News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:07:00 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:31:22 AEDT

Starting school is a big moment in a child’s life. Here’s how to make the most of it.

We can’t wait for you to join us for a great year – the first step towards a lifelong love of learning.

Visit the department’s primary school resources for hints, tips and checklists to make a great start to the new school year, whether your child is starting Kindergarten or Year 6.

You’ll find:

Getting ready for primary school booklet – everything you need to be #Ready2020
Daisy’s First Day – the story of Daisy the koala’s first adventure at Kindergarten
advice from teachers – they’ve been through this before.

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Together We Can!

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:41:34 AEDT

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:52:54 AEDT

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way to protect your family from harmful diseases this holiday season and into 2020. Visit your doctor for general health and vaccination advice.

Immunisation not only protects you and your family but also others in your community, by reducing the spread of preventable diseases.

Children starting school in 2020 must have up-to-date immunisations to enrol.

These vaccinations help protect children from highly infectious and severe diseases including whooping cough and measles.

Travel health

If you’re travelling overseas during the school holidays, you may need vaccinations or medication – both for general health protection and for region-specific diseases.

If you’re travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, you may even need a flu shot.

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:17:15 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 16:04:50 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:38:36 AEST

We want to better understand your needs for before and after school care in NSW.

Have your say today on before and after school care.

Fill out the survey by Service NSW to share your specific care needs and to register interest to stay informed of new developments.

Your input will provide insights into where there are gaps in service availability and help us to deliver extra places where they are needed.

You can also contact the team responsible for rolling out the before and after school care commitment at BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:25:07 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Get involved at home

Join in at home and read your child a bedtime story. Studies show that reading a bedtime story six days a week can give kids almost a year’s head start when they begin school. Reading has also been shown to develop empathy, promote critical thinking and help children find a sense of self.

Join in from the classroom

Bestselling children’s author and illustrator Matt Stanton will broadcast live to primary school children across the country from the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday 17 September. We invite schools to register for the livestream of this free event.

Stanton’s author talk is among more than 140 events happening across the country involving more than 50 authors.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – #ReadingHour authors talk about their favourite place to read

Duration: 0:38

Looking for a good spot to open a book? We asked authors Benjamin Law, Morris Gleitzman, Jacqueline Harvey and Mick Elliott about their favourite place to read.

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:45:34 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:10:30 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:40:35 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:26:05 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:19:23 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:12:27 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:23:03 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

Did you know our playground is open in the holidays?

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 15:53:43 AEST

We are excited to participate in the Share Our Space program when it returns these autumn school holidays. Participating public schools across regional and metro areas of the state will continue to open their playgrounds, ovals and sports courts for the whole community to enjoy.

You and your children can play in public schools all over NSW. Schools from Lord Howe Island Central School 600km off the east coast of mainland Australia all the way to Palinyewah Public School in the far west will share their outdoor facilities as part of the program.

Participating schools are open 7 days a week between 8am-6pm from 13 to 26 April 2019, including weekends and public holidays.

Come and visit our playground. For more information or to find another participating school near you, visit Share Our Space.

Kentlyn PS gains Healthy Canteen approval

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 19:53:18 AEDT

Kentlyn PS is making the healthy choice the easy choice for students after officially becoming a Healthy School Canteen, which meets the NSW Food and Drink Criteria.

Please check out our official certificate.

Our canteen menu includes more fresh and healthy food choices to provide students with the essential nutrients they need to learn and grow every day.

Our school followed the ‘10 Steps to a Healthy Canteen’ online program which helps schools introduce the Food and Drink Criteria into their school canteen. This includes classifying packaged foods and measuring portion sizes of fresh foods as well as ways to promote the healthy food options available to students.

The final step involved an independent canteen menu check which confirms the canteen meets the Food and Drink Criteria and has successfully become a Healthy School Canteen.

The Healthy School Canteen Strategy is supporting the Premier’s priority to reduce overweight and obesity rates of children by 5% by 2025.

