75 Cottrill Road

Caboolture

Queensland 4510

Phone: (07) 5433 6444

www.pumicestoness.eq.edu.au

Pumicestone State School

Parent Handbook

“Shaping our tomorrows”

Welcome to Pumicestone State School

Our school is a unique and caring institution pursuing the goal of lifelong learning. In addition to the key

learning areas, we learn about teamwork and cooperation, responsibilities and shared rules, and enjoying

each other’s company. We work together to make our school a vibrant, productive and safe place to grow.

Pumicestone State School invites you to become part of our school community working in partnership with

us to provide the very best education. Our school opened in 2017 as an Independent Public School. Students

at our school will be privileged to be educated in a modern facility ensuring they have what they need to be

successful 21st century learners. Our facilities are state of the art, including a science lab, music practice room,

green room, ensuring our students are active and hands-on with their learning.

As the foundation Principal, I continue to work with staff, students and community to establish a school

renowned for achieving a reputation that:

We nurture

We challenge

We care

Communication is the key to all future growth and practices and connecting with others and staying informed is

essential. Our staff will share their curiosity, a growth mindset, and love of learning with the students and

community. We will work together to make our school a vibrant, productive and safe place to grow.

Building and maintaining relationships between the staff, students, parents and wider community will play a vital

role in the student success and will develop a strong sense of belonging for us all. We aim to foster a parent

community that places a high value upon education. We want parents to be committed to preparing their children

for a successful start to schooling, to be supportive and actively involved throughout the entire school journey.

I know parents want the best for their children, to come to school and be happy and safe in a supportive

learning environment. Building strong partnerships with parents and community to provide a respectful, rich

learning community is essential to me, and I look forward to working with you around this agenda.

We pride ourselves on the tone of our school and are confident you will notice our environment of high

expectations across academic, social and behavioural aspects. I encourage all parents and carers to develop

a close relationship with teachers at school early every school year. The partnership formed will serve to

provide support for families and optimise opportunities for children to enjoy school and learn.

Robyn Conlin

Principal

Principal’s Welcome

Contents

School Values School Motto

Section A: Parents as Partners A1: Linking school and families A2: School Governance

A3: Parent Surveys

Section B: School Information B1: Staff B2: School Details

B3: School Map B4: Bus Transport

Section C: Enrolment and Administration C1: 2020 School Calendar C2: Enrolment Management Plan C3: Admission to School C4: Custody C5: Compulsory Attendance C6: Keeping Records Current

C7: Absence Protocols C8: Student Transfer C9: Access to students C10: Newsletters C11: Assemblies C12: Communication

Section D: The School Day D1: Timetable D2: Arrival at School

D3: At Dismissal D4: Wet Day Procedures

Section E: Curriculum E1: Curriculum E2: Reports and Interviews E3: Homework Expectations E4: Prep Program E5: Science & Technology E6: Languages

E7: Health and Physical Education E8: Sport E9: Music E10: Camps and Excursions E11: SEP Enrichment Program E12: Parent Education Programs

Section F: Behaviour F1: Matrix of Expectations

Section G: Safety G1: Cars in School Grounds G2: School Watch G3: Healthy Eathing - Lunches

G4: Leaving the School Grounds G5: Storm / Emergency Situations G6: Recycling Program

Section H: Medical Matters H1: Departmental Policy H2: Sick Children Procedures / First Aid H3: Head Lice H4: Sun Smart Policy

H5: Smoking H6: Exclusion Periods – Contagious Diseases H7: Health Services

Section I: Uniforms and Property I1: Uniforms I2: Hats I3: Jewellery I4: Bikes I5: Scooters and Skateboards: I6: Money and Valuables

I7: Mobile Phones I8: After School Care I9: Cash Collections I10: Tuckshop I11: Lost Property I12: QParents

Section J: Policies J1: Time Out – Health – Medical Exclusions J2: Student Dress Code Policy J3: Complaints Management Policy

J4 : Sunsmart Policy J5 : Healthy Food Policy J6 : Social Media Policy

VALUES

We nurture

We challenge

We care

SCHOOL MOTTO

“Shaping our Tomorrows”

A1: Linking school and families to provide quality education for our students

At Pumicestone State School we make the following commitment to parents and caregivers:

Pumicestone staff will seek to ensure that you:

Are treated with courtesy and respect

Receive a quality education for your child

Have the opportunity to participate in your child’s education

Receive accurate information about your child’s learning and behaviour at school and the programs

that support your child’s development

Have the opportunity to participate in school decision making

Receive regular oral and/or written reports about your child’s progress

Feel free to raise and discuss school issues with teachers and Administration members

Participate in the Parents’ and Citizens’ (P&C) meetings

Can express your opinions respectfully about the educational needs of your child to school staff

Can contact school staff for a confidential discussion about anything that you are concerned about or

interested in

Can raise your concerns in a receptive environment.

We encourage you to:

Ensure your child attends school regularly and on time

Motivate your child/ren to value learning

Help with your child’s learning and behavioural development

Recognise and respect the rights of all members of the school community

Tell your child’s teacher promptly about anything that may be affecting your child’s learning, behaviour

or health

Keep informed about what is happening at school by reading fully all correspondence from school and

responding promptly when required

Participate in developing school policies through appropriate forums

Respect and support the implementation of school policies

Discuss with the Principal aspects of policies you feel need further consideration

Ensure the school has accurate personal information about your child, including your home address,

contact telephone numbers, medical and custody updates

Take advantage of opportunities to talk with school staff at appropriate and agreed times

Contact the school when your child is unable to attend

Supervise your child’s homework tasks

Participate in school-based decision making.

Parents as Partners

We also welcome you to participate by:

Becoming active members and/or supporters of Pumicestone’s P&C and other committees

Attending parent education courses

Sharing your ideas through the school planning processes

Attending school functions and meetings

Working with teachers in the classroom

Helping in the tuckshop

Helping with sports days, school excursions, special events etc

Sharing your interests or skills with the rest of the school community

Attending class events, showcase afternoons, open afternoons and parent meetings.

The staff of Pumicestone State School believe that:

Education begins at home – parents and caregivers are the first and most influential teachers of their

children

All members of the school community have a responsibility to take an active interest in their

community school

All contributions should be valued in a productive partnership

Parents and caregivers have special knowledge of their own children

Students learn better when parents and schools work together

Students learn better when their school experiences are based on an understanding of their

backgrounds

Productive partnerships are based on acceptance of all members of the school community as equals

Different but complementary knowledge, expertise and skills can improve learning outcomes for

students

Learning is best developed in a flexible, safe environment and in an atmosphere of free and open

communication

Education should offer all children the opportunity to achieve to the best of their abilities.

I dreamed I stood in a studio When at last their task was done

And watched two sculptors there, They were proud of what they had wrought

The clay they used was a young child’s mind For the things they had moulded into the child

And they fashioned it with care. Could neither be sold or bought.

One was a teacher, the tools being used And both agreed that they would have failed

Were books and music and art If they had worked alone

One, a parent with a guiding hand For behind, the parent stood the school

And a gentle, loving heart. And behind the teacher, the home.

Day after day the teacher toiled

With touch that was deft and sure,

While the parent laboured just as hard Author Unknown

And polished and smoothed it over.

A2: School Governance

School based management can be defined as encompassing the way in which schools:

Deliver curriculum for improved student learning;

Plan, implement and accept accountability;

Balance system requirements and community needs;

Make democratic and inclusive decisions;

Undertake site-based management of financial resources, physical resources and/or human resources to

negotiated limits or system limits; and

Maximise their efficiency and effectiveness in curriculum delivery, student learning and resource usage.

All members of our school community are actively encouraged to become members of Pumicestone State

School’s Parents’ and Citizens’ Association (P&C). Our P&C Association’s mode of operation is determined

by our Constitution which has been accredited by Department of Education and Training. It is through

committed parent involvement that our school will be able to continually improve and meet the needs of

our students.

At Pumicestone SS we strongly encourage all parents to bring their valuable ideas, expertise and diversity

to the P&C meeting and help to continue creating Pumicestone State School’s future.

As an Independent Public School it is a requirement that we run a School Council. The role of the

School Council is to:

Monitor our school’s strategic direction

Approve strategic plan and policies of our school, including the annual estimate of revenue and

expenditure for our school; and

Advise our school Principal about strategic matters

A3: Parent Surveys

At Pumicestone State School we are committed to continually striving for excellence in everything we do.

Feedback from parents, staff and students is critical in assisting us to reflect upon and improve the quality

learning environment we relentlessly strive to provide.

Reflections is a critical process that all learning organisations need to engage in on a regular basis to

provide confirmation of what is being done well, highlight things we could do better and develop initiatives

that could take our organisation to a new and better place.

