Our Catholic School strives to witness to Christian values. The dignity and sacredness of each student is respected, as the teachers work with the parents to build up within the student an awareness of the presence of God. The teachers endeavour to foster a love for learning and to create a happy, accepting environment.

St Joseph's Primary School wishes to acknowledge the parents of the students attending this school as the prime educators in the lifelong process of Christian Education.

St Joseph was a person who displayed total commitment and loyalty to Our Lord. He has shown us how to be a real follow of Jesus. He has shown us how he walked in love with God.

Together with all who comprise the St Joseph's School Community - students, parents, staff, Parish Priest and the wider community, we wish to help our students become lifelong learners and to grow in faith, respect and integrity.

Catholic education builds Christ-centred learning communities immersed in the mystery of God's presence. In a sense of adventure these communities promote the communication of Truth, an abundance of life for all and service to the Church and world.

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Principal  -  Brendan Kiely

Telephone  -  02 6585 1745

Dear Parents

I wish to extend a warm welcome to you and your family on behalf of the St Joseph’s Primary School Wauchope. As principal, I look forward to working with you and your child and hope that your child finds, in our school, a happy, friendly and secure atmosphere and one that will stimulate their desire to learn and discover. 

Children of today are facing a society that is constantly changing. The intimate family nature of our school enables us to know each child and give them the individual skills needed for them to face the world of tomorrow. We believe our role as educators is to work in partnership with parents, acknowledging the learning that has already occurred at home. Children need to observe their parents and teachers sharing common beliefs, attitudes and goals. When they experience this, they will feel more secure and purposeful. 

Through participation in the St Joseph’s school Wauchope Religious Education Program, children will be encouraged in an atmosphere of positiveness and supportiveness. They will develop a healthy self-concept and respect the values and beliefs of others. We will promote the spiritual, personal and academic growth of each student. This is achieved through the extensive range of academic, sporting, spiritual and cultural activities organised by the school. 

Our school is a Learning Community. We strive for excellence, this has been celebrated with excellent academic results, recognising that we are working together collaboratively, with shared goals and co-learning for continuous improvement. Our teachers model this love for learning in the classrooms in which they teach.

Being principal at St Joseph’s is a privilege; it brings me much joy and many opportunities for learning and developing relationships. The staff and I look forward to welcoming you to the St Joseph’s School Community in Wauchope.

Yours sincerely,

Brendan Kiely

OUR VISION AND MISSION

Our School has as its patron St Joseph - Foster Father of Jesus and Spouse of Mary.  We look to St Joseph and to Mary, to lead us all to respond to a loving personal relationship with Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit; to invite us to a living Faith and Trust in God now and to build upon such for the future.

Therefore our School Motto is:

“IN GOD WE TRUST”

Our School Emblem carries this motto to remind us we must have a faith-filled trust in God at all times and in all events of daily living.

The Southern Cross represents our Nation and the Education of future Australians.

WAUCHOPE is the TIMBERTOWN represented by the trees.

In God We Trust

God you have placed your trust in us with the gifts of our head, heart and hands.

God help us to use our heads to think of each other,

working together like sister and brother.

Here at St Joseph’s we walk in God’s footsteps, we get better everyday.

God help us to use our hearts to show our love,

to each other and to God above.

Holy Spirit guide us today as we laugh, work and play.

Being respectful, responsible and resilient each day,

we Make Jesus Real in our own special way.

God help us to be like St Joseph using our hands to do good deeds,

to work together looking out for each others needs.

We are all unique yet we are all the same,

created by God’s love and called by name.

At St Joseph’s Wauchope, In God we trust.

Amen

Gospel values permeate all levels of school life. The school gives witness to a strong presence of Church in the community. An environment characterised by caring and a respect for all is actively encouraged. 

Parents are the first to educate their children in the Faith.

Parents begin this task in the earliest years of life when they provide a home where there is love, acceptance and encouragement.  These are the stepping stones to a healthy relationship with God.

Here are some of the basic ways in which parents can share their faith with their children;

• establishing a routine where there is time just to be together in a relaxed atmosphere.  This is when you can share simple prayers and talk about things that are important.

• presenting God as loving and forgiving, never as an observer of faults or as the punisher of wrong doing.

• remembering the importance of a good example.  The image that children develop of God often stems from how they see their own parents.

• encouraging the children to make simple choices.  They need practice if they are to grow up and make correct moral decisions.

• not wanting to stir up a lot of guilt, help the children to realise how other people feel as a result of their decisions.

• be aware that the Sacrament of Reconciliation becomes real for the children when they are experiencing forgiveness in their home.  The Eucharist takes on a special meaning when they already relax, pray and share together at a family meal

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT- see Student Engagement and Wellbeing Policy 

Our reviewed (draft June 2023) Student Engagement and Wellbeing Policy stipulate all actions required to ensure adequate behaviour management of all.

The policy is built on the philosophy of Restorative Practices and our School Behaviour Statement.

Our local Police Liaison Officer is Senior Constable Wendy Hudson. She is available for consultation with staff and to speak to groups of children in relation to behaviour management, bullying and codes of conduct for all school community members.

The Student Engagement and Wellbeing Policy can be found in the following link:

Student Engagement and Wellbeing Policy

ARRIVING TO SCHOOL

Supervision in the play ground starts at 8.35 am which is the earliest time your child should be dropped of at school. Prior to this they can be booked to Camp Australia - before and after school care.

DEPARTING SCHOOL

Students being collected by parents/carers in the afternoon need to wait in school grounds; or in the pick-up zone areas on Avondale Street - KISS & DROP or King Street - COLA.

• KISS & DROP: parents/carers collecting children from Kiss & Drop on Avondale street are asked to display signage (available through the school office/ forwarded home to new families) with student/s SURNAME on the passenger side visor. Students must be able to enter and exit the vehicle by themselves and be capable of buckling and unbuckling seatbelts.  This is a NO PARKING ZONE , parents are to remain in their cars.