NSW public school canteens are transitioning to the new guidelines over a three-year period with all canteens expected to meet criteria by December 2019.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:33:11 AEDT

Now that students are back to school after a break it’s a good time to chat with your child about safe behaviours when you walk or commute to school.

Here are our top tips to help our students make a safe trip:

1. Be alert and aware

Take note of the dangers you come across on your walk and bring them to your child’s attention. Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways. Talk to your child about being alert in a road environment.

2. Hold hands

When on the footpath, at a crossing or in a car park always hold your child's hand. It is advised to do this up to the age of at least 8 years old and closely supervise until at least the age of 10.

3. Choose a safe crossing

Lead by example and choose a safe place to cross the road. Explain why it is the safest place to cross.

4. Set a good example

Your child watches everything you do, so if you cross at the crossing they will too. It is also important to share these messages with other carers who may walk with your child to school.

5. Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time you cross the road

Discuss this important road safety message. STOP! one step back from the kerb. LOOK! continuously both ways. LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK! whether it is safe to cross.

Practise makes perfect

The more supervised practice your child can get the better, so why not make Term 1 the start of a new routine to walk with your child to school more often.

Older children may be ready to make the journey to school independently. Before they take this step, observe if they are road safe and reinforce the road safety messages.

For more information, check out the department’s pedestrian safety advice for students, parents and carers.

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:03:02 AEDT

The first day of Kindergarten and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you make the most of this time and enjoy the experience, we’ve compiled some useful tips and checklists. We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

Our film #FirstDay2019 captures the excitement – and the nerves – of the rite of passage that is the first day of Kindergarten.

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:26:12 AEDT

Like all NSW public schools, this week we will receive a School Budget Allocation Report with our funding for 2019. The report will help us manage our total budget delivered through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM).

The RAM supports schools through needs-based funding to ensure a fair, efficient and transparent allocation of funds. Our school has the flexibility to make local decisions based on the specific needs of our students.

We will use our 2019 funding to support students and improve educational outcomes. The school executive will continue to work with the school community as we implement the school plan using this needs-based funding.

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Premier highlights the value of public education

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 16:09:29 AEST

Kiama and Parramatta public schools hosted the launch of Education Week today.

The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, with (from left): Education Minister Rob Stokes; State Member for Parramatta, Geoff Lee; Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott; student performers and comperes, and the Principal of Parramatta Public School, Gail Charlier (far right).

Public education can be the springboard to the top job in New South Wales.

That was the message from the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, as she launched Education Week celebrations today at Parramatta and Kiama public schools.

"I know that all schools across the state today are highlighting and celebrating what we all value in public education – where someone like me who couldn't speak a word of English when she started school has somehow ended up being the Premier of NSW," she said.

Ms Berejiklian said she had met many possible future leaders during her visit to Parramatta Public School and "couldn't be prouder, as your Premier, to witness the outstanding achievements of all the students across the state".

The dual school launch, linked via a live simulcast, focused on the theme of Education Week, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, which highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the launch was hosted entirely by primary school students and featured student performances from Eastwood Public School violinist Justine Zhang, Bossley Park High School soloist Ezra Loau and dancers from Hoxton Park Public School.

Year 8 students from Kiama High School – Alira Morgan, Jannali Morgan and Olivia Talbott – opened the celebration with an Acknowledgement of Country performed in language.

Keynote speeches were delivered from Kiama by Terara Public School Year 6 student Lucy Boundy, Molly Chapman, a Year 8 student at Dapto High School, and Nowra East Public School instructional leader Vishanti Govender.

Lucy told the launch that education was about opportunity: "Opportunity to learn, opportunity to improve and opportunity to make a difference."

In detailing her early struggles with learning, Molly said a more hands-on approach to study at her high school had a huge impact on her.

"I learn more effectively by seeing and doing things because it gets in my head more easily and pictures are worth a thousand words. Thanks to school, I'm exceeding in almost everything I touch," she said.

Education Minister Rob Stokes highlighted the "incredible legacy" of public schools on society, a role contemporary education and educators would play in the future.

