PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

DIARY DATES Friday 29th October Gr 5/6 Interschool Sports home Sunday 31st October Yamaha Information Session 1-5:00pm Tuesday 2nd November Melbourne Cup Holiday No School Thursday 4th November PFA meeting 1.30pm OSHC building Saturday 6th November Shopping Tour Wednesday 10th November Bob Allwright parent evening 7-8:30pm Wednesday 17th November Gr 3P,34R,34K,3DA Mt Martha water Thursday 18th November Gr 34P,4M,4S,4DR Mt Martha water Thursday 18th November Prep Myuna Farm Friday 19th November Gr 5/6 Interschool sports away Wednesday 24th November Gr 1 Melbourne Aquarium Thursday 25th November Gr 2 Melbourne Aquarium

 

NEWSLETTER N0.32 27TH OCTOBER 2010

NOTICES DUE BACK BY Friday 29th October Gr 6 Signature Bear/soccer ball Thursday 4th November Gr 5/6 Lightning prem Friday 12th November Gr 1/2 Melbourne Aquarium Friday 12th November Gr 3/4 Mt Martha water treatment Monday 15th November Preps Myuna Farm Monday 15th November Gr 6 2011 windcheater/t-shirt

BERWICK LODGE PRIMARY SCHOOL Phone:    9707 1766       Fax: 9796 2198 

E­mail:    berwick.lodge.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au Visit our Websites :  http:// www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au,  Camp Australia/Out of School Hours Care:  9769 8251 

STUDENT DISCOS TOMORROW EVENING This should be a really wonderful event and we are all looking forward to it very much. I will be attending as will a number of other staff. To maximise the safety of the event for those attending I have hired an experienced crowd control security officer from U-Nome Security to be in attendance for the duration of the disco. U-Nome Security is headed by Naomi Oakley, a former officer with Victoria Police. U-Nome specialises in providing security services for private parties for families and children. Naomi Oakley has a high public profile as a staunch advocate of “Party Safety” for young people, often appearing in the media. By the way, it is important that you pick your child/ren up promptly at the conclusion of each disco – 6.00pm for the Prep- Year 2’s and 8.00pm for the Year 3 to 6’s.

PARENT INFORMATION EVENING W I T H B O B A L L W R I G H T : WEDNESDAY 10 NOVEMBER Last week I provided information in the newsletter regarding this forthcoming event we are holding at our school on Wednesday 10th November in the evening from 7.00pm to 8.15pm. Bob’s topic for the evening is “Building strong relationships with your adolescent child” A focus of Bob’s presentation will be helping children deal with change – such as transition to secondary schools. The evening is free of charge and refreshments will be provided. To assist us with catering it would be appreciated if you could complete the attached form letting us know if you will be attending. If you are not attending, then there is no need to reply. Thank you.

If you would like to find out more about Bob Allwright and his approach to personal development, then you can check him out on the web at www.brilliantattitude.com

SCHOOL VISIT TO SINGAPORE IN 2011 Plans are well under way for this historic first visit by our senior students to Tampines P.S. in 2011. Debbie Cusack presented a detailed initial plan including approximate costs, accommodation options and a possible program for our students while they are in Singapore. We are looking at taking a maximum of 16 students plus 4 staff members with term 3 of 2011 being the most suitable date for both schools. School council will meet the costs of sending staff with parents being required to cover the costs for their child. We anticipate that the total cost per child will be between $2,000 and $2,500. Expressions of interest forms will be distributed shortly and we will be offering a payment plan structure as the cost is not small. In the event that more than 16 children nominate for the trip, then a formal ballot will be conducted. This is an exciting initiative for our school and builds on the existing global partnerships that we have already established with schools in the UK and New Zealand.

PARENT REQUESTS GRADE PLACEMENT I have already received several despite not having formally opened the process. I do understand your high level of interest in this matter and offer the following advice to you. Which types of parent requests for grade placement carry much weight you may ask?

