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OUR SCHOOL MOTTOWorking Together

OUR SCHOOL MISSIONWorking Together, nurturing personal achievement and life-long learning in a

learner-centred environment, sustained by explicit values and strong school, family and community partnerships

OUR SCHOOL VALUESIntegrity, Responsibility, Excellence and Doing our Best, Respect,

Care andCompassion and Collaborative Learning

Parap Primary School

Handbook

WE WARMLY WELCOME YOU TO OUR SCHOOL

We are very proud of our school, its values, history, traditions and achievements and would like to share the following general information about Parap Primary School with you.

Darwin's longest established government school, Parap Primary School, and its adjacent Pre-School facility, are located approximately five kilometres from the Darwin central business district. The school has been providing high-quality education programs to the Darwin community since 1958, guided by its mission, Working Together, nurturing personal achievement and life-long learning in a learner-centred environment, sustained by explicit values and strong school, family and community partnerships. Our mission is informed by a school-developed Values package, Living Our School Values. The package supports the school’s stated values of Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Excellence and Doing Our Best, Care and Compassion and Collaborative Learning.

Located on the site of the first international flight to land in Australia in 1919, the school's historical and multicultural heritage provides students with a clear and positive sense of their place in the social fabric of Australia. An emphatic focus is placed on curriculum-wide quality learning outcomes for all students, with students enthusiastically encouraged, supported and acknowledged in their learning. Recognised as a Gifted Education Lighthouse School, a whole school approach to the education of the gifted and talented is implemented through the Horizons program. A diverse Learning Support program is provided, including Special Education, and the school also actively engages with all families in supporting learning and attendance. The school’s Student Wellbeing package, Working Together in Harmony, which includes Tribes™ processes, the Friendly Schools Plus anti-bullying program and a part-time Wellbeing officer, are central to the core focus on quality learning outcomes. The school is an accredited Sun Smart school. The school’s general directions are guided by a rolling 4-year Strategic Improvement Plan and an Annual Improvement Plan.

Students may participate in a wide range of enrichment activities, including musical and instrumental instruction, choirs, Asian language and culture studies (Chinese), student leadership and governance, sporting, outdoor education and social and community caring programs. The school is a foundation Teaching School partner of Charles Darwin University, supporting innovative teacher preparation approaches. After School and Vacation Care as well as seasonal Active After School programs are provided, initiatives of a committed School Council comprising school community and staff representatives. The school welcomes the support and involvement of parents and caregivers in all school activities.

PROUDLY PRIMARY AND PROUDLY PUBLIC, OUR SCHOOL HASBEEN A SPECIALIST PROVIDER OF PRIMARY AND PRE-SCHOOL

EDUCATION TO THE DARWIN COMMUNITY FOR OVER 50 YEARS

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CONTENTSWelcome

A Brief History of Our School

Keeping In Touch and School Hours of Operations

Primary School Campus Map

Our Enrolment Policy

Attendance at School

Living Our School Values

Student Dress Standards

Health Matters

Voluntary Contributions

Student Wellbeing

Our School Houses and Student Leadership

Student Safety

Learning at Parap Primary School

Becoming Involved with Our School

School Canteen

Out of School Hours Care

School Assembly

Lost Property

Valuables

Emergency Clothing

School Banking

Mobile Phones and Electronic Devices

Hire of School Facilities

Cyclone Emergencies during School Hours

Nits and Head Lice Information

Tips to Promote Healthy Eating

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Calendar for NT Schools

A BRIEF HISTORY OF OUR SCHOOLPeter and Sheila Forrest Historians

That school declined in the 1920s and 1930s, but as the war loomed it regenerated and it had 77 pupils in February 1941. There were serious proposals for a new and bigger school but bombs blew away that idea. In 1944, town planning schemes for post-war Darwin included a new residential suburb at Parap but nothing was done until 1950 when housing blocks were made available around the old airstrip.

The fast growing local population took seriously its obligation to populate or perish. By 1954 even the government acknowledged that the need for a school at Parap was urgent. On 20 July 1955, ₤150,000was allocated for a new Parap school. Designers immediately began planning for a school suitable for the tropics. On 10 September 1956 the construction contract was awarded to local builder Angelo Maddalozzo; on 25 November 1957 Angelo handed over the finished buildings and was congratulated for “the excellence of workmanship which has culminated in the completion of this splendid building.”

Within a short time of the school opening its doors on 12 February 1958, 361 children were enrolled. On 16 August 1958, more than 1000 people watched Administrator Clarrie Archer perform the official opening. If they looked around, people would have seen a new shopping centre emerging nearby and houses multiplying in a place that was no longer at Darwin’s edge of the outback – instead, it was becoming an inner suburb. The Infant school was built in Stokes Street and opened in July 1959. It functioned as an independent school until official amalgamation with the primary school took place at the beginning of 1974. The Parap Pre-School, an integral part of the school, opened in 1960 on its present site on Ross Smith Avenue.

Both Infant and Primary Schools were severely damaged during Cyclone Tracy (December 1974). In 1979, additions to the school included a new library, a four-roomed open style classroom and a reconstructed administration block. During 1982, all classrooms were renovated and all rooms were completely air-conditioned by the end of 1985. Since 2003, the school has undergone major facilities upgrading, with most of the Primary school facilities replaced or significantly renovated.

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Darwin’s first suburban school had in fact opened in Stokes Street Parap, in 1917. In its early years, that school had enrolments of about 50 children, drawn mostly from the railway and Vesteys meatworks families living nearby.

Parap Primary School celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 2008 - a proud moment for theschool, for Darwin and the whole Northern Territory. The opening of the school in 1958 was a symbol of Darwin’s post-war renewal, a milestone along the road to a modern city. Before the war, the Parap district had been a civil aerodrome which then became a wartime fighter strip. In the 1950s, the area became a modern suburb that badly needed a school.

History isn’t only about the past – its highest purpose is to help usto achieve better futures. Parap Primary has always tried to give itsstudents the best possible foundation for life. Thus the school makesbetter futures and a better history, for us all.

