2008 annual school report forbes north public school · 2008 annual school report forbes north...
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NSW Department of Education & Training
4100
2008 Annual School Report Forbes North Public School
NSW Public Schools – Leading the way
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Messages
Principal's message
Forbes North has continued to experience significant growth and in 2009 the enrolment is expected to reach in excess of 250 students. This is testament to the quality of teaching in our school and the excellent programs which address the special learning needs of students.
Students are encouraged to do their personal best in a safe and caring environment. There is a strong emphasis on improving student literacy and numeracy with a focus on technology for improved learning.
The school is proud of the genuine partnership that exists between home and the school to improve students’ learning outcomes.
The school is recognised for its outstanding student welfare programs, especially for initiatives which address violence and bullying and promote the values of respect and responsibility; for its excellent school transition program - “Link Up to School”; for its whole school Wiradjuri Language Program and most recently for the Kitchen/Garden Program.
I certify that the information in this report is the result of a rigorous school self-evaluation process and is a balanced and genuine account of the school's achievements and areas for development.
Phil Thurston
P&C Schools rely on parents and the school community to provide the little extras that make a difference to the school students and teachers. This is why we work so hard to provide for our students and why we appreciate your support in our fundraising efforts.
Our fundraising this year paid for the shade shelter over the senior playground equipment, at a total cost of $10,000. We have finished the year with money in the bank ready to face new challenges in 2009.
Our P&C is a major source for community consultation for the school. We have been privy to many important issues as our Principal, Phil Thurston, has used our meetings as a forum to:
• Present the School’s Global Budget • Present results from the National
Assessment Plan • Discuss policy updates within the
Department of Education and Training • Liaise between parents and staff and
coordinate joint activities. I would like to extend a huge thankyou to the committee who have worked hard this year to make our projects happen and to the school staff for their endless support.
Wayne Markwort, P&C President
Student representative's message
School parliament held various fundraising activities for charities including: Red Nose Day, Jeans for Genes Day, Bandanna Day, Fun Run, Sunnies Day, Healthy Harold Coin drive, Jump Rope for Heart, Red Shield Appeal, Red Cross, Royal Flying Doctor Service and Biggest Morning Tea. We raised a total of $4,506 for these organisations. School fundraising activities have included: colouring in competitions, can recycling, lolly guessing competitions, discos, muffin day, Wondersoft bread bag collection, lunch-time performances, sunblock products and toffee sales.
The various portfolios organised activities for the students including lunch time sport and mini performances and they raised awareness about environment issues, including the “cool the school” program and recycling.
We have represented the school at the ANZAC Day March, Remembrance Day and Police Remembrance Day.
It was an honour to be able to present a cheque to the school from our fundraising efforts as our farewell gift, to purchase a composting area for our Kitchen/Garden Project. Erin Moon
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School context
Student information
It is a requirement that the reporting of information for all students must be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.
Student enrolment profile
Enrolments
0
50
100
150
200
250
2004 2005 2006 2007 2008Year
Stu
dent
s
Male Female
Forbes North Public School had 215 students enrolled in February 2008: 116 boys and 99 girls. Twenty five per cent of students were Aboriginal. Student enrolments continued to grow throughout the year resulting in the appointment of an additional teacher. Further growth is expected in 2009.
A significant transient population passes through the school each year. In 2008, 29 students enrolled (other than Kindergarten) and 22 students left.
Student attendance profile
Student attendance rates
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2005 2006 2007 2008
Year
Att
enda
nce
rate
School Region State
Student attendance improved slightly from 92.2 in 2007 to 92.5 in 2008. This was above the Region rate. The Department introduced new tougher regulations relating to attendance and these were welcomed. Improved attendance continues to be a priority for our school. Our “Funny Money” program was enjoyed by students but unfortunately did not make a significant difference to attendance rates.
Class sizes
In March 2003 the Government announced its commitment to publish primary class sizes in annual school reports in order to provide parents with as much local information as possible.
