to provide appropriate assistance when necessary. Children need to take responsibility for their own puffer. We are an accredited Asthma Friendly School.

ATTENDANCE
Children are required to attend school each day the school is open. Class rolls are marked daily. All absences, including late arrivals or early departures are registered. A note is required for all absences and is to be handed by the child to the class teacher on his/her return to school.

If children arrive late they report to the office first to obtain a late slip that is then handed to the teacher. If the child is unaccompanied by a parent, the absence will be recorded as unexplained/unjustified. If parents/carers need to pick children up early, they also need to go to the office first to obtain an early leaver's slip that is then handed to the class teacher.

In the best interests of the school, we request that parents keep sick and recuperating children at home until they are well enough to be able to participate in the normal lessons.

AWARDS AND COMMENDATIONS
At times awards are presented by teachers to students for achievement. These are presented in the form of cards, ribbons, certificates, stamps, stickers, etc. either in class or at the formal assembly as a form of encouragement and to recognise personal improvement in any field of endeavour.
Our school believes in intrinsic motivation and we encourage responsible decision making and the completion of quality work because the student wants to, not because he knows there's an external reward at the end.

B
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE (OOSH -Out of School Hours Care)
The Charlestown Out of School Hours Care Centre, located at the Children's Centre of the Victory Baptist Church in Fraser Parade Charlestown, phone number 4943 9414, offers before and after school care for the children from our school. If there are positions available, the fees include transport to and from school.
Children are escorted onto the special bus each afternoon by a member of staff.

BICYCLES
Children may ride bicycles to school once they turn 10 years of age. Bicycle helmets MUST be worn by law. Bicycles are to be walked into the school playground. Pupils dismount at the entrance and walk bicycles to the bicycle racks. Cyclists are asked to use the Frith Street entrance for entry and exit to our school.
Cyclists line up in the afternoon, behind the walkers, all of whom are escorted by a member of staff.

BOOK CLUB
The School Library offers Book Club facilities twice a term to all children in the school. On the designated days, children are able to order books of their choice through the Scholastic Book Club. Payment for the books must be made on the day the books are ordered. Cheques are to be made payable to "Scholastic Book Club".

BUDGET COMMITTEE
The School Council, our school executive and our School Administration Manager fulfil the role of the Budget Committee.

C
CANTEEN
The school canteen provides a daily service to children when helpers are available. It is operated by volunteers who willingly provide this special service to children in our school. If you would like to help as a voluntary worker in the canteen, even 1 day per month, please notify the school.

* Lunches are to be ordered before 9.00 a.m. Orders are written on a lunch bag supplied by the students
* Students are to queue quietly at the counter with only one pupil in each row at the counter at a time, the remainder in single file behind the yellow line
* Each student is to buy only for him/herself
* Students do not to go to the canteen during lesson time unless directed by the teacher
* We expect students to be polite to people who serve in the canteen.

CAPTAINS and SCHOOL LEADERS
Each year the children in Years 2-6 vote for 2 School Captains and School Leaders. Students who nominate for election are required to address all K-6 pupils prior to the election. Elections are held in December each year and a special investiture ceremony is held early in Term 1 the following year. At this ceremony the parents of the captains and leaders are invited to pin on their child's badge.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Please advise the school immediately if there is a change of address or phone numbers. It is important that our records are kept up to date.

CLOTHING POOL
Members of the P&C organise a Clothing Pool each year. Used school clothing is housed at school. To purchase any clothing, our school assistants in the office will be able to help you. All details are provided in the school's newsletter.

COMMUNICATION
To keep parents informed of school happenings, a school newsletter is published fortnightly and distributed to the eldest child in each family. When necessary, extra bulletins are sent home to parents. The newsletter carries items about school news and celebrates childrens' learning. It includes information re: the P. & C. Association, The Fundraising Committee and School Council news and explains what's happening, when and where. A calendar of events for your convenience is also included. You are most welcome to visit the school at any time. We also have a very exciting and up to date web site available, www.kahibah-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
Please contact the school if you are concerned over any information that is unclear. Class teachers frequently send home newsletters, advising parents of class based activities, programs and class policies.

