berrigan public school annual report annual report for 2015 is provided to the community of berrigan...

Berrigan Public School Annual Report

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Introduction The Annual Report for 2015 is provided to the community of Berrigan Public School as an account of the school’s operations and achievements throughout the year.

It provides a detailed account of the progress the school has made to provide high quality educational opportunities for all students, as set out in the school plan. It outlines the findings from self-assessment that reflect the impact of key school strategies for improved learning and the benefit to all students from the expenditure of resources, including equity funding. Gayle Andriske Principal

School contact details:

Berrigan Public School 25 – 29 Momalong Street Berrigan NSW 2712

http://www.berrigan-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

[email protected]

03 5885 2209

Message from the Principal 2015 marked the end of a teaching journey for one of our staff members. This year Mrs Stevenson will finish teaching at Berrigan Public School after 27 years of service to our school. I will once again quote the wording on Meredith’s Education Week Award: ‘This award acknowledges the service and commitment that Meredith Stevenson has made to Berrigan Public School over the past 27 years. Meredith's strong ownership and work ethic has benefited many students who have come through Berrigan Public School. Student respect is obvious in her classroom. She deeply cares about her students and they look for her approval and guidance. Her approach to teaching has generated a close rapport with her class as well as our staff. Meredith should be commended for her genuine concern and compassion for her students, her professionalism and the quality of her instruction. Meredith’s commitment has not only been a wonderful asset to our school but also to the surrounding community of Berrigan.’ Another milestone was the retirement of our Director, Miss Vicki Kempton, who has been a very hands-on, enthusiastic and involved mentor in Rural Education and Berrigan Public School, along with others in Deniliquin Network, has benefitted immensely from her passion.

Our school’s success is underpinned by three key elements that promote the quality teaching and learning programs that our students, staff and parents value and appreciate.

Firstly we have a highly dedicated staff who work together to provide an inclusive environment where all students are nurtured and encouraged to achieve their personal best in all they do.

Secondly, our students are a passionate and motivated group of young people who are keen to learn and participate in a wide range of educational opportunities provided for them at the school.

Thirdly, Berrigan Public School enjoys tremendous support and encouragement from the parent body and has developed valuable links with community groups.

Our ongoing self-assessment reflects the following as key features of our achievements in 2015:-

• The National Assessment Program in Literacy and Numeracy results indicated significant individual growth in all areas tested, Language Conventions, Spelling, Reading, Writing and Numeracy from Year 3 to Year 5. This indicates that our strategies to improve learning outcomes in literacy and numeracy in the early years of schooling are having an impact.

• Staff participated in targeted professional learning activities to improve their classroom practice and to build their capacity, with an emphasis of using technology as a tool, to meet the learners’ needs.

http://www.berrigan-p.schools.nsw.edu.au/

mailto:[email protected]

• The Berrigan, Jerilderie, Urana Public Schools Learning Community (BiJOU), of which Berrigan Public School is an integral part, has developed into a strong educational network, sharing knowledge, resources and expertise to build capacity of all staff in a time of educational reform. Our network was one of four chosen for inclusion in a study of best practice by The Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation (CESE). This is recognition for the work being done by the three schools to work together to provide opportunities for students, staff and parents to share in the learning.

I certify that the information provided in this report is the result of a rigorous school self-assessment and review process undertaken with staff, parents and student representatives and provides a balanced and genuine account of the school’s achievements and areas for development.

Gayle Andriske

Principal

School background

School vision statement

'Play Your Part' the school motto, emphasises how we all, students, staff and parents work together to provide a welcoming, inclusive and safe learning environment, where expectations are high for all participants in our school community.

School context

Berrigan Public School services a small rural community of approximately 1500 people. For over 100 years this school has provided quality public education to the children of Berrigan and the surrounding district. The school has a teaching Principal and maintains four classes.

Our goal is to develop students who are self-motivated learners who work both cooperatively and independently whilst striving to reach their full potential. We are committed to their development of their whole being: academically, culturally, physically, socially and morally.

The implementation of personalised learning, highly qualified teaches and support staff, excellent resources a supportive parent and wider community provide an environment conducive to achieving excellence for all students. Programs and learning opportunities that focus on the arts, environment, technology, healthy life styles, leadership, sport and appreciation of others are evident across the school.

The school attracts equity funding in a range of areas to support its targeted programs.

To find out more information relating to Berrigan Public School please visit our website at: www.berrigan-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

Self-assessment and school achievements

Self-assessment using the School Excellence Framework This section of the Annual Report outlines the findings from self-assessment using the School Excellence Framework, our school achievements and the next steps to be pursued. The Framework supports public schools throughout NSW in the pursuit of excellence by providing a clear description of high quality practice across the three domains of Learning, Teaching and Leading.

In 2015, Berrigan Public School staff began the process of self-assessment using the elements of the School Excellence Framework and its implications for informing, monitoring and validating the implementation of the School Plan. Time was dedicated to examining and finalising the school plan and the associated milestones document. Throughout the year staff have monitored the progress and have been involved in a range of validation processes to look at its impact. This has provided an indication of successes as well as those areas were further development will take place.

In the domain of Learning, the school’s efforts have primarily focused on learning culture and wellbeing to address the level of student engagement and self-monitoring of their learning progress. Creating a respectful, inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters a love of learning for every student; a



development of high personal expectations by both staff and students, and an understanding that we learn from our mistakes, it is okay to take a risk. Students are beginning to take ownership of their learning; with increased understanding of what they need to do to improve.

In the domain of Teaching, Literacy, with the implementation of L3 (Language, Literacy & Learning), AL (Accelerated Literacy) and a whole school STLA program, has been a priority. The staff are very focused on working with the new curriculums, especially English, Maths, History and Science. Our other major focus has been addressing different learning styles; understanding how students learn and using this information to adjust curriculums to support individual students. Linked to this is also our focus on using technology as a learning tool; enabling students to individualise their learning, catering to all levels of development and providing support, confidence and improved learning outcomes.

In the domain of Leading, our school has developed very strong student leadership skills with the implementation of programs such as Peer Support, Buddy Reading, Year 6 PE/Sport tabloid activities, GRIP leadership, specific senior student’s roles and responsibilities; these programs lift the expectations of both mentors and students. (Positive role models lead to positive self-belief and self-responsibility leads to increased learning outcomes). Being a small school, staff are very receptive to assuming leadership roles in different areas, taking ownership and ‘sharing the load’. Two staff members have trained in Growth Coaching which has helped in developing mentors across our Learning Community; this a priority for our Professional Development within the Learning Community (The Berrigan, Jerilderie, Urana Public Schools Learning Community - BiJOU).

Strategic Direction 1

Engaging quality learning

Purpose

Students understand how they learn and are confident in selecting and using tools that best support and enhance their opportunities to grow and learn.

Overall summary of progress

A strong focus on Literacy in 2015 including a full implementation of Literacy, Language and Literacy (L3) in K/1/2 and Accelerated Literacy (AL) in Years 3/4, plus the separation of Year 3 and Year 4 for Literacy, has encouraged and promoted individual learning goals and more independence and responsibility for individual learning by students.

Self-reflection is an assessment strategy that both staff and students are using to drive their teaching/learning and this will be a major priority in 2016; as will be our continued focus on using technology as a teaching/ learning tool to impact on our student’s progress and engagement.

Another priority in 2015 was planning and programming using the new syllabus documents. This year the English and Mathematics syllabus documents were the centre of professional learning sessions. A review on programming using the English and Maths syllabus was conducted, along with an introduction to the new History and Science syllabus. As a result of this professional learning the school created a scope and sequence for Maths along with quality teaching learning programs across the stages.