A school community history, Working Together, The Story of Parapand its Two Government Primary Schools, by Peter and Sheila Forrest,

SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION

Primary School Campus:Urquhart Street ParapPO Box 69 Parap NT 0804Phone: (08) 8982 2922Fax: (08) 8941 2606Email: parapps.office@ntschools.netWeb: www.parapprimary.nt.edu.au

School Dental Clinic: 8982 2966 (staffed part-time only)Dental Emergencies: 8922 6466

Out of Schools Hours and Vacation Care Programs Camp Australia P/LPhone: 1300 105 343Email: info@campaustralia.com.au

Pre-School Campus:61 Ross Smith Avenue ParapPhone: (08) 8981 5146Fax: (08) 8941 9269

SCHOOL HOURS OF OPERATION

SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS: 7.45am-3.30pm

TEACHING/LEARNING PERIODS:PRIMARY:Morning Session: 8.15-10.15amRecess: 10.15am-10.45amMid-Morning Session: 10.45am-12.45pmSupervised Lunch: 12.45pm-12.55pmLunch Break: 12.55pm-1.25pmAfternoon Session: 1.25pm-2.35pm

PRE-SCHOOL:The preschool consists of 4 class groups, each running for 2 ½ days a week.

2 classes run Monday – Wednesday:

Mon: 8.15am-2.30pmTues: 8.15am-2.30pm Wed: 8.15am-10.45am

2 classes run Wednesday – Friday:

Wed: 8.15am-10.45amThurs: 8.15am -2.30pmFri: 8.15am-2.30pm

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KEEPING IN CONTACT WITH YOUTHE PARAP FLYER:Our key means of communicating general school information to our school community isthrough the weekly school newsletter, the Parap Flyer. The school distributes the Flyer in an electronic format every Wednesday with a small number of paper copies circulated to ensure all families are informed of essential information. The weekly flyer is also uploaded to our school’s website. Please contact parapps.office@ntschools.net to add your address to the email list. The school is happy to publish notices of interest to the school community in the Flyer free of charge, although advertising of a commercial nature is generally not accepted.

Our Pre-School also publishes a weekly newsletter.

SCHOOL WEBSITE:Our school website, www.parapprimary.nt.edu.au, is currently available online.

TEACHER COMMUNICATION:

Class teachers establish communication links with families in the early part of the school year, predominantly through emails. These links are used to provide information about class and school activities and to facilitate information sharing between teachers and individual parents/caregivers. Please remember that class teachers are usually busy with class activities during the school day and may not be available to respond to your emails until after school hours.

COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD:

A community notice board is provided by the school adjacent to the Urquhart Street entrance and community members are welcome to make free use of it for notices of interest to the school community. Please enquire at the school office.

KEEPING YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION CURRENT

It is very important that you keep your contact information current at all times in case we need to make urgent contact with you. A visit to the school office, a note, phone call, fax or email is all that is required to do this.If you have the skoolbag app, you may also use this to update your information. parapps.office@ntschools.netPhone: 08 8982 2922Fax: 08 8941 2606

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OUR SCHOOL ENROLMENT POLICY

1. Priority Enrolment Area (Please refer to map following):

NT Department of Education and Children’s Services policy is that the school’s Priority Enrolment Area is bounded by Douglas Street, Hudson Fysh Avenue to Watts Street (aligning with the suburban boundary), the Stuart Highway, Salonika Street (including the Hastings over Mindil residential complex), Conacher Street, Atkins Drive and East Point Road, including the East Point recreation area. Students residing within that area are entitled to enrol at the school. Students from outside the area may be enrolled at the discretion of the Principal if places are available, with consideration given to factors such as students having siblings already enrolled at the school or the family having a long-term, ongoing affiliation with the local community. Students who are enrolled at the school and who subsequently reside outside the Priority Enrolment area may continue to be enrolled at the school.

2.

Pre-School and Transition:

NOTE: As schooling in the NT is compulsory only from the age of 6 years, Pre-School and Transition programs in NT Government schools are non-compulsory (however, once enrolment has occurred, there is an expectation that attendance obligations are adhered to). The importance of access to and participation in quality education and learning experiences in the best interests of each child underpins the following policies.

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2.1: Pre-School:Children turning 4 years of age on or before 30 June may be enrolled in the Pre-School program from the beginning of the school year, although enrolments may occur throughout the semester at the school’s discretion. As we wish all students to enjoy success at school, in enrolling children in the Pre-School program, especially for those under 4 years of age, consideration is given to a variety of factors including a child’s ability to cope with separation from parents, toileting independence, and levels of social skills.

2.2: Transition Program:As the Parap Pre-School is an integral unit of Parap Primary School, children enrolled at the Pre-School are eligible to move to the Transition program without the need to further enrol in the Primary school. If places are limited in the Transition program, children residing in the Priority Enrolment area will be given priority placement. A child turning 5 years of age by 30 June may commence in Transition from the beginning of the school year.

A Pre-School child who turns 5 years of age on or after 1 July will be eligible for entry to Transition from the commencement of the next school year. Admission to Transition is dependent on a judgement being made jointly by the Pre-School staff, parents and the Principal or delegate to ensure that the child will be able to successfully engage with the learning expectations of the Transition program.

DARWIN MIDDLE SCHOOL AND DARWIN HIGH SCHOOL

Most of our Year 6 students move on to Darwin Middle School for Years 7 – 9 and eventually to Darwin High School for Years 10 - 12, with both schools located at Bullocky Point. We work closely with the Middle School to ensure that our students transition smoothly, with staff and student orientation visits, detailed sharing of information about students and parent/caregiver information evenings at the Middle School.

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ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOLTHE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

A very regular pattern of attendance at school is one of the foundations of effective, ongoing learning. It is both NT Government and school policy that all students attend school unless, of course, they are ill or for some other pressing reason. Our school attendance average is usually in the range of 93% - 95%, however, we can improve on this even further. We are monitoring the attendance of all students on a daily basis and we will be in touch if a concerning pattern of absence is developing.

What is the impact of not going toschool regularly?