The following table shows our class sizes as reported at the 2008 class size audit conducted on Tuesday 25 March 2008. Roll Class Year Total per
Year Total in Class
KM K 20 20 K 10
K-1H 1 10
20
1 18 1-2R
2 9 27
1 9 1-2S
2 15 24
3 10 3-4H
4 11 21
3 18 3-4U
4 13 31
3 7 3-4W
4 8 15
5 16 5-6B
6 11 27
5 18 5-6S
6 11 29
Staff information
It is a requirement that the reporting of information for all staff must be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.
Staff establishment Position Number
Principal 1.000 Assistant Principal(s) 2.000 Classroom Teachers 7.000 Teacher of Reading Recovery 0.500 Support Teacher Learning Assistance 0.600 Teacher Librarian 0.600 Primary Part Time 0.400 Relief Face to Face 0.378 Priority Schools Program 0.300 Total 12.778
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Staff Retention
Mrs Louise Hoey will be relinquishing her position next year as a result of moving to Queensland. A new teacher will be appointed in her position. All other permanent teachers will be retained next year. Ms Amy Turner and Mrs Melissa Karaitiana have been appointed to the school as permanent classroom teachers and they will commence on Tuesday 27th January, 2009. Mr Doyle, Miss Rix and Miss McMurray will continue to be employed in the school as temporary teachers.
Staff attendance
Staff have access to leave entitlements such as sick leave. In 2008 the average daily attendance rate for staff, as determined by the Department, was 97.2%.
Teacher qualifications
All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.
Qualifications % of staff Degree or Diploma 100 Postgraduate
Financial summary
This summary covers funds for operating costs and does not involve expenditure areas such as permanent salaries, building and major maintenance.
Date of financial summary 30/11/2008 Income $ Balance brought forward 103 353.40 Global funds 127 839.89 Tied funds 194 078.41 School & community sources 40 364.97 Interest 8 232.32 Trust receipts 96 002.08 Canteen 0.00 Total income 569 871.07 Expenditure Teaching & learning
Key learning areas 25 470.67 Excursions 13 241.72 Extracurricular dissections 21 834.67
Library 995.59 Training & development 238.77 Tied funds 248 573.48 Casual relief teachers 27 778.66 Administration & office 31 866.34 School-operated canteen 0.00 Utilities 35 833.36 Maintenance 24 682.13 Trust accounts 90 389.70 Capital programs 5 102.20 Total expenditure 496 007.29 Balance carried forward 73 863.78
A full copy of the school's 2008 financial statement is tabled at the annual general meeting of the P & C Association. Further details concerning the statement can be obtained by contacting the school.
School performance 2008
Achievements
Arts
Not only have the children of Forbes North been entertained and enriched throughout the year with quality performances, they have also provided entertainment to the local community. The school thoroughly enjoyed performances from local high schools – Forbes High School and Red Bend Catholic College as well as the excellent Musica Viva performances, Sirocco and Zephyr Quartet. The choir and Year 3/4 Wiradjuri singers competed in the local Eisteddfod as well as representing the school at the Lachlan Valley Community of Schools Performance. They also participated in the town’s annual Carols by Candlelight and entertained the residents at the local aged care facility. A number of other class groups also entertained at the Mater on a regular basis.
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Lachlan Valley Community of Schools Performance: Students were involved in the inaugural matinee and evening performances. The Junior School Choir sang “My Grandfather’s Clock”. 3/4U acted out ‘Waltzing Matilda” while singing in Wiradjuri. A year 5/6 group danced to “Working Class Man”. The performance was a great success.
Lions Club International Peace Poster Competition: 20 Year 5 and 6 students had to create a poster with the theme ‘Peace Begins with Me’. Erin Moon was the successful winner which was judged by the local Lions Club Members. This entry was then sent to regional level. Erin’s entry was judged as the winner and has now been sent to Melbourne for National judging.
The Forbes Heritage Festival was held in Term 2 and the theme for this year was ‘Our Place’. All junior students and selected students from other grades participated in the competition achieving very pleasing results. The following prizes were awarded: Infants Art: K/1H - winner
KM and 1/2R – commendations Junior Primary Drawing: Corey Churchill – commendation Senior Primary Drawing: Natalie Robb – commendation All students received a certificate and prize money was donated to the school.