Syllabus updates and professional learning will be ongoing throughout 2016.

Staff professional learning was focussed on the use of data to support learning particularly the literacy and numeracy continuums; this will continue to be a priority in 2016.

Progress towards achieving improvement measures Resources (annual)

Improvement measure (to be achieved over 3 years)

Progress achieved this year <$>

External and school based data shows learning growth for all students.

Full implementation of L3 (Literacy, Language and Learning) program in K to Year 2 with data showing growth for all students.

Implementation of Accelerated Literacy (AL) in Stages 2 and 3. The scaffolding approach of AL enabled all students to demonstrate growth in writing across both stages.

Identified students supported by individual plans and targeted programs with each student showing progress towards their nominated goals.

Multilit data used as basis of the STLA program across the school. Data available to students so they can monitor their progress.

$20000 (RAM –Socio-economic)

On-going purchase of L3 and AL reading texts

NAPLAN analyse-look at pattern over past 7 years (2009-2015)

Purchased Staff iPads -staff increased their knowledge and understanding of using iPads and their apps as a teaching tool.

Staff trained in the use of PLAN application

Whole school, staff and students, trained, investigated and developed an understanding of the different types of learners and learning styles.

$3000-(P&C $2000; Global $1000)

$6340 - (P&C $3170; Global $3170)

Students monitor their own learning progress

Students K-6 developing an understanding of the literacy and numeracy continuums learning ‘Where I am at’ and ‘Where can I move’.

Students using digital media to personalise their learning experiences

Purchased a set of 11 iPads for classrooms enabled each class access to a set. Ensures all students have opportunity to work on iPads increasing skills, engagement and learning outcomes across the curriculum.

Professional learning for staff visiting other identified practitioner on best practice in the use of technology to enhance learning opportunities.

Mentor relationship with Manor Lakes College and the BiJOU Learning Community with a focus on technology to enhance engagement.

SDD at Manor Lakes –all staff travelled to Manor Lakes for Staff Development Day: observing iPads in the classroom; looking at their BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) program; training using iPads/technology as a teaching/learning tool.

Learning forums held in Terms 2 and 3 with 80 teaching and SAS staff from 11 schools sharing best practice and collaborating

$5000 (RAM Socio-economic)

$700(Professional Learning)

$700 (Rural and Remote funding) $508 ( Global funds and Professional Learning)

$800 (Global and Professional Learning)

Next steps

• Students to continue to develop skills in setting and reflecting on learning goals linked to the literacy and numeracy continuums. (How I Learn; What works for me; What I need to do.)

• Enhanced learning for staff in the use of data and student feedback to maximise student learning.

• Training of staff and implementation of the Focus on Reading program-targeting Stage 2 and Stage 3.

• An experience Berrigan Public School Early Stage 1 teacher to be a mentor for K/1/2 teachers across Berrigan, Jerilderie and Urana Public School (BiJOU) Learning Community.

• Continued training of staff to identify student’s learning styles and behaviour, with a specific emphasis on Autism.

• All students to develop learning plans and goals across the school


Enhanced learning opportunities

Purpose

Quality teachers, enhanced learning opportunities, local and global connections provides engaging, innovative systems for learning that offers personalisation for each student to maximise their potential.


All permanent and casual teaching staff undertook training in the implementation of the new Performance Development Framework prior to developing their own plans. As part of this process observations of practice were not only completed within the school but extended across schools within the Berrigan, Jerilderie and Urana Public Schools Learning Community (BiJOU).

Growth coach training has led to a more focused and strategic approach to the guiding of professional development of staff.

In literacy there was a focus in training teachers in using PLAN and the Literacy Continuum. K-2 teachers received support and additional professional learning to develop expertise in the implementation of L3. Both in-school and external mentoring was implemented to support this. The Kindergarten and Year 1/2 teachers have reported greater confidence in implementing L3 in the classroom. In Stage 2 and 3 Accelerated Literacy was implemented, resulting in strong development in writing using the scaffolding approach. In Stage 2 single grade literacy groups were introduced, employment of additional teacher enabled classes to be taught at grade level. It enabled year 4 students to work on individualised learning plan; including goal setting, working towards and reflection of individual goals. Also use of technology has provided strong engagement and development of learning outcomes across the school for all students as evidenced in work samples and specific skill development.




Students and staff reflections report positively on innovative systems, programs or settings that supported their goals.

Implemented in Stage 2, single grade literacy groups-employment of additional teacher enabled classes to be taught at grade level. It enable year 4 students to work on individualised learning plans; including setting goals, working towards and reflection of individual goals.

Instigated the employment of ICT co-ordinator to support learning within the classrooms resulting in very strong ICT skill develop from Kindergarten to Year 6

School learning assistance programs used to develop independent learning with identified students. Employment of two SLSO to support this project. Staff and student reflections and data demonstrate this as a very positive program with increased learning outcomes and self-engagement and self-belief of individuals.

$36000 ($33000 Socio –economic (RAM) $3000 Global Funds) $33000 ($28,500 Socio –economic(RAM); $4500-Computer co-ordinator) $63,000 (RAM socio-economic)

Employment of a Speech Pathologist to assess, monitor and transition students to speech therapy. All new students, including all Kindergarten, assessed and follow up programs put in place; resulting in parents and teachers aware of programs to follow to improve speech outcomes.

$1510 (RAM Socio-economic)

Attainment by all teachers of their identified performance development goals and ensuring they meet Australian Professional Standards for Teachers

100% of permanent and casual staff completed a performance development plan in 2015

Teachers maintaining accreditation completed the required process

Teachers undertaking professional observations within the school and across schools. Manor Lakes plus network visit across the learning community, building networks and looking at and sharing best practice.

Two teachers trained in Growth Coaching enabled more positive outcomes in mentoring for both staff and students

$900 (Professional Learning)


Next steps

• Continued development of PDP’s for all staff with specific links to the school plan. • Students continue to look at continuums and place themselves on the continuums and develop

an understanding of where they are at and how to move forward. • Self-reflection by both staff and students on their individual progress • Staff to collect and further enhance the analyse of data as evidence of progress in students

learning outcomes • Continued development of relationship with Michelle Meracis, IT mentor and Apple Educator

from Manor Lakes P-12 College


Strengthening positive relationships

Purpose

Developing positive and respectful relationships successful learners need to be confident, resilient, creative, co-operative, take risks and be involved.


At Berrigan Public School this year we have put into place a variety of projects which have helped develop student’s social development and commitment to learning , skills allowing them to take increased responsibility for their learning and wellbeing. One aspect considered is to accept achievement and disappointments and using these experiences move forward. This project incorporated leadership opportunities for the senior students. The programs included daily fitness, healthy lifestyle, music, peer support and the ‘You Can Do it’ Program

A continued emphasis on differentiated learning opportunities being provided for students in all teaching and learning programs is having a very positive effect. Students (particularly in Year 6) are increasingly engaged and strong results in surveys reflect their positive attitude to school and increased effort used in the classroom.




All students’ social development and commitment to learning reports indicate growth in focus areas.

Data collected over both formal reporting periods indicate improvement in areas of social development and commitment to learning.

‘Live Life Well @ School’ plan supported by students, staff and parents. Two days for staff to develop plan which was implemented in the school.

Healthy Life Style lessons by student leadership team

Fundamental Movement Skills program implemented and conducted into the daily fitness and physical education programs following staff survey which indicated concerns on basic skill development.