"We are in a period of vast technological, social and economic change, and with that the role of education becomes more important, even bigger, and the challenge for teachers and students becomes more complex," he said.

"We need to provide training in those skills that recognise the future is uncertain and to train and encourage young people not just to be ready for the change that is coming but to be excited by it."

Education Week 2018 - Today's schools creating tomorrow's world

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 16:09:54 AEST

The future of education will be showcased in NSW public schools from August 6 – 10 as students, teachers and parents across the state celebrate Education Week 2018.

Education Week kicks off on Monday, August 6, with a simultaneous launch at Parramatta and Kiama public schools livestreamed on YouTube so all government schools and their communities can join in.

This year's theme, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the Education Week launch will be hosted by primary school students and will feature a dancing robot, student performances and a film highlighting how schools are working with their communities to solve real-world problems.

A highlight of the week is the Game Changer Challenge, in which 16 teams of students from schools across NSW will compete in a three-day design program, working alongside leading industry professionals to create the school of the future.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today's students were learning at a time of great change.

"From the far west to our metropolitan hubs and everywhere in between, our state's schools will celebrate not only what we've achieved, but the future we are creating," Ms Berejiklian said.

"We are living in a time when the traditional walls of the classroom are opening up to new worlds of learning, paving the way for students to connect and collaborate with their peers regionally and globally."

Education Minister Rob Stokes said there had never been a more exciting time to be involved in schools with technology reshaping the way students learn and billions of dollars being invested in new school infrastructure.

"The NSW Department of Education is continually striving for improvement and innovation so that the young people in our care learn in a world-class education system," Mr Stokes said.

"The NSW Government is supporting that vision through a record $6 billion in funding to build the classrooms and schools of the future."

The Secretary of the Department of Education Mark Scott said ensuring today's students had the skills they would need to "not just survive, but thrive" in the future underpinned the department's evidence-based approach to learning.

"I am incredibly proud of the innovative teaching and learning that is being done across our State's public schools to ensure that every student can perform to their full potential," Mr Scott said.

"We don't know what the future will hold, but we do know that we are focused on equipping today's students with the skills and knowledge they will need to lead fulfilling lives in the future."

New uniform policy for NSW public schools

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 16:10:23 AEST

A new uniform policy has been introduced for NSW public schools, which for the first time include the option for girls to wear shorts and pants.

The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, and the Minister for Education, Rob Stokes, announced the new "clear and concise" policy today at Condell Park Public School in Sydney.

Ms Berejiklian said the "modern makeover" would ensure that uniforms were practical and comfortable for students and affordable for parents.

The new policy says all students should have the opportunity to access the full range of school activities while wearing a school uniform, including physical activities, and girls must have the option to wear shorts and pants.

For more information, read the media release by the Premier and Minister. The new policy and implementation guidelines (PDF 116.83KB) are available on the department's website.

The Department of Education supports the wearing of school uniform to promote a sense of belonging for students and create a positive identity for the school community.

Each public school decides on its school uniform in formal consultation with students, school staff, parents and the school community.

Selective High School Information

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

Selective High School Information:

Department's Website : https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes

Information about applying for Year 7 Entry to Selective High Schools in 2019

Selective High School (pdf 302 KB)

More important Information:

Some primary schools across NSW offer places in ‘opportunity classes' for gifted and talented students in Years 5 and 6. To be considered for placement students must sit the Opportunity Class Placement Test. For information about applying and the placement process go to

https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-5.

Selective high schools cater for the specific needs of high achieving gifted students who may otherwise be without sufficient classmates at their own academic and social level. Selective schools help gifted and talent students to learn by grouping them with other gifted and talented students, teaching them in specialised ways and providing educational materials at the appropriate level. Parents apply when the student is in Year 5. The students sit the test in March of Year 6.

To be considered for placement students must sit the Selective High School Placement Test. For information about applying and the placement process go to https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-7.