Sport
Over 70 students participated in the Active After School Communities Program (AASC). This is our fourth year, with sessions being held twice a week each term. Winn Sideris (Assistant Principal) co-ordinated the program with assistance from teachers Anne Bryant, Carmel McMurray and Jahana Girot-Serplet. We would like to thank Forbes High School deliverers Holly Smart and Danielle Mulligan and community members Tiffany Neilsen and Letitia Neilsen.
The Athletics Carnival was held after many interruptions with inclement weather. There were some excellent individual performances and Bronte Haynes, Katie Caldwell, Jack Rix, Emily Parker and Sam Smith went on to represent Lachlan District at the Western Area Athletics .
Students represented the school in several PSSA sports including netball, boys cricket, softball and soccer, girls cricket and softball, rugby league, swimming and cross country.
Erin Moon was selected as a member of the Western Region Team who competed at the State Netball Carnival in Dubbo.
Our girl’s cricket team was the most successful in 2008 making it through to the second last round of the Western Region competition.
Our girl’s softball team made it to the 3rd round of the Western Region competition.
Jack Rix gained 19th place in the Junior Shot-put at the State Athletics Carnival . This was an impressive effort and a result of many hours of training.
Katie Caldwell went to State Touch Football Carnival as a member of the Western Region Team.
Rugby league teams competed in the Russell Richardson Cup (Years 3 – 4) and David Peachey Cup (Years 5 – 6).
Premier’s Sporting Challenge
All children in Years 5 and 6 participated for the first time in a 15 week challenge. The aim was to raise children’s awareness of the need for physical activity and to increase their daily activity. Every child who participated reached the Gold level and received a certificate for their achievement.
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Other
University of NSW Competitions
A number of students achieved pleasing results in the University of NSW Competitions. In English; Daniel Ashcroft, Tyler Barnes, Rosie Yapp and Izaac Scott received Credit Awards while Nicholas Mulligan gained a Distinction. In Mathematics; Daniel Ashcroft, Tyler Barnes, Rosie Yapp, Andrew Drabsch, Kelsey Field, Maxine Nolan, Taylah Ruge, Cooper Carroll and Cameron Herbert received Credit Awards while Katharine Wright and Nicholas Mulligan gained Distinctions. In Science; Daniel Ashcroft, Kurt Mylecharane, Caleb Harkins, Isiaha Ramsay, Bronte Haynes and Jake Penhall gained Credit Awards while Nicholas Mulligan and Corey Churchill achieved Distinctions.
Special congratulations to Nicholas Mulligan who achieved a Distinction in all three tests.
Kitchen/Garden Program
The Kitchen/Garden Program was introduced this year to encourage healthy eating. A vegetable garden was established and all classes K – 6 planted and grew vegetables in their own plot. The students were then able to harvest the vegetables and prepare and cook them. The work of Mrs Thurston and Mrs Bourke in implementing this Program was greatly appreciated. The children prepared and cooked a number of tasty treats including Spinach and Feta Triangles, Spinach Quiche, Brownies (with Carrot and Spinach), Beetroot and Chocolate Muffins, Zucchini Fritters, Sausage and Vegie Rolls and much more.
The children have learned not only to grow and care for a number of vegetable types but have learnt to cook and enjoy the pleasure of sitting down and chatting over a healthy meal. The expansion of this Program will be a priority next year. Refer to Target 1 for 2009.
Schools As Community Centre (SaCC)
There are activities every day of the week for families with young children in the Community Centre. Mums on Mondays, BLISS Breastfeeding Support Group, Link Up to School, Woraninta Playgroup, FDC Playgroup and Craft Group meet every week. TAFE Outreach courses and parenting courses are run throughout the year.
Our SaCC Facilitator is involved in community groups such as Birth to Kinder, Forbes Families NSW Network, Forbes Parenting Group Steering Committee and Brighter Futures Consortium. It is by working with other local services that we are able to provide opportunities for families to access a range of activities. This year has seen the school establish a kitchen garden and the SaCC facilities have been utilised in the afternoons by teachers and staff to prepare meals from freshly harvested produce. 2008 saw the introduction of Rhyme Time at our local library and the Facilitator works to support the wonderful work being done by Nikki Patton each fortnight.
All groups will be continuing in 2009 and we look forward to another exciting year.