‘You Can Do It’ personal development program across the school

Environmental Garden-students developing ownership and provides another positive reason to be at school.

Introduction of School Facebook page enabling parents and community to access happenings at Berrigan Public School.

Whole School Drama program in Term 3, where all students, Kindergarten to Year 6, perform to an audience of around 400 family and community members. The drama coaching is a term long program

$900

$4000 (P&C $3000 $1000 (RAM-socio –economic)

targeting Year 5/6. This program is followed up with monologue instruction and performances in Term 4

Musica Viva performance-visiting musical performances that come to the school to perform for our students, with a focus on musical instruction.

$400

All students show an increase in participating in learning and school activities.

Increased training and collegiate visits by staff is opening our school and students to the wider learning community, using technology as well as networking.

GRIP Leadership course for student leaders in Albury

All students involved in the Musica Berrigan/Choir program; a weekly whole school music program. A positive outcome is the increase in the number of students attending community school performances, plus a strong development in singing and performance skills.

Peer Support Program, K-6, operating across the school under the leadership of Year 6 students.

Range of activities offered to students through the Aspire Me program to extend their learning outside the school- areas include art, drama, dance & sport;

Increased participation in ICAS evaluation

Focussed sporting skills development-using Sporting Schools Program plus P&C support-swimming, athletics, Jump Rope for Heart (skipping), golf, cricket

Tell them from Me student Survey indicating 100% of students Year 4 -6 engaged in sport


$500 (RAM-socio –economic) $450 (Professional Learning)

$500 (RAM-socio-economic)

$700 (RAM-socio-economic)

Next steps

• Continued implementation of successful proactive student wellbeing programs within the school that reflect the Student Wellbeing Framework.

• Further embed personalised and connected learning with a key focus on social and emotion development in students through professional learning opportunities for staff.

• Continue to provide and support opportunities for our students to see Creative Arts performances — eg Musica Viva

• Develop an action plan with the students re Environmental Garden

Key initiatives and other school focus areas

Key initiatives (annual) Impact achieved this year Resources (annual)

Aboriginal background funding

Students were able to access opportunities as identified on their personalised learning plans.

All Aboriginal students have an individual learning plan (ILP) and are making progress across the literacy and numeracy continuums.

$600

English language proficiency funding

Berrigan Public School was not in receipt English language proficiency funding for 2015

$0

Targeted students support for refugees and new arrivals

Berrigan Public School was not in receipt of funding to support targeted students support for refugees and new arrivals in 2015

$0

Socio-economic funding

Enhancing student access to a wide range of educational experiences.

Extra assistance was also provided in the class learning environment. This resulted in increased student participation and engagement leading to an improvement in learning outcomes.

$1290

Low level adjustment for disability funding

All students requiring adjustments and accommodations are catered for within the school. Identified students were referred for learning support this year, in addition to students on recurring monitoring.

A school learning support officer was utilised to support the implementation of individual student’s programs.

$5152

Support for beginning teachers

Berrigan Public School was not in receipt of funding to support beginning teachers for 2015

$0

Other school focus areas Impact achieved this year Resources (annual)

Employment of teacher on K/1 class Employment of teacher .5 / fortnight to enable the school to have an extra teacher full time

$9,000

Quality Teaching, Successful Students (QTSS)

Teachers were supported to network across schools and to collaborate with other teachers.

$2000

Reading Recovery Identified students have completed the program and were monitored off throughout the year. Expertise from Reading Recovery teacher shared across the school and learning community.

$25000

Sporting Schools Coaching in golf, tennis and athletics plus purchase of equipment

$8100

Rural Remote Network Funding for the BiJOU Learning Community

$2022

Student information It is a requirement that the reporting of information for all students be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.

Student enrolment profile

Student enrolments have continued to increase over a four-year period. Finding available accommodation within the town for families has impacted.

Student attendance profile

Attendance at school continues to be a focus. Ensuring students attend regularly and minimize time lost with appointments has been improved in partnership with parents and carers.

A range of strategies are implemented to improve the students’ attendance rates which include:

• monitoring of attendance data;

• information regarding the importance of attendance published in the weekly newsletter;

• follow up with parents and careers of absent students;

• letters of concern sent to parents whose children are exhibiting a high rate of absenteeism; and

• referral of students to the Home School Liaison Officer for additional support as required.

Workforce information Reporting of information for all staff must be consistent with privacy and personal information policies.

Workforce composition

Position Number Principal 1.0

Classroom Teacher(s) 3.336 Teacher of Reading Recovery 0.21 Learning and Support Teacher(s) 0.2 Teacher Librarian 0.2 School Administrative & Support Staff 1.481 Other positions Total 6.457

The Australian Education Regulation, 2014 requires schools to report on Aboriginal composition of their workforce. In 2015, no members of the workforce identify as being of Aboriginal or Torres Islander descent. Teacher qualifications All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.

Qualifications % of staff

Undergraduate degree or diploma 100

Postgraduate degree

Professional learning and teacher accreditation

All teaching and support staff at Berrigan Public School participated in a number of professional learning activities designed to build the capability of staff to achieve some of the key priorities as set out in the School Plan.

The average expenditure per teacher was approximately $1800 with funding coming from global funds and funding allocated under the resources allocation model (RAM). With some inschool and across the learning community activities, local financial arrangements were made to support the teachers involvement, therefore minimizing costs to our school.

As well staff has been involved in professional learning programs that have built skills and knowledge in nominated mandatory areas.

Berrigan Public School has one teacher maintaining accreditation at Proficient level. During 2015 there were no beginning teachers working towards Board of Studies Teaching and Education Standards (BoSTES) accreditation at Proficient or teachers

0

20

40

60

80

100

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Stud

ents

Year

Enrolments

Male Female

Year 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015K 90.9 93.6 92.5 93.7 94.3 94.01 93.8 94.0 97.2 96.2 93.9 96.32 91.3 93.5 96.1 95.3 95.6 95.33 96.1 92.9 98.4 96.6 95.4 94.44 91.6 94.8 93.6 95.8 94.4 96.15 96.0 94.0 98.4 94.8 94.6 94.26 90.1 95.8 91.8 96.5 90.9 96.3

Total 92.8 94.2 95.4 95.5 94.2 95.3K 94.7 94.7 94.3 95.0 95.2 94.41 94.2 94.2 93.9 94.5 94.7 93.82 94.4 94.2 94.2 94.7 94.9 94.03 94.5 94.4 94.4 94.8 95.0 94.14 94.5 94.3 94.3 94.7 94.9 94.05 94.4 94.2 94.2 94.5 94.8 94.06 94 93.8 93.8 94.1 94.2 93.5

Total 94.4 94.3 94.2 94.7 94.8 94.0

Stat

e Do

ESc

hool

seeking or maintaining voluntary accreditation at Highly Accomplished or Lead.

School Development Days

Term 1 SDD-all staff (6 teaching, 5 SASS)-completing mandatory training Code of Conduct and Child Protection; Roles and responsibilities of all staff; Class organisation and timetables; Calendar and dates; WHS; School Plan and School/BiJOU Learning Community focus 2015.

Term 2 SDD - Berrigan School staff as part of the BiJOU Learning Community, travelled to Melbourne to attend a professional learning day at Manor Lakes P-12 College. All staff worked with Michelle Meracis, Manor Lakes Technology leading teacher and Apple Distinguish Educator and some of her staff; looking at the context and structure of their school (1800 students K-12), learning about using iPads in the classroom as well as investigating the Inquiry Method of teaching and BYOD9Bring Your Own Device). This day was a BiJOU Learning Community activity and involved staff from Jerilderie(4 staff) and Urana(4 staff) as well as Berrigan(9 staff). All staff from the three schools gained lots of valuable teaching and learning strategies and this is a 'learning journey' all members of our community will continue to travel.