At Pumicestone SS we believe that parents are critical partners in the educational success of your child.

Parents’ input is highly valued and provides an excellent indicate of what else is needed.

B1: Staff of Pumicestone State School

Pumicestone State School’s greatest asset is the dynamic and committed staff that work together to create

a very professional team of educators that are focused on providing the very best education for students at

our school. Professional development is integral to our belief that we are all lifelong learners and that we

model this to our students.

It is through this strong commitment to developing our staff that Pumicestone State School is able to be

innovative and responsive to the latest educational trends.

There will be further changes to the staffing for 2019.

Principal Robyn Conlin

Deputy Principals Joshua Gooderham

Ashleigh Woods

Anthony Oliver

Head of Curriculum Melanie Priestley

Head of Pedagogical Practice Anthony Oliver

Head of Special Education Services Marcus Farah

PBL Support Ashleigh Woods

Guidance Office Deb Butterworth

Business Manager Charlene Hensley

Classroom Teachers Abby Ericsson Alice Wilkie

Alison Dunn Alyce Brook

Angela Brundenall Anna Ziarno

Bianca-Lee Brown Brioney Carlyon

Carley Jones Christine Le Mesiurier

Dan Carlyon Ella Batchelor

Ella Hunter Fiona Hill

Ivor Waylett Jodie Dodd

Josh Cook Katie Gillard

Laura Racchi Lauren Steckowitz

Lindsay Mortimer Lis Smith

Lisa Notley Loren Houckham

Luci Hand Michelle Risk

Molly Dickson Narelle Millar

Nicholas Archer-Scott Nicki Corin-Powell

Philipp Helfersdorfer Rachael Dumbrell

School Information

Rebbecca Hunt Samantha Smith

Sandra Turner Sarah Trentin

Tatum Price Taylor Kennedy

Virginia Duff

Enrichment Teachers Anita Heibloem Justine Maddern

Jessica Aldis Chris Cann

Karen Meares Renee Flintoft

Languages Teacher Pei-Hong Michalak Michelle McAdoo-Miers

Performing Arts Teacher David White Rowan Yates

Physical Education Teacher Eliza Mooney

Science & Design Technology Teacher Justin Perrin

Student Engagement Teacher Kylie Spicer

Learning Support Michelle Bigwood Andrea Cochrane

IT Support Kevin Conlin

Administration Officer Cassie Benson Julie Phillips

Katrina DeClara Donna Jeffery

Teaching Assistants Penny Waylett

Christa Brand Samantha Jacques

Donna Ellson Robyn Harrison

Helen Dohle Rachael Burke

Jo Albert Sharon Kitchin

Kate Weaver Sue Bullock

Kim McKenzie Metz Grayling

Leah Cann Susan Burrus

Natasha Kruger

Loretta Takacs Mechelle Yates

Lana Hawkett Vicki Crockford

Katie Kelly

Chappy Lachlan Zeitl

B2: School Details

Telephone

5433 6444

Fax

5433 6400

Student Absence Line

5433 6466

Student Absence Email

studentabsence@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au

QParents

https://qparents.qld.edu.au/#/login App available for download from iTunes or Google Play

Email

admin@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au

Website

www.pumicestoness.eq.edu.au

Facebook

www.facebook.com/PumicestoneStateSchool

School Address

75 Cottrill Road, Caboolture, Qld 4510

Postal Address

PO Box 1079, Caboolture, Qld 4510

Outside School Hours Care - Phone

1300 105 343

Outside School Hours Care - Email

info@campaustralia.com.au

Outside School Hours Care - Website

https://www.campaustralia.com.au/Schools/PumicestoneStateSchool/4510/FC6E

B3: School Map

B4: Bus Transport – Student Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS)

It is the responsibility of parents to make suitable travel arrangements for their children to attend school. For many years the state government has provided assistance with school transport costs for eligible students in certain circumstances. This assistance is provided under the School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS), which recognises the needs of students in areas with limited student populations where facilities cannot be justified. It is in these areas that school transport assistance is provided to enable students to attend education facilities. Students may be eligible for assistance under STAS if they:

have parents/guardians who are residents of Queensland

attend an approved school on a full-time basis

are younger than 19 years of age

are seeking transport assistance to and from one address only

are travelling more than 1 trip per week.

Once a student is eligible for STAS, there are different types of assistance they can then apply for. More information can be found on the Translink website or contact Translink on 13 12 30.

C1: 2020 Calendar

Term 1 Tuesday 28th January – Friday 3rd April

Term 2 Monday 20th April – Friday 26th June

Term 3 Monday 13th July – Friday 18th September

Term 4 Tuesday 6th October – Friday 11th December

C2: Enrolment Management Plan

Pumicestone State School recognises as its prime obligations the provision of access to an appropriate

educational service for students that reside within this community as defined by its local catchment area.

The plan sets out the conditions under which students may be enrolled into Pumicestone State School.

All students who reside within the local catchment area and are eligible for enrolment in the educational

program offered by the school have a right to enrolment at the school.

Enrolment of students from outside the local catchment area will be managed to ensure that the total current

and forecast enrolments do not exceed the school’s current capacity and where applicable will ensure there

is an even spread of students across year levels or class groupings.

Proof of Residency: Parents who wish to enrol their child/ren at Pumicestone State School under the

Enrolment Management Plan will need to demonstrate that the child/ren to be enrolled, reside within the

catchment area. The following documentation may be required at the time of enrolment:

Rates notice, electricity account

Signed unconditional House Contract

Rental Agreement stamped and signed by real estate agency for a minimum of six months duration

Australian citizenship, permanent resident status or eligibility under a visa category

Statutory declaration

Enrolment and Administration

C3: Admission to School

When enrolling during the year, you will be asked to set aside approximately 1 hour to meet with the Principal

or Deputy Principal. This meeting represents the first and most significant phase of the induction process for

members new to our school.

Children must be five years of age by 30 June of the year they are enrolled for the first time in the Preparatory Year. Proof of age is required and should be sighted at the enrolment interview. A child may be eligible for early entry to Prep if they will turn 5 on or before 31 July in the proposed year of attendance at school

Birth Date

2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

1 Jul 2012 – 30 Jun 2013 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6

1 Jul 2013 – 30 Jun 2014 Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5

1 Jul 2014 – 30 Jun 2015 Prep Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

1 Jul 2015 – 30 Jun 2016 Prep Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

1 Jul 2016 – 30 Jun 2017 Prep Year 1 Year 2

1 July 2017 – 30 Jun 2018 Prep Year 1

First Day and enrolment procedures: The first day of school is always a very special day in a child’s life and is

full of surprise, wonder, bewilderment and anxiety. For this reason, we plan for the day to run as smoothly

as possible. You can assist this process by ensuring your child has been enrolled prior to the first day of school.

This will ensure a class and teacher has been allocated and that their desk and supplies will be waiting for

them.

C4: Custody Arrangements

On occasion, we may have to act on custody information held in our confidential school files. It is vital that

this information remains current and is supported by appropriate documentation.

If a change occurs regarding the custodial care of your child/ren, please report this to the office in person.

Where possible the Principal will meet with you to clarify the changes.

It is essential that both the Principal and class teacher are informed when concerns surround custody issues

so that appropriate action can be taken by the school if necessary.

C5: Compulsory Attendance – Prep to Year 6

Regular attendance by each child is necessary for satisfactory progress to be made, therefore, parents must

assume the responsibility for the regular attendance of their child/children.

Research shows that if your child has a record of good attendance, they are more likely to achieve high results

in the future.

The school is required to record reasons for non-attendance and therefore monitors student attendance and reasons for absence. If your child is absent from school for any reason, please send a note, email or telephone the office. The school has a dedicated 24 hour student absence line (Number to be advised) and email address studentabsence@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au to streamline morning procedures. It is important to indicate your child's name, class, reason for absence and anticipated duration of absence. If your child is to be away for a length of time, please complete an Application for exemption from compulsory

schooling. This form is available in our document library on the school website.

SMS Alerts for Absences:

There is a clear Absentee and Attendance Policy in place at Pumicestone State School:

All children must be present in their classroom for roll marking at 8:25am

Teachers will mark the roll and close it. Any child not in the classroom will be marked as Absent

Children who arrive after the roll has closed will be required to be signed in at the office by a parent

and to collect a LATE SLIP for presentation to their teacher.

Office staff will check and clear the Absence Phone Line and Absence Emails by 8:30am and a DAILY

UNEXPLAINED ABSENCE report will be run.

A generic SMS message will be sent to parents advising of their child’s absence and requesting an

explanation.

How you can help us to keep your child/ren safe:

1. Provide a preferred current mobile phone number. If your number changes, advise us immediately.

Families with shared care arrangements will be required to advise the school and provide ONE

parent/carer mobile phone number. In the event of an unexplained absence for a child in shared

care, the mobile number provided will be the one that receives the SMS message from the school.