Radio Program Some of our senior students were invited to present a live ‘school hour’ on local radio. They had to write the script, compile a list of songs and present the program. The children involved were: Erin Moon, Emily Parker, Taylor Smith, Haig Carlisle, Hamish McIntosh, Natalie Robb, Hayden Brunt, Chloe Caines, Jade McKenzie, Tamika Dukes-Rankmore, Jayden Scott and Bronte Haynes. This was a fantastic opportunity for all of the children involved.
Premier’s Spelling Challenge Taylor Smith, Jessica Smith and Jamie Smith represented the school at the regional finals in Bathurst. It was a tough competition against some fantastic spellers from the Region. Jessica got to round 1, getting out on a tricky word. Jamie and Taylor performed outstandingly with Jamie being the runner up in the Junior Division and Taylor getting 3rd narrowly losing to the runner up. It was an excellent effort by all three students.
Wenban Spelling Competition
Taylor Smith, Emily Parker, Erin Moon and Haig Carlisle (reserve) made up our Wenban Spelling Team who competed against the two other local primary schools. There were 5 rounds with 10 words in each round. The results were very impressive with Forbes North winning by 19 points; an outstanding effort.
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Premier’s Reading Challenge Twenty nine children from K – 6 successfully completed the Premier’s Reading Challenge for 2008. This year, 4 students were awarded their Gold Certificates, which meant that they had successfully completed their challenge every year for four years. We congratulate Erin Moon, Mitchell Ashcroft, Daniel Ashcroft and Taylor Smith for this wonderful achievement. Debating The debating team consisted of Emily Parker, Erin Moon, Taylor Smith and Katie Gunn with Elle Bell as a reserve. As part of the RH Lytton contest Forbes North debated the topic “That the media is too influential to children”, and won this debate. They also participated in the Region debating competition and learnt a lot from this experience. Children in 3/4U and 5/6B participated in a two day workshop conducted by the Area consultant, Kerry Parkes. The children learnt a great deal from this activity.
Public Speaking
The school was represented by Nic Mulligan, Mitchell Howard, Bronte Haynes and Emily Mulligan in the RH Lytton Orators Award. They all spoke extremely well.
Emily Parker won the Forbes Orators Award, her topic being “I Have a Dream”.
Mitchell Howard, Nic Mulligan, Katie Gunn and Emily Mulligan performed credibly in the District CWA Competition.
Circus Acts
In 2008 many students have enjoyed learning and performing circus acts. They have performed in two major performances throughout the year. The first was at the Mater Nursing Home and was really enjoyed by the residents. The second was at the school’s annual fete. Students came up with their own routines and chose their own music to go with it. Students are able to practise at lunch times and can be tested to continue up levels. Junior students also participated and it has been beneficial to primary
students who have been peer tutoring the junior students. Students have watched Cirque de Soleoi to gain ideas for future performances. Students have been very enthusiastic and numbers have been increasing. We hope student involvement and skills continue to increase and improve in 2009.
Reading Recovery
Once again, Forbes North children had the opportunity to participate in the Reading Recovery Program with great success. The improvement in reading and writing skills is evident in their daily classroom performances. Seven students completed the program this year. Maticka Brown entered the program on level 0 and is now reading at level 19, as is Kody Draper, who entered the program on level 1. Another wonderful success story was Brodie Dukes who began the program on level 5 and exited on level 20.
Red Cross Good Start Breakfast Program In 2008, 25 volunteers served 6,122 breakfasts over 200 days. That’s an average of 30 breakfasts every school day, a 50% increase on the previous year. The program provides a nurturing environment for the students who sit together at tables and socialise while they enjoy a nutritious breakfast. The children have been well behaved and use beautiful manners.
We are fortunate to have the support of our wonderful volunteers, Forbes local branch of Red Cross, Australian Red Cross and our local Forbes Services Memorial Club. We thank all involved for their ongoing support.
Attendance ‘Funny Money’ Program
A new incentive attendance program was introduced this year where students received $5 Forbes North ‘funny money’ each day they attended school. The students were able to spend their money at an auction each term. At the end of the year the students with 98 – 100% attendance were able to spend their money on large items such as skateboards, remote control cars and mobile phones. Other students were able to spend their money on less expensive items. Prizes were donated by parents, Forbes CWA, Forbes Lion’s Club and Mr Russell Barwick and we greatly appreciated this support.