Term 3 SDD was again a combined BiJOU Learning Community Day where all staff learnt more about: New Teacher Awards-Director Vicki Kempton; SASS WHS with Craig Taylor; Writing reports to the new English Syllabus –Zillah Gleeson: QT Code Readers, Jo Cameron; Microsoft 365 Vicki Kempton; iPads Adobe Voice Jenny Fruend; Digital Portfolios using Apps.

Term 4 in lieu of these days all teaching and support staff attended the Term 2 and 3 Learning Together Forums a 3-hour training event held from 4:00-7:00pm. 11 schools with approximately 80 staff participate in these forums. The training is not mandatory but all staff appreciates the effort that Vicki Kempton, our Director, makes to enable these events to happen and they are very happy and keen to support them. The sessions enable us access to training in our area with a minimum disruption to teaching time.

In addition, all staff attended Jerilderie Public School to undertake a full day of training in First Aide. This

day covers basic first aid, CPR, anaphylactic and asthma training.

Other learning undertaken included:

• Principals of the BiJOU schools attended Manor Lakes College in Melbourne to learn how to implement iPads and iPad learning into the classrooms.

• BiJOU Combined Training where all staff travelled to Jerilderie Public School to participate in a BiJOU Learning Community combined staff meeting with Michelle Meracis, ICT mentor from Manor Lakes, Melbourne. Michelle worked with the staff on Learning Styles; that is looking at the different ways we all learn and also how to adapt ICT to work with the different styles of learning.

• Michelle also visited Berrigan Public School to work with staff on using iPads in the classroom.

• Staff visited Urana Public School and Albury Public School to view teaching methods and ideas when implementing comprehension skills into their reading programs. (Best Practice)

• Staff attending training to discussed the development of a comprehensive school plan and annual school report in consultation with the school community, connected to the budget and students outcomes.

• Teaching and support staff completed training for the implementation of the ‘Tell Them from Me’ survey that was taken by the year 4/5/6 students, parents and staff.

• Principal attended Deniliquin Network meeting with discussions around the School Plan, ASR, School Milestone and Excellence Framework and RAM Report (School funding for 2016). We also held discussions with Deniliquin Police Local Area Command

• Four SAS staff travelled to Albury to participate in the 2 day SASS Conference They participated in various workshops relevant to their work duties and they were inspired by keynote presenter Amanda Gore who spoke on ‘Wake up to What Matters!’ and Michael Crossland who spoke on ‘Smile Within’.

• Professional Learning in Disabilities Discrimination Act completed by all teachers

• 2 teaching staff trained in Growth Coaching.

• 2 SAS staff trained by MacICT in the use of Configurator for the iPads

• 2 staff participated in an integrated Planning and Programming Day designed for small schools

• Principal attended the combined Albury and Deniliquin Principals Professional Learning Days at Mulwala

• All teaching staff, permanent, temporary and casual completed training delivered by the principal and the Schools NSW Teachers Federation Representative in the new Performance Development Framework

• Principal attended state PPA Conference as part of the BiJOU Learning Community.

• Principal attended the Visible Learning Symposium in Sydney to deepen knowledge around John Hattie’s research and what has the most impact on improving student’s outcomes. (a Deniliquin Network initiative)

Financial information Financial summary

This summary covers funds for operating costs and does not involve expenditure areas such as permanent salaries, building and major maintenance.

A full copy of the school’s 2015 financial statement is tabled at the annual general meetings of the parent and/or community groups. Further details concerning the statement can be obtained by contacting the school.

Date of financial summary 30/11/2015

Income $ Balance brought forward 154063.24 Global funds 112258.86 Tied funds 180726.38 School & community sources 92343.69 Interest 4330.76 Trust receipts 2441.75 Canteen 0.00 Total income 546164.68 Expenditure Teaching & learning

Key learning areas 21108.55 Excursions 44095.01 Extracurricular dissections 5556.90

Library 1981.82 Training & development 9074.78 Tied funds 175701.28 Casual relief teachers 15008.02 Administration & office 34029.16 School-operated canteen 0.00 Utilities 22872.96 Maintenance 3691.23 Trust accounts 3299.22 Capital programs 11269.65 Total expenditure 347688.58 Balance carried forward 198476.10

It is important to note that from the balance carried forward includes wages and associated oncosts linked to the employment of temporary and casual staff which is yet to come out.

School performance School-based assessment

Language, Literacy and Learning-L3

L3 data is collected every 5 weeks. Students’ results are tracked on a chart. Assessment tasks are hearing and recoding sounds in words and writing vocabulary. Child’s text reading is also tracked. The writing data is used to determine when children are ready to shift from guided to independent writing.

Reading Recovery

Lessons records are kept daily. A running record is used to track students text reading level, this allows he teacher to see the strategies and self-monitoring children are using when reading.

MultiLit

MultiLit is the basis of the school STLA program. The three main areas are phonics or word attack skills; sight words recognition and supported book reading in one-to-one context. Each student has an individual tracking sheet which is accessed every session and progress is monitored.

Student Tracking Sheets

All students have an individual tracking sheet on the school server, accessible to all staff. Two compulsory monitoring times are at the end of each semester plus optional visits. Standardized tests using South Australian Spelling test and Burt Reading are administered in June and November. Literacy and numeracy continuum are tracked on the each student’s tracking sheets plus any intervention: IP program, Reading Recovery, Adjusted learning, STLA support, Counselor intervention, Speech therapist, SLSO support, plus additional agencies. Student’s strengths and any extra curricula activities are recorded. Best Start data and NAPLAN results are kept in individual student folders.

School Reports/Interviews

Formal Parent/Teacher interviews are held in Term 1and 3. Term 1 are a two way ‘chat’, re expectations of both parties and Term 3 are three way interviews student, parent and teacher re progress and where to next. Informal interviews are held whenever the need arises -‘Open Door Policy’.

Written school reports are completed in Term 2 and 4 on all students and a copy given to the parents. Data from this is collated and analyzed by staff re trends, progress and identified areas for improvements.

NAPLAN

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 these assessments.

The My School website provides detailed information and data for national literacy and numeracy testing. Click on the link My School and insert the school name, Berrigan Public School, in the Find a school and select GO to access the school data.

Parent/caregiver, student, teacher satisfaction Each year schools are required to seek the opinions of parents, students and teachers about the school. Their responses are presented below.

Parents

Parents were invited to complete the Tell Them from Me survey. At this stage the results have not been made available.

Another major survey that the school requested was feedback on major overnight excursions. This survey was undertaken because of the rising costs of the major excursions and the inability of the school to provide support funding. The major reason for lack of funding was because our National Partnership funding program was finalised.

The feedback was

• 71% Option 1: Alternative Stage excursions with Years 5/6 going to Canberra in the even years and Years 3/4 going to Ballarat in the odd years

• 29% Option 2: Only Years 5/6 will have a major excursion every second year.

There was strong support for the school to continue to have local community excursions and for one day excursions for special events such as visiting performances, leadership activities and Aspire Me Camps.

Students

Students Year 4 -6 across the cluster for Urana, Jerilderie and Berrigan Public Schools were surveyed as part of the Tell Them from Me survey. The student survey measures 20 indicators based on the most recent research on school and classroom effectiveness.