School missed over the compulsory

schooling period in the NT (6-15years of age)

REPORTING ABSENCES Whatever the reason for a student’s absence, parents/caregivers are required to inform the class teacher or school office by note, phone call, email (parapps.office@ntschools.net), or via the skoolbag app of the reason for any absences the same day. If no advice is received by 8.30 that morning, parents will be contacted to verify the whereabouts of their child.

STUDENT PUNCTUALITYPunctuality is an expectation of Parap Primary School as it enables students to commence the day’s activities in a calm and organised manner. The morning is an important time for students to hear daily announcements, class information and instructions for the commencement of class lessons. Students who develop a pattern of late arrival not only create bad habits for themselves but also disrupt the class teacher and fellow students.

When is a student marked as late on the roll?

Students arriving after the Morning Messages will be marked as late on the class roll. Messages commence at approximately 8:20am and are usually completed by 8:25am.

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2 years missed1 day per week1.5 days per week

Total number of years missed

3 years

Days absent

3 days per week 5 and a half years5 weeks per term

2 days per week 3 and a half years

4 and a half years 1 yearAverage 5 days per term

What should students do if they are late?

Students should go directly to the office. One of the office personnel will record the student’s name, class, date and time they arrived. If the school is concerned about a pattern of lateness developing, a letter may be sent home detailing the number of times the student has been late and a request for the parent/caregiver’s support to rectify the matter.

What happens if a student is continuously late?

When the school has sent home requests to address a lateness issue and the punctuality has not improved the Principal or one of the Assistant Principals will make contact with the parent/caregiver.

CHILDREN AT SCHOOL EARLY AND LATE

Our school hours are 8:15am – 2:35pm Monday to Friday. This is the allocated learning time for our students and we do ask that parents endeavour to have students at school by 8:15 so that they are ready to begin the school day.

Staff members are in classrooms from 8:00 a.m. each morning so they can complete preparations for their day. Please note that some teachers will have their doors open and may encourage students and parents to come in from this time. We ask that parents contact teachers by email if they wish to speak about their child before school so that a suitable time can be arranged in advance.

There is no supervision for children who arrive at school before 8 a.m. Staff members and community volunteers monitor the school crossings on Parap Road and Ross Smith Avenue before and after school each day.

All children are to be collected from school by 2:35pm, unless they are involved in an endorsed after school activity, or if they attend our school’s After School Care program which is provided by Camp Australia. If you know that you are going to be late to pick up your child please contact the school as soon as possible.

Students who are not collected from their classroom by 2:45pm will be taken by the classroom teacher to the front office and parents/caregivers will be contacted.  If we are unable to make contact, the students will be taken to Camp Australia for supervision.  Fees will be charged to the parents for this service.

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LIVING OUR SCHOOL VALUES

The Parap Primary School community has developed a Values Education Policy, Living Our School Values, which underpins classroom methodology and relationships throughout the school. The school’s Values were developed through a democratic process involving students, teachers and parents/caregivers. Students are explicitly taught the values and the school provides a wide variety of programs and activities through which students may experience the values. The values are used as a basis for school and classroom rules and act as a guide for all members of the school community.

Images representing our School Values developed by the students of Parap Primary School.

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OUR SCHOOL VALUESIntegrity, Responsibility, Excellence and Doing our Best, Respect,

Care and Compassion andCollaborative Learning

STUDENT DRESS STANDARDS

PARAP PRIMARY SCHOOL IS PROUD TO BE AN ACCREDITED SUNSMART SCHOOL

It is NT Government policy that the wearing of school uniforms is compulsory. Parap Primary School has the responsibility of ensuring that appropriate dress standards are set and maintained in the school. Our school policy is, therefore, as follows:

1. General Policy:

The wearing of school uniforms as described in this policy statement is an integral part of participation in the life of the school. All students are required to wear a uniform at all times except on designated non-uniform days and during some designated school activities. Our policy takes into consideration health, safety and sun protection factors.

2. Setting and Maintaining Standards:

It is the school’s clear intention to set a dress standard for the school and to offer positive encouragement for students to maintain such a standard. Pride in self, family, and school; self-discipline; the projection of a high standard of public image of our school; and removing financial and social pressures on families to provide fashionable clothing for students are worthwhile objectives. The support of the school community in setting and maintaining high dress standards by the students is both vital and expected. Parents/caregivers will be contacted by the school where there is ongoing non-compliance with the policy.

3. Uniform Styles:

Uniform designs have considered climate conditions, sun protection, and student comfort factors. A varied range of uniforms are available from the school. The wearing of House shirts is welcomed except for occasions such as school excursions and school photographs. The school will conduct reviews from time to time to ensure that quality and styles of the uniform remain relevant and are meeting the needs of students and their families.

4. Footwear:

School style shoes or joggers must be worn. Bare feet, thongs, Crocs, sandals, ballet flats and Masseur-style sandals are prohibited.

5. Hats:

The wearing of a school hat is compulsory and a range of school hats are available from the school. The wearing of hats with a broad brim is strongly encouraged as a sun protection measure.

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6. Windcheaters/jackets/light sweaters:

These are strongly recommended for the air-conditioned classrooms and in dry season months. Parap Primary School has a school jacket as one of the uniform items available.

7. Non-Uniform Days:

These will occur occasionally, aligned with special school activities. On such days, clothing, especially t-shirts, carrying offensive motifs or messages, are prohibited and the footwear and sun smart standards still apply.

8. Cultural Considerations:

School uniform concerns in respect of cultural situations should be discussed with the Principal.

9. Jewellery:

A minimum of jewellery only should be worn. Some jewellery (e.g. large earrings) may not be suitable or safe for some school activities. The school does not accept any responsibility for the loss of jewellery worn to school by students. Acceptable jewellery items include sleeper or stud earrings and watches.

10. Family Support:

Parents/Caregivers may choose to utilise the NT Government’s Back to School Voucher scheme to obtain uniforms. The School Council stands by the school motto of Working Together and co-ordinates a second-hand uniform pool which is contained in the school office. As a school, we also understand that sometimes families find themselves in difficult situations and obtaining uniforms may pose a financial burden. Please contact the school Principal if you find yourself in need of assistance. All matters will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and discretion.