2. Phone the Student Absence Line before 8:30am to advise of any/all occasions when your child/ren

will be away from school. This is a 24hr recorded service, you can call it anytime. The Pumicestone

SS Absence Line number will be sent to all parents, we suggest you store this number in your phone.

The Absence Email address is studentabsence@pumicestoness.eq.edu.au

3. If/when you receive an SMS message, call the office immediately on 07 5433 6444 to explain the

absence.

Every Day Counts Policy:

EveryDay Counts is a state-wide initiative addressing the issue of student attendance at school. The initiative

is designed to change parent, community and student attitudes to school attendance. It requires the support

of both parents and the community if student attendance is to be successfully addressed.

Every Day Counts promotes four key messages:

All children should be enrolled at school and attend on every school day

Schools should monitor, communicate and implement strategies to improve regular school

attendance

Truanting can place a student in unsafe situations and impact on their future employability and life

choices

Attendance at school is the responsibility of everyone in the community.

C6: Keeping Records Current

Please notify the classroom teacher and office if any details change. It is imperative we have your latest

contact details in case your child is sick, has an accident, or just in case of a conversation with the teacher.

C8: Student Transfer

Parents seeking a transfer for students should advise the classroom teacher and office as soon as possible

prior to the planned date of departure from the school. This allows time for the collection of personal items,

any copies of reports and return of school owned equipment (i.e. musical instruments, library books and

sporting equipment). It also allows for the organisation and forwarding documentation to be completed for

a smooth transition.

C9: Access to Students

Parents and caregivers are not permitted to directly access classrooms during lesson times. If you do need to

urgently speak to your child during school hours, please forward all messages through the Administration

office staff (Phone: 5433 6444). Messages and phone calls received after 1:30 pm may not always be able to

be delivered to students before 2:30 pm.

C10: Newsletters

Pumicestone State School will produce an electronic newsletter every fortnight which will be emailed directly

to you. The newsletter is an excellent opportunity for us to share in the achievement of our students and

keep in touch generally. Our newsletter contains lots of important information about upcoming events and

important dates to remember, so please make sure you take the time to read it through.

C11: Assemblies

Assemblies will be held regularly – every second Monday at 1:50pm.

We encourage a high level of involvement by students in presentation and participation, and welcome the

attendance of parents, relatives and community friends.

C12: Communication

It is very important to have effective communication between school and parents and, parents and school.

To keep parents informed of school activities and changes to procedures, a school newsletter will be

published each fortnight. It is available on the school’s website: www.pumicestoness.eq.edu.au

Permission notes are also published on the school website.

Please also refer to the school’s website and Facebook page for up to date information.

D1: Timetable

Session 1 8:30am Teaching commences

10:30am – 10:50am PlayTime

10:50am – 11:05am Eating Time

Session 2 11:05am – 1:05pm Teaching & Learning Time

1:05pm – 1:25pm Play Time

1:25pm – 1:40pm Eating Time

Session 3 1:40pm – 2:30pm Teaching & Learning Time

2:30pm School finishes

D2: Arrival at School All students should be ready for school by 8.20 am each morning. Bags, hats and extra clothing must be stored in the racks provided at each classroom. Bicycles are to be parked in the bicycle compound and individual bikes should be locked up. The bicycle compound will be locked daily at 8:30 am and reopened at 2:30 pm. Class work begins at 8:30 am. There are risks associated with students arriving at school too early and students are not to arrive at school

earlier than 8am. Staff accept no responsibility to supervise children before 8.00 am.

Prep students are to wait with parents, carers or older siblings in the Prep Hub area located near the prep

classrooms.

When students arrive from 8am they go to the Undercover Area near the Canteen where staff are

supervising, and will then be directed to the appropriate activity.

The School Day

D3: At Dismissal

There is a designated waiting area where parents are asked to wait for their child/ren. Teachers will bring students to this pick-up point and ALL students will be dismissed from here.

We ask that NO parents go to the classroom to collect their child/ren.

Students will be collected for Outside School Hours Care from this point. Students catching buses will also be escorted from this pick-up point to the bus waiting area. Students being picked up at the “Look-Out” zone will be dismissed from this point and walk to the waiting area. Students walking or cycling home will depart from this point. Students and parents should leave the grounds promptly after dismissal from class at 2:30pm. Staff will be rostered to supervise the students catching buses. Parents who are unable to collect their children at dismissal are to use OSHC (outside school hours care). Staff accept no responsibility to supervise children after dismissal. Parents collecting children from the pick-up zone in the carpark should do so before 2:45 pm. Parking in the school grounds is restricted to staff, maintenance vehicles and delivery vans only.

D4: Wet Day Procedures

Classroom teachers supervise students during break times in either the classroom or designated areas.

E1: Curriculum

At Pumicestone State School we focus constantly on excellence in curriculum implementation. We offer a

comprehensive curriculum in eight key learning areas including: English, Mathematics, Science, Studies of

Society (History, Geography, Civics), The Arts, Technology, Health and Physical Education, Languages Other

Than English (Chinese).

Our focus across the whole school is on maximising student learning.

To do this we plan the implementation of curriculum together and monitor its effectiveness across the whole

school. The work completed by students each term is celebrated and shared with the school community.

Decisions about what and how to teach are based on the core curriculum entitlement and what we know

about our students and what they need to learn. Our aim in these units is to develop in children the attributes

of a lifelong learner: Participating

Thinking

Investigating

Creating

Communicating

Reflecting

Our aim is for our curriculum to cater equitably for all students regardless of ability, culture or social

background. Social justice for all students is foremost in our school’s philosophy, hence the emphasis on

support for students at risk academically, regardless of race or cultural identity.

E2: Reports and Interviews

To keep parents aware of the progress of their children, we encourage close contact between teachers and parents. Should you wish to speak at length with your child’s teacher at any time, please request an interview. Our reporting timeline is as follows:

Parent Information Nights (early in Term 1)

Parent-teacher interview (during Term 1)

Written school report (end Term 2)

Parent-teacher interview (during Term 3)

Written school report (end Term 4)

Curriculum

E3: Homework Expectations

Homework provides students with opportunities to consolidate what was learnt in the classroom, develop behaviour for lifelong learning beyond the classroom and involve family members. Homework is sometimes set for the week, taking into account, the need for students to have a balanced lifestyle. The student can organise their timetable according to extra-curricular commitments including time for family, recreation and cultural pursuits. Homework is most effective when it:

is clearly related to class work and is appropriate to that particular year of schooling. is varied and differentiated to individual learning needs. consolidates, revises and/or applies students’ classroom learning. develops students’ independence as learners through extension activities such as investigating,

researching, writing, designing, making. assists students to prepare for upcoming classroom learning, such as collecting relevant materials

and information, completing surveys and audits. is monitored by the teacher.

Homework may take the form of work to learn, practice examples or completion of class work. It is helpful if children can have a quiet corner at home, which becomes the study area, free from TV or other distractions. It is in the child’s interest that parents check regularly to see that homework is completed. Your child’s books and homework should provide a link between home and school and a discussion point between parent and child. This aspect is more fully explained at Parent Information Nights early in Term 1. Recommended maximum homework hours over a week:

Years P-3: Could be up to but generally not more than 1 hour per week. Years 4-6: Could be up to but generally not more than 2 hours per week.

At times there may be extra tasks students need to do in preparation for future learning such as cooking,

family trees or viewing educational video clips. This builds prior knowledge allowing students to access

learning that is being planned.

For parents, the teaching team at Pumicestone State School believes that:

Education begins at home – parents and caregivers are the first and most influential teachers of their

children; and

Students learn better when parents and schools work together.

With these beliefs in mind we encourage parents to supervise their child’s homework tasks. In doing so

parents will be:

Taking advantage of opportunities provided to parents to be knowledgeable about and engage with

their child in the school curriculum

Motivating their children to value learning

Helping with their child’s learning and behavioural development

Respecting and supporting the implementation of school policies.

E4: Prep Program At Pumicestone State School we are committed to supporting children’s development by:

Cherishing individual differences Helping individuals to learn how to live and work cooperatively Promoting self-esteem.