Students reported strongly in the areas of:

• effort

• expectations for success

• being interested and motivated,

• participation in school sports

• having positive relationships

• positive teacher-student relations,

• relevance

• rigour; and

• valuing schooling outcomes

Areas not being reported as strongly included:

• effective learning time (Years 4, 5)

• positive homework behaviours (Years 4, 5, 6)

• students with positive behaviours at school (Years 4, 5)

• positive learning climate; (Years 4, 5, 6) and

• students with a positive sense of belonging (Years 4, 5)

Staff

As part of the Live Life Well @ School program the staff were surveyed on motor skill development. Results of the survey were:

• Poor sports skills eg batting , throwing.-possible reasons less outside play; too much screen time

• Staff realized that specific skills needed to addressed and taught

• Resulting in the introduction of the Fundamental Skills Program (FMS) into daily fitness on a rotation basis

• Students progressed through a series of developmental activities in specific skill areas

• These skills were incorporated in the sports game sessions at the end of the week.

• Improvement was noticeable in the abilities of the students after participating in the FMS lessons.

http://www.myschool.edu.au/

Policy requirements

Aboriginal education

Berrigan Public School promotes respect for the unique and ancient culture of the Aboriginal people through ensuring all students are aware of the reasons why an acknowledgment of the traditional custodians of the land is done in all formal assemblies.

Through the inclusion of Aboriginal perspectives in the teaching programs all students are provided with opportunities to develop their understanding of culture, history and perspectives.

The class work was supplemented through all students travelling to Deniliquin to the Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre. This was an opportunity for the students to increase their knowledge and understanding of local Aboriginal culture, language, history as well as the importance of land and water in our lives.

Multicultural Education and Anti-racism

The Year 5/6 class participated in training, ready for ‘Peer Support’ implementation. The students completed leadership and problem solving activities. In Term 2 the whole school participated in The Peer Support Program. The focus area this year was ‘Values-Promoting Harmony’.

Our Year 6 students attended a CWA meeting to give several presentations on the country Italy. As part of this work students developed an understanding of a new culture and some of the issues this group of people face. Through their presentations students articulated information about culturally diverse communities and demonstrated their understanding of another culture.

The school recognized Harmony Day with a whole school assembly acknowledgment and associated classroom activities.

Berrigan Public School has a staff member trained as an Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO). The role of the ARCO is to be the contact between students, staff, parents and community members who wish to raise issues regarding all forms of racism.

Competition Results

ICAS Results

Students are offered the opportunity to undertake these tests. The school congratulates the following students on their results:

Science ICAS assessment. Piper Mills, Niclas Renneberg and Shae Fennell received certificates of participation with Shae achieving a High Distinction pass.

Digital Technologies ICAS assessment. Piper Mills, Niclas Renneberg and Shae Fennell received certificates of participation with Shae achieving a Distinction pass, a fantastic effort Shae, well done.

English ICAS assessment. Molly Rice, Piper Mills, Abi Litchfield, Shae Fennell and Cassandra Renneberg received certificates of participation with Abi and Shae achieving a credit pass and Cassandra a distinction.

Excursions

Excursions and incursions form an important part of the teaching and learning at Berrigan Public School. Students are provided with opportunities to extend their educational experiences beyond the classroom.

Altina Wildlife Park K/1/2

In third term, K/1/2 travelled to Altina Wildlife Park in Darlington Point. The students enjoyed the unique personalized tours and the memorable educational experiences. They also learnt the importance of conserving wildlife and the environment.

Responsible Pet Ownership Program

K/1/2 had a visit from Shannon and her beautiful, obedient dog Abby.

They were involved in learning how to stay safe around dogs including what to do if they come across an angry dog, the safe way to approach someone else’s dog and situations where they should leave dogs alone.

This is a very worthwhile program provided for free by the NSW government. The children have enjoyed doing some follow up learning in their classrooms.

Dentist Visit

Years 5/6 and the infant students enjoyed an interesting and informative visit from two dental nurses who imparted ‘amazing’ facts regarding dental hygiene and its importance.

Year K/1/2 BBQ & Year 2 Sleepover

All K/1/2 students enjoyed some fun activities and a BBQ tea before K/1 went home and Year 2 spent the night at school. It was an exciting time for all students, especially our Year 2 students.

Stage Production ‘The Last Soldier’

Year 5/6 travelled to Albury to watch the stage production ‘The Last Soldier’ at the Albury Civic Centre.

The P&C funded this wonderful opportunity to follow up on the ‘Monkey Baa Theatre’ workshop that the 5/6 students participated in.

The 5/6 students picked up some tips from the live performance that they will use in their drama production, ‘The Magical Land of Oz’.

Year K/1/2 Library Visit

K/1/2 classes visited the Berrigan Town Library for Simultaneous Storytime. The students listened to the story The Brothers Quibble read by Mrs Irene Tubbs, they all then made kings and queens crowns.

Riverina Environment Excursion

Two students Cassandra and Jayde, were selected to travel to Wagga Wagga to attend the Riverina Environmental Education Centre – Talented Student Program.

The one-day program was based on developing student’s scientific method and thinking skills with various challenge activities. It allowed them to gain an understanding of the work of scientists

Berrigan Museum and Berrigan Library Visit

Years 5/6 attended the local library as part of their work on ANZAC and researched soldiers who fought in WW1 and WW2. They had the opportunity to look at the soldiers’ enrolment forms and the librarian, showed some books about ANZAC.

Students visited the Berrigan RSL Memorial Museum to have a look at all of the firearms and uniforms that the soldiers used and wore, pictures of Berrigan from around 1915-1935, and pictures from WW1 and WW2.

ANZAC Day

A fantastic turn out from our students for the Anzac Day march and service with over half the school participating. Congratulations to the students on their rendition of “Lest We Forget” and “The Last ANZAC”, at the service.

Visit Monkey Baa Theatre Company

Years 5/6 students had a visit from the Monkey Baa Theatre Company. The workshop gave the 5/6 students a chance to explore theatrical skills based on history and story-telling.

It lead students through warm-up games to get them physically, vocally and mentally ready to participate in creative activities. Wartime songs, military chants, drills and fast-paced games tested reflexes and thrilling drama games such as ‘Shark Infested Waters’ which had been renamed to ‘No Man’s Land’

Beauty and the Beast

Berrigan Public School students travelled to Oaklands to watch the performance of 'Beauty and the Beast'. This allowed the students an opportunity to experience an entertaining, interactive performance with great audience rapport and a terrific moral to a wonderful story.

Amanaska

‘Amanaska’ was a musical group that visited the school, showing how you can use technology to expand and improve many different musical sounds including voice, drums, keyboards and wind instruments.

The students were involved in producing these different types of music and they were amazed at how using computers can enhance many interesting sounds. They were encouraged to try using the app Garage Band to experiment with their own music.

Year 3/4 Borambola Excursion

Year 3/4 students this year joined with Jerilderie Public School to attend an excursion at Borambola. Over the three days; students were able to experience a variety of activities including kayaking, raft building, archery, rock wall climbing, BMX riding, orienteering and climbing the low ropes. The students were brilliant and were commended for their behavior, enthusiasm.

Year 5/6 Excursion

Year 5/6 travelled to Melbourne for their Year 5/6 Excursion. They visited Immigration Museum, Melbourne Zoo and the National Gallery of Victoria and have also been very active rock climbing.

Forensic Day

Year 6 students visited Finley High School as part of the transition program, to participate in a Forensic Day ‘A Case of Conspiracy’.

Kindergarten Transition

The Kindergarten Transition Program is a wonderful program sponsored by the P&C. It provides a great introduction to the school for our prospective 2016 Kindergarten students.