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HATS MUST BE WORN TO AND FROM SCHOOL, DURING RECESSAND LUNCH AND OTHER OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES

SCHOOL SHIRTS, DRESSES, JACKETS and SHORTS:

HOUSE SHIRTS:

BUCKET HATS: reversible featuring House colours (without the House name).

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HEALTH MATTERS

SCHOOL ENTRY AND IMMUNISATION RECORDS

Schools maintain childhood immunisation records to quickly identify children at risk of infection when diseases preventable by immunisation are present or suspected at your school. Please provide the school with a record of your child’s immunisations at entry into Pre-School, Transition, Middle School and when transferring to a new school. Children without immunisation documents will be recorded as not immunised and may be sent home from school during an outbreak of a disease preventable by immunisation. This is for their protection.

Written proof of your child’s immunisations can be:

Personal Health Records (or Baby Book) with a signed and dated record of immunisations

Details of immunisation given, signed and dated on official letterhead from a Community Care / Health Centre, Aboriginal Medical Service, Local Government Council, doctor or other health care provider;

Certificate of immunisation from the NT Childhood Immunisation Database or from the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR).

Check the list below to find out what to do if you do not have any immunisation records for your child.

Situation What to doContact your child’s immunisation provider and request arecord of past immunisations;ORPhone the NT Childhood Immunisation Database Helpdesk on 8922 8315.

Provide your school with the records you do have and askyour local Community Care /Health Centre to help with acatch up program for your child.

Your child may be sent home when diseases preventable by immunisation are present or suspected at your school.

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Missing immunisation records

You are not sure if your child is up-to- date with immunisations

Your child is not immunised

OR

OR

From 1 August 1998 a child of 5 years is considered to be up-to-date with theirimmunisations if they have had the following:5 doses DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis vaccine)4 doses OPV (oral Polio vaccine)2 doses MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella vaccine)at least one dose Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine)3 doses HBV (Hepatitis B vaccine)

For more information about the importance of childhood immunisations,contact your Community Health Centre or family doctor.

STUDENT SICKNESS AND INJURIES

Sick children should not be sent to school. Children who become sick or who are hurt during school hours are taken to the office (our front office staff hold First Aid qualifications). Their condition may necessitate a short rest in the sick bay or parents/caregivers may be contacted to make arrangements to have the child taken home.

If a serious injury or illness occurs, parents/caregivers will be notified immediately (provided contact phone numbers are up to date) and advised of what action has been or may need to be taken.

In an emergency situation, it may be considered necessary to have the child conveyed immediately to hospital for medical attention, accompanied by a school staff member. Please note that the School Council provides Ambulance Cover for all students.

PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOUR RELEVANT EMERGENCYCONTACT DETAILS ARE KEPT CURRENT AT ALL TIMES

INFECTIOUS DISEASESA number of infectious diseases have set periods of exclusion from school. The more common diseases are listed below. Our school office staff can assist you if you have enquiries about this matter.

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STUDENT MEDICATIONS AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS

STUDENT MEDICATIONS: It is a requirement that, where students require medication during the school day, the school must be advised of the nature and purpose of the medication and that the medication is stored and administered from the school office. All medication stored must have a doctors label and instructions. The only exception to this is Asthma medication which may be kept with the students, although the school office must be advised that the student is in possession of the medication (you may still elect to have Asthma medication managed by the school office staff). A form must be completed by parents and is available from the front office.

SERIOUS MEDICAL

CONDITIONS: In our school, it is common to have students who have

serious medical

conditions which may require specialised medication and intervention by the school. These conditions include Asthma, Diabetes, Epilepsy, severe allergies/Anaphylaxis and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). It is vital that parents/caregivers, students, and school staff work together to manage such conditions and any associated medication regimes. Information is shared among school staff about students with conditions in case a situation arises outside of normal class activities and specialised training is implemented where required.

ANAPHYLAXIS:

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Mumps

Return to school no less than 5 days after the spots first appearand when spots are dry.

Exclude from school for a minimum of 4 days from appearance of the rash.

Exclude for 9 days or until swelling goes down.

Return to school once diarrhoea ceases and child is consideredrecovered.

Return to school when discharge from eyes has ceased.

Return to school when appropriate treatment has commenced.Affected sites must to be covered.

Return to school when appropriate treatment has commenced

Chicken Pox

Measles

Giardia

Conjunctivitis

Ringworm and Scabies

School Sores (Impetigo)

There are, on occasions, students in our school who have severe food allergies (anaphylaxis), in particular, to nuts of all types. This can be life threatening. Eating, touching or even inhaling a peanut or nut product may trigger a very serious reaction. Where this is the case, we will advise parents/caregivers of the student’s class of the situation and seek support in avoiding nut products being sent to school. The school has plans in place to manage such situations, including the appropriate training of staff.

HEAD LICEThe very cleanest of heads still may attract head lice. We ask that your child’s hair be checked regularly and where head lice infestation is detected we request that the child is treated immediately. It is the responsibility of parents/caregivers to undertake the treatment. Where head lice are detected in the classroom a letter will go out to parents advising them of the presence of head lice in the class. Please refer to the Head Lice Information Sheet attached to this publication.

DENTAL CLINIC

The school has a Dental Clinic attached that is staffed part time by the Department of Health and Community Services with a Dental Therapist and Dental Assistant. For any emergencies or queries, parents/caregivers should contact Darwin Emergency Dental Clinic on 8922 6466.

HYDRATION

Students are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids throughout the school day. Each classroom has a fridge inside and a chilled water facility outside, and students are encouraged to have a water bottle on or near their desk and to drink regularly.

VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONSParap Primary School Council Inc introduced a voluntary Parents/Caregivers Contributions scheme from the beginning of 2007. The Contributions provide resources and services in support of the school’s programs and activities in addition to the resources provided by the NT and Commonwealth Governments, and enables wider choice by parents/caregivers in the use of the NT Government Back to School Vouchers.

Primary School Contributions:The contribution level is recommended at a total of $80 per Primary student for the school year, and is capped at $200 for families with 3 or more children at the Primary School.