• COLA: parents/ carers collecting children from Cola on King Street are asked to wait behind the fence. Once the bell goes, parents can enter via the office gate to collect their children, exiting through the gate to the left.

• CROSSING KING STREET: is a dangerous step for your child, both before and after school. Parents/carers are requested to collect their children from underneath the COLA after school. 

• SIGN-IN and SIGN-OUT:  Accountability requires that any child leaving or returning to school during the day must be signed out and back in by the accompanying adult. An iPad to accommodate this is held in the school office.

• LATE ARRIVALS: Children arriving late to school, after the morning bell need to be signed in at the office by their parent/carer.  A late slip will be issued to the child to take to their teacher.

• All students assemble under the Primary COLA and a brief assembly on Monday mornings.

• School Assemblies are conducted twice a Term in the Ogilvie Hall with each stage hosting an assembly each semester. All dates for these will be advised on Compass.

ASSESSMENT OF PUPILS are accessible via Compass twice yearly:

The reports are based on continuous evaluation of class work, various assessment tasks, work samples, student and parent feedback as well as standardised tests.  

NAPLAN TESTS are administered for Year 3 and Year 5 during Term 1, while Standardised Tests are administered throughout the year in all classes.

INDIVIDUAL CLASS ASSESSMENTS are given regularly. Teachers are available to discuss reports.  Interviews are encouraged at the time of assessments. You may arrange an interview at other times as the need arises, by contacting the school office, on 6585 1745.

We are excited to partner with Camp Australia to provide Outside School Hours Care

(OSHC).   The program is tailored to deliver a before and after school care that combines active games with structured and unstructured play, quiet time and a healthy snack.  

Please visit www.campaustralia.com.au and use the school finder to find out all you need to know about the program.

Register and book through the school page on the Camp Australia website, you can request an information pack, or register and book your children into the program. 

• On arrival at school, students are to walk their bikes to the bike rack at the designated area. When leaving, students are to wheel their bikes to the gate, where they will be escorted from the school grounds and on to the road by the appointed teacher.

• Students are to wear their helmets at all times when riding their bikes.

• For safety reasons, all students must walk their bikes into and out of the school grounds.

BUSWAYS -  6586 1855 COLLINS -  6585 1993

The Proprietors will be able to tell you which bus your child will catch, where to catch the bus and what time it departs.

The following conditions apply for Bus Travel:

• ALL children in the INFANTS (Kindergarten to Year 2) school are eligible to travel free on the bus.  Transport for NSW has introduced an online application form for school bus travel.   

Step 1 - Visit tranpsortnsw.info/school-students, nominate your home address and the bus company the student needs to travel between home and school.

Step 2 – Print, sign and date the completed application, return it to school for endorsement.

Step 3 – The school sends endorsed application to Transport for NSW.  You will receive an email confirming outcome of your application.   Transport for NSW will inform your local bus operator who will send a school travel pass.

• To be eligible for free bus travel, PRIMARY (Year 3 to Year 6) children are those who reside more than 1.6 kilometres radius from the school or those who are required to walk more than 2.3 kilometres because of the nature of the street system or the terrain, or those who have obtained a doctor's certificate stating that they are unable for some medical reason, to walk to school.

• LOST or mutilated bus passes may be renewed for a fee payable, in an envelope with child's name etc., to the bus company.  Do not fill in a new form if bus pass is lost. This fee is subject to change.

• At the commencement of each school year, those children who have previously travelled on the bus will automatically be issued with a new pass with the exception of Year 3 who need to complete new forms.  

• BUS PASSES must be shown to the driver in the morning and afternoon EVERY DAY.

• NEW Application for Free Travel forms are only required to be completed when a child is new to the school, is progressing to Primary or changes his/her address - NOT when the child has lost his/her bus pass.

• Currently children not eligible for free travel may purchase a term or daily bus pass from the Bus Company. Please apply directly to Busways or Collins Bus Service.

IF YOUR CHILD GETS ON THE WRONG BUS, tell him/her to go to the driver. The driver will deliver all the other students on the bus and then either bring your child home or take him/her back to the bus depot. 

The procedure to follow from home, if this occurs, is for the parent to phone the school and stay at home in case the child is delivered to your residence - the child will not want to come home to an empty house.  The school then contacts the bus company, enabling all parties to be well informed. The bus driver is in phone contact with the depot which is very helpful in situations such as these.

IF YOUR CHILD MISSES THE BUS TELL HIM/HER to come to the office and see the school staff.

MISCONDUCT ON BUSES - The Bus Company has the right to withdraw a child’s bus pass for misbehaviour and report same to the School Principal. A conference will then be held with the Principal and Parents. The pass will be reinstated following parental assurance that the misconduct will not continue.

Our Canteen operates 3 days a week (Monday, Wednesday & Friday) providing lunches, and is open to the students at Lunch 1.  We follow a very high standard of hygiene and provide a variety of healthy foods. Our prices are kept at a reasonable level as a service to the students, but we do not compromise on quality. 

We purchase locally fresh rather than frozen foods, low fat, low sugar, preservative and colourings free whenever possible. Our Menu is checked and changed throughout the term and can be accessed on the school website. 

Special promotions are held at the Canteen throughout the year, download the Flexischools App to receive notifications.

On behalf of the Staff, P & F, and the students, we would like to issue a special invitation to parents and family members to become a volunteer at the canteen. Our Canteen Committee, organises the food and the roster and would be only happy to assist you with any enquiries.  You will enjoy your time spent with us and your child will love to see you. Contact the school office if you would like to help.

Parents are asked to order online through the Flexischools App (please visit our website www.wauplism.catholic.edu.au and follow the Parent link or write your child’s lunch order on a paper bag, enclose the correct money and then the child places their order in the lunch boxes provided in every class. An example of a lunch order is shown.