Those that present exceptional circumstances very well I would say! By this I mean, reasons such as ‘my child has had the same teacher for the past two years and I believe they would benefit from teaching diversity’, or ‘my child doesn’t have a wide circle of friends and they would benefit from being placed with at least one of their closer friends’ for example. Other examples could include, ‘my child has experienced serious difficulties with another child/ren in their grade this year, that remain unresolved and it would be in their best interest to be placed in a different grade to them next year’, etc. Requests such as asking for a specific teacher because you believe them to be an excellent teacher or providing me with lists of children that you want your child to be with and/or not to be with do not carry the same weight. The reason I say this is because in the past, when we have had more flexible criteria, we have ended up with the situation where I have received up to 250 individual requests for grade placement. This has proven to be quite unworkable. To a large extent, my best advice is for parents to trust the judgement of our teaching and leadership staff – we put in a lot of time to create well balanced and fair grades across our school. Inevitably, some children will not end up with all of their best friends or their first choice of teacher. Dealing with that type of outcome happens to us all on a regular basis throughout life. It’s worth keeping in mind.

Continued……...

ASS ISTANT PRINCIPALS’ REPORT COLES ‘SPORTS FOR SCHOOL’ DOCKETS Sunday 31st October is the last day that you will be able to collect your ‘Sports for School’ dockets from Coles Supermarkets. We are very pleased with the response of our families in collecting these dockets. We ask that the dockets are returned to school by next Thursday 4th November to enable us to forward them on for counting. We will be ‘shopping’ for our new equipment later in the year and we will let you know what your efforts have enabled us to get for our school. Many thanks.

DOGS IN THE SCHOOL GROUNDS A reminder to all families that it is our school policy that dogs cannot be brought into the school grounds during school hours. (8:45AM to 3:45 PM) Even friendly dogs on leads can present a risk to students who may not be familiar with this particular animal. Thank you for your support on this matter.

WALKTOBER WALK TO SCHOOL DAY The annual Walktober Walk to School Day that was held last Wednesday 20th October was a huge success at Berwick Lodge. The survey of students to indicate how they travelled to school showed that the percentage of students using physically active modes of transport almost doubled from the day

before. The current improved weather provides an excellent opportunity for students and their families to be more active. We have noticed an increased number of students bringing bikes, scooters and skateboards to school so it is timely for us to remind them that helmets are compulsory for children using bikes and scooters. Students also need to be reminded that on their arrival at school they should walk their bikes, scooters and skateboards as they are not to be ridden in the school grounds or on the pathways along the school perimeter. Repeat offenders may have their ‘wheels’ confiscated for a period of time to remind them of their responsibilities with regard to community safety. Students are also reminded that skateboards and scooters must be stored in the bike shed for the day as they present an OH&S risk in the classroom. We recommend that all bikes, skateboards and scooters are secured in the bike shed with appropriate locks.

STUDENT WELLBEING NEWS – CPR TRAINING FOR STAFF All staff are currently undertaking their annual CPR update training. These train-ing sessions are being conducted after school hours and are facilitated by Julie McLeod who is qualified by Life Saving Victoria to present these sessions. Julie

McLeod has been doing this training for our staff and other neighbouring schools for several years and has now purchased her own set of training equipment. We are very appreciative of Julie for providing her time and effort to deliver this valuable program to our staff.

SCHOOL VALUES SURVEY We are currently undertaking the process of developing the Strategic Plan for 2011-2014. This plan is informed by the School Self Assessment undertaken during Semester 1 and the School Review that was conducted during Term 3. As part of this process we must review our current values ( Integrity , Empowerment, Excellence, Cooperation, Respect) and define our future school values. We invite all parents to consider our current values and provide feedback via the BLPS School Values Survey that we have developed for this purpose. The survey can be accessed v i a t h e s c h o o l w e b s i t e a t www.berwicklodgeps.vic.edu.au where a link can be found on the front page titled ‘BLPS School Values Survey’. This survey will be available from today up until Friday 5th November. We look forward to your input!