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Preschool Contributions:

Preschool contributions are $50 per term, to cover the range of multisensory resources and consumables provided in the preschool program.

WHY DO WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS?

The NT Government provides teaching and support staff, school facilities and funding for utilities (power, water, communications, maintenance etc). It also provides funding to the School Council to meet basic costs of curriculum implementation. However, not all curriculum enrichment activities and other services provided by the school can be fully met by this to the level that our school community aspires to. The Parent/Caregiver Voluntary Contributions increase our resource base so that our teaching and learning programs continue to be enriched well beyond the basic requirements.

The NT and Commonwealth Governments currently provide $215 per capita annually for Primary students to the School Council. The NT Government has also made available to parents/caregivers a $150 Back to School voucher for each Primary student that may be used for the purchase of school stationery and uniforms from the school or can be put towards excursion costs such as the Early Years “Learn to swim” compaign. It is your choice as to how you spend your vouchers at the school, within NT Government guidelines.

HOW ARE YOUR VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS USED?

Your contributions supplement the government allocations and enables students to be provided with an attractive Student Resource Pack comprising of a wide range of stationery and the delivery and forward planning of a range of other services, including library resources, copying/printing, Visual and Performing Arts programs and some visiting performances, Learning Technology, excursions and St John Ambulance cover. Further, the school takes advantage of bulk purchasing capacity with specialist school supply companies to provide standardised classroom materials and good value for money. Your contributions are applied directly to your child’s education and are NOT used to operate and maintain the buildings and grounds, pay for services such as electricity and water, pay salaries etc.

OTHER SCHOOL EXPENSES:There are some other expenses which individual students may incur during the year. These expenses are usually related to particular activities such as school camps, a range of competitions, excursions, and non-programmed Arts performances, and are mostly conducted on a “pay as you go” basis.The School also runs annual swimming programs in both the Early Years and the Upper Primary.

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MANAGEMENT OF YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS:

To facilitate forward planning, contributions are requested in the first week of the school year or upon enrolment should you choose to participate. Receipts are issued for all contributions.

OPTIONS FOR MAKING YOUR PAYMENT: Contributions can be made through the school office. You are welcome to make use of the following facilities in choosing to make a contribution:

Cash, cheque, credit card or direct debit.

YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT IS GREATLY APPRECIATED: The School Council strongly encourages and values the support of Parents/Caregivers of the school’scontributions scheme. Thank you!

STUDENT WELLBEINGParap Primary is a KidsMatter School. KidsMatter is a mental health and wellbeing framework for early childhood centres, preschools, and primary schools and is proven to make a positive difference to the lives of Australian children. Good mental health is vital for learning and life. Children who are mentally healthy are better able to meet life’s challenges.

They also learn better and have stronger relationships with teachers, family members and peers. KidsMatter provides the proven methods, tools, and support to help schools and centres work with parents and carers, health services and the wider community, to nurture happy, balanced kids. Kidsmatter is the framework around which our Wellbeing Program is built.

www.kidsmatter.edu.au

KidsMatter for families is also on Facebook. Like this page to access quality resources and advice aligned to the KidsMatter mental health and wellbeing framework. Recent topics include resilience, child brain development and helping kids to cope with stress.

Parap Primary School places a strong emphasis on ensuring that the school environment is a safe and

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positive place for all school users and that high behavioural standards are maintained through the application of a school-wide wellbeing program, Working Together in Harmony. The aim of the program is summarised in the Wellbeing Mission Statement:

At Parap Primary School, we seek through appropriate wellbeing programs to provide

students with the skills, behaviour and knowledge that will enable them to participate

fully and successfully in our school and within society.

The program comprises the following elements:

School Values Education Package - Living Our School Values: The package, described in previous pages, underpins all that we seek to do in the school.

Clear school rules, standards and expectations applied uniformly across the school, including a strong emphasis on valuing and recognising positive conduct.

Comprehensive and uniform Behaviour Management procedures. Our goal in managing negative or oppositional behaviour is to return the student to a positive standard of conduct in keeping with the school community’s expectations and which enables the student to retain and develop his or her sense of positive self-esteem. Parents/caregivers are involved in these processes as appropriate.

Parap Primary School uses the following resources and methods school-wide to maintain a positive school environment:

THE FIVE TRIBES AGREEMENTS:

IN OUR SCHOOL WE PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP AND BELONGING BY:MUTUAL RESPECTAPPRECIATIONS – NO PUT-DOWNSDOING OUR PERSONAL BEST

ATTENTIVE LISTENINGHAVING THE RIGHT TO PASS

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TRIBES™: TRIBES is a democratic group process, the outcome of which is to develop a positive environment that promotes human growth and learning. It requires learning how to build a learning and sharing community through three stages of group development using five agreements.

SCHOOL WELLBEING WORKER:

Parap Primary School believes every child has the right to a safe school environment and a caring education system. On a daily basis, schools deal with a range of social, emotional and behavioural problems that impact on student learning. Promoting the health and wellbeing of children is part of improving educational outcomes in schools, and building happy, motivated and resilient children.

Since 2011 the Parap School Council have partnered with Millner Primary School and Good Beginnings to employ a part-time Wellbeing Officer. The Wellbeing Officer acts as a positive link that connects individual students, their families and teachers to help deliver the best possible outcomes for all students.

All Student Wellbeing Workers must meet the minimum qualifications to be employed in schools. Parap Primary School’s Student Wellbeing Worker is fully trained in the area of student wellbeing, holds a degree in Social Work and has broad experiences in providing community and individual support.

Our Student Wellbeing Worker can be contacted regarding any student concerns, feedback and also any issues that require addressing within the school community.

If you would like to hear more about the program or wish to speak with the Student Wellbeing Worker, please feel free to contact our front office.

GUARDIAN ANGELS PROGRAMThe Guardian Angels provide support for the duty staff and lend assistance to Early Years students where needed. Primary years students volunteer to be Guardian Angels. This initiative has become very popular

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FRIENDLY SCHOOLS PLUS PROGRAM:The Friendly Schools Plus program is based on six years of rigorous scientific research with over 6000 Australian school students, their parents and teachers. It is one of the few evidence-based programs designed to improve social skills and resiliency as well as reduce bullying. Parap Primary School does not tolerate bullying in any form. All members of the school community are committed to ensuring a safe and caring environment which promotes personal growth and self-esteem for all children.

and valued over time and contributes strongly to ensuring a positive and caring playground environment.