COMPUTER EDUCATION
The school has many computers and printers. These are placed in classrooms from Kinder to Year 6. Each classroom has access to the internet. We also have a bank of 15 computers in a computer laboratory and 2 interwrite electronic boards are now in operation. Computer instruction is provided on a regular basis to students by staff, and all staff are encouraged to update their computer skills frequently. We also have a specialist computer teacher taking classes and an enrichment interest club at lunchtime each Wednesday.

CUSTODY ARRANGEMENTS
In families where there are issues of separation/custody/divorce, we believe it is important for both parents to have access to information concerning their children and to be involved in their children's education. It is also necessary to keep the school informed of any Court Orders which may be current. Please provide us with all the information we need to ensure the best outcomes for your child and your family. All such information will be treated in the strictest confidence.

D
DISCIPLINE<
Our school believes in the philosophy that each individual person is responsible for his or her behaviour at all times. We also believe in creating a quality teaching and learning environment. To achieve this, all members of our school community endeavour to work as a team, operating on trust and mutual respect.
An agreed set of rules has been developed by Students in our school for the benefit of all, in both the playground and common indoor areas. Each class also establishes its own rules for creating an ideal learning environment.
All rules are designed to create harmony, where rights of individuals are respected but where the needs of the group are paramount.
Responsibility training is an integral part of our school curriculum. Children are taught strategies to help them make responsible decisions in their lives.
Students at our school know and understand that there are consequences for inappropriate behaviour.
Consequences are designed to strengthen each child.
Please refer to the Student Welfare Policy for more detailed information.

E
EMERGENCIES / EVACUATIONS
Special procedures exist when emergencies (e.g. fire, earthquake) occur in the school. Children follow an evacuation drill. Practices are held on a regular basis, generally once or twice a year. The main evacuation assembly area is the playing field.

A series of 3 short blasts (Go! Go! Go1) of the siren signals an emergency, and evacuation procedures are brought into operation. These procedures are displayed in the classrooms, the library, staffroom and offices and foyer.
A series of 3 continuous blasts (Stay!) signals lockdown procedures where children stay inside the classroom until "all clear" is given.

ENTRANCES
There are two entrances to the school, namely, the Frith Street, northern entrance for walking only, and the Symes Avenue, southern entrance.

Vehicles can enter via Symes Avenue, but entry is restricted to delivery of goods, parents on canteen duty, picking up a sick child or attending an authorised meeting and the afternoon school care bus. Any parent suffering permanent/temporary disability may see the office staff for a parking permit.

We ask that parents avoid driving into the playground when dropping off or picking up children. The RTA has described this as dangerous practice and the safety of every child in our school is paramount.
There is to be no driving in or out of the school grounds.
We know you will respect this request.

EXCURSIONS
Each year excursions are planned for children in all years, mainly to supplement and consolidate work being covered in lessons. These excursions are well planned and are an integral part of the school curriculum. Parents are often invited to help with pupil management on excursions and the ratio of such help is dependent on location and travel.
Year 5 students go to Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Camp each year and Year 6 go on a major excursion to Canberra.
Parents are asked to fill out medical forms for each excursion and risk management plans are completed by staff.

F
FIRST AID
Our School Assistants have current First Aid Certificates and will attend to simple medical procedures as well as administering prescribed medication for children with needs.

However, in cases requiring unexpected special medical attention, parents or a nominated contact person are notified. In serious cases, if neither parent can be contacted, the child will be taken by ambulance to the John Hunter Hospital from where contact with the parents and/or the doctor nominated on the Medical Form will be made. In this case, either the Principal, or a nominated member of Staff will accompany the child until a parent/carer arrives. Free ambulance cover is provided for each child by the school.