Canteen information is also available on our digital platform "Flexischools" and school website.  If you are interested in becoming a Canteen volunteer, please contact the school office 6585 1745.

Our school provides a variety of services which includes a school Chaplain and Counsellor; whose major focuses are student wellbeing.  These services offer professional, confidential support, advocacy, mentoring, resources, community links and appropriate referrals in situations that include:

• Times of family loss and grief;
• changing roles and relocation;
• illness;
• special needs and disability; 
• when students or parents are facing personal, emotional or behavioural challenges.

These services work closely with the School Administration, and all staff, in promoting, planning and delivering student centered programs that will enhance children’s resilience and skills and contribute positively toward their total development.

Child Protection Policy and Procedures

Children and young people have a fundamental right to grow, develop and feel safe in environments which are free from violence, exploitation and harm. The Catholic Schools Office Lismore has clear expectations that all students within Catholic systemic schools in the Diocese of Lismore will be protected from all forms of harm including sexual, physical and psychological harm as well as ill-treatment and neglect.

The Catholic Schools Office and Catholic systemic schools in the Diocese have certain responsibilities and expectations to ensure the safety and protection of children in their care, including supporting measures to ensure that children and young people will be taught how to protect themselves, and to seek help if they are concerned about their safety. Consistent with its mission and values, and in compliance with its legislative obligations, the Catholic Schools Office Lismore strives to ensure children in its care are safe and secure. Implementing a variety of practices that reduces potential risk forms part of our strategy to build child safe communities.

This policy sets out the expectations required of employees in the Catholic Schools Office and in Catholic systemic schools of the Diocese. This document is to also inform and remind employees engaged or employed in Catholic systemic schools in the Diocese of Lismore of the standards of behaviour, duties, obligations and other requirements that must be adhered to when working with children.

A range of checks and undertakings are required for people who work for or provide services to Catholic Education in the Diocese of Lismore.

Please follow the link to our website to for full information on the CSO Child Protection Policy & Procedures and Mandatory Reporting -  http://www.wauplism.catholic.edu.au/policies

For further information, please visit -

https://education.nsw.gov.au/student-wellbeing/child-protection/mandatory-reporting

Our school is most effective when good levels of communication exist between the school and our families. Communication occurs through:

THE NEWSLETTER

The newsletter is sent digitally on Fridays, odd weeks, to all families. It includes a calendar outlining the events of the coming week and advanced dates to assist with long term planning. Articles, reports and pictures inform readers of recent happenings in the school.  The Newsletter is on our website under ‘News & Events’.

DIARY

Students in Year 3 to Year 6 have a school diary to enable good two-way communication between the school and your family.

TEXT MESSAGE / EMAIL 

On occasions, when important information is to be relayed to parents, a whole group/school text message, notification or email may be sent. It is important that changes to mobile numbers and email addresses are relayed to the office.

FACEBOOK

Like us on Facebook to keep up to date with the daily happenings of our school www.facebook.com/St-Joseph’s-Primary-School-Wauchope

SCHOOL WEBSITE

St Joseph’s website site provides parents, teachers and students with vital information about the school and important happenings in an accessible contemporary form.  It presents a view of St Joseph’s and its mission, staffing, resources and students’ achievements and their performances. The website offers a virtual experience including quick links to Parish and CSO Homepages, parent handbook, policies, electronic newsletter and events as they transpire.

Extended Mathematical Understanding

Is an approach/way of thinking to counter the fact that not all children thrive when learning mathematics at school.  Children benefit when their learning patterns are identified as early as possible and an alternative approach gives them a mathematical boost.

EMU is based around 4 domains – Counting, Place Value, Addition & Subtraction as well as Multiplication and Division.

Evidence indicates that children with a well-developed number sense are more likely to experience long-term mathematical success than children without.

It has also been shown that teaching focused on conceptual subitising, that is, teaching children to identify and use easily recognizable quantities of objects to structure their understanding of number, facilitates this development of number sense.

Currently this mathematical intervention program runs within Stage 1 and Stage 2.  All students within our school will be assessed using the EMU assessment tool.

At St Joseph’s Primary we are committed to meeting the needs of all students within our care. We provide varied learning experiences to cater to individual needs. This is undertaken throughout all grade levels where teachers differentiate the curriculum to cater for students within their class.

In addition to programming, there are further opportunities to cater for talented students, as follows:

• WORKSHOPS - Opportunities arise to participate in workshops which highlight Religious Literacy, Literacy, Mathematics, Science and Creative and Performing Arts, STEM & Robotics.

• CHOIR / BAND - Perform at school and community events and compete in Eisteddfods. 

In providing each of these opportunities, the school aims to promote respect for individual differences, to create an educational environment in which each child will develop accordingly, and where all children are challenged intellectually, creatively, socially and emotionally. 

KINDERGARTEN - Applications for enrolment in Kindergarten classes at the St Joseph’s Primary School are available from the Parish Office and School Office. 

The Diocesan Policy, with regard to Kindergarten Enrolments is as follows:

• Ideally your child must TURN 5 BEFORE JULY 31.

• The Baptismal, Birth and Immunisation Certificate should accompany the application. 

During Term 2, parents are informed of the interview process conducted by the Principal. 

After the completion of these interviews, consideration of all applications takes place to determine the placement of children into Kindergarten for the following year. This decision making process is in accordance with the specific enrolment guidelines and policies of the Diocese and Parish.

In Term 3, parents are notified as to whether their applications have been successful or not.

GENERAL - Applications for enrolment are available online throughout the year, visit our website www.wauplism.catholic.edu.au   

All applications are considered and decisions in relation to placement of these applicants are made in accordance with the specific guidelines and policies of the Diocese and Parish.  