BUDDIESAll classes form Buddy relationships with other classes across the school, with an emphasis on older and younger students getting to know and care for each other through class visits, shared reading and other activities, including spending playground time together. These relationships often extend over the years and are valued by the students.

OUR SCHOOL HOUSES

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Parap Primary School allocates students to one of our four school Houses upon entry to the Primary school. Family members are placed in the same House to avoid tribal warfare at home! Our school Houses are named after the members of the crew of the famous first flight to Australia in a Vickers Vimy bomber which landed just near the site of our school in 1919 - Bennett, Shiers and the Smith brothers and for Sir Hudson Fysh (a founder of QANTAS), a strong supporter of the flight. The students chose the House emblems some years ago and all have a focus on flight. The emblems were created for the school by local artist and Parap Primary School parent, Mr Roland Koch-Laurie.

The images show the Vickers Vimy aircraft (left), the crew members (centre) and Hudson Fysh (right) during World War 1.

An excellent story of a re-enactment of the flight, The Vimy Flies Again, was published in the National Geographic of May 1995. An electronic reproduction of the story can be viewed in the school library.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

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AMY JOHNSON: This famous aviator, who also landed in Darwin in the 1930s near the site of our school, is commemorated in the Amy Johnson Award, the school’s major academic award for exiting Year 6 students. Amy Johnson lost her life in England during World War 2 while ferrying aircraft. Amy’s spirit of adventure and courage are an inspiration to all.

Student Leadership is valued at Parap Primary School. In Term 4 of each year, Primary students participate in electoral processes to decide who will be their School and House Captains and Vice Captains for the following year. Year 5 students participate in a full electoral cycle, including formal nominations, election campaigns and speeches to constituents. Years 3-5 participate in a formal, preferential voting process.

In Term 1 of each year, students in Years 4 – 6 elect their class members of the Student Representative Council which comprises the elected members from each Primary class. This SRC executive represents the views of students to the Principal, Assistant Principals and School Council as appropriate. It also conducts activities such as socials, various House competitions such as Athletics and Swimming carnivals and involves itself in fundraising to support different causes. All student leaders are presented with a badge of office at a formal Leaders’ Investiture Assembly.

The school also creates and supports other student leadership opportunities such as Student Librarians, Canteen Assistants, Guardian Angels, Tech Angels, Eco Warriors and Rubbish Busters.

STUDENT SAFETY

WET WEATHER / STORMS DURING PLAY OR HOME TIMES

During our Wet Season, from October through to May, we do experience monsoonal rains and, at times, quite severe storms. When the weather is very wet, we will provide appropriate options for students during recess and lunchtimes, to ensure they stay out of wet play areas yet still enjoy some social times with their friends. The library and Hall are two such options, as well as supervised activities in nominated classrooms around the school.

Sometimes a storm will bring heavy rain and lightning at the end of the school day, when students are due to leave school. If we believe that it is not safe for students to leave the school unaccompanied by parents, we will keep students inside their classrooms with the teacher until a parent arrives to collect them. Students who would normally walk or ride home on those days will be kept back until the storm has settled or passed.

SAFETY ON THE ROADS

SCHOOL ZONE SPEED LIMITS

7.00am – 5.00pm

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FOR MOTORISTS:

Remember, the speed limit in school zones is 40km/h from 7am to 5pm on school days with the exception of Urquhart Street which is 20km. Never park in a place that could endanger children. Don't park on the yellow lines, they are there to ensure the safety of all children by allowing enough clearance from vehicles at school crossings. Encourage your children to get in and out of the car on the kerb side. When driving, expect the unexpected. Children are often difficult to see behind cars, on street corners and along footpaths. Children may be preoccupied and may not be aware of potential hazards.

FOR PARENTS/CAREGIVERS:

Children’s Crossings are the safest way to cross the road. If walking your child to school, set a good example and use the crossings. Be sure to wait for traffic to stop before crossing. Talk to your children about being safe on and around roads. Consistent reinforcement and reminding will help your children to remember to do the right thing when you are not around. If your children walk or ride to school, plan safe travel routes together. Never call out from across the road. Children are easily excited and might forget to check for traffic.

CAR PARKINGFOR THE SAFETY OF CHILDREN, THE STAFF CAR PARKING AREAOFF URQUHART STREET IS NOT TO BE USED TO DROP OFF OR

COLLECT CHILDREN

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS PLENTY OF PARKING USUALLY AVAILABLEIN THE PARAP VILLAGE AREA ADJACENT TO THE SCHOOL.

STRANGER DANGERParents/Caregivers are advised to reinforce the following safety tips: If your child walks to school, accompany them for the first time on a safe route that must always be used. Point out places along the route where your child could ask for help. The child should never take short cuts through deserted areas, bushland etc. There’s safety in numbers. They will be 100 per cent safer if walking to school with a friend.

Never accept a lift with a stranger.

If a threat is ever feared, the child should return immediately to school and ask a staff member for help.

If children do not arrive home by a certain time, go looking for them.

THE "4 Rs" OF STRANGER DANGER FOR CHILDRENRecognise the danger

Refuse any offerRun Away

Report it to someone with whom you feel safe

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LEARNING AT PARAP PRIMARY SCHOOL

CURRICULUM

The content of the school’s learning and teaching programs is guided by the Australian Curriculum in all learning areas. As a teaching staff, we are committed to staying at the forefront of educational change and utilise the Parap Flyer, School Council Meetings and Parent workshops to keep parents informed of educational trends and changes.

SPECIALIST SCHOOL PROGRAMS

The school directs resources to provide a range of enrichment and extension programs for all students. Programs in Library and Digital Technologies, Physical Education and Performing Arts are conducted by specialist teachers. Students in Years 5 and 6 also undertake a Japanese Language and Cultural program to establish a pathway for them to pursue this as a study option in Middle and Senior High School. The school conducts Learn to Swim and Water Safety programs each year at the Parap Pool on a user pays basis. Students are encouraged and supported to participate in academic outreach activities such as national and international academic competitions.