Learning Centre Garden Opening

Kindergarten and Year 1 students with our school captains and vice captains, revisited the Learning Centre for the official opening of “Kindergarden” where they witnessed Ms Susan Ley, our Federal Member and the Health Minister, pull the curtain open to display the plaque that signified that the garden was officially opened. The students had a wonderful time exploring the finished garden.

‘Hey Tosser’ Berrigan Conservation Visit

Mrs Clara Way talked to the students about a project the Berrigan Conservation and Tidy Town Committee are running in conjunction with EPA NSW and Keep NSW Beautiful – ‘Hey Tosser'. The project is about not tossing litter out of cars; put rubbish in the bin; about getting behind our community to ‘Keep Berrigan Beautiful’.

Leadership

School Leaders

The elected student leaders for 2015 were; Captains Annabel Middleton and Max Cameron with Vice Captains Isabel Alexander and Mitchell Spunner.

As part of their role in the school the four captains were invited to present their Anzac Day speeches to the Red Cross at their May meeting. The captains spoke very well and their stories were well received by the attending Red Cross members.

At school the captains and vice captains, conducted a school Anzac Service and also visited the town cemetery and lay poppies on graves of ex-servicemen and women.

House captains

Congratulations to our eight new student leaders, our sports house captains and vice captains. Leading Algudgerie are: captains, Allyssa Thornton, Harley Willemsen and vice captains Nick Arnold, Jackie Sharp-Shorney. Their Momalong counter parts are captains Cassandra Renneberg, Aidan Fennell and vice captains Alexandra Trives and Blake Barry.

Their first job was leading their houses at the school swimming carnival. Followed by the athletics carnival. The captains held house meetings to practice the ever important war cries - a crucial event of the carnivals as well as supported all students to participate looking to score as many points as possible. They did a wonderful job as they joined the school captains and vice captains leading our students during 2015.

Student Representative Council (SRC) Representatives

The following students were elected to the SRC for 2015.

• Year1: Charlie Magill

• Year 2: Jack Steel

• Year 3: Tess Middleton

• Year 4: Darcy Pyle

• Year 5: Lucy Phillips

During the year the SRC undertook a range of activities. These included the Mothers’ Day Stall, selling Jellybabies for Diabetes Awareness and Crazy Hair Day.

Peer Support Program

All Years 5/6 students participated in leadership activities during their Peer Support Training. The activities involved problem solving, co-operation, listening skills and strategies for group work.

The students were all very keen to lead their Peer Support groups and identified lots of strategies and ideas to ensure that the Peer Support program was a positive and enjoyable experience for all Berrigan Public School students.

Year 6 GRIP Leadership Day

The Year 6 leaders travelled to Albury for the GRIP conference. They participated in many fun learning activities and bought back great leadership tools and ideas to implement in the Peer Support sessions. The leaders displayed positive behavior, enthusiasm and were great ambassadors for the school.

Year 6 Buddies

As part of the leadership program the Year 6 students take on the role of being a buddy to the Kindergarten students. The Year 6 buddies help the Kindergarten students settle in by being a 'big buddy' support. It is amazing how many older ex-students remember their Kindergarten buddy; that's how important and influential these buddies are.

Leaders Lunch Meeting

During Education Week the school leaders and the Principal attended a School Leaders Lunch at Finley High School. The students were joined by school leaders and their Principals from schools across the network. The students participated in activities with the Miss Kempton, Director Public School.

Buddy Reading

The Buddy Reading program proved to be a great success. Each morning, straight after recess the students of Years 3/4 and 5/6 listen to their ‘Buddies’ from K/1 and Year 1/2 read.

Learning Connections

Students in K-6 participated in the ‘Learning Connections’ program during P.E time on Tuesday mornings. Year 6 students lead their groups through various movement activities which enhance motor skills.

The Learning Connections program is essentially a sensory motor maturation program which replicate the movement skills that establish ‘building blocks’ in the brain that are essential for efficient learning.

Remembrance Day

As part of their leadership role the four captains; Annabel, Max, Isabel & Mitchell conducted the Remembrance Day Service, researching their chosen topics to speak about.

K/1 made poppies with the assistance of Year 5/6 students, adding meaning to the commemoration ceremony.

Year 5/6 students walked to the RSL museum to read the entries the were submitted in the RSL poetry competition. The standard was certainly very high.

Achievement in the arts and sports

Berrigan Public School has a proud tradition of sporting achievement in the playground as well as at school carnivals, Round Robins, PSSA tournaments, Zone and Regional Carnivals.

Swimming carnival

It was a wonderful carnival, lots of great personal goals, with many students achieving feats they thought unrealistic at the start of our intensive swimming program.

Congratulations to our swimming champions;

Junior Girl: Jennifer Ackerly Junior Boy: Caleb Thornton 11 years Girl: Lucy Phillips 11 years Boy: Nicholas Arnold Senior Girl: Alexandra Trives Senior Boy: Max Cameron

Congratulations to Momalong, our 2015 Champion Swimming House. Wow, how close was it, 6 points, a great effort by both houses.

Athletics carnival

A wonderful, successful day and the students were brilliant, enthusiastic and positive in their participation. Congratulations went to Momalong, on a great win. The school had to wait on the relay results and participation scores for the final result.

Our school champions were: Junior Girl: Nikita Willemsen Junior Boy: Darcy Pyle 11 Years Girl: Lucy Phillips 11 Years Boy: Nick Arnold Senior Girl: Jackie Sharp-Shorney Senior Boy: Mitchell Spunner

Special congratulations to Shae Fennell who broke the 11 Year Girl, shotput record, of Rebecca Walker from 1989 which has stood for 26 years, Shae recorded a massive 9.37m breaking the record of 7.85m.

Cross Country Results

A successful carnival was conducted with the following students achieving an individual championship:

5/6/7 years old champions Charlie Magill and Andrew Bainbridge 8/9 years old champions Telirah Harris and Caleb Thornton 10 year old champions Nikita Willemsen and Darcy Pyle 11 year old champions Lucy Phillips and Tyson Sharp-Shorney 12/13 years old champions Allyssa Thornton and Mitchell Spunner.

The winning house was Momalong.

Sport Representatives

The students chosen to represent Berrigan Public School at zone or regional level do so with great pride. This year has seen the following students represent:

• State Representative: Shae Fennell represented the Riverina in the State Athletics Carnival in Sydney, in 11 Year Girls Shotput.

• Basketball: Max Cameron and Nick Arnold trialed for the Riverina team

• Netball: Annabel Middleton, Shae Fennell and Lucy Phillips as part of the Finley District Netball team trialed for the Western Riverina team. Congratulations to Shae Fennell who was selected in the Western Riverina PSSA Netball team and then travelled to Wagga Wagga to trial for the Riverina PSSA Netball team.

• Soccer: Congratulations to Michael Bainbridge as part of the Finley District PSSA team trialed for the Riverina PSSA Soccer team.

• Tennis; Congratulations on a great effort by Hamish Cameron, Max Cameron and Nick Arnold at the Zone Tennis trials in Deniliquin. Hamish Cameron trialed for the tennis team.

• Swimming: 6 students travelled to Albury to compete in the District Swimming Carnival.

• Athletics: District Representatives who competed in the Riverina Carnival are Ally Trives; 100 metres, Darcy Owen; Shot put, Shae Fennell; Shot put, Keia Towler; Shot put, Kyden Wellman; 100m and Lucy Phillips; 100m, 200m and long jump.

• Cross Country: Allyssa and Caleb Thornton who represented the Finley PSSA District in the Riverina Cross Country Carnival.