General Links for Enrolments

Online Enrolment Form

Online Order for Uniform

How to Apply Online for Enrolment

How to Apply Online for Enrolment 541.53 KB

Agreement and Declaration

Agreement and Declaration 832.53 KB

Direct Debit Request

Direct Debit Request 505.89 KB

Invitation to become a School Canteen Volunteer 1

Invitation to become a School Canteen Volunteer 1 678.13 KB

School Volunteers Declaration with Undertaking

School Volunteers Declaration with Undertaking 355.06 KB

Terms Conditions of Student Enrolment

Terms Conditions of Student Enrolment 349.54 KB

BAND PROGRAM – (Conducted in association with Bluegum2 Music)

The Instrumental and Band Program at St Joseph’s provides students from Year 3 to Year 6 with the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument at school in a group situation.  The students participate in a weekly half hour tutorial and a band rehearsal for one hour which takes place before school. They develop music leading skills, theory of music, aural skills (listening skills), team work, self-esteem and logical and creative thinking. Children are given the opportunity to broaden their experiences through the pleasure of music.

The instruments taught are: 

Flute Clarinet Alto Saxophone Tenor Saxophone

Trombone Baritone Bass Guitar Keyboard bass Violin Acoustic Guitar Trumpet Drums

The band performs regularly for the school, in combined workshops with visiting schools as well as community based events. Students are able to reach a standard that allows them to progress into high school bands in Year 7.  Students are tested to determine instrument suitability. For further details, please phone Frank Rugers or Ann Hamilton on 0416 269 296.

GUITAR PROGRAM – (Conducted by Ben Hardman)

Currently students in Year 3 – Year 6 are provided with an opportunity to learn the guitar on a weekly basis. The students participate in small group lessons which enable them to learn the basics and progress through a variety of levels. Any students interested in learning guitar can contact the Office for further information.

Good health is vital to school progress. Immunisation is a safeguard to health. Your child will probably need a booster injection about the time he/she commences school.   

AN IMMUNISATION CERTIFICATE MUST BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE SCHOOL ON ENROLMENT. IF ALL IMMUNISATION HAS NOT BEEN CARRIED OUT THE STUDENT CONCERNED MUST BE EXCLUDED FROM SCHOOL IF AN EPIDEMIC OCCURS.

If your child complains of feeling sick or appears to be ill before leaving home for school, it is advisable to keep the child home.

It is possible that at some time during your child’s school career he/she will contract one of the common diseases of childhood. The disease and minimum period of absence are as follows:

• GASTRO - Viral gastroenteritis is a common infection of the stomach and intestines, resulting in vomiting and or diarrhoea. If your child contracts gastro they need to rest at home until 48 hours after vomiting and or diarrhoea ceases.

• COVID - 19 - If your child contracts Covid-19, the school implements NSW Health instructions, which may vary. Currently if your child is unwell with Covid - 19 symptoms, they must remain at home.

• MEASLES - If your child contracts measles he/she should be excluded for at least 7 days from the appearance of rash or until a medical certificate of recovery is produced. The school MUST be notified so that they can contact Community Health of the outbreak.

• GERMAN MEASLES (Rubella) - Exclude until fully recovered.

• DIPTHERIA - Re-admitted after receipt of a medical certificate of recovery from infection following at least two (2) negative nose and throat swabs, the first not less than 24 hours after cessation of antibiotic treatment and the other 48 hours later.

• CHICKEN POX - Excluded until fully recovered. (Some remaining scabs are not an indication of continued exclusion).

• MUMPS - Exclude for at least 9 days after onset of symptoms or until fully recovered.

• PEDICULOSIS (Head Lice) - Notify the school when a case has been confirmed.  Readmission to school the day after appropriate treatment has commenced. If uncertain how to treat the problem, seek advice from the office staff.

• SLAPCHEEK - Initial symptoms of this infection may include headache, runny nose and a mild fever, before the appearance of a rash firstly on the face but may extend to the truck and extremities. Other signs may include a sore throat, fatigue, muscular pain, diarrhoea, nausea, cough and conjunctivitis. Must notify those who are pregnant and those who have an altered immune system. 

• RINGWORM - Re-admitted the day after appropriate treatment has commenced, supported if requested by a medical certificate.

• CONJUNCTIVITIS (Acute infections) - Exclude until the discharge from eyes has ceased.

• GLANDULAR FEVER - Extremely contagious. Must seek medical advice and a blood test. Caution must be taken during and following the onset of diagnosis.

• IMPETIGO (School Sores) - Until sores have fully healed child must be excluded, however, the child may be allowed to return, provided that appropriate treatment is being applied and that sores on exposed surfaces such as scalp, face, hands or legs are properly covered with watertight dressings.

• WHOOPING COUGH - Incubation period is commonly 7 - 10 days and not more than 21 days. Highly contagious in the early stages. The child is no longer infectious to others 5 days after starting antibiotic treatment. Parents must inform the school immediately if their child exhibits symptoms and then consult their doctor. When the doctor has diagnosed whooping cough, all people who have come into contact with the child are to be notified.

• ASTHMA - More and more children seem to be diagnosed as being asthmatics. If this involves your child/children no doubt you have been advised by your doctor the best procedure to take when your child has an attack. Please notify your child’s teacher and the office staff of medication, etc, which is appropriate to your child.

• HEPATITIS A - Exclude until receipt of a medical certificate of recovery but not before 7 days after the onset of jaundice.

• HIV - Exclusion is not necessary unless the person has secondary infection requiring exclusion in its own right.

FIRST AID, EMERGENCIES & MEDICATION

Qualified Staff render First Aid and Emergency treatment as a matter of course and inform parents of situations requiring follow-up or monitoring. Where immediate medical assistance seems advisable, staff will contact parents or guardians (or medical professionals in the absence of both) without delay.

NB: Medication will only be dispensed to children for whom there is an indemnity form on file signed by parent or guardian, as well as an accompanying permission note with full instructions e.g.: dosage and time medication is to be administered.

We believe homework has value in developing important skills in the students – the ability to study alone; to plan and concentrate; to accept personal responsibility; to achieve personal goals; to be self-motivated.