As Early Years educators, we believe that every child is an individual, bringing unique abilities and characteristics to their learning environment. We value opportunities for children to celebrate and share their successes. Every child needs the opportunities to show their strengths. At Pumicestone, supportive caring environments are established in which children feel comfortable to take risks and try new things. Environments are conducive to learning and allow children to communicate, investigate, explore, think, create, participate, reflect, understand and develop lifelong learning skills. Curriculum: In Prep the Australian Curriculum and the Queensland Early Years Curriculum Guidelines are used by teachers for planning. The Early Years Curriculum Guidelines have been designed for use in all Prep classes and are designed to support active learning. The guiding philosophy behind the Early Years Curriculum Guidelines is that all children are strong, capable learners. It clearly identifies enquiry-based learning and investigations as key elements. Australian Curriculum:

English

Mathematics

Science

Humanities & Social Sciences

Teachers plan for students’ learning using Early Years Curriculum Guidelines:

Social and Personal Learning

Health and Physical Learning

Active Learning Processes Children will learn through these five contexts:

Play

Real Life Situations

Investigations

Routines and Transitions

Focussed Teaching During Prep, students will enhance their: Skills to learn and work with each other:

o Take on responsibilities o Respect other people o Co-operate with others o Develop their oral language.

Skills to transfer learning and to adapt readily to new circumstances and environments: o Make sensible choices about their health and safety o Develop their physical skills o Learn about their environment

Skills of problem solving o Learn how to be thinkers and problem solvers o Use their imagination and creativity o Develop their early literacy and mathematical understandings

Self-knowledge and self-esteem o Become more independent.

We consider the following principles for practice when planning learning experiences in Prep:

1. Children are capable and competent and have been learning since birth. 2. Children build deep understandings when they learn through all senses and are offered choice in

their learning experiences.

3. Children learn best through interactions, active exploration, and experimentation and by representing their learning through a variety of modes.

4. Children’s positive dispositions to learning, and to themselves as learners, are essential for success in school and beyond.

5. Children learn best in environments where there are supportive relationships among all partners in the learning community.

6. Early childhood programs are most effective when they recognise, value and build upon the cultural and social experiences of children.

7. Building continuity of learning as children move through school provides foundations for their future success.

8. Assessment of young children is an integral part of the learning/teaching process and is not a separate activity.

Teachers’ planning responds to students’ needs and interests. Teachers monitor, assess and reflect on students’ learning through:

Understanding children

Building partnerships

Establishing flexible learning environments

Creating contexts for learning

Exploring what children learn.

E5: Science & Technology Pumicestone State School delivers a unique curriculum which engages, enables and empowers students to

shape their tomorrows. It nurtures students who can think, investigate, create, communicate, participate,

reflect and understand within the globalised society of the 21st Century.

Within this context we aim to develop students who will be empowered to create, shape, select and use

information and computer technology effectively, efficiently and appropriately within an excellent learning

environment.

All our classrooms have interactive Smartboards and data projectors installed which provides rich digital

learning opportunities. These facilities allow teachers to provide a broader educational experience for our

students.

Classes have regular access to our Computer Lab where students will also engage with robotics and coding.

There are laptop and iPad trolleys for students to engage with inside their classroom. Students will be able

to engage with media techniques utilising our dedicated ‘green room’ to enhance multimedia productions.

The integration of ICT within the curriculum is an ongoing experience and requires a great deal of thought

and planning.

Each child at Pumicestone State School participates in specialised science lessons. Our school has a specialist

Science / Technology teacher who operates from our dedicated Design & Technology Lab. The program is

largely activity and ‘hands-on’ based, the rationale being that, by engaging in practical investigations, the

children will gain a better understanding of generally accepted methods of scientific enquiry.

E6: Languages A specialist teacher conducts Chinese lessons with our students. In 2019 all students will participate in LOTE

lessons.

Students in Prep engage with the language and then continue to grow up through the school with the

language.

The primary intent of the language program is not only to teach Chinese but to improve children’s learning

ability through the development of additional neural pathways which research indicates can occur in children

who commence the learning of a second language by eight years of age. The research also indicated second

language learning increases the child’s competence in their first language and may also contribute to a

reduction in the development of dementia in later life.

E7: Health and Physical Education A Physical Education specialist teacher is employed full-time. This teacher conducts lessons with classes. Health lessons are taught by classroom teachers. The swimming program is conducted in Term 4 for students from Years 1-4. Parents will be required to pay a fee to cover the cost of bus transport and pool entry. Further details will be provided closer to the time.

E8: Sport At Pumicestone State School we actively encourage our students to partake in a wide range of recreational and sporting activities. Sports Days: Pumicestone State School’s Sports Days will be an integral part of our sporting culture. The purpose of Sports Days is to:

Encourage maximum participation of students and parents Develop good sporting attitudes, and Promote the enjoyment of sport and recreation generally.

Sporting Houses: Pumicestone State School has four sporting houses. The names of these houses are: Bribie Blue Stradbroke Green Moreton Red Fraser Yellow

E9: Music / Performing Arts Pumicestone State School provides a full music program. Students in all year levels participate in a classroom

music program with a specialist music teacher. Pumicestone State School will also offer an extensive choral

program and access to an instrumental music program.

E10: Camps and Excursions

The school has a camping program which involves Year 5 and 6 students. There is a cost associated with this.

Camps for each year level vary in duration and venue. Notification will be distributed to families well ahead

of time.

From time to time, the school, some classes or an individual class may take part in special activities, either at

school or away from it. Notification will be given and permission sought for your child’s participation. Parents

will be kept fully informed of the arrangements and payment requirements regarding each trip.

E11: SEP - Enrichment Centre The Special Education Program is catered for through our “Enrichment Centre” and offers individualised support to students who have a verified disability to access, participate and achieve success in all curriculum offerings. The Special Education Program works with students who have a verified diagnosis in one or more of the following categories:

Autistic Spectrum Disorder

Intellectual Impairment

Speech Language Impairment

Physical Impairment

Hearing Impairment

Vision Impairment.

Each student with a verified diagnosis has an Educational Adjustment Profile (EAP) which identifies the adjustments that are required for students to be successful in an inclusive setting. Guidance Officer: A Guidance Officer (GO) is based at the school 4 days per week. Parents and teachers may request child assessments. The GO may be able to assist with difficulties related to learning needs, social skills and emotional wellbeing of students. The GO may also refer to outside agencies for further assessment, therapy or support. With parental co-operation and agreement, a plan of support may be developed.

E12: Parent Education Programs

Throughout the year we provide a series of parent education programs to enable parents / carers to assist

their children with learning in a manner which is consistent with the latest teaching and learning methods

and language.

These programs will be advertised in our newsletter and/or by flyer. It is hoped that they will be well

supported in our quest to engage all stakeholders in the learning process and ensure our children benefit

from the strong partnership we form through such involvement.

Pumicestone State School with the support of Education Queensland is committed to provisions that ensure

all young Queenslanders have a right to and receive a quality education in a safe and supportive environment.

At Pumicestone State School we believe it is important to encourage increasing responsibility in all students. Our roles, rights and responsibilities are clearly defined. To this end, appropriate behaviour is regularly encouraged, acknowledged and rewarded. Unacceptable behaviour is addressed according to the Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students.

The major focus at Pumicestone is promoting positive behaviour. Encouragement such as certificates, awards

and praise are utilised as well as teaching specific social/behavioural skills as part of the curriculum.

Behaviour

G1: Cars in School Grounds

A school traffic zone is one which deserves the greatest respect from motorists, especially before and after school. Motorists are asked to be most diligent in their compliance to the:

School speed zone

School pedestrian crossing

No Parking and No Standing zones Breaches of these road rules threaten the safety of our students and will be reported to the appropriate authority. Police and local council will be asked to regularly patrol the area. In the interests of children’s safety, parking in the school grounds is restricted to staff, maintenance vehicles and delivery vans only. Parents are to promptly drop off and pick up children in the two-minute zone or the School Car Park, both of which are accessible from Cottrill Road. Parents are to obey the road signs and follow road safety rules in these areas. Please set a good example by following the rules for crossing the road. For the safety of the school community, use walkways provided.

G2: School Watch

Our school encourages parents and members of the community to ‘keep an eye’ on the school facilities. If you notice any suspicious activity likely to result in damage to our facilities, please telephone SCHOOL WATCH on 131788.

G3: Healthy Eating – Lunches Childhood is a period of growth. Nutrition is vital to total health and well-being of the child. It is essential for good health and a key factor in both prevention and recovery from illness. It also assists the child’s concentration and group participation. Childhood is a time when eating habits and food preferences are formed. For this reason, it is important that children are given a variety of foods that support a nutritious diet. Parents are strongly encouraged to provide their children with healthy food. As we have many children with allergies, some severe resulting in an anaphylactic reaction - Parents are encouraged to not send nut products to school.

“Brain Break” is an opportunity provided to Pumicestone students during the morning session to quickly eat

a healthy snack to keep the brain stimulated. Quick healthy snacks like cut apples, bananas, celery and

sultanas are ideal.

Safety

G4: Leaving the School Grounds

Students are not allowed to leave the school grounds during the day unless written permission has been

received or special circumstances prevail. In either case, parents must notify the classroom teacher. An adult

must sign out students at the office before leaving the school grounds.