LYNNE BRENNER & DEBBIE CUSACK

BER UPDATE I have been advised by our project manager, Andrew Wood, APP, that there is a short delay to the commencement of site works on our project. It was expected that work would commence early this week, but due to some issues facing the contractor handling the redirection of the sewer and storm water pipes at the site, the commencement date has been pushed back a week or so. Make the most of the Collins Crescent car park availability in the meantime as it will close as soon as work on the site commences is one way of looking at that!

FREQUENTLYASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’s) Q. If my child attends the Timbarra P-9 school in years 7 to 9 does this guarantee my child automatic entry to Berwick Secondary College? A. There has been a rumour floating around that this was so. In particular, some people saw this as a possible way to gain entry to Berwick Secondary College even though they lived outside the approved enrolment zone for Berwick S.C. At last week’s Casey North Principal Class Network meeting, Michael Small, our Assistant Regional Director, clarified the situation. Put simply, it does not guarantee

enrolment at Berwick Secondary College. If you don’t live in Berwick Secondary College’s enrolment zone, then having your child attend Timbarra P-9 College, will not improve your chances of having your child attend Berwick S.C. The rumour is false! Incidentally, the same is true for all other primary schools in our district, including our own.

QUOTABLE QUOTE “Holding onto anger stokes the most destructive fires – in you!”

HENRY GROSSEK

BOB ALLWRIGHT SEMINAR NOVEMBER 10TH DETACH & RETURN

I/we will be attending the Bob Allwright free seminar for parents at Berwick Lodge Primary School on Wednesday 10th November from 7.00pm -8.15pm

Name/s ___________________________________________________________________________________________

(please print)

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT CONTINUED….

YOU CAN DO IT! Skills that help build emotional

resilience Being aware of when you are getting

upset. ‘Walking away’ skill. Relaxation. Locating a ‘time out’ area. Talking to someone. Thinking back to your own ‘successes’. Finding something fun to do.

FAREWELL PARTY!!!! Olivia is leaving!! So let’s say goodbye with a Massive BLOSHC party!! When: Wednesday 3rd November ASC (3:30pm-6:30pm) Bring in a plate of food to share (nothing with nut products). “I came to BLPS as an Assistant coordinator. I have learnt so much from being in this position over the past two years and built an amazing network with the wonderful staff, children and families. About a week ago I was offered a position as a Coordinator at Berwick Fields Primary School. Over much deliberation I have decided to take the

challenge and step-up. As part of this position I will also be the coordinator of the Berwick Fields Holiday Club with Camp Australia. I believe that by taking on this position it will give me a chance to broaden my skills. It have been 3 years since I last coordinated a program however have gained so much confidence with the support and guidance from Dom to take on this large program. It brings me to tears that I am leaving a beautiful bunch of children, their families, the school community, the BLOSHC assistants and Dom. Oh, how I am going to miss the football loving, bald headed singer. He is someone who has really inspired me to become a better

childhood professional. I well endeavour to keep Dom and the BLOSHC team informed of my new direction and hope all the best for your futures.” Next week: Children’s choice week… Monday we are open for normal BSC and ASC. Our operating hours are: Before school care 6:45am-8:45am After school care 3:30pm-6:30pm Our direct line is 9769 8251 or you can call the admin team at Camp Australia on 8851 4160. Thank you, OSHC team

BLPS OSHC NEWS

All Prep-grade 2 students Jump Rope for Heart, jump off day is tomorrow Friday 29th October 2010. Remember to wear red and bring in your sponsorship

JUMP ROPE FOR HEART We will be looking for some parent helpers late November to early December to assist us in the mounting our Mosaic Mural on the 5/6 building exterior wall. If you are interested in donating your time or have a flair with mosaics, please come and see us in the Art room for further details. Thank you