OBJECTIVES

To guide children's learning by setting homework tasks at the correct level of difficulty which will enable them to be completed confidently and within a reasonable time limit.

To educate parents in the role they play in what is basically a pupil-teacher contract.

GUIDELINES

Homework from Kindergarten to Year 6 will be given at the teacher’s discretion. As a guideline the following times for Homework are suggested:

Kindergarten-Year 2:  10 - 15 minutes; Year 3 & Year 4: 15 - 20 minutes: 

Year 5 & Year 6:  30 - 45 minutes.

In addition, a period of reading is desirable and strongly recommended.

A letter of explanation is required for homework not completed.  e.g. sickness or a special family activity.  If Homework is not completed on a regular basis the parents will be contacted to discuss a solution to the problem.

Above all if homework is creating a problem for your child, please contact your child’s class teacher.

Please avoid conferring with the teachers during teaching time 9.00 am to 3.15 pm or interrupting the class, as valuable teaching time is lost.  Protected Teaching & Learning time daily from 9.00 am to 12.45 pm – Literacy and Numeracy block. From time to time you may need to speak with your child’s teacher about a specific issue related to your child’s learning. If so we encourage you to make an appointment with them to ensure an appropriate time is made available.  You can do this by phoning the office or sending a note to the teacher.

How exciting! Your child is starting Kindergarten next year. During the first week of Term 1, “Best Start & EMU Kindergarten Assessments” will be implemented. This program has been developed by early learning experts in the Department of Education and Training and Monash University and is used to discover what your child knows and can do as they start school.  

Please find below a sample of particular skills which could make transition into Kindergarten a little easier for your child.

PERSONAL/SOCIAL SKILLS

• Can finish a task and cleans up after task is complete
• Shares and takes turns when playing with other children
• Can sit and listen to a short story
• Participates in imaginative play

SELF-CARE SKILLS

• Is able to dress self with pants, shirt, shoes and socks
• Is attempting to tie up shoelaces
• Uses the toilet independently

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

• Uses scissors to cut along a straight line and basic geometric shapes
• Is able to hold a pencil with thumb and two fingers
• Able to colour a basic picture staying within the lines
• Hand preference is becoming more refined
• Is able to play with a variety of materials
• Is starting to experiment with written work i.e.: attempting to copy letters and numbers

GROSS MOTOR SKILLS

• Runs fairly well, coordinated with good speed
• Able to throw, catch and kick a ball
• Able to walk up and down stairs with alternate step pattern

To help develop these skills prior to commencing Kindergarten, provide opportunities for your child to practice over the school holidays. Encourage supported independence in all activities.

The Library at St Joseph’s Primary School is well resourced; catering for children’s, teachers’ and parents’ needs and welcoming borrowers.  

The program caters for class borrowing during their allocated time period as per the Library Timetable as well as lunchtime library. 

To enable children to borrow they are required to have a suitable size material library bag (waterproof if possible - plastic shopping bags are not suitable). The size of a pillow case is ideal and caters for all size books. School library bags are available for purchase at the same time you organise your child’s/children’s book packs.

The use of mobile phones is not permitted at St Joseph's. The school will not take responsibility for phones brough to school. Any communication to the students is required to be made through the school office on 6585 1745.

Improper use of mobile phones or electronic devices will result in disciplinary action.

PARENTS & FRIENDS

The St Joseph’s P & F enjoys a wonderful relationship with the school and its community. It’s a relationship built on many years of co-operation and respect with a good dose of fun too. Whether it be assisting the school through extra literacy or music resources, sporting equipment or ensuring all classes are kept up to date with the latest computer technology, your P & F is committed to helping the school in many ways.

With a passion for fundraising, the P & F raises a considerable amount each year for our school. We have donated funds to the school to support the emerging needs each year. Most recently we have assisted in refurbishing the new school hall and IT equipment for the classrooms.

Becoming involved in P & F activities is a fantastic way to keep in touch with what is happening in our school and a great opportunity to meet other parents. The P & F meet once a month and the meetings are fairly informal, come along and join us! Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month St Joseph’s Meeting Room at 6.00 pm.

THE CATHOLIC SCHOOL PARENT ASSEMBLY (CSPA) – DIOCESE OF LISMORE

The Catholic Schools Parent Assembly is a Diocesan Organisation established in 1996 to serve the needs of parents in regard to their faith and educational responsibilities as partners in Catholic Schooling. The CSPA is established under the authority of the Bishop and the guidance of the Diocesan Education Board.

Parent Assembly delegates forward information of interest in the school newsletter and through additional flyers.

What does the CSPA do for parents?

Provide opportunities for parents to gain knowledge and understanding on how to develop healthy, resilient families and improve the educational opportunities for their children. 

WE VALUE YOUR HELP

In addition to the Parents’ and Friends’ Association and the Class Parent Network, parents are strongly encouraged to offer their assistance to the staff in many other practical ways. Listed below are just some of the numerous ways you could involve yourself with your child’s education:

The school community always welcomes new volunteers for any activity. The staff and students require support in many aspects of school life. If you have a preference for one or more of these activities, speak to your child’s class teacher to organise a convenient time to assist.

We encourage parents and members of the community to assist us as volunteers in many school activities. Government legislation requires that volunteers must sign a Prohibited Persons Form prior to their involvement with children at the school.

Pastoral Care is an integral part of school life at St Joseph's. Each staff member takes a personal interest in every student. If a student experiences academic or social problems, they are encouraged to seek help and advice from a member of staff. If it is of concern you will be notified. Likewise, if you wish to discuss any aspect of your child's schooling you are welcomed to contact the appropriate staff member. All students and staff are encouraged to respect each other at all times.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

Bringing toys, games and balls etc. to school is discouraged. Any personal items brought to school by students must remain their responsibility, e.g. games, toys, sports equipment.  No responsibility will be taken for loss or breakages. In special circumstances items may be left in the care of a teacher or at the office for safekeeping.