School Swimming Program

The Department of Education Swimming School Scheme is a 10 day, intensive learn to swim program that develops water confidence and provides students with basic skills in water safety and survival.

This is a fun and exciting program for children from Year 2 to Year 6.

They are provided with swimming instructions with highly qualified swimming instructors who are dedicated to helping students become water confident. The intensive nature of the lessons provides the most beneficial student outcomes.

Junior Golf Participants

Four students Phoebe Holmes, Ben Ackerly, Blake Barry and Mitchell Spunner were very fortunate to attend a junior golf training day at Tocumwal.

The students had a great day, learning lots and being rewarded with a participation certificate. Reports from the coach were very positive; once again we had great ambassadors for our school.

PSSA Cricket Knockout

Year 6 boys travelled to Tocumwal with Jerilderie as the JeriBerri cricket team. They played their round one match against Tocumwal.

Paul Kelly Cup

Nine boys from Year 4/5/6 travelled to Deniliquin to play in the JeriBerri’s team in the Paul Kelly Cup.

JeriBerriO’s

This year both teams played off in the grand finals after defeating Blighty Public School and Finley Public School in the netball and Finley Public School and Tocumwal Public School in the football. The teams did really, really well and we are so proud of them.

‘Pink Stumps Day’ Cricket

Years 3/4/5/6 travelled to Urana to participate in a day of cricket. The Pink Stumps Day was organised by Urana Public School to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation. 170 keen cricketers were there, representing 7 different schools.

Berrigan students played four or five games of cricket each and there were some wonderful displays of sporting prowess including a hat trick, super catches and several batters retiring on 20 runs.

Evident was once again the good behaviour, the sportsmanship and the positive attitudes towards the whole day by all students.

Round Robins

These events offer an opportunity for all students in Years 3 to 6 to participate in sporting activities, learning tolerance, team work, and sportsmanship in a non-competitive environment.

The Spring Round Robin was hosted by Berrigan Public School. The sports played by all students on a rotation basis included Golf skills, 10/50/100, Cricket Skills, Beat the Ball, Stop Ball, Soccer, Cricket, King Ball and Frisbee t-ball. 430 students from schools in the area gathered at Berrigan Recreation Reserve to participate in 4 hours of fun games involving running, batting, catching and throwing. The Berrigan Public School students participated with enthusiasm and displayed positive sportsmanship to their own and other team members.

The Winter Round Robin Day was at Mulwala. The sports offered on the day were football, soccer, netball and matball. The students were recognized for their wonderful behaviour and their ability to support each other, being very positive and having a lot of fun.

Sporting Schools

Sporting Schools is an Australian Government initiative designed to help schools to increase children’s participation in sport, and to connect children with community sport.

At Berrigan Public School this year K-6 students participated in intensive athletics skills training program every Tuesday for 7 weeks, leading up to the school athletics carnival. The students were very engaged in the training and they all benefited from this intensive skills development program.

Tennis Clinic

Tennis lessons were held for all students from Years 1 to 6 with Jamie Haynes. His miniature nets, oversized tennis balls and rackets make skill development easy and so much fun.

Intensive Cricket Program

This program co-ordinated by Courtney Barrett, for cricket in schools for Cricket NSW, visited our school providing skills development in cricket over a 4 week period.

The Year 1/2 and 3/4 students had the opportunity to participate in this cricket clinic. The students were involved in skill development activities and games and helped to correct bowling and batting styles.

The students all enjoyed the clinic and maybe will be encouraged to continue their cricketing with the local teams.

The Arts

Monologue Performance

Once again our Year 5/6 students worked with Mrs Dickie on presenting a monologue. A monologue is an extended dramatic speech performed by one person. This workshop was showcased at our Presentation Night by two of our students.

Drama at School

The culmination of a term's work by Mrs Helen Dickie with our students, has once again done a marvellous job developing their drama, singing, public speaking and self-confidence skills. This year we also had the added bonus of Ben Stonnill as assistant director and voice coach of our performance of ‘The Magical Land of Oz’ which was another outstanding success. Ben worked as an intern with Helen and his expertise was very beneficial to our students. The school appreciated the efforts of Malcolm Dickie our sound man; Jill Petzke for her amazing costumes; Gillie Arnold for the amazing set design; Sarah Cameron for choreographing the dance for Year 3/4.

Lions Club Public Speaking

Eight students Cassandra Renneberg, Nick Arnold, Shae Fennell, Lucy Phillips, Hamish Cameron, Emily Johnson, Darcy Pyle and Abi Litchfield, four from Year 5/6 and four from Year 3/4, participated in the Berrigan Lions' Club Public Speaking Finals. They competed against the St Columba’s students for the honour of representing Berrigan Lions' Club at the Finley District Lions' Club finals.

Cassandra Renneberg was the winner in the Year 5/6 section and went on to represent the school and the Berrigan Lions Club at the district finals.

Cassandra was runner up in a very close Finley District Lions' Club Public Speaking competition.

Musica Berrigan

Thursday mornings the children in Years 3/4/5/6 gathered in the hall for Musica Berrigan. Students worked with rhythm, beat and tone.

Working in groups children had to explore onomatopoeia, using vocal sounds, body percussion and instruments to enhance the verbs in the poem ‘Wind Song’.

As a learning experience each group was videoed. The children then watched their groups recital on the smartboard and listened to the sound effects without the visual.

K/1 Performance

The K/1 classroom was full of excitement and nervous energy when the children in K/1 presented their long awaited play, ‘Where The Wild Things Are’ dramatization, to a wonderful audience. There were many parents, grandparents, siblings, friends and children from the Children’s Centre. The children performed superbly.

Talent Quest

Mrs Fruend once again had our annual practice sessions for our talent quest auditions. Every Monday and Wednesday at lunch time, we heard and saw lots of young people creating and displaying their skills in all areas of the creative arts. It is a great fun learning time for all who participated.

Community Connections

Blue Star Sustainability Awards

Our school was notified of success in the 2015 Blue Star Sustainability Awards, previously known as the Tidy Town Awards.

Berrigan Public School was awarded a ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Young Environmental Achievement Award’ in the Keep NSW Beautiful Awards. This is a fantastic achievement as the award categories have changed this year and it is much harder for smaller communities.

The judges were particularly impressed with the schools neat and tidy grounds; with the fact we collect and recycle food scraps for the worm farm; and that there were collection containers under each bubbler.

Congratulations to each and every one for their ongoing efforts and enthusiasm in keeping our

school and surrounds in such great condition and for the ongoing enthusiasm and understanding of the importance of sustainability in our environment.

Thank You

As is the tradition of our school we invite all our 2015 'helpers' to school for morning tea. These people are very valued members of our school community; providing support not only to our students but also to the staff, giving that extra pair of hands, eyes and ears.

As a school we always know we can call on our school community to provide us with help and support and this morning tea was just a small way we can recognise and thank you for that support.

During 2015 we would like to acknowledge and thank the whole school community and in particular:

• P&C for their efforts with fundraising, including catering for the Berrigan Football Club Patrons & Graziers Dinner, Learning Together Forums during Term 2 and 3, ‘Aspire Me’ Drama camp.

• Support with transport to student activities including the Grip Conference, sporting events, attendance at talented student activities.

• Work in the environment garden, creating the path structure for our Environmental Gardens. We have now four defined garden beds which each of the classes will take on in 2016 as part of their environmental learning program.

• The people who helped at all working bees, shoveling the soft fall for the playground, cleaning up and removing the rubbish from the Environmental Garden.

