Wow, it is hard to believe we are halfway through the term. Whilst it has been the most challenging term we can remember in all our years of teaching, there is still a lot to celebrate. Our students have shown so much resilience, dedication, and perseverance. Whether it be one, four or all tasks they complete, they are giving it their best. Both Mrs Valensise and I, have enjoyed joining in on zoom meetings and hearing about what the children have been doing, the things they have been enjoying and how they have overcome challenges whilst learning from home. Through our visits to the Seesaw and Google Classrooms, we have witnessed fabulous writing, reading, number skills, creativity, and critical thinking skills. We also acknowledge and celebrate the work you are all doing at home with your children to support their learning and wellbeing – you are all doing an amazing job. We also appreciate the support your have provided the school and staff as they continue to work extremely hard, preparing and delivering lessons, providing feedback and checking in with families.
We still have attendance levels that are significantly above other schools in Sydney. Being in the Liverpool LGA, we have increased restrictions which impact on school operations to minimise community movement. As per Department guidelines, there is minimal supervision on site at our school for those students who cannot be educated at home. For example if a parent or carer is an essential worker. All students and families will be supported with learning from home materials and resources. If you are working from home, and your child is able to be educated from home, please keep them at home. We understand this can be challenging and will look different for different families. All we ask is that everyone does their best.
As information comes through in relation to the COVID guidelines, these will be communicated in a timely manner through the SkoolBag App. Although we do not know what comes after the 27 August, the Wattle Grove staff will continue to work hard in providing opportunities for our students whether this be at home or at school.
It is extremely important that not only is wellbeing a focus for all students but for all family members. There are a range of services available to support families during these complex times. There is a link further on in this newsletter with a list of these resources. More information will also be coming from our Wellbeing officer, Ms Arelda Cady. Please email the school f you require additional support – we are here to help!
Merit Awards
Our merit award system recommenced this week! We are hoping this provides additional encouragement to the students who are working so hard and trying their best. As part of recognising the wonderful work the children are doing, teachers have been asked to nominate a student for a ‘Recognition Call’ each week. These students will receive a call from Miss Cameron or Mrs Valensise to celebrate their achievements. It has been a delight to talk to the students and their family. We are looking forward to making many more calls. The names of our merit award recipients and students who have received a recognition call are further on in the newsletter. Congratulations to everyone!
Survey
A parent/carer survey was sent out via the SkoolBag app earlier this week. All families are encouraged to complete this survey as the information will guide our planning as we continue with the Learning From Home Model. The survey will close Sunday afternoon (22/8). Thank you to many of our families who have already completed the survey, it is greatly appreciated.
If you have not had a chance to complete the survey here is the link:-https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XJWKXLF
Wattee’s Work Together Wednesday
Here at Wattle Grove Public School, we know that screen time and working through tasks alone is not always conducive to good mental health. It is important to provide opportunities for children and families to take time out and enjoy different learning experiences which may help with developing creative thinking skills, fostering connections and relationships and promoting physical wellbeing. As stricter lockdowns are announced on a week-by-week basis, we have planned a day of alternate learning experiences for our students and families. These planned activities are for every child learning from home and are scheduled for Wednesday 25 August. The aim of these activities is to have fun and be creative.
Teachers look forward to seeing some photos or videos uploaded to Seesaw or Google Classroom of activities you have chosen to complete. Our teachers will be working on this day to plan and develop learning experiences for the next few weeks.
We all look forward to seeing some of the final products.
2021 Book Week
Book Week 2021 runs from 21-27 August and this year the theme is “Old Worlds, New Worlds, Other Worlds”. This is an opportunity to escape into another world where your child can be anything they want to be! It is disappointing we are unable to hold our annual Book Week events. However; next week, the students will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities to celebrate quality literature. Keep an eye out on your child’s class posts/streams to see the activities your child can participate in. Please don’t feel pressured to engage in all activities. These are only options, which we hope will add some fun to the week, and there are no expectations on the amount completed.
Kindergarten 2022
We are now taking Kindergarten enrolments for 2022. Please apply online at: www.wattlegrov-p.schools.nsw.edu.au or visit the school’s updated website. If your child has a younger sibling that is due to start school next year, please enrol them now so will receive all the necessary information. This also allows the school to gain a sense of student numbers so we can commence 2022 planning. Additionally, if you know of families who have children who are due to commence Kindergarten in 2022, please pass on this information.
Orientation and transition sessions for our 2021 Kindergarten children and families will most likely look different due to the current COVID-19. We are currently working on plans to ensure a supportive transition for our students whilst working within the NSW Department of Education and NSW Health guidelines. Plans will be communicated once finalised. If you have any questions, please email the school and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
Miss Cameron (Principal)
Mrs Valensise (Deputy Principal)