LEARNING SUPPORT (Kitirrika)

The school provides a diverse Learning Support program for students with particular needs. Our program is known as Kitirrika, a word and image (left) generously gifted to the school by the people of the Pularumpi community, Melville Island, which means “sea turtle”. The program is comprised of a Special Education program, Literacy Support for Early Learning students, and Inclusion Support for students formally identified with particularly high learning needs.

GIFTED EDUCATION (Horizons)

A Gifted Education lighthouse school, Parap Primary School remains at the forefront of current educational trends. Parap’s ‘Horizons’ programs are tailored to suit our school context and remain responsive to our community’s needs. The Horizons program is based on a philosophy and belief that Gifted Students need to be challenged within their regular, day to day learning. Horizons students participate in two key components of the program. The first is a unit of work focused on developing fundamental collaborative and social skills. In the second component the students become investigators of real problems, working on specific areas of study based on their own interest towards presentation to a real audience. This component strives to engage them in challenging investigations that are focused on their areas of potential. These projects are made possible by a number of staff and external mentors who dedicate additional time to developing and delivering the program, and students may be withdrawn from their classroom for up to two hours each week to participate.

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SCHOOL LIBRARY

Parap Primary School’s Library seeks to support and enhance the learning of all its users, aiming to provide a range of resources to cater for the differing abilities, ages and interests of its users. The promotion of reading for pleasure and reading for information is supported with a wide range of fiction and non-fiction resources presented in a variety of formats. The use of information technology is integral to the Library program.

Organisation and Procedures:

Book Borrowing Limits: All items can be renewed and limits are flexible. Loan periods are usually for two weeks. It is the responsibility of all users to care for items and follow borrowing agreements.

Students:

Pre-School:1 itemTransition – Year 2:2 items + 1 reading bookYears 3 – 4:4 itemsYears 5 – 6:6 itemsEarly Years teachers have classroom bar-code readers to enable easy checking in and out of reading books.Parents/caregivers: 5 items

Opening Times:

The Library is open for borrowing/returning before and after school and at lunchtimes. Parents can use the Library after school to read with their children or help with homework. At lunchtimes there are a variety of activities for students to choose from and one day a week is reserved for books only. The Library program fully supports the Tribes Agreements as stated in the school’s Wellbeing policy and seeks to be inclusive and make all users feel welcome and valued.

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User Pays:

All users are expected to pay for lost items. If borrowers have overdue books they won’t be able to borrow until items are returned or paid for. Students who need to borrow readers can ask the Teacher Librarian to mark items as missing and then pay for lost items at the end of a semester if necessary. When items are found any money paid is reimbursed.

HOMEWORK and LEARNING AT HOME

Purpose:

Parap Primary School values homework as an important learning strategy. It is the intention of the Parap Primary School staff to assign relevant, challenging and meaningful homework assignments that support and enrich classroom learning objectives. It is intended that all homework be consistently applied, monitored and assessed in a whole-school approach that is responsive to individual needs and learning area requirements.

Benefits of Homework:

Homework:

plays an important role in supporting each student to be successful at school, contributes toward building responsibility, self-discipline, and lifelong learning habits

provides opportunities for students to reflect on their learning and operate independently as a learner

allows for practising, extending and consolidating work done in class provides training for students in planning and organising time reaffirms the role of parents/caregivers as partners in education engages parents/caregivers in the learning program and provides parents/caregivers with insights

into what is being taught in the classroom and the progress of their child challenges and extends gifted students.

Responsibilities:

Regular homework is a learning expectation from Years 4 to 6. However, home learning should be a regular part of class learning and teaching activities in Early Years programs, with home reading activities being an obvious example.

RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTIONProtestant, Catholic and Greek Orthodox instructors work together to provide an optional, regular SUPACLUB (Scripture Union Primary Age) program during recess on Tuesdays (Transition – Year 2) and Thursdays (Years 3-6) in the library. This program is also supervised by our staff member on duty in the library. There is no obligation for students to attend these activities, however if you would like us to ensure that your child does not attend, please notify the front office via email. When enrolling a child at school for the first time, parents/caregivers are asked to nominate whether they wish their child to attend Religious Education seminars and their preferred denomination.

REPORTING TO PARENTSA range of opportunities are available throughout the year for students, parents/caregivers and teachers to share information about student progress. Opportunities include Student-led or Three-way Conferences. Detailed written reports are provided at the end of each semester. However, please seek an interview with your child’s teacher at any time you feel it is necessary. Parents/caregivers may also access information about their children held on the school’s Student Administration Management system through the Electronic Student Profile processes. You must apply personally to the school office to gain access to ESP with identification.

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TEACHING SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPParap Primary School is proud to be a foundation Teaching School in partnership with Charles Darwin University. The school and the university cooperate closely in having university students undertaking education courses immerse themselves in the school, usually with one class, and work towards becoming well prepared for teaching upon course completion. A number of graduates from the program have gained employment at the school. The impact of the school in this program has been recognised and commended on many occasions by the University.

BECOMING INVOLVED WITH OUR SCHOOL

VOLUNTEERING AT PARAP PRIMARY SCHOOLParents and caregivers are integral to the life of our school and we encourage and value any such participation. There are numerous ways to become involved with the school – supporting your children with their school work at home, attending student conferences with your children, volunteering in classrooms, the school Canteen and Library, supporting school functions, joining the School Council and/or one of its committees and participating in school working bees are a few of the ways this can occur. Please chat with the Principal or any member of our staff about becoming more actively involved. Please note that regular school volunteers would most likely be required to obtain an Ochre Card under recent NT Government Child Protection Legislation. These cost $5 for volunteers and are renewable every two years. Please enquire about the Card at the school office or your local Police station.

PARAP PRIMARY SCHOOL COUNCIL INCThe Parap Primary School Council Inc is an elected representative group of parents and teachers incorporated under the Education Act in December 1983. The overall function of the Council is to develop policies in such matters as school financial management and the provision of education facilities and to provide advice to the Principal about programs and future directions of the school aligned with the Department of Education and Training and school priorities. The Principal implements policies established by the Council and is responsible for the overall, ongoing leadership and management of the school.