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Academic
In the National Assessment Program, the results across the Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 literacy and numeracy assessments are reported on a scale from Band 1 to Band 10.
The achievement scale represents increasing levels of skills and understandings demonstrated in the assessments.
Yr 3: from Band 1 (lowest) to Band 6 (highest for Year 3)
Yr 5: from Band 3 (lowest) to Band 8 (highest for Year 5)
Literacy – NAPLAN Year 3
Overall Year 3 students performed above the state average in Literacy. They were above in Reading and Writing and just below in Spelling. No students were in the bottom band but 19% were in band 2. 15 students ie 48% were in the top two bands.
Percentage of students in bands: Year 3 reading
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
1 2 3 4 5 6
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band School average 2005 - 2007
Percentage of students in bands: Year 3 writing
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
1 2 3 4 5 6
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band School average 2005 - 2007
Percentage of students in bands: Year 3 spelling
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
1 2 3 4 5 6
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band
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Percentage of students in bands: Year 3 grammar and punctuation
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
1 2 3 4 5 6
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 3
Year 3 were just below the State average overall. Boys were well above overall - 89.1 was the school result compared to 81.5 for the state. Only one student was in the bottom band and only 13% were in the bottom 2 bands. 8 students (26%) were in the top two bands. The majority of students, 61%, were in bands 3 and 4.
Percentage of students in bands: Year 3 numeracy
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
1 2 3 4 5 6
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band School average 2005 - 2007
Literacy – NAPLAN Year 5
Year 5 performed below the stage average overall, however Indigenous students were above state and only 13%, equivalent to State, were in the lower bands. Pleasingly, 61% were in bands 6 and 7. All students experienced significant growth from Year 3 to Year 5. The growth rate at Forbes North was significantly higher than the State growth rate in both reading and writing.
Percentage of students in bands: Year 5 reading
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
3 4 5 6 7 8
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band School average 2005 - 2007
Percentage of students in bands: Year 5 writing
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
3 4 5 6 7 8
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band School average 2005 - 2007
10
Percentage of students in bands: Year 5 spelling
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
3 4 5 6 7 8
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band
Percentage of students in bands: Year 5 grammar and punctuation
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
3 4 5 6 7 8
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band
Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 5
Although overall students were below the state average, only 18%, equivalent to State, were in the lower bands – 3 and 4 and 39% were in band 5 and 42% in bands 6 and 7. Only 2 students did not experience significant growth from Year 3 to Year 5. Overall, the growth rate at Forbes North was higher than the State average.
Percentage of students in bands: Year 5 numeracy
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
3 4 5 6 7 8
Band
Per
cent
age
of s
tude
nts
Percentage in band School average 2005 - 2007
Minimum standards
The Commonwealth Government sets minimum standards for reading, writing, grammar and punctuation, spelling and numeracy for years 3, 5, 7 and 9.
The performance of the students in our school in the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy is compared to these minimum standards. The percentages of our students achieving at or above these standards are reported below.
Percentage of Year 3 students in our school achieving at or above the minimum standard in 2008
Percentage of Year 3 students achieving at and above minimum standard
Reading 94 Writing 97 Spelling 97 Punctuation and grammar 97 Numeracy 97
Percentage of Year 5 students in our school achieving at or above the minimum standard in 2008
Percentage of Year 5 students achieving at and above minimum standard
Reading 90 Writing 97 Spelling 94 Punctuation and grammar 97 Numeracy 94
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Average progress in reading between Year 3 and Year 5
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
2004 - 2006 2005 - 2007 2006 - 2008
Pro
gres
s
School LSG State
Average progress in w ritingbetween Year 3 and Year 5
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
2004 - 2006 2005 - 2007 2006 - 2008
Pro
gres
s
School LSG State
Average progress in numeracybetween Year 3 and Year 5
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
2004 - 2006 2005 - 2007 2006 - 2008
Pro
gres
s
School LSG State
CODE: LSG = Like School Group
Significant programs and initiatives
Aboriginal education Indigenous Education Strategic Initiatives $17,000 was allocated to the school for two programs in 2008 by the Western NSW Aboriginal Education Advisory Committee. $12,000 to support Literacy and Numeracy and $5,000 to improve attendance through our transition to school program. Both programs were very successful and resulted in improved outcomes for students, staff and the indigenous community. The school also received funding to engage parents in smartboard use in the school and also to develop individual learning plans for Indigenous students.