PHOTOGRAPHS

Students' photographs/or information are published in our newsletter, local paper, websites or by the Diocesan Office. Unless the school is advised differently, this practice will continue without you being contacted on each occasion. 

PRIVATE PROPERTY

The school is private property and is not to be used out of school hours.

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The development of responsibility for one's own actions is central to the aims of education at St Joseph’s School. Our goal is for teachers to foster inner self-control in students and respect for the rights of other students and teachers. Individual self-esteem is important to interaction among students, teachers and others. The establishment of accepted Rights and Responsibilities for the betterment of the whole school group is important to the development of positive self-esteem.

At St Joseph's School, everyone has the right to:

• be treated justly with respect and understanding;

• feel safe at all times;

• work and play in a clean healthy environment;

• expect their property to be safe and respected;

• obtain maximum benefit from all lessons and classes and not be deprived of this right by the behaviour of other students;

• feel part of the school and enjoy their time here.

In order to achieve this, we all have a responsibility to:-

• treat others with respect and consideration at all times;

• act co-operatively and in ways that do not endanger ourselves and others;

• care for the school environment and abide by laws of society and rules at school;

• take responsibility for personal property and respect that of others;

• work with diligence and sustained effort in all curriculum areas;

• behave in a manner which will enhance the reputation of our school.

A SIGNED PERMISSION NOTE: by parent or guardian is required before a child attends excursions or other out-of-school activities.  All home notes are sent using our Operoo platform.  Notes can be completed as an online form.

ABSENCES: Parents/Carers will be sent a text message on each occasion when their child is recorded as absent.  A detailed reply to this text is required as confirmation of absence.

Extended leave must be applied for by parents/carers through designated Leave or Exemption Forms available through the office or on our website.

Catholic Schools exist so we can assist you, the parents, in enabling your children to receive an Education based on Christian Values and Catholic Church traditions, therefore, we give the students opportunities for Liturgical Worship as:

(a) A School Community;

(b) A Stage/Grade or Class Community.

During each year the students may be involved in the following Liturgies:

• Whole School Masses
• Primary Grade Reconciliation
• Stage / Parish Masses
• Class Prayer Services
• Special Liturgy of the Word Services
• School Prayer Monday Morning

There are numerous feasts and seasons that are acknowledged and celebrated during our Church Year. On some occasions we gather as a whole school to offer prayers for special intentions. Where possible, the dates and times will be advertised in the weeks prior to these events.

Parents are invited to join with the school in these prayerful celebrations.

SCHOOL FEES

To maintain our excellent Catholic Education system at St Joseph’s Primary School, school fees are an unavoidable necessity. The Government subsidies which apply to your child/children are applied to providing the teaching establishment in our school as well as specialist services. Building costs and the day to day running costs of our school.  The bulk of this must be met from school fees.

With the benefit of long experience, a benchmark fee has been established which is reasonable and relative to a normal household. This fees are adjusted annually to meet increasing costs and extraordinary items such as Information Technology, insurance premiums, new curricula etc.

Tuition Fees - Secretarial, cleaner's and groundsman’s salaries (full award wages), insurance, electricity, Council rates and charges, telephone,  copy and art paper, printing, photo-copying materials, cleaning materials, stationery and Office supplies, furniture, fittings, appliances, educational requisites and resources, text books, teaching aids, postage, maintenance and repairs of fittings, freight and subscriptions.

Resource Fees - Basically, these cover items which are directly for the use of the children in the classroom e.g. paper, exercise books, workbooks, art supplies, some text books, crayons, pastels, tape, paint, cardboard, craft materials, paintbrushes, clay, graph paper and digital devices, co-contribution to digital subscriptions.  

Grounds & Maintenance - Funds are directed towards:  the serving of school loans, capital purchases within the school, depreciation on capital school equipment, school maintenance, the use of parish buildings, insurance, depreciation on maintenance equipment.

An account will be sent out during Term 1,  Term 2, Term 3 and Term 4. Installment plans are available and if families experience difficulties overing School Fee payments, please discuss the matter with the Principal.

Payment options available include: cash, cheque and EFT.

This may be paid: 

• Annually in advance; 

• Term 1, 2, 3 and 4 instalments;

• Internet banking - weekly, fortnightly, monthly, per term, annual in advance.

The School Budget is formulated during October/November each year. As a result, Tuition Fees, Grounds & Maintenance and/or Resource Fees may be subject to a slight increase based on these budgetary figures and recommendations from the Parish Finance Committee.

FAMILY ENROLMENT FEE

There is a one-off charge of $150 levied on all families at the time of enrolment.

FEE GUIDELINES

1. All families are expected to pay the full prescribed fee as determined by the Parish Finance Committee.

1. No Catholic child will be deprived of a Catholic Education at our school solely due to genuine financial difficulties.

1. If your family is experiencing difficulties or there are extra-ordinary circumstances which are affecting your capacity to pay fees, PLEASE make an appointment to speak with the Principal.

1. In the case of difficulties, our policy is that we expect all families to contribute to School Fees.  The Principal will discuss with genuine cases to secure an outcome that is realistic for both the family involved and the school.  In so doing you are assured of the strictest confidence.

1. Cases of School Fee Reduction are reviewed annually.

1. It is preferable to use our Direct Debit Payment system. Forms are available in your enrolment package or through the School Office.

NON PAYMENT OF FEES

As clearly stated, The Fee Assistance Program is readily available to people who are experiencing genuine financial hardship. While genuine inability to pay school fees will never be a cause of an enrolment being refused or discontinued, all families are expected to fulfill their individual commitment to the payment of fees. School Fee Accounts must be finalised by the completion of each school year.