G5: Storm / Emergency Situations

In severe storm or other emergency situations (e.g. bush fires) the Principal will advise staff to supervise and

remain with students until it is safe and suitable to relocate or release students. Our school regularly

participates in Emergency Evacuation and Lock Down practices.

G6: Composting, Recycling and the Clean School Program

Everyone is responsible for the cleanliness of our wonderful school grounds. Composting and recycling

activities operate throughout the school with all students involved. Teachers on lunch and playground duty

encourage students to be responsible and thoughtful with scraps and rubbish.

We have an enthusiastic group of students and staff that are our “Recycling Rangers” to encourage good

practices to help our environment.

H1: Departmental Policy

The following is Education Queensland’s Policy on the issue of medication being given to students by school

staff.

a) Should medication prescribed by the student’s medical practitioner be required to be administered

while the student is at school or involved in school-approved activities, a parent/legal guardian must

in the first instance, make a written request to the Principal of the school.

b) Where a teacher or other adult person on the school staff has been authorised by the Principal to

administer medication to students, the instructions provided should be written on the medication

container by the Pharmacist at the medical practitioner’s direction. The teacher or other authorised

person should not accept the instructions solely from the parent / legal guardian. The instructions

on the medication container need to indicate specific times at which medication is to be

administered, as well as quantity of medication to be administered.

c) Medication shall be kept in a secure place in the office. (One exception, in selected cases is that on

inhaler therapy for asthma. On written permission from a parent/legal guardian and with the

approval of the school Principal, the student may be responsible for the inhaler.

d) Non-prescribed oral medication (such as analgesics and over the counter medications) should not be

administered by teachers or other persons or the school staff.

H2: Sick Children Procedures / First Aid

For minor injuries, staff will administer first aid and contact parents when necessary. Minor scratches and abrasions are attended to by the classroom or playground duty teacher. The Queensland Ambulance Service will be called to administer urgent treatment or provide transport in more serious circumstances. Every effort will be made to contact parents or the nominated emergency contact. If a child becomes ill at school, every effort will be made to contact the parents, or another person nominated

by the parents.

Where a child contracts a contagious or infectious disease, we ask that you inform the school and conform

to the recommended period of exclusion. Details of exclusion periods can be found in the back section of this

handbook.

Parents are requested to ensure that our school records of telephone numbers and addresses are up to date,

in cases of an emergency.

Medical Matters

Opportunities are provided for students who require medication, or who have a health condition to

participate in the full range of school activities according to the advice of their medical practitioner. This

applies to classroom activities and activities such as excursions, camps, swimming, sport, physical education,

outdoor education and public displays.

H3: Head Lice

Head Lice are not a disgrace. Anyone, child or adult, can become infected. This happens through close contact

of heads or by using items such as combs, brushes, hats, etc of an infected person immediately after they

have used them. Information letters are available from the office and these are sent home to the

parents/carers of students suspected of infections or who may have come in contact with an infected person.

It is essential on receipt of this note that you inspect your child’s hair, then return the tear off slip to the

teacher.

Parents will be phoned and asked to collect individual students who we suspect are infected. They may return

once they have been treated and are required to bring a note from their parent indicating they have been

treated.

H4: Sun Smart Policy

Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Two out of every three Queenslanders will

develop some sort of skin cancer in their lifetime. Research suggests that at least two-thirds of all melanomas

occurring in Australia could be prevented if children were protected from the sun during their first 15 years.

With this in mind, Pumicestone State School realises the need to protect children’s skin and educate them

about Sun Smart behaviour, thus reducing the risk of skin damage from exposure to the sun.

H5: Smoking

Government regulations state that smoking is not permitted on school premises or within five metres of the

school fence and boundary.

H6: Exclusion Periods – Contagious Diseases

Children who are unwell should stay home from school. Some medical conditions require exclusion from school or child care to prevent the spread of infectious diseases among staff and children. The following table is an extract of the Department of Health recommended minimum exclusion periods for infectious conditions for schools. A full version of Department of Health exclusion periods can be found on their Time Out poster.

Chicken pox Exclude until all blisters have dried. This is usually at least 5 days after the rash first appeared in the unimmunised children and less in immunised children.

Hand, foot and mouth disease Exclude until all blisters have dried.

Measles Exclude for 4 days after the onset of the rash.

Mumps Exclude for 9 days after the onset of swelling Pertussis (Whooping cough) Exclude for 5 days after starting appropriate antibiotic treatment or

for 21 days from the onset of coughing.

Rubella (German measles) Exclude until fully recovered or for at least 4 days after the onset of the rash.

School sores (Impetigo) Exclude case until has received appropriate antibiotics for at least 24 hours. Sores are not contagious if covered, or after the child has taken antibiotics for 24 hours. Weeping or crusted sores on exposed areas should always be covered with a watertight dressing until at least 24 hours post antibiotics commenced and for as long as practical.

H7: Health Services

Free dental treatment is available to students at State Schools. The School Dental Unit may visit the school

and all services are carried out on site. Parents may choose to have all dental treatment performed or to

have only preventative treatment undertaken. Participation in the scheme is voluntary.

I1: Uniforms

Our school community feels that the wearing of a school uniform is worthwhile as it encourages a closer and deeper association with the school. For this reason we recommend that parents make every effort to have their children attired in correct school uniform including the school hat. Please refer to the Student Dress Code endorsed by the P&C. For some excursions, school photos and Year 6 Farewell, the formal uniform must be worn. Wearing uniforms provides a ready identification of students and non-students at school, they foster a sense of belonging and help develop mutual respect among students by minimising visible evidence of economic or social differences. In circumstances where inappropriate dress is worn, action will be taken by the Principal. Please refer to the full Student Dress Code on the website.

We encourage you to purchase your uniforms through the Qkr! App, this assists us to be more efficient and

improves stock control.

Uniform Shop hours of operation are:

Monday: 2:00pm-2:45pm

Thursday: 8:00am-8:45am

CLOSED on School Holidays.

I2: Hats

The school uniform hat is the navy bucket hat. It is a reversible hat with the sporting house colour on the

reverse. The school operates a “No Hat No Play” policy at all times.

I3: Jewellery

The wearing of dangly earrings, bracelets, necklaces and chains by students is not permitted. Signet rings,

earrings (plain silver or gold studs or sleepers, one per ear only), and watches are acceptable but staff will

not be held responsible for them.

No facial piercings are allowed.

No tattoos are allowed.

Hair ribbons and accessories are to be plain school colours.

Uniforms and Property

I4: Bikes

It is compulsory for all bicycle riders in Queensland to wear an approved helmet. All students riding or pushing a bicycle to and from the school must wear an approved safety helmet in the correct manner. Bicycles are to be always walked within the school grounds and on footpaths in and around the school. The bicycle parking area is locked daily at 8:30 am. Students are to use a security lock when parking bicycles. Students who do not act in accordance with school expectations will not be permitted to bring a bicycle into

the school grounds.

I5: Scooters and Skateboards

Scooters and skateboards are not acceptable transport for school. Scooters and skateboards present a

whole series of issues regarding safety and property security. For both reasons the decision of the school’s

administration and P&C is to ban scooters and skateboards from being on the school grounds at any time.

In support of this, we request that parents ensure students do not ride scooters or skateboards to school.

I6: Money and Valuables

No cash is kept in the school office. Students are discouraged from bringing valuable items and large amounts of money to school. They do so at

their own risk. This may include cameras, electronic devices and games.

I7: Mobile Phones

Appendix 1 of Pumicestone State School Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students outlines the school’s policy in relation to The Use of Personal Technology Devices at School. This document outlines the procedures that relate specifically to the use of mobile phones.

At all times in the school environment, students must display courtesy, consideration and respect for others, when using mobile phones. Mobile phones are required to be handed in to the school office each morning where they will be stored safely during the day. At the end of the school day, students may collect their mobile phones. Students are required to sign the register which includes details such as name, class and the phone’s make and colour.

Mobile phones must not be used in any manner or place that is disruptive to the normal routine of the school.

Those with a recording device included must not be used in any area where it would be considered

inappropriate, such as in toilets or change room situations. Communication that contravenes the school’s

‘Acceptable Use Policy’ will lead to mobile phones being confiscated by school staff, with collection/return

at the end of the school day where the device is not required for further investigation.

I8: After School Care

Our After School hours program is run by Camp Australia. Camp Australia provide an excellent array of care

programs for before school, after school and vacation care. It is important to enrol your students in this

service if you require them to be at school before 8am or after 2:30pm.

I9: Cash Collections

For all activities requiring payment a letter is sent home detailing the activity and the associated coasts. Our

finance system generates invoices for payments to be applied against.