The Wiradjuri Language Program was funded again for 2008 and 5 Aboriginal tutors were employed for 3 hours a day to teach Wiradjuri Language K – 6. Oral activities and conversation has been the main focus of language lessons. Training was provided by Stan Grant Senior and surrounding schools were invited to participate in all learning activities.
The students have been involved in many community performances during the year and continue to promote Wiradjuri Language in a positive light. These included: Australia Day, Yoorana Gunya’s Mothers Day, Lachlan Valley Community of Schools, NSW Women’s Refuge Conference, Yoorana Gunya Family Day, Mater Nursing Home, Forbes Eisteddfod and Carols by Candlelight.
A study on learning Aboriginal language was undertaken by the Board of Studies and this showed that our students’ literacy skills are enhanced by learning the Wiradjuri language. Students from Charles Sturt University (CSU) chose Forbes North to conduct a Wiradjuri Games Day. The CSU students chose animal names for four sporting groups and the students had an enjoyable day.
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A family BBQ with Wiradjuri elders and families was held to encourage community participation. The number of Aboriginal families attending special functions and assisting with classroom activities has increased as they feel more confident and welcomed into our school.
The students have been recorded singing a variety of Wiradjuri songs for the Australian National Library.
Wiradjuri language continues to build bridges across the community and has established better cultural understanding within the Forbes community.
Multicultural education
Multicultural Education continues to be an integral part of the school curriculum. Community harmony was promoted by celebrating Harmony Day and our Wiradjuri Choir performed at a number of community events to help promote cultural understanding. Through the Virtues program the school continued to promote an open and tolerant attitude towards different cultures.
Respect and responsibility
Forbes North continued the Virtues Program in 2008. This year we focused on some of the main virtues the students can practise in their daily lives. Students received tickets when demonstrating the virtues in the classroom or on the playground and were rewarded with canteen vouchers. Students have classroom discussions and activities relating to the virtues and how to practise them. The Virtues Program is an initiative that aims to improve student’s knowledge and understanding of different values such as respect, self-discipline, reliability, determination, consideration and responsibility and has now been successfully running for three years at Forbes North.
Other programs
Priority Schools Program (PSP)
Our school is supported by the Priority Schools Program (PSP) following a state wide survey in 2004 enabling additional finance, staffing and teacher professional learning for the period 2005 – 2008.
In 2008 a survey was conducted to determine schools to receive funding from 2009 – 2012. Thankfully, Forbes North will continue on the Program.
The Priority Schools Program provides resources to improve student literacy and numeracy and develop strategies to enhance participation in the learning process.
PSP identifies three areas of focus: • Quality teaching and learning; • Classroom and school organisation and
culture and • Home, school and community partnerships. Next year the school will maintain a focus on literacy especially writing and numeracy. Specific programs supported by PSP in 2008 included: Smartboard technology, Literacy and Numeracy, Transition to school and the “Learning to Read, Reading to Learn” Program. We would like to acknowledge the wonderful support provided to Forbes North by the Area PSP Consultants, Donna Quinn and Helen Dwyer. Their help, especially in assessing the Link Up children in numeracy, was greatly appreciated.
Information & Communication Technology (ICT) :
During 2008, interactive smartboards continued to be an effective teaching tool. Teachers are now using the smartboard in all Key Learning Areas to improve student outcomes. Teachers attended training days to improve their knowledge and skills in the use of the smartboard. All students are confident when completing tasks and find the learning activities engaging. “Engaging Aboriginal Parents” in the use of the smartboard workshops were provided in Term 2. Six people attended the workshops and have requested further training.
Students from Years 3 to 6 have been learning how to make digital movies and can competently insert photos, sounds, transitions and titles into a project.
Technology training in PowerPoint, Excel and Word was provided to students in Years 3 to 6 during Terms 3 and 4.
Students have become more confident in accessing the internet and email services. Emily Parker (Year 6) was awarded the Western Internet Award for technology on Presentation Night for her achievement in computing.