Some selective high schools have vacancies in Years 8 to 12. Applications open in late June for placement the following year. For information about applying and the placement process go to https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/years-8-to-12

Saving for a Rainy Day Cover - Macarthur Chronicle Tuesday 9 February 2016

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

Saving for a Rainy Day

2016 Update

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:21 AEST

Dear Parents/Carers,

Welcome back to 2016. I hope that everyone has had a wonderful break and ready for another wonderful year at Kentlyn Public School.

Some important dates for your diary are as follows:

First day back for Year 1 - Year 6 students is on Thursday 28 January 2016.

Kindergarten students will start their Best Start Testing according to their allocated times. If you are not sure what time your child has been booked in for this please ring the office. Kindergarten students will officially start on Wednesday 3 February 2016.

Swimming Carnival 2016. This is for students that are turning 8 years old and over this year. It will be on Tuesday 2 February 2016. We will be requesting for parent volunteers to assist on the day and if you are available to assist please let us know on the note that will go out on Thursday 28 January.

Have a wonderful Australia Day and looking forward to seeing everyone on Thursday morning.

Ms Kavallaris

Kentlyn Public School Seeking Your Support

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:23 AEST

Kentlyn Public School was established in 1937 and continues to serve the community well.

Kentlyn receives very little funding from the government we are a small school with 151 students. Last year we managed to raise over $10,000 to improve our infrastructure and purchase XO laptops for every student to ensure 21^st Century learning.

Can you help to raise funds of $60,000 for a C.O.L.A (Covered Outdoor Learning Area).

This goal keeps slipping, however, approaching quickly is the schools 80^th anniversary and this cover is very much needed. It would be used daily in all sorts of weather conditions for school assemblies, sport days and community events.

If you have a desire to help a little school, love preserving history and giving at Christmas or in the new year, then please consider helping! So far we have managed to raise $5,000, if the community could band together each giving a gold coin, match what we have raised or you know a local business that can help, affluent executives, past students we would be extremely grateful.

Our students are very excited and are looking forward to being back here and ready to learn in 2016, with your help we could surprise them with a C.O.L.A.

Your generous support to achieve this huge goal for our "Little Oasis" Kentlyn Public School would be greatly appreciated, if you are able to provide assistance in any way we would love to hear from you.

All donations can be directed to the school office, if further information is required please contact the school Principal, Ms Kavallaris on 02 46282455 E-mail: androula.kavallaris@det.nsw.edu.au or email kentlyn-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au for further information on this great little school our website is www.kentlyn-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

World's Greatest Shave

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:25 AEST

Kentlyn Public School will again be participating in the World's Greatest Shave this year. After the sad events of last year, this is the schools chance to do something after so long of only being able to watch. Mr Saunders will again be shaving all his hair off (after a unanimous vote from the senior students) as well as three students from the senior classes. This week there will be tickets sold to spray a teachers hair any colour you like, with all money going towards our total. If any members of the community wanted to donate, the link is here:

World's Greatest Shave

Thank you in advance for all your support.

Seeking Your Support - A Laptop for Every Student

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

Kentlyn Public School is asking for your support to raise enough money to purchase a laptop (XO) for each student at our great school. See document below.

Kentlyn Needs Your Support (docx 72 KB)

South West Voice Article December 2014

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

The South West Voice has published an article helping sprend the word about the changes at Kentlyn and the ordering of XOs for the students. The article can be found at:

http://www.southwestvoice.com.au/laptop-computer-every-student-little-schools-big-vision/

More news »

Macarthur Chronicle Article December 2014

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:23 AEST

Continuing our efforts to raise money for our wonderful school to step up to the 21st century classroom, an article has been written to let the community know of our situation. Thanks to everyone involved and keep helping us spread the word.

Macarthur Chronicle Article (pdf 2645 KB)

Facebook Link

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:22 AEST

Official Facebook Page

Please check out our official facebook page for updates and events occuring within our school

https://www.facebook.com/#!/kentlynps

P & C Meeting Postponed

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

The P & C meeting has been postponed to next Wednesday 14 May 2014. We would love to have everyone that can make it attend. Meeting starts at 6:30 in the school office.