The school has several options for making payments:

EFTPOS

BPay

Centrepay

Qkr

I10 Tuckshop – The Rocks’ Cafe

The tuckshop is open every day.

All ordering is online through the Qkr App.

Menus are on our website and promote healthy eating.

I11: Lost Property

Lost property is collected and stored. Efforts are made to return items to their owners but this process is hindered when items are not named. Parents should ensure all items of clothing, including hats and school equipment are named. Parents are invited to make regular checks of the lost property to reclaim items that are missing. Watches,

keys and other valuables are sent to the office. All unnamed school uniforms will be resold through the

Uniform Shop. At the end of each term other unnamed property is given to charity.

I12 QParents

QParents is an online portal that is free for Queensland state schools to use, and allows parents at your

school to:

view attendance details, behaviour information, report cards, timetables, invoices and a history of payments

provide reasons for unexplained absences and to notify the school of future absences

view and pay school invoices online

update student details including residential and postal address as well as medical conditions.

Student Dress Code Policy

Pumicestone State School – Student Dress Code This document outlines the appropriate dress standards for students at this school which directly reflect community standards.

The Pumicestone State School community has agreed on a school dress code for all students, which actively

encourages students to take pride in themselves and their school. It is an expectation that upon student

enrolment at Pumicestone State School, parents will consent to uphold our Student Dress Code by way of

signing the Enrolment Agreement Form.

Consistent student dress standards promote a powerful school identity and communicate a positive image

of our school as a highly regarded community of learners. We expect that students proudly uphold this image

of Pumicestone State School with good standards of dress and behaviour at all times. The Pumicestone State

School Dress Code aims to contribute to a safe and supportive teaching and learning environment through:

Ready identification of students at school

Fostering a sense of belonging

Developing mutual respect among students by minimising visible evidence of physical, economic or

social differences

Minimising exposure to hazards by adopting uniform items that enhance workplace health and safety

practices

Taking into consideration cultural and/or religious beliefs.

Pumicestone State School’s Dress Code consists of an agreed set of standards and identifies the uniform our

students wear when:

Attending or representing their school

Travelling to and from school

Engaging in school activities out of school hours

At Pumicestone State School the expectation is that each day students:

Wear one of the agreed Pumicestone State School uniforms as outlined below

Wear black fully-enclosed shoes with plain black shoelaces. Shoes must be suitable for participation

in physical activities every day

Wear white plain full ankle socks

Wear the Pumicestone State School hat while engaged in outdoor activities (No Hat, No Play).

Girls Uniform Options

Unisex school polo shirt with Pumicestone State School logo

(P-Yr 6)

Unisex sport shorts with Pumicestone State School logo, OR,

girls sport skort,

OR plain navy shorts

AND

Formal blouse with Pumicestone State School logo (P – Yr 6)

Navy skort or skirt

Boys Uniform Options

Unisex school polo shirt with Pumicestone State School

logo (P- Yr 6)

Unisex sport shorts with Pumicestone State School logo

OR plain navy shorts

AND

Formal shirt with Pumicestone State School logo

Tailored navy shorts

OR plain navy shorts

Sun Safe

School hats must be worn when working or playing outside at all times. No hat No play policy is in effect.

Bikinis are not acceptable wear for swimming or swim-related activities. A one-piece swimming costume or

board shorts with a swim shirt is the acceptable choice. UV protective swimwear is recommended. In line

with Education Queensland’s Sun Safety Strategy, children are required to wear swim shirts for all water

activities. If parents are unable to provide a swim shirt, we will allow students to wear a t-shirt instead.

Jewellery

Students are permitted to wear only the following items:

A watch

One small plain stud or small plain sleeper of silver or gold in the lower lobe of one or both ears

1 small signet ring

Medical alert bracelets

Religious pendants by request of parent.

No stick-on or henna tattoos to be worn

Hair

Students are to wear their hair in a neat and tidy manner. Hair that is longer than shoulder length is to be

tied up neatly in navy, lime or purple hair bands, ribbon or scrunchy. Hair is not to be coloured and styles

must be fairly conservative (NO mohawks, tracks, colour) The length of the fringe should not exceed the

eyebrows so as not to impede learning or pose a safety risk. Hair ribbons and accessories are to be plain

school colours.

Make-Up

No make-up is to be worn to school. Coloured nail polish is not acceptable.

No stick-on or henna tattoos to be worn

Sports Uniform

Sporting colours were decided by parent vote but the names of the sporting houses will be decided once

school has commenced in 2017. This will allow students to have a say in the names.

Navy blue shorts/skorts, black joggers, white ankle socks and Pumicestone State School hats will be part of

the sports uniform with plain coloured polo or t-shirts in the sport house colours.

Winter Uniform

Winter uniform pieces will be confirmed before Easter, but will probably include:

Pumicestone State School jersey

Pumicestone State School zip up jumper – or plain navy jacket/jumper

Pumicestone State School tracksuit pants – or plain navy tracksuit pants

Navy stockings / tights (Footless tights or leggings are not permitted)

If you are unable to purchase a school jacket we ask that your child wear a plain navy jumper without any

patterns, logos or hoods.

PLEASE NOTE: The school dress code policy DOES NOT include any other item of clothing or accessory, other

than that included in the list of uniform items. For example:

Jeans and non-school uniform jumpers are unacceptable;

No denim, baggy/long style shorts that extend beyond the knee, board shorts, basketball or cargo

style shorts are allowed;

No thongs, sandals, high heeled or slip on shoes can be worn due to safety;

No visible undershirts, mid-riffs, waistbands, underpants;

No facial piercings;

No footless stockings, patterned stockings, bike pants or leggings are acceptable;

No make-up or coloured nail polish, body markings made by felt pens, or visible tattoos.

Correct Footwear Guide

Due to Workplace Health and Safety regulations, student footwear must provide adequate protection and

cover the entire foot. Students attending Pumicestone State School must wear black (100% black, no other

colour) polishable leather OR vinyl joggers/shoes that are fully enclosed. Joggers are preferable as regular

physical activity is part of the curriculum. Shoelaces must be black. Velcro fasteners are recommended for

Prep students.

Suede or canvas shoes are not acceptable.

Non-compliance with Student Dress Code Policy

A number of strategies may be employed by the school staff in the event students are non-compliant with

the school’s mandatory Student Dress Code. These strategies will be compliant with the Education (General

Provisions) Act 2006.

Strategies include:

Seeking parental support for compliance eg letter or telephone call. This may include requesting

correct uniform be brought to the school for the student;

Assisting students with genuine economic hardship to acquire uniform eg uniform loan. Once the

school is up and running a pool of quality second hand uniforms will be held at the Uniform Shop for

sale. The school may assist families with uniforms in emergency situations;

Official school events will require compliance with the school uniform;

Any child not able to wear the school uniform due to emergency situations should at least be dressed

in school colours (navy blue, lime, purple) and bring a note to the classroom teacher;

The school expects that children will wear the school uniform daily;

All items must be the same style and colour as those sold from the school uniform shop

Whatever the strategy implemented, it is the intention of the school Administration to ensure every student

complies with the Student Dress Code policy every day. The Principal will record any agreement or any

variation to the school uniform negotiated with individual families by official correspondence.

It is considered that the wearing of a school uniform allows our students to exhibit both a sense of identity

and sense of unity. Certainly the wearing of the school uniform by our students reflects their pride in our

school’s standards, achievements and reputation within the community. The wearing of the school uniform

at school and at community functions enhances the public’s perception of our school and of our students.

The manner in which our uniform is worn to present a neat and tidy appearance is an indication of individual

pride in our school.

The Pumicestone State School community thanks you for supporting our high standards culture.

P&C Endorsement

The Dress Code was endorsed by the Pumicestone State School Parents & Citizens Committee in November

2016

The P&C of Pumicestone State School resolves that it supports a student dress code for Pumicestone State

School because it believes that a student dress code at Pumicestone State School promotes the objectives

of the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006.

In particular, the P&C of Pumicestone State School supports the intention of this student dress code in

providing a safe and supportive teaching and learning environment by:

Ready identification of students and non-students at school

Fostering a sense of belonging

Developing mutual respect among students by minimising visible evidence of economic or social

differences, and

Eliminating the distraction of competition in dress and fashion at school.

……………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………

President Vice-President

……………………………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………

Date Date

Complaints Management Policy

Pumicestone State School – Complaints Management Procedure This document outlines the procedures undertaken at this school to manage complaints. Complaint management at this school is also underpinned by section 46 of the Education (General-Provisions) Act 2006 (Qld), Education Queensland’s Complaints Management - State Schools and Making a Complaint located on the department’s website. Complaints come to principals and other school staff in many forms and can be from parents/carers, community, staff or students. All complaints are handled in a positive and open way.