The essential ingredient in negotiating a fair and relevant fee is open and honest communication. In cases where fees are not being paid and there is no communication with the school or the School Fees Manager, enrolment may be terminated. Such drastic action would only take place after an extensive process which includes several reminder notices and phone calls to discuss the situation. In cases where there is no attempt by parents or guardians to communicate or cooperatively resolve the issue, the enrolment may be terminated and other forms of debt collection (including the possibility of legal action) will be implemented.

DEPARTURES

It is a requirement that parents or guardians contact the school regarding departures, otherwise school fees may continue to be charged up until formal notice is received.

CHANGE OF CONTACT DETAILS

It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to advise any changes of address or other relevant contact details. The school and Parish office should also be contacted regarding other significant issues which may alter or affect the ability to pay school fees.

Please make an effort to have your child at school well before 8.55 am, so that bags are unpacked and books are in the classroom.  Habitual late arrival causes disruption to teacher, class and the student.  Continual late arrivals cause a loss of valuable school lesson time.

Sport plays a significant part of both the physical and social development of a child. It is important to provide opportunities for the child to develop Fundamental Movement Skills that help with a wide variety of sports and games. At St Joseph’s Primary School students are given the opportunity to play in team games and sport in a safe and supported environment. This ranges from class level sport to State representation.

Sport is scheduled on Wednesday & Friday for all classes. Each class usually runs a 1 hour skills or games session during the day. These are conducted in both class groups and whole year cohorts. Skills usually focus on Fundamental Movement Skills as listed by NSW Board of Studies. These skills are then worked into modified games aimed at teamwork and cooperation. An Intensive Swimming Program is offered to students in Term 4. 

Students participate in School Carnivals in Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics with the emphasis on maximum participation for each student. Further opportunities are available for selection in representative carnivals within our Diocesan Sports system at Hastings Zone and Diocesan Regional levels before proceeding to Polding. Selection here results in representation at Primary School Sport Association (PSSA) State level. Representation opportunities available for students attending St. Joseph’s Primary School include:

STAR Reading began operating at St Joseph’s School in 2013.  STAR is an Early Intervention Program designed to assist selected children who are experiencing difficulty with reading. 

The STAR Reading Program is small group program of 1 hour lessons daily. The program lasts between 12 - 20 weeks. If your child’s teacher feels that your child would benefit in taking part in the STAR Reading Program, they may contact you to discuss prior to commencing.

STAR Reading teachers must undertake an inservice course during which time they:

• Develop an understanding of the reading and writing process.
• Become skilled using a wide range of systematic techniques to assess and guide the children.
• Design individual instruction.
• Are able to critically evaluate their work and that of their peers

The students are supervised between 8.35 am and 3.30 pm.  Students should be discouraged from being at school before 8.35 am.  Students arriving before 8.35 am are expected to wait under the school COLA until 8.35 am before commencing play.

• Students are to be within the clear sight of staff at all times. It is advised to ensure all glass doors leading to withdrawal rooms are clear of shelves and cupboards to guarantee visibility of students.
• Students are not to be dismissed prior to any bell, at recess or lunch or home time unless supervised by the teacher.
• Students are to be supervised if kept in at lunch times. No student is permitted within buildings unless supervised. 
• Students are not permitted to leave the school premises without parent’s written consent. 
• If a teacher needs to leave a room unexpectedly and students are present they are required to notify a neighbouring teacher or contact the Office.
• Students are not to be detained at the end of the day. Punctual arrival at bus /home lines is encouraged.
• If removing a student from the class situation and sent to another room or Principal please send the student with two other students and a note explaining why and for how long.
• Teachers are to wear visible fluro vest, first aid bum bag and hat during playground duties and student departure duties

Road Safety At St Joseph’s

Road safety at St Joseph’s is important to everyone. This information has been designed to give you an understanding of the traffic management plan that has been implemented by St Joseph’s school for the benefit of all where staff and students can travel to and from school safely.

Please take the time to read this information and please speak to Mr Brendan Kiely, the School Principal, if you have any questions (or suggestions) about traffic management around the school.

Drop off & pick up of students

Students at St Joseph's travel to and from school using a variety of modes of transport, including school bus, private vehicle, on foot and by bicycle.  St Joseph's front entrance is situated on King Street and our back entry fence is located on Avondale Street.  Both operate a School Zone from 8.00 am to 9.30 am and from 2.30 pm to 4.00 pm.  The School Zones help protect our children on their way to and from school at the times and places where they are often in high numbers.  Please note the speed limit during these times is 40 kilometres per hour.    

Avondale Street - Kiss and Drop Zone

The Kiss and drop off Zone in Avondale street is only used for picking up or dropping off passengers or goods. 

This area is designed for the convenience of parents and carers and for the safety of children.  This is a non Parking zone, which means drivers can stop for a maximum of two minutes.  This area minimises traffic congestion for all and aims to maximise student safety.

St Joseph’s Primary traffic management would prefer you stay in your car at all times.  When parents and carers are picking up their children in the afternoon staff will assist your children into your car.

If the traffic que has backed up please do not double park and go around the block again until you can safely drive into Avondale Street.

To use the Kiss and Drop Zone your child must be able to get themselves in or out of the vehicle and be able to use a seat belt to unbuckle or buckle up.

Seat Belts

School aged children should always travel in the rear of your vehicle. Each child must be firmly buckled into an appropriate seat belt or child restraint.

Tip: Try to make a rule that every child passenger must be securely buckled into a seat belt or child restraint before you start the car. Assist your young child to buckle up and always check the buckle.

School Bus Zone

Please do not stop or park in the bus zone during Bus Zone times. 8.00 am – 9.30 am and again 2.30 pm – 4.00 pm.

Parking

Parking signs with specified time limits allow drivers to park their vehicles for a certain period of time only, e.g. 15 minute parking.

Double parking at any time is illegal and is particularly dangerous around schools. It reduces visibility and blocks the road for other motorists. Children stepping on to the road to get into or out of a double parked car are not visible to other motorists.