The School Council operates in such a way that everyone is able to contribute. Often people do not nominate due to a belief that they do not have any “expertise”. Whilst there are some areas that do need a specific background, in general, the most important criteria are an interest in the school and some time to give. Some people are able to give many hours whilst for others time is limited - your contribution to the Council can be worked to suit you. Council meetings are advertised in the weekly school newsletter, the Parap Flyer.

For those who do not wish to formally nominate for a position on the Council, there are a number of committees with which you may be able to assist. Council decides on its Committee structure after each Annual General Meeting. Current committees are Finance, Fundraising and Social, Pre-School, Health, Buildings and Grounds, Out of School Hours Care/Vacation Care, and Council of Government Schools Organisations representative.

Should you wish to participate in one of these committees (you do not need to be a member of the School Council to join a committee), please contact the Principal or any member of the Council.

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SCHOOL CANTEEN

The School Council conducts a canteen service at the school on each school day. The service is provided by a Canteen Manager employed by the School Council, with support from volunteer parents/caregivers. The operations of the canteen are further supported by a School Council committee. The canteen is compliant with the Department of Education’s Canteen, Nutrition and Healthy Eating policy and guidelines. The type of food and prices charged are fixed by the Canteen Committee in keeping with these guidelines. Menus are available and updatedas appropriate. Price changes and “Special” days (e.g. pizzas) are notified via the weekly Parap Flyer.

Children ordering lunch, place orders through their classroom each morning. Lunch bags must be clearly marked with the child’s name and class and contain the correct money wherever possible. Lunch Bags and price lists are available from the Canteen.

PLEASE NOTE THAT LATE ORDERS CANNOT ALWAYS BE FILLED

The canteen is open at recess time from 10.15am – 10.45am and for lunch from 12.50 pm to 1.25 pm.

The canteen relies on volunteer help to enable it to run efficiently and to keep prices down. If you are able to assist one day (or more) a month from 8.30am to 1.30pm, please contact the Canteen Manager. All assistance is greatly appreciated, please contact 08 8982 2955

SCHOOL ASSEMBLYWhole school Assemblies are held in the school Hall on alternate Fridays, usually commencing at 8.30am. Assemblies are important to the school, enabling us to come together to share and celebrate the great learning that occurs every day in the school. On a rotational basis throughout the year, classes present assembly items which are usually developed from their class programs. On occasions, special assemblies are held for events such as Leaders Investiture, Anzac Day and Values Awards Ceremonies. All members of our school community are most welcome to attend our assemblies and join in the shared life of our school.

LOST PROPERTY

A lost property container is kept in the front office. Any child who has mislaid an article of clothing should check this container before asking for further help. Items not claimed by the end of each semester are donated to charity.

VALUABLES

The practice of students bringing valuable property such as expensive toys, electronic items and personally treasured items to school is considered to be unwise and is generally discouraged in the school. Any such item brought to the school is your child’s responsibility.

EMERGENCY CLOTHING

A supply of emergency clothing is kept in the school for children to use if necessary. It would be greatly appreciated if these clothes are washed after use and returned to the school.

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SCHOOL BANKING

The Commonwealth Bank provides a Banking service to students enrolled at the school. Children bring their money and book to school on Tuesdays. Please enquire at the school office.

MOBILE PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The school accepts the reality of students being provided with mobile phones to bring to school for a range of reasons. Students are expected to conduct themselves with maturity and responsibility if they are in possession of a mobile phone. They must be handed to their classroom teacher at the beginning of the day to ensure they can be locked away and returned prior to the student’s departure. The school accepts no responsibility for the security of phones that are not handed to the classroom teacher for safe keeping. Any inappropriate use of a phone during school time may result in the school responding in keeping with the provisions of our Behaviour Management procedures.

HIRE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES

Our school is a community facility and some areas of the school are available for hire and appropriate use by the community. Please enquire at the school office.

CYCLONE EMERGENCIES DURING SCHOOL HOURS

In the event of a cyclone emergency being declared during school hours, the school has established procedures for ensuring the safety of students. Parents/caregivers are to collect their children from school as soon as possible following the emergency declaration. Children may be collected directly from the classrooms. Adults other than parents/caregivers may collect a child from the school with the approval of the Principal. If children remain at the school and a cyclone is imminent, they will be accompanied to a shelter by the Principal.

PARAP PRIMARY SCHOOL IS NOT A DESIGNATEDCYCLONE SHELTER

The nearest cyclone shelter is the Supreme Court building in the DarwinCentral Business District. For further information visit www.bom.gov.au/nt

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CANTEEN, NUTRITION AND HEALTHY EATING POLICY - TIPS FOR PARENTS

Healthy main lunch ideas Tuna + corn + grated vegetables + sauce (salsa, chutney) Roast beef + salad Chicken + coleslaw (low or reduced fat dressing) Chicken + avocado + lettuce or alfalfa Leftover roast veggies, such as zucchini, pumpkin, capsicum or eggplant + ricotta Low or reduced-fat cheese + pesto Grated carrot + sultanas + grated low or reduced-fat cheese + alfalfa Low or reduced-fat cheese + salad + hummus Ricotta + banana + honey or ricotta + sultanas + grated carrot English muffin with tomato and cheese Pita bread with tuna, lettuce and mayonnaise Turkey, cranberry and spinach in Turkish bread Pasta and tuna salad with vegetables

Does the lunchbox contain some delicious dairy? (select at least one) Plain milk Flavoured milk Yoghurt Fruche Creamed rice Low or reduced-fat cheese and biscuits Low or reduced-fat cheese stick Drinking yoghurt

Does the lunchbox have 2 fruity foods? (select at least one fresh fruit option) Fresh whole fruit: try to have different varieties Snack packs of tinned fruit Frozen oranges and frozen banana Fruit salad

Other yummy ideas: Banana bread Homemade fruit muffin Popcorn Half fruit scone Fruit cake

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