Forbes North applied for the connected classroom project and are looking forward to having this installed in Term 1, 2009.
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All classroom computers were hardwired to ensure better connection to the server and internet fibre optic cabling was installed in primary classrooms. Teacher laptops remain wireless so that they can be used anywhere within the school.
The technology progression of learning is currently being revised to improve student’s skills and competencies.
Progress on 2008 targets
Target 1
For 90% of students to achieve a grading of sound, high or outstanding on their student progress report in Writing.
Our achievements include:
Training of all teachers in using the NAPLAN Criteria to assess student progress in writing.
A successful review of how writing is taught in the school and the development of a new progression of learning. In 2009 there will be a focus on the Narrative text.
All teachers trained in using Reading to Learn and scaffolding techniques to teach writing.
Analysing the NAPLAN data and determining the school’s strengths and weaknesses. NAPLAN links are being used for effective teaching and learning strategies.
An increased emphasis on the teaching of grammar, punctuation and spelling to improve outcomes in Writing.
81% of students in Years 3 to 6 achieving at or above grade level in Writing.
Target 2 To reduce the reported incidents of student misbehaviour by 30%.
Our achievements include:
A significant reduction in the number of days lost by students to suspension. Only 0.1 days per total enrolment in 2008 compared to an average of 0.5 days/year for the period 2005 to 2007.
Successful implementation of a number of behaviour support programs including circus acts and the virtues program.
Successful implementation of a number of individual student behaviour management plans with support provided by the Itinerant Support Teacher (Behaviour) and our Emotional Health Support Teacher.
Effective use of the School’s Learning Support Officers and Support Funding for students with Mental Health disabilities.
A 76% reduction compared to 2007 in the number of reported incidents by teachers for unfair, unsafe, impolite or uncaring behaviour from students.
Key evaluations
It is a requirement for all NSW public schools to conduct at least two annual evaluations – one related to educational and management practice and the other related to curriculum. In 2008 our school carried out evaluations of school discipline and Personal Development.
Educational and management practice Background A critical factor in achieving the goals of our school is the provision of a safe and disciplined learning environment.
In 2008 a review was undertaken in regard to the practices followed in the school in managing the suspension of students.
Findings and conclusions
• Suspension of students for certain types of behaviour is mandated by the Department of Education and Training. Suspension is implemented within the school in accordance with these procedures.
• Suspension is managed as an integral part of the school’s student welfare policy. A number of strategies are implemented through the school’s Learning Support Team to address inappropriate behaviour to prevent suspension from occurring.
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• Generally, parents and staff felt that suspension is not an effective means of either reducing the incidence or changing the behaviour problems, however, often it provides protection to staff and other students and provided time for the school to develop effective risk management and support plans for the student.
Future directions
The school will continue to be proactive in reducing incidents of inappropriate behaviour and continue to make effective use of the Learning Support Team in supporting students at risk.
Curriculum
Background
The Personal Development strand of PDHPE was identified as the curriculum area for evaluation in 2008. From observations made by staff, it was felt that personal choices made in regards to food, were often not the healthier choices, leading to students having poor concentration and restlessness. Surveys were completed by Students (Years 3 – 6), staff and parents.
Findings and Conclusions
• 77% of children ate breakfast daily on school mornings with an average of 13% of children accessing the Brekky Program daily.
• Over 95% of children have processed snacks for recess, lunch and at home.
• Only 22% of children have milk products as snacks or as part of their lunch.
• About 51% of children have fruit/vegetables as snacks or as part of their lunch.
• All staff felt that the children were more restless and lacking energy and concentration particularly after lunch.
• An increasing number of Year 5 and 6 children are not having lunch, some even going all day at school without food.
• Many parents indicated that they needed help to improve their children’s eating habits, particularly with vegetables.
• All staff are enthusiastic about fully integrating the Kitchen/Garden Program into the school curriculum in 2009.
Future directions
The scope and sequence will be reviewed to effectively include the Kitchen/Garden Program into the curriculum and to outline specific indicators to be addressed in each grade. Smartboard activities will be developed and shared to assist in student improvement and to
enhance engagement in this area. The Brekky Program needs to continue to enable children to have access to a healthy breakfast.