MOSAICS IN ART In art class we started to do mosaics a couple of weeks ago. I think it‛s a very fun and clever way to do art. We also have Helen, a very talented artist helping us with our mosaics. Even though mosaics are fun, they take a while to make because you have to use little pieces to make up a picture. Liam 5/6N In art this term the grade 5/6‛s have been making mosaics for our “you can do it” keys. We have been using tiles and adhesive to make our designs. Our designs were a symbol of What we feel is learning for life or what we do best. Courtney & Georgia 5L

ART NEWS

Congratulations to the 368 Berwick Lodge students who completed this year’s Premier’s Reading Challenge. You have read and amazing 14,159 books.

In 2010, PRC Ambassador, and world renowned children. author and illustrator Graeme Base, has designed a very special challenge certificate. This collector’s edition certificate will be presented to all students who successfully completed the 2010 challenge. The certificates have arrived and will be sent home this week.

A special, 40-page liftout featuring the names of students who successfully completed this year's Reading Challenge will be published in The Sunday Age on 31 October.

2010 PREMIER’S READING

BLPS Parents and Friends News Next Meeting: Thursday 4th November at 1:30pm in the after school care building. Everyone is welcome including toddlers. PFA welcomes anyone wanting to join the fun and make a difference.

current events Shopping Tour: Ladies get ready for a great day out shopping at the factory outlets that we have chosen. Morning tea and a yummy lunch will be provided. Remember to get to BLPS by 7:15am for a 7.30am departure. If anyone is interested we still have seats available.

Cookie Dough: We have sent out forms for Cookie Dough. These forms must be in by Tuesday 16th November. We have sampled the Christmas cake and it is lovely. There is also shortbread. Great for homemade Christmas presents. Orders will be delivered 2 weeks after forms are given in. Remember if you want to make Christmas cookies to get your orders in.

HALLOWEEN DISCO: Disco is tomorrow night. Remember to come dressed up in Halloween costumes as there is a prize for best dressed. The Early Bird Prizes will be given on the night. HAVE FUN.

Recipe Book: LAST CHANCE!!!! We are putting together a recipe book which we will be selling at the end of the year. If you have any recipes you would like to share please send them to the office. We are looking for all types of recipes including recipes from different cultures, and special dietary recipes. You Childs name will be with your recipes given. Please send in the Recipes now as well need to start putting this book together!! I have set up an email address if you prefer to email recipes to us, the email address is pfa.recipebook@hotmail.com when Emailing us, please let us know the child or children’s names and grades, we will send a thank you back when we receive it so you know we have your recipe. WE need these recipes NOW. So please email or give to your teachers!! MORE RECIPES NEEDED PLEASE!!!!!!

OUTDOOR TWILIGHT CINIMA: WE are having an outdoor cinema on the oval at the end of term (Friday 10th December). If your company would like to advertise before the movie please send a note to the

office for the PFA, and you will be contacted. Forms will be sent out later in the term.

The PFA would like to thank you for your continued support.

Shopping Tour 2010 PAYMENT FORM  

Child’s Name:                 Grade:____________  Name:                   Phone Number:          Number of people attending (including self):         I have enclosed payment of $       $45.00 per person   Cash      Cheque       

Amount authorised: $____________    Visa   MasterCard   SHOPPING TOUR PAYMENT  Card No:   

   Expiry Date:          /     

Cardholders Name:                 

                                     

COMMUNITY NEWS

Individual Literacy Sessions now available.

Would your child benefit from an intensive individualized

program to help improve their reading and writing skills?

For all enquiries please call Karen Perrin on 03 5944 3777

or leave a message at the school office.

For every $10 you spend in­store you’ll receive not one, but two vouchers to put towards sports gear for your school!* Offer valid from Fri 29 Oct – Sun 31 Oct 2010 Hurry, Sports for Schools ends Sunday 31 Oct 

 *While vouchers last. Excludes purchases on gift cards, mobile recharge, calling cards, iTunes, tobacco and tobacco related products. Please note some stores do not trade on Sundays.  