If ill, children report to their class teacher or to the School Assistant at the Office. If a student is so ill as to necessitate going home, the school will make telephone contact with the parent or the person nominated by the parent on the Information Form. If contact cannot be made, the student is kept in sick bay until arrangements can be made for the child to go home.

H
HOME SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER
An officer of the Department of School Education has the responsibility of checking the attendance of all children in the school at least once a term. Home visits may occur if the Home School Liaison Officer is not satisfied with a child's attendance or finds that parents have not provided a written explanation for a child's absence from school. This is departmental policy. Therefore, please advise the school, preferably by letter, of any absences.

HOMEWORK
This policy and homework expectations for each class are explained to parents at a Parent/Teacher Meeting held early in Term 1, in each classroom. It is expected that each child will complete the homework set for each week. Homework is designed to complement work done at school and has the potential for further home-school partnership in the education of the child. It is the school's aim to encourage the development of the child's interests, knowledge and skills through homework activities. These activities are usually a consolidation of class work.
Our school has a homework policy and if at any time the homework creates tension between you and your child it is best to stop and discuss the issue with the class teacher as soon as possible.

HOUSE SYSTEM
All children in the school are placed in one of four houses:

BURWOOD	(Blue)
GLENROCK	(Green)
KENIBEA	(Red)
VICTORIA	(Yellow)

Their names were selected to honour our local history.

BURWOOD	is the name of the nearest colliery and also the name of one of the main coal seams.
GLENROCK	is the lagoon into which the waters from Flaggy Creek flow. Flaggy Creek runs through part of Kahibah, past Kahibah Railway Station, over the Main Waterfall and down the Cascades to Glenrock Lagoon.
KENIBEA	is an aboriginal word meaning “Black Swan”. One assumes they were at the Lagoon. On old maps the Parish was known as Kahibah and the village Kenibea.
VICTORIA	is the name of another of the main coal seams in the Burwood Colliery.

(Burwood and Victoria were included because practically all of the early residents of Kahibah were coal miners working at Burwood Colliery)

For primary students, inter-house competitions are conducted at the Swimming and Athletics Carnivals and are extended into Friday sport activities where practicable.

I
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
If your child is diagnosed as having any of the infectious childhood illnesses, please ensure that the required period of exclusion from school is followed. Please refer to the information sheet, click here.

J
JEWELLERY
For the safety of our students we request that jewellery is not worn at school. With pierced ears, please ensure students wear studs or small sleepers only, as large earrings can cause injury.

K
KEY LEARNING AREAS (KLAs)
Six key learning areas make up the Primary School Curriculum. These are often referred to as KLAs and are:-

ENGLISH	(Reading, Writing, Talking and Listening)
MATHEMATICS	(Number, Space & Geometry, Patterns and Algebra Data, Measurement and Working Mathematically)
HUMAN SOCIETY AND ITS ENVIRONMENT	(Social Studies, Environmental Education, L.O.T.E.)
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY	(Science and Computer Education)
CREATIVE ARTS	(Visual Arts, Craft, Music, Drama)
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION	(Personal Development, Health Studies, Sport and Fitness)

L
LEAVING/TRANSFERRING PROCEDURES
Please notify the school in writing, by telephone or by personal representation if your child is leaving the school. (A Transfer Certificate will be completed and is to be presented at the new school.)
Please ensure that all library books and other school possessions are returned prior to departure.

LIBRARY
The Library is one of the important places in the school and provides students with the opportunity to broaden knowledge, develop further interests in reading and research and to view the displays of work presented by the students of the various classes. The students have Library classes on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday. The Library is visited by every student in the school every week. It provides students and teachers with high quality book and audio-visual resources in a pleasing, relaxing environment. The Library is open Monday-Wednesday at lunch time.

Children may use the Library for recreation, research, returns and borrowing at other times, but must either have permission from their teacher or be supervised. Borrowed books are placed in a library bag to protect the books from possible damage. Books are to be returned by the due date.

Children are encouraged to participate in the activities that are held in association with the library. During education week a Book Character Parade is held in conjunction with other related activities. This is a non-competitive activity, purely for fun and participation.