Documentation Our school documents all significant complaints. Complaints are recorded and reported to the principal as soon as practicable after receiving the complaint. Complaints can be made directly to the principal. The record of the complaint: • uses objective language clearly stating the facts • contains information in chronological order as practically possible • uses quotation marks, where appropriate and necessary • is neatly and legibly written in biro/pen or in print in clear unambiguous language • includes, where necessary, initialled and dated corrections • includes signature, designation of the author, and time and date of the incident/complaint. If the complaint is not resolved at the first point of contact, the complaint is acknowledged within five working days by telephone, in person, by email, or in writing. Documents related to the complaint are kept and stored in accordance with the relevant departmental policies and procedures. Please refer to Information Management and Access to Records Held in Schools.

Phase 1 - Receiving and clarifying the complaint Any member of staff can receive a complaint. All complaints are received in the following manner: • being respectful and helpful • giving the person your undivided attention • not being defensive, apportioning blame • remaining positive • not perceiving anger as a personal attack. When a staff member receives a verbal complaint they: • listen carefully to the issues being raised • summarise the issues to clarify and check that they understand what the complainant is telling you • empathise and acknowledge the complainant’s feelings • find out what the complainant wants to happen as a result of the complaint • tell the complainant that they may use the support of a third party in progressing the complaint, if they feel this is needed • resolve the complaint if possible, or assure the complainant that an appropriate staff member will address their complaint • advise the complainant what will happen with their complaint • thank them for their complaint. Complaints are sometimes made with the assistance of an advocate, interpreter or by a third party (as agreed between the complainant and the principal). In this case staff will receive and clarify a complaint from more than one person. Many complaints are resolved at the first point of contact with information and/or an explanation, together with an apology and recognition of the effect the situation has had on the person. Some complainants may also want an undertaking that action will be taken to prevent the problem recurring. When the complaint is not resolved immediately, the complaint is referred to the principal as soon as is practicable. A member of staff who receives a verbal complaint that is not resolved informs the complainant of the further options: • putting their complaint in writing, or • assisting the member of staff to record, in writing, the particulars of their complaint. In general, if the complainant agrees to put the complaint in writing, the member of staff takes no further action unless or until a written complaint is received. However, if the complaint relates to a report about harm (whether physical/emotional/sexual) of a student under 18 years attending a state educational institution, refer to Student Protection, for detailed obligations of all Education Queensland employees. Once the complainant indicates that they would like to register a formal complaint verbally, the member of staff makes a written outline of the issues concerned. The record is read to the complainant, with opportunity for appropriate amendments and the complainant is asked to sign, where possible, the written version of the complaint. The staff member also signs (indicating their personal designation, for example, ’Year 6 Teacher, Pumicestone State School’) and dates the complaint. No signature is required for verbal complaints taken over the phone, but the complainant is asked to provide verbal confirmation of the issues that have been recorded. If a complainant refuses to sign or confirm a written recording of a verbal complaint, the staff member notes the refusal on the written complaint. The complainant is told that this refusal will be noted and that the process will be reliant on the staff member’s interpretation and notes only. The complainant may not, at a later date, make another complaint based on a lack of satisfaction with this record of complaint.

Receiving a written complaint - When a written complaint is received it is date-stamped and forwarded to the principal. Receiving an anonymous complaint - When an anonymous complaint is received, the complainant is told of

the possible limitations associated with making an anonymous complaint.

Adults are reminded that at no time are students, other than their own, to be approached for the purpose of

raising issues or concerns.

Phase 2 - Deciding how to handle the complaint When a staff member receives a complaint, they: • begin the process of making an assessment about a complaint from the moment the complaint is received • make an assessment in the first instance about whether the issue can be dealt with as a concern or a complaint • if they are not the principal, refer the complainant or the complaint to the principal for addressing. The principal decides whether to: • take no further action • attempt to resolve the complaint through resolution strategies such as mediation • refer the complaint to the relevant internal or external agency if required • initiate an investigation of the complaint, within the school, if further information is required. Co-ordination of complaints - The principal has the final responsibility for the management of all complaints that relate to school management issues under his/her jurisdiction. The complaint can be referred to another staff member in the school for action (for example, the deputy principal, business services manager or nominated staff member). If the complaint relates to departmental policy, or a departmental policy position, the complainant is advised to take their complaint to the relevant regional office. If the complaint is in relation to official misconduct, student protection or a perceived breach of privacy, the complaint is directed to the Ethical Standards Unit and the Legal Administrative Law Branch. Record of complaint - The principal ensures that records of a complaint and any referral of a complaint are kept for either internal or external review. Phase 3 - Finding out about the complaint The principal or delegate gathers all the necessary facts about the complaint while keeping in mind the principles of natural justice of all parties concerned. The principal or delegate investigates complaints by: • collecting and analysing information relevant to the matter • working collaboratively with all people involved • finding the facts relating to the matter • identifying any contributing factors to the matter • consulting the relevant DET Procedure Register on issues that relate to the complaint • documenting the investigation report or outcome. Phase 4 - Making a decision about the complaint Based on the facts gathered in Phase 3 about the complaint, the principal or delegate makes a decision on the complaint. Within 28 days of the receipt of the complaint, the principal provides the complainant with either: • a written response, including reasons for the decision, or • a written notification that their complaint has been referred to an internal or external agency. Phase 5 - Review Phase If the complainant is not satisfied with this response, they are encouraged to discuss it further with the school principal and/or advised to contact the principal’s supervisor, the Executive Director, Schools at the regional office. Further review of the decision is available from the Queensland Ombudsman.

Sunsmart Policy

Pumicestone State School – Sunsmart This document outlines the procedures for all students at the school maximising their protection from the harmful effects of the sun throughout the year.

Sunscreen

Students are responsible for applying their sunscreen prior to arriving at school each day

If students bring their own sunscreen to school for reapplication it remains the responsibility of the student (both storage and application) and should not be shared with other students

During school excursions, tubes of sunscreen will be kept in the excursion first aid packs for emergency use

For all-day activities, such as Swimming Carnivals and Sports Days, students will be reminded to carry their own sunscreen and reapply at regular intervals

School Uniform

The complete school uniform is designed to provide appropriate protection from the sun

The school hat remains a part of the full school uniform and is to be worn by all students (in accordance with Dress Code Policy) during all outdoor activities (regardless of sun or shade as per ‘No hat, No play)

Children without a hat will be required to sit in a covered area or go to the Resource Information Centre for the break

Those without hats for an outdoor lesson will be required to sit in the shade in such a place as to be still under the supervision of their teacher

Eating/Play Areas

All efforts will be made by the school to ensure designated student eating areas remain in shade during official eating time

Shaded play areas will be made available to students during play breaks along with various extra-curricular activities supervised within classrooms

The school maintains a ‘No hat, No play’ policy for all year levels

Water Activities

Students are required to wear a sun shirt for any water activity

Students not owning a sun shirt are required to wear a densely woven, dark coloured T shirt

One-piece swim suits are required clothing for girls Information for parents

Notes for excursions and non-routine activities will include reminders about the need for sun protection

Specific requirements for swimming activities such as sun shirts and full piece swimmers will be emphasised

Healthy Food Policy

Pumicestone State School – Healthy Food This document outlines the procedures for all students at the school regarding healthy food choices and types

Childhood is a period of growth. Nutrition is vital to total health and well-being of the child. It is essential for good health and a key factor in both prevention and recovery from illness. It also assists the child’s concentration and group participation. Childhood is a time when eating habits and food preferences are formed. For this reason, it is important that children are given a variety of foods that support a nutritious diet. As a school we know that food is fundamental to the quality of a child’s life, not just in providing essential nutrition but in communicating and sharing positive values, attitudes and experiences with each other. We believe that adults (staff, parents and carers) should be good role models and should support the children in understanding how balanced nutrition contributes to a person’s health, happiness and general well-being.

Parents are strongly encouraged to provide their children with healthy food. As we have many children with allergies, some severe resulting in an anaphylactic reaction, this school is a nut-free zone. Parents are encouraged to not send nut products to school.

“Brain Break” is an opportunity provided to Pumicestone students during the morning session to quickly eat

a healthy snack to keep the brain stimulated. Quick healthy snacks like cut apples, bananas, celery and

sultanas are ideal.

1. Aims and Objectives 1.1 - To improve the health of pupils, staff and the whole school community by helping to influence eating habits through increasing knowledge and awareness of food issues including what constitutes a healthy diet.

1.2 - To ensure pupils are well nourished at school and that every pupil has access to safe, tasty and nutritious food and a safe, easily available water supply during the school day.

1.3 - To ensure that food provision in the school acknowledges the ethical and medical requirements of staff and pupils e.g. religious, vegetarian, medical and allergenic needs.

1.4 - To introduce and promote practices within the school to reinforce these aims and to remove or discourage practices that negate them.