Moving House Sale ­ phone Sharon 0428 547 343   Desk, large solid wooden L shaped suit office (240cm x 210cm) $160 Desk, small slanted wooden, (84cm x 58cm) $40 Desk, sewing table with drawers (91cm x 40cm) $40 2 x Side tables, white (55cm x 45cm) $20ea Trampoline, Family sized rectangle (mat needs     stitching) FREE to dismantle and collect. 

FIRST RECONCILIATON St Michael’s Catholic Church, Berwick, invites Catholic children currently in Year 2 or above to prepare for the sacrament of reconciliation. Preparation begins with a Parents Meeting on Wednesday 24th November. You only need to attend one of the two sessions offered: either 1.30 pm or 7.30 pm For more information, please contact St Michael’s Parish, Berwick, on 9707 1355 or email secrtary@stmichaelsparish.org.au  

 

FOR SALE 2 yr old red mongoose rogue bike 20inch excellent condition paid $499.00 sell $150.00. WII games: Raving rabbits 2 $30.00, super Mario galaxy $30.00, smack down vs raw 2009 $30.00, super smash bros brawl $30.00 all excellent condition 1 yr old. Phone 0410 112 795 

BUSINESS ADVERTISING

CRYSTAL CLEANING SERVICES P/L For all your carpet/upholstery and general cleaning needs

Special Offer 3 rooms/3 seats Professionally steamed cleaned for $77.00 incl. gst Free deodorising Free stain treating

Other services: Vacate clean-up/ready for sale For bookings & enquiries contact Steve 0411 752 279

$1.00 from each booking goes back to BLPS. Plus $1.00 to Royal Children's Hospital

TAX RETURNS Selvey Taxation Services

Individual & Business Returns 14 Day Refund Partnerships, Companies & Trusts Investment Properties Taxation & Business Advice BAS & GST Advice Discounts for couples, students & pensioners

Registered Tax Agent Contact Wayne on 0412 714 421 or

email seltaxser@gmail.com

- Mansfield St. Food Mart - Mansfield Street, Berwick 

Monday – Saturday   6.30am – 9.00pm  Sunday & Public Holidays   7.00am­9pm 

TRANQUILITY Relaxation Massage and Reiki

$50.00 per Hour $30.00 per ½ Hour

Beautifully Relaxing and highly recommended Please Call Samantha Cline

0435185002

Foam Suppliers 13 Hazel Ave Dandenong Ph 9792 1884

Foam Suppliers supply wholesale and retail for acoustic foam, packaging foam, and die cut foam cut to size. We also supply king, queen, double, king single and single mattresses from latex foam and upholstery foam (non standard mattresses made to order). Foam Suppliers can supply foam in any shape any size and anywhere, with our Australia wide delivery service (conditions apply).

Mel’s Guidance Counselling Specialising in: ▪ Relationship / Family violence ▪ Grief / Bereavement, including suicide ▪ Anger Management ▪ Depression ▪ Family Breakdown ▪ Child / Adolescent Issues ▪ Teenage pregnancy ▪ Eating Disorders ▪ Self esteem ▪ Personal Development You can also visit my website: www.melsguidancecounselling.com.au 

Please call Melissa on 0413 333 547 to arrange an appointment 

      SUPPLIES IN STOCK NOW Get ready for your Halloween Party and Trick or Treat Night early.

We have costume accessories, Room Decorations, masks, props etc

(SOME IMPORTED FROM USA) Mum’s & Dad’s come in and see our NEW Scary Horror Room and

Enter the draw to WIN a 5ft Hairy Spider

(To be drawn Thursday 28/10/10)        

     Topp Party Supplies      PH : 9702 4466 

           77 Hallam South Rd, Hallam 3803 (Next to the Hallam Station)                    Open Monday­Friday 8.00am­5.00pm & Saturday 9.00am­3.00pm