LUNCHES
Children in Classes K - 6 eat their lunches together under the COLA from 12.50 and commence play at 1.00pm.
This activity is supervised by all class teachers.

LOST PROPERTY
Lost property is stored in a basket in the planning room (near Mrs Richardson's office). Parents may check lost property at any time to see if a lost article has been handed in.
To prevent students' property/clothing from becoming lost, it's important to clearly label every article of clothing with your child's name.
Unclaimed lost property will be sent to Stewart House or the Smith Family at the end of each school year.

M
MEDICATION
All medication is to be handed in to the administration office staff. It should be clearly labelled with the child's name, dosage and any directions for administration.
Where a child is required to self medicate, the medication must still be handed in and administration must be carried out under adult supervision. Parents may come to the office to administer medication to their own child/children.

MOBILE PHONES
We do not encourage students to bring mobile phones to school. However, if there is a need to do so, then students are required to leave them at the office during the day for safe keeping.

O
OUT-OF-BOUNDS
For safety reasons, some areas of the school are out-of-bounds to children.

The bushland area, the gardens, behind and under buildings, the toilets during lesson time, the staffroom, storerooms, car park and offices are basically out-of-bounds unless children are accompanied by a teacher. We ask children not to enter the classrooms and the Library unless a teacher is present or teacher permission is given. This is for the personal safety of each individual. Children follow the rules that exist for the use of the playing field and grassed areas, and they are informed of the times that play is allowed in these areas.

P
PARENT HELPERS
Several teachers in the school seek help from interested and willing parents or grandparents to help in a multiplicity of activities. Parents also help in many other ways at the school through attendance at meetings and activities organised by the P. & C Association, at social functions, at fund-raising activities, at assemblies and special occasions, on excursions and at working bees.

Those who help in any way at school are required to sign a special register to enable insurance cover to be provided in the event of an accident or injury. It is also a Department of Education and Training requirement that all volunteers complete a Prohibited Employment Declaration form.

If you are providing transport for an excursion, you will need to let the office sight your current driver's licence, car insurance and registration prior to the event.

PARENT ORGANISATIONS
A School Council has been established since Term 4, 1991 and consists of 3 parent representatives and the President of the P& C, the Principal, 2 staff and 2 community representatives. Within the framework of Government and Department of Education and Training policies and having regard to the advice of the teaching staff, and parents, including P. & C. and the wider community, the School Council is concerned with the following:
* Policy
* Broad school policy and priorities determined by Council
* School Management i.e. School Management Plan, Budgeting, Accountability, Use of School Premises and Surveys and the promotion of public education.
* Advisory role to assist the Principal and/or Department.

The other parent bodies in the school are the Parents and Citizens' Association and the Fundraising Committee. The P & C meet in the staffroom on the third Tuesday of each month at 7.30 p.m. and the Fundraising Committee meets during the day, on demand. These parent bodies make a vital contribution to the success of the many academic, cultural, social and sporting programs and special events which take place in the school. The P & C helps in the provision of essential equipment from financial contributions raised by the Fundraising Committee.
A sub-committee of the P. & C. is the Canteen Committee.

Parents are welcome to join any one of these organisations and are encouraged to attend the meetings and support all the many and varied social and fund-raising functions that are held throughout the year.

PARENT/TEACHER INTERVIEWS
Parent/Teacher/Child Interviews, called 3-way conferences are conducted at the end of Term 2. As far as possible, times and dates are arranged to suit parents' busy schedules. The aim of the 3-way conference is to help children become involved in their own learning as they self-assess and articulate their own progress, based on personal strengths and weaknesses.

However, parents may make an appointment to see their child's teacher to discuss progress or concerns at a mutually convenient time during any week of the school year. This is a reciprocal arrangement as class teachers are encouraged to contact parents if they have any concerns about children. We like to keep lines of communication open.