2. Organisation – Curriculum 2.1 - We regard healthy eating education as a whole-school issue, and we believe that opportunities to teach about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle occur throughout the curriculum. 2.2 - Healthy eating education forms an important part of our school’s curriculum. The importance of balanced nutrition and healthy food choices is explicitly taught through the Science and Health curriculum. 2.3 - All pupils have the opportunity to learn about safe food preparation and to learn about where food has come from. Pupils learn about the requirements for plant growth, the food chain and the components of a healthy diet through the Science curriculum

3. Organisation – Management of Eating 3.1 - Students will be encouraged to eat a piece of fruit or vegetable as part of their daily snack time. 3.2 - All children are encouraged to bring in a water bottle so they can have access to water throughout the day. Water fountains are also provided in the school for additional access to drinking water. 3.3 - Chocolate, sweets, biscuits, crisps, and cakes are actively discouraged as everyday snacks in school or as part of lunch boxes. Chewing gum and fizzy drinks are not permitted on the school premises or while the children are representing the school. Cereal bars are also discouraged because these can often contain as much sugar as chocolate bars. 3.4 - Pupils’ lunch boxes should offer balanced nutrition. The contents of pupils’ lunchboxes will be monitored e.g. once a term, by the teachers and Administration. 3.5 - Birthdays, and special events such a Christmas parties in class are also times where food contributes to a sense of celebration and sharing. On these occasions foods other than fruit or vegetables may be offered, but the staff will remind the children that this is an “occasional” treat and not “every day food”. 3.6 - The school community is aware of the possibility of food allergies within the school population, particularly nut allergies. Parents or carers of children who are on special diets for medical or religious reasons, or who have allergies, will be asked to provide as much information as possible about which foods are suitable or foods which must be avoided. This information will be displayed in the staff room and in the classrooms. 3.9 - Pupils are taught not to share packed lunches and parents are reminded about the need to avoid sending in packed lunches containing nuts. This is communicated through the newsletter. 4. The role of Parents: 4.1 - The school is aware that the primary role model in children’s healthy eating education lies with parents. We wish to build a positive and supportive relationship with the parents of children at our school through mutual understanding, trust and co-operation. In promoting this objective we will:

Inform parents about the school healthy eating education policy and practice;

Encourage parents to be involved in reviewing school policy and making modifications to it as necessary;

Inform parents about the best practice known with regard to healthy eating so that the parents can support the key messages being given to children at school.

Social Media Policy

Pumicestone State School – Social Media

This document outlines the expectations for all students and parents/community members regarding the

use of social media.

Rationale: Pumicestone State School is committed to providing staff, parents and students with the best possible Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) so they can access a wide range of educational resources and learning tools. All members of the Pumicestone State School community are expected to uphold the values of the school in all social media interactions. Staff, students and parents will not act in a way that the image of Pumicestone State School is brought into disrepute nor in a way that harms members of the school community. Social Media should not be used to cyberbully, insult, present offensive or inappropriate content or to misrepresent Pumicestone State School or any member of the school community. Definition: Social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share and exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks. Aims: The acceptable use of Social Networking sites provides an opportunity to:

Use social media as a professional development tool for staff

Engage and interact online e.g. Networks

Monitor student and staff interaction over the school network

Upload student and staff videos

Improve positive communication with the school community. Overview: Social Networking sites, Blogs and World Wide Web sites must be considered as documents that are published in the public domain. Such sites allow the free sharing of information and opinions. Information placed online may be useful, entertaining, and provide a medium for friends to share experiences, photographs, messages and generally to stay in touch. On the other hand entries that breach privacy conventions or regulations, may be considered to be "cyber bullying"; they may be defamatory, obscene, and libellous or regarded as inappropriate. Information published on the WWW, including that on Social Networking sites and blogs should be considered to be permanently published. It is almost impossible to remove information once it has appeared, even when it seems to have been taken down.

Classroom blogs and other social media tools open up communication between students, parents and teachers. This kind of communication and collaboration can have a positive impact on learning at Pumicestone State School. The school encourages parents to collaborate with online communication when requested. It is expected that parents act responsibly and respectfully at all times, understanding that their conduct not only reflects on the school community, but will be a model for our students as well. STUDENT GUIDELINES Online behaviour should at all times demonstrate respect for the dignity of each person. Student use of social networking sites such as Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram and Kik whilst at school, is forbidden. The school's ICT resources are provided for teaching and learning. Student use of Social Networking sites at home is the responsibility of the parents and must not implicate the extended school community in any way. They should respect the rights and confidentiality of others. Information and opinion that refers directly or indirectly to Pumicestone State School, its administration, its students or its members of staff must not be posted unless officially sanctioned by the Principal or Deputy Principals and the individual(s) concerned. Students are not permitted to join a staff member’s area on networking sites. If students attempt to do this, the member of staff is to refuse the student access and inform the Principal or Deputy Principal. The student’s parents will be informed if this happens. Student use of social networking sites, out of school hours, should not:

Post content that is hateful, threatening, pornographic, or incite violence against others

Impersonate or falsely represent another person

Give out personal information. This includes last names, phone numbers, addresses, exact birth dates and pictures. (Photos cannot be posted when in school uniform)

Bully, intimidate, abuse, harass or threaten others

Harm the reputation of Pumicestone State School or those within its community

Engage in bullying, spamming, illegal behaviour, malicious blogging or similar antisocial behaviours. Students who engage in antisocial behaviours in a social networking or blogging site that have ramifications within the school community (such as bullying a fellow student) will be subject to school regulations regarding such behaviour even though the infringements occurred outside the school. Students are advised to use blogging provider sites with clearly stated terms of use, and make sure they can protect the actual blogs, not just the user accounts, with password protection. However, it should always be presumed that anyone can see it. PARENT’S/COMMUNITY GUIDELINES: Online behaviour should at all times demonstrate a respect for the dignity of each person. Pumicestone State School understands that social networking is part of life. It is the way many people connect. The school reminds parents and students to exercise caution and suggests community members avoid discussing school issues online, especially issues where there are “two sides” and provocation can occur. The school requests the community to remember the following guidelines with regard to social networking and posting about school business from home devices:

Appropriate language should always be used (no swearing);

Students, teachers and school administration must never be named on social networking sites, including messaging services;

Parents rights not to have their children’s photos posted on Facebook should be respected;

Before uploading photos, audio or video, parents need to seek appropriate written permission from any individual involved;

Respect the rights of parents to post their children’s photos on their chosen social media;

Online posts about the school should be framed in a positive manner at all times. Negative views should be expressed through discussion with school staff;

Be aware that many social media sites have age restrictions that DO HAVE implications for their primary aged children. Parents need to monitor their children’s online social media activity, and read the terms and conditions of various Social Media sites and applications their children are interested in using - many of them have age restrictions for their use. Eg Facebook, Instagram and Gmail are all restricted to those 13 years of age and above;

Social media accounts, such as Facebook, cannot be set up using the “Pumicestone State School” name as any interactions can implicate the brand of the School.

Emails to staff: Pumicestone State School staff use email and SeeSaw to communicate with parents. Pumicestone State School staff request the following guidelines be adhered to when using email to communicate:

Emails should be used to set up a meeting with the purpose to discuss an issue;

Emails must not be abusive, aggressive or forceful in nature. Emails that are inflammatory, overly aggressive or abusive will be referred to the Principal and/or Deputy Principal and appropriate action will be taken;

Teachers are in classes carrying their role as educators throughout the day. They also have playground/eating duty to meet their duty of care responsibilities. Emails cannot be answered immediately. Pumicestone State School staff will endeavour to answer emails within two business days (not weekends or school holidays) on those occasions where a response is necessary.

The guidelines above will be adhered to by staff when an email is sent to a parent.

Legal Liability When individuals choose to go public with opinions via a blog, social networking sites or a personal website, they are legally responsible for their commentary. Individuals can be held personally liable for any commentary deemed to be defamatory, threatening, obscene, proprietary or libellous. Employees should exercise caution with regards to exaggeration, colourful language, guesswork, obscenity, copyrighted materials, legal conclusions, and derogatory remarks or characterizations. The summary position is that you post online at your own risk. Outside parties can pursue legal action against you for postings. Privileged Information It is forbidden for employees of Pumicestone State School to divulge, post or publish any confidential, proprietary or privileged information pertaining to the school, its staff, its students, its policies, finance or procedures. This information may not appear in a blog, a personal web site or a social networking site, other than approved school communication methods - SeeSaw. We acknowledge that technology changes rapidly. If any member of the Pumicestone State School community has a concern or question pertaining to social media or social networking sites, this should be directed to the Principal.

Parents, students or staff who have a complaint or issue arise from social media should contact the Principal.