U-Turns

U-Turns are discouraged near the school. The amount of traffic in the vicinity of the school means that U-turn manoeuvres are unsafe and block traffic flow. Please do
not undertake a U-turn anywhere within the school zone.

No Stopping zones

A yellow unbroken line painted on the kerb side of the road also indicates a No Stopping zone.

Sometimes there is a space close to a corner which might seem like a good spot to park. It’s NOT. It is illegal to park less than 10 metres from the corner, even if it is not signposted.

Parking on the corner blocks vision for turning drivers and creates a hazard for all motorists, pedestrians and especially for the children trying  to cross the road.

Mobile Phones

Please do not use your mobile phone in the school zone as research has proven that it is a dangerous distraction and compromises the safety of your children.

St Joseph’s Traffic Committee

DO
• Please consider arriving closer to 3.30pm
• When you reach the pick up zone, drive to the front of the queue so that as many cars as possible can pull in behind you. Don’t just park in front of the school gate.
• Ensure your child’s seatbelt is securely fastened before pulling away from the kerb.
• Please display a clear sign with the family name (don’t assume that the teacher will know you or your car).
• Please use Range Street to access the Avondale Street pick up zone.

• Please let grandparents and other carers know this information if they are going to collect your children from school.

• Please consider neighbours.

DON’T
• You don’t need to get out of the car as supervising teachers will assist your children to get into the car. For their safety, children should only get into and out of the car directly onto the kerb. If this is not possible due to baby capsules or other child restraints, please consider how you might organise your children to ensure their safety.
• Do not jump the queue of waiting traffic.
• Do not double park and walk your children across Avondale Street.
• Do not do a U-turn anywhere in the vicinity of the school.
• If you are in a queue do not move into the pick up zone until you know for certain that space is available. If you end up stopping in the ‘No Stopping’ zone, by law you can be booked.

Please delay your arrival until after 3.15pm (except for kindergarten) as children do not arrive at the gates until this time.

If your child is not at the gate on your arrival be prepared to be directed by staff to go around the block.

Do not park across neighbours driveways or garages at any time.

Please be patient

Your patience and co-operation is essential as we work together to make both our school drop off and pick up zones and the surrounding streets safe for children, neighbours and the community.

At all other times, before, during and after school, please do not park across the school driveway and leave your car unattended.

New School Uniform for 2024

The New school uniform will offer several improvements, designed to address the concerns raised by parents and ensure the comfort, ease of care, and affordability of the uniforms. 

Transitioning to the New Uniform 

To ensure a smooth transition, the new uniform will be introduced in a phased manner. Kindergarten students starting in 2024, and all new enrolments, will be required to purchase the new uniform. Students in Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 will need to purchase the new uniforms when replacing their existing uniforms. As of Monday 22 July 2024 (Day 1, Term 3), it will be expected that all students will be wearing the new uniform in its entirety and no mixing of old and new uniforms will be allowed.

The school has a Uniform Coordinator who organises the selling of our school uniform. The Uniform Shop is situated within the school administration building for fittings and orders from Monday, Wednesday and Friday 12.00 pm – 12.30 pm.  Alternatively, uniforms can to be purchased through our Flexischools App, follow the link Flexischools download instructions for instructions on how to dowload the Flexischools App.  All prices are listed on the app.

All children at St Joseph's are expected to wear the prescribed uniform. If a child wears an incorrect item of uniform a note is expected from the parent. If you are unable to provide an item of uniform for your child please come and discuss this with the Principal.

Colour variations will not be acceptable and correctness of uniform will be insisted upon.

Hair Ribbons etc - When worn must be white, blue, gold or lemon to match uniform worn.

Hair - Extreme haircuts or styles are not permitted.

School Hats - Our school has a policy of "no school hat, no play" to protect the children, therefore hats are required to be worn all year. Hats are available from the school uniform shop.

Jewellery - Must NOT be worn to school. In the case of pierced ears, studs or sleepers must be worn in both ears.

Coats and Parkas - May be worn in winter over a school jumper. Please purchase in school colours if possible.

Long or Shoulder Length Hair - For health and safety reasons needs to be plaited or tied back with appropriate ribbons and bands.

School Tracksuit - Top is inter-changeable for sport and every day wear. Pants are restricted to Sports Days only. They are NOT to be worn as part of everyday uniform.

A list of uniform requirements is as follows: PLEASE NOTE THE CURRENT UNIFORM POLICY IS UNDER REVIEW

Key Elements of the New School Uniform

• Navy and Gold Cotton Blend Polo (Monday - Friday wear): A comfortable and stylish polo shirt the students will wear every day to display pride in our school.
• Choice of Microfiber Navy Shorts with Emblem or Skort with Emblem (Monday - Friday wear): Practical and comfortable options for both boys and girls.
• Navy Bucket Hat with Emblem (Monday - Friday wear): To protect students from the sun while showcasing their school identity.
• Navy with SJW Logo Socks (Monday - Friday wear): Completing the look and reinforcing our school's identity.
• Optional School Bag: Families can choose either the official St Joseph's school bag or one of their own preference.
• Optional Library Bag: Students can use either a St Joseph's Library bag or choose one of their own liking.

For Cooler Days:

• Navy and Yellow Track Jacket with Emblem: A warm and stylish option for colder weather.
• Navy Track Pants with Emblem: Comfortable and practical track pants for added warmth.
• Navy Sloppy Joe with Emblem: A cozy option to keep students comfortable during the cooler months.

To fall in line with State Policy a Visitor’s sign in and out has been established. The sign in will need to be completed by anyone visiting the School. 

On arrival, visitors are required to register their details at reception on their phone or on the iPad. Canteen, classroom, volunteers etc., are required to sign in.  Parents attending School Prayer, Assemblies or special celebrations are also required to sign in.

The initiative is Policy in most schools to ensure our students’ safety and welfare.