PLAYGROUND SUPERVISION
Minimal supervision is provided by the School Staff for half an hour before lessons commence each morning at 9.00 a.m. Pupils should arrive at school after 8.30 a.m. The teachers are also rostered to supervise children at recess and lunch time

The children who catch the bus in the afternoon are also under teacher supervision as are all children who use the Frith St exit from school. Children wait in a designated place for the escorting teacher.

Children are required to leave school promptly when lessons end for the day and they are expected to walk to the gate with the teacher.

PHOTOGRAPHS
Class, group and individual photographs are taken annually and the current arrangement is that payment for photos is handed to the photographer immediately prior to the session. Parents are under no obligation to buy.

PRESENTATION DAY
* See Awards.

R
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION/SCRIPTURE
Special Religious Education lessons are given by Scripture teachers from the various Christian denominations.

Children remain in their own classes for their Scripture lessons as all the Scripture teachers use the same non denominational lessons, ratified by the NSW Department of Education and Training.

If you wish your child to be excluded from these lessons, you will need to notify the Principal in writing at the beginning of each school year.

REPETITION OF STUDENTS
Parents may request that a child repeat a year. A teacher may recommend repetition. Repetition is only advised where positive outcomes for students are anticipated.

The School Counsellor is usually involved in the process and the discussion. The final decision is the parent's.

REPORTING TO PARENTS
Formal written reports are sent home to parents in June & December. They are explicit in terms of children's academic progress and they are outcomes based. These reports include all key learning areas and social, sporting and extra curricula involvement.

S
SCHOOL CAPLAIN
Mrs Helen Harvie has been appointed as our School Chaplain from 2008-2010, for two days per week. She will be available to support students, parents and caregivers and the wider community. Please phone the office for contact details.

SCHOOL CONTRIBUTIONS
A school contribution, which is set by the School Council, covers duplicating costs, photocopying, paints, pencils etc. We encourage payment of the contribution early in Term 1, but it may be paid in instalments each term. These are the only contributions towards the school for materials, although parents will have other costs to meet during the year, e.g. excursions and cultural shows.

The school also has a Building Fund, donations to which are tax deductible. We use this fund to fit out our school hall.

SCHOOL COUNSELLOR
A School Counsellor is appointed to the school one day per week to help meet the needs of children. In consultation with the Principal teachers refer children to the School Counsellor with parental approval where there are perceived areas of concern academically, emotionally or socially. Parents may also initiate a meeting with the School Counsellor and this can be done by advising the Principal. Follow-up may involve meetings with the child's teacher, parents and the Principal of the school or in most cases all these people.
Situations are dealt with confidentially, and it is our belief that early intervention with situations produces positive outcomes more quickly.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL
The SRC provides a valuable forum for students to develop leadership, problem solving and decision- making skills. Each class elects two student representatives to serve on the council for one semester. Badges are presented to the elected representatives at a special assembly. The Student Council meets once every four weeks.

SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen for use by students prior to going out into the playground is available at the office.

T
TRAVEL TO AND FROM SCHOOL
Children in Years K-2 are eligible for free bus travel to and from the school. Primary students who live more than 1.6 km (as the crow flies) from the school may also apply for free transportation to and from the school. Special consideration for Year 3-6 pupils will be made for Medical conditions.

On alighting from the bus, children enter the school immediately.

In the afternoons, children are to wait in the assembly area under the supervision of the teacher on bus duty, before moving under the teacher's direction to board the bus. Responsible behaviour on the buses is expected. The bus driver can remove any pupil who misbehaves.

Parents who drop off, or pick up students in cars are reminded not to park in restricted areas, bus zones, or to block driveways or entrances/exits to the school. Also, parents are asked to drop their children at the front or back entrances to the school, NOT drive their children up into the school grounds, as this is a danger to both their own children and any other children in the grounds. Parents are reminded that stopping to drop off or pick up children in the "No Parking" zone in the vicinity of the Frith Street crossing is illegal. Additionally, this can endanger other children and is an unsafe practice.