• The parents who helped with our intensive swimming program. This help enables us to have smaller groups and ensures all our students receive lots of individualized help and tuition.

• Berrigan Lions Club Lion's Club for the generous donation of $1000 used to buy an Apple Mac with program ‘Configurator 2’ and a VPP (Volume Purchasing Program), which will manage and drive our iPads, making them more functional and give greater control of content viewed and access to the latest Apps available.

• The helpers in the classroom for listening to the students and giving that little help to those who need it.

• All who make the drama production a reality, bringing your child, makeup, set design, lighting and the direction of the play.

• Berrigan War Memorial Swimming Pool Committee; thank you to Berrigan War Memorial Swimming Pool committee who have once again enabled our community to have subsidised entry to the swimming pool for the 2015-16 season. The students are extremely grateful and excited to have this wonderful community asset available to them.

• To Samsung for the two interactive panels. The panels were installed by Samsung in the hall and library providing two new teaching and learning environments.

Community awards

Three of our school community members Ally Trives, Carolyn Alexander and Meredith Stevenson received Education Week Director's Awards.

These awards are presented to recognise their efforts and commitment to our school

Red Cross

Several Year 5/6 students representing the school attended the unveiling of the Red Cross 100 Year Commemoration at the Berrigan Returned Services building.

The students had been involved in creating the mosaics with Janice Graham. They were put up at various places in the town. The mosaics are absolutely superb, a credit to everyone involved.

Clean up Australia Day

Our whole school had a very successful time cleaning up our school and surrounds. Each class was given a special area to clean up and with gloves and bags in hand, made a huge difference to the appearance of our school and the area around it.

Amaroo Fete

All students were invited to sing at this wonderful community venture with students receiving acknowledgement for community service.

Those students able to attend sang two wonderful songs; ‘Click Go the Shears’ and ‘Absolutely Everybody’ at this year’s Amaroo Fete.

Community Remembrance Day Celebrations

The Berrigan Public School students along with the St Columba’s students, participated in the singing of the National Anthem at the community celebrations of Remembrance Day. They sounded wonderful and added a lovely start to the afternoon.

Special congratulations to Darcy Owen who was the winner of the Poetry Competition conducted by the Berrigan RSL with the theme ‘What Remembrance Day means to me’.

Fathers’ Days Breakfast

Once again our wonderful P&C hosted a Fathers' Day Breakfast attended by over 120 people. This is again held on Footy Colours Day, causing a double celebration, favourite man and favourite footy team.

Environment Garden and World Tree Day

Mrs Maree Ryan visited the school to help the students participate in ‘Tree Planting Day’. Mrs Ryan and our gardening orientated students planted strawberry runners, and native plants in two large beds in the schools Environmental Garden.

The students have taken responsibility for the garden and have been busy at lunch time tending to the new trees and other plants.

Life Education Van

A visit from ‘Healthy Harold’ is a favourite time of the year for our students. All students had a chance to visit and hear some very important Personal Development and Health messages. The highlight for every student, whether they are in Kindergarten or Year 6, is the chat with Harold. He is a favourite icon and many parents remember his visit from when they were at school.

Personal Development Day

Year 6 students were offered a day to look at various components of the Personal Development Program. The topics they covered included personal hygiene, development, change and high school expectations.

Road Safety – The Sarah Organisation.

Year 5/6, during their IT classes undertook a road safety poster project. It was a state wide competition developed by The Sarah Organisation, a voluntary group that campaigns for ‘Safer Australian Roads and Highways.'

Berrigan was lucky enough to have Peter Fraser visit with the students and present them with certificates

of participation yellow ribbons and stickers, Peter then announced to the group that BPS are finalists in the campaign, meaning two of our schools posters will be displayed later in the week on Sarah Group Org website.

The message was 'Drive so Others Survive' and 'Save Kids Lives', as part of the 2015 United Nations Theme - Children and Road Safety. A great achievement and well done to all that participated in the campaign.

Live Life Well@ School

Berrigan Public School has implemented a Life Well @ School program. As part of this program:

• Flyers labelled 'A Quick Bite' were included in the newsletter to provide ideas for healthy eating.

• All Year 3-6 participate in daily fitness together, which includes the renowned 'Boot Camp' activities. K/1/2 had their fitness program including Brain Gym in K/1. Focusing on developing fit, healthy, well informed students.

Students formed a Healthy Eating Student Committee to help the canteen supervisor with ideas on fresh, heathy food for our school canteen. The committee was President: Blake Barry, Vice President: Phoebe Holmes, Secretary: Jackie Sharp-Shorney, Manager: Jayde Taylor, Treasurer: Cassandra Renneberg and Committee member: Allyssa Thornton.

Aspire Me Program

This is a program where nominated students in Years 5 or 6 have an opportunity to attend a 2 day camp to extend and develop their skills.

Aspire Me Sports Camp

Aidan Fennell, Regan Fox, Ally Trives, Max Cameron, Lucy Phillips and Nick Arnold gained selection to attend the Aspire Me Sports Camp in Deniliquin at the sports Stadium.

The two-day camp provided students with an opportunity to try a range of team and individual sports in a stadium environment under the direction of qualified coaches. Gymnastics, indoor cricket, basketball and aerobics proved to be very popular.

Aspire Me Sydney

Lucy Phillips, Shae Fennell, Piper Mills and Regan Fox joined 28 other Deniliquin network students on a great 3 day excursion culminating in the performance of Schools Spectacular which involves approximately 3,600 students from over 400 NSW Public Schools delivering an outstanding performance of music and dance in a world class arena.

The students enjoyed workshops at the NSW Art Gallery, with the Sydney Dance Company and the Australian Theater for Young People as well as a tour of the Sydney Opera House.

Aspire Me Drama Camp

A number of our senior students were lucky to have been invited to attend the annual Deniliquin Network 'Aspire Me Drama Camp'. This camp involves identified students from all across the Deniliquin Network.

For two very intensive days the students work with very talented drama coaches, including our very own Mrs Helen Dickie, plus Danielle O’Keefe and Spencer McGill. This year Berrigan Public School hosted the camp and a huge thank you to the P&C who catered for the event.

The two day Drama camp was very successful and the students' skill development over such a short space of time was amazing. The performance at the end of the two days drew so many positive comments and stunned the audience in many ways. A bonus for our students was on Thursday night, when they got to see the drama coaches perform. This was a great example of what you can aspire to be like.

Aspire Me Visual Arts

Five lucky students were nominated to attend the Aspire Me Art Camp. Annabel Middleton, Max Cameron, Allyssa Thornton, Phoebe Holmes and Shae Fennell, plus a very excited Mrs Arnold, travelled to Moulmein to participate in the art camp. At the camp the students had an opportunity to work with artists Vicky Lowry (digital art using the iPads), Sarah Mathers (fabric art), Wendy McDonald (dry point etching), Barb Harris (plaster sculpture) and Kathy Gibson (glass art).

Aspire Me Dance

Three students travelled to Deniliquin for the Aspire Me Dance Camp. This camp gave the students an opportunity to participate in various dance genres’; ballet, rhythmic gymnastics and Zumba.

Stewart House

Blake Harris was selected to visit Stewart House. It was a fantastic opportunity for Blake and as a school, we are very lucky to be able to access this wonderful resource.

During this 12 day visit Blake visited the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Olympic Park, Taronga Zoo, Australia Museum, Sydney International Aquatics Centre, as well as doing art, craft, dance, fitness, PD/Health activities.

berrigan public school annual report annual report for 2015 is provided to the community of berrigan...

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