Parent, student, and teacher satisfaction
In 2008 the school sought the opinions of parents, students and teachers about the school.
Their responses are presented below.
All teachers spoken to indicated that they are extremely happy to be teaching at Forbes North Public School. In particular they believe there has been a significant change in community perception about the school. Teachers are receiving a lot of positive feedback and they believe that the school is gaining increased recognition for its excellent programs and initiatives especially in the area of Aboriginal Education and for the Kitchen/Garden Program.
A significant number of teachers in their early years of teaching are now working at Forbes North. All of these teachers indicated that their induction into the school was outstanding and that they are gaining a high level of satisfaction from teaching.
Parents/Carers of children attending the School’s Link Up Transition to School Program expressed a higher level of satisfaction with the school. All indicated that they were very happy with their choice of school and were very confident that their child would do well at Forbes North.
Professional learning
All teachers participated in a range of professional learning activities throughout 2008. The priority areas for professional learning were beginning teachers, use of ICT with a focus on interactive whiteboards, quality teaching, syllabus implementation, leadership and career development, welfare; and literacy and numeracy.
A total of $10,144 was made available to the school for teacher professional learning, an average of approximately $800 per teacher. $7,095 of the Priority Schools Funding was also used for professional learning to develop the skills of teachers in using the scaffolding technique in teaching literacy. All staff benefited greatly from participating in school development days at the beginning of Term 1, Term 2 and Term 3.
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School development 2009 – 2011 A school management plan has been developed in consultation with the school community based on an analysis of student assessment data and school evaluations conducted during the year. The Plan identifies the school’s priority areas or long term goals, expected outcomes and targets, strategies and indicators of success. The Plan reflects the directions of the Lachlan Group of Schools Plan and is in line with Western Region Targets and the DET Office of Schools Plan.
The Forbes North long term strategic directions for 2009 – 2011 include providing a high quality learning environment, providing a safe environment for students and staff, improving technology based learning, closing the achievement gap for Aboriginal students, improving transition to school, improving literacy and numeracy outcomes, improving health and fitness and improving attendance. Copies of the school management plan are available from the school office.
Targets for 2009
Target 1
To increase students knowledge and power to make better and healthier food choices and to improve fitness levels.
Strategies to achieve this target include:
• Establishing the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen/Garden Program in the School.
• Participation in the Live Life Well Program.
• Implementing the iKi Magic fitness and personal development system.
• Increasing participation in the Premier’s Sporting Challenge.
Our success will be measured by:
• Establishment of a School fruit and vegetable garden and the level of student participation in growing and harvesting the vegetables grown.
• The building of a multi-station kitchen and the number of cooking lessons in which students participate.
• The development of a School Action Plan in relation to the Live Life Well Program with a focus on establishing a healthy school canteen.
• Implementing a revised fitness program with an increased emphasis on “huff and puff” activities through exercise, music, dance and martial arts.
• Increasing student fitness levels by 30% as measured by the 20 metre endurance BEEP test.
Target 2
To improve student outcomes through the application of technology based learning.
Strategies to achieve this target include:
• Participation in the iTeacher IT professional learning program
• Implementation of Connected Classrooms.
• Ongoing training and application in the use of the smartboard for all staff.
• Providing increased opportunities for students to build their IT skills by using the DET portal for web searches and email.
Our success will be measured by:
• Smartboard applications in the classroom.
• The number of students using web searches and email.
• The skill level of students as indicated by the School’s ICT skills checklist.
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About this report In preparing this report, the self-evaluation committee has gathered information from evaluations conducted during the year and analysed other information about the school's practices and student learning outcomes. The self-evaluation committee and school planning committee have determined targets for the school's future development.
Donna Bliss, Manager, Yoorana Gunya
Wayne Markwort, P & C President
Michele Herbert, Assistant Principal
Phil Thurston, Principal
School contact information
Forbes North Public School
Thomson Street, FORBES NSW 2871
Ph: 6852 2187
Fax: 6852 1452
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.forbesnth-p.schools.nsw.edu.au
School Code: 4100
Parents can find out more information about Annual School Reports, how to interpret information in the reports and have the opportunity to provide feedback about these reports at:
http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/asr