U
UNIFORMS
All students are expected to wear full school uniform. This includes the wearing of the school hat.
The school community strongly supports the wearing of school uniform because it believes that the wearing of uniform promotes a sense of belonging and enhances the image of the school.
For the safety of our students we request that jewellery is not worn at school. With pierced ears, please ensure students wear studs or small sleepers only, as large earrings can cause injury.
See also Uniform web page

Boys Girls

Formal Uniform (same as Summer Uniform)

Grey Shorts Blue and White checked dress

Blue Shirt

Grey Socks White Socks

Black Shoes Black Shoes

Summer Uniform

Grey Shorts Blue and White checked dress OR
Royal blue KPS shorts with sky blue polo shirts

Blue Shirt

Grey Socks White Socks

Black Shoes Black Shoes

Blue School Hat
(full brim) Blue School Hat
(full brim)

Winter Uniform

Navy Blue Tracksuit Navy Blue Tracksuit OR Slacks

Pale Blue Shirt or Skivvy Pale Blue Shirt or Skivvy

Navy Blue Jumper Navy Blue Jumper

Grey Socks White Socks

Black Shoes Black Shoes

Sports Uniform

Royal Blue Shorts Royal Blue Shorts

Pale Blue Sport Shirt Pale Blue Sport Shirt

White Socks White Socks

Joggers Joggers

N.B. NO tights or bike pants allowed.

* Sports uniform is worn on Fridays and on special sporting events
* For official functions and school photos, girls are to wear blue dress, with white socks
* Please mark all child's clothing clearly with their name.

CLOTHING PRICE LIST

Royal Blue Shorts $12.00

Library Bags $6.00

Pale Blue polo Shirt UPF 50 $15.00

Winter Jacket $20.00

School Hat $10.00

Girls Uniform $38.00

Cloth School Badges (sewn on Jumpers) $3.00

Metal School Badges $4.00

These items will be on sale on Orientation Day.

A CLOTHING POOL is available which stores second-hand clothes. Donation of uniforms and boy's and girl's underwear for use in case of accidents or sickness is always appreciated.

Uniforms may be obtained at Lowes at Charlestown Square. We encourage children to wear school uniform because it is important to be part of a team. It helps develop a common set of values and a sense of pride in our school.
We would appreciate parental cooperation and support in having children wear school uniform every day.

W
WEB PAGE
Our Web page address is: www.kahibah-p.schools.nsw.edu.au and we encourage you to access it frequently. It is kept up to date & has many links to useful sites. School projects & courses of study have many links to help with research.

Appendix
Details for School Map and Otitis Media Information are available in the hard copy handed out by the office.

Boys	Girls
	Formal Uniform (same as Summer Uniform)
Grey Shorts	Blue and White checked dress
Blue Shirt
Grey Socks	White Socks
Black Shoes	Black Shoes

	Summer Uniform
Grey Shorts	Blue and White checked dress OR Royal blue KPS shorts with sky blue polo shirts
Blue Shirt
Grey Socks	White Socks
Black Shoes	Black Shoes
Blue School Hat (full brim)	Blue School Hat (full brim)

	Winter Uniform
Navy Blue Tracksuit	Navy Blue Tracksuit OR Slacks
Pale Blue Shirt or Skivvy	Pale Blue Shirt or Skivvy
Navy Blue Jumper	Navy Blue Jumper
Grey Socks	White Socks
Black Shoes	Black Shoes

	Sports Uniform
Royal Blue Shorts	Royal Blue Shorts
Pale Blue Sport Shirt	Pale Blue Sport Shirt
White Socks	White Socks
Joggers	Joggers
	N.B. NO tights or bike pants allowed.

Royal Blue Shorts	$12.00
Library Bags	$6.00
Pale Blue polo Shirt UPF 50	$15.00
Winter Jacket	$20.00
School Hat	$10.00
Girls Uniform	$38.00
Cloth School Badges (sewn on Jumpers)	$3.00
Metal School Badges	$4.00