2014 Swimming Carnival

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:20 AEST

A big thank you to Miss Chisholm, Miss Helliwell and Mrs Price for their efforts with the swimming carnival, and an even bigger thank you to the parents that helped with the timing. It was a great day of competition. The zone team will be announced on Monday and the winning house will be announced at the assembly on Friday.

Swimming Results (pdf 31 KB)

The 75th Anniversary Sponsors

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:25 AEST

Kentlyn Public School would like to thank all the sponsors that have helped with the 75th Anniversary. Links to all the sponsors can be found at the bottom of this page.

http://www.ftequipment.com.au/

http://www.heightsafety.net/

http://www.worldflight.com.au/

http://www.experienceoz.com.au/

http://www.maclinlodgemotel.com.au/

http://www.zone3campbelltown.com.au/

http://www.clarkrubber.com.au/campbelltown.html

http://stores.ebay.com.au/Instyle-Furniture-Collections

http://www.macarthurwatersports.com.au/store/

http://www.cartridgeworld.com.au/

http://www.captaincook.com.au/

http://www.automasters.com.au/

http://www.squarewaffle.com.au/

http://www.truelocal.com.au/business/mintos-fruit-orchard/minto

http://www.kingpinbowling.com.au/macarthur/

http://www.dumaresqstreetcinema.com.au/

http://www.interbowl.com.au/campbelltown/index.php

http://sewmanystitches.allthingsquilting.com.au/

http://www.msp.com.au/

http://www.cakedecoratingcentral.com/

http://www.featherdale.com.au/

http://www.facebook.com/GeorgesOnQueen

http://www.campbelltown.lollipopsplayland.com.au/

http://www.colourworkshair.com.au/

http://www.macarthureducation.com.au/

http://www.timsgardencentre.com.au/

http://www.abyssaquariums.com/

http://www.macarthurstockfeeds.com.au/

http://www.yellowpages.com.au/nsw/campbelltown/whats-your-brew-14597168-listing.html

http://www.macarthurpages.com.au/businessdirectory/campbelltown-marketplace-newsagency-2078.html

Spelling Bee at Kentlyn Public School

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:23 AEST

The Premiers Spelling Bee Competition is coming up and the word list is now available. Attached is a copy of the Junior and Senior Premiers Spelling Bee Competition word list for next term.

Junior Word List (pdf, 73 KB)

Senior Word List (pdf, 74 KB)

For more information, please head to the website:

https://www.artsunit.nsw.edu.au/index.php?q=speaking-competitions/spelling-bee/2012-premiers-spelling-bee

The username and password is available to any parents who would like to access the lists.

Username: teacher

Password: eucalyptus

Just a reminder the wordlists are not restricted in any way and may be distributed to any and all students who require them/ would like them.

Please note: Junior words begin at Level 1 and go to Level 5

Senior words begin at Level 2 and go to Level 7

Additionally this year, The Arts Unit is pleased to announce that Samsung, the Principal Sponsor of the 2012 Premier?'s Spelling Bee, will early in Term 3 place a free Spelling Bee app in the Samsung Apps Market Place. The app will provide students with the opportunity to practice spelling the official words of the 2012 Premier?'s Spelling Bee http://www.samsungapps.com/

World's Greatest Shave

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:25 AEST

NOTE: THE SHAVE WILL BE AT 2:30PM

Please remember that Friday is Crazy Hair Day. Students are allowed to wear mufti and come to school with their hair coloured and/or in a crazy style. The cost is a gold coin. All money will be counted in the morning, and then, depending on the amount of money raised, Mr Ryan and Mr Saunders will have their heads SHAVED!! The MORE money the school raises, the SHORTER the hair goes. The shaving will take place at 2:30pm under the cola. Thank you in advance for your support.

Kentlyn Public School Swim Meet

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:23 AEST

Here are the results from the 2012 Swimming Carnival. Well done to all students who participated and good luck to those that made it to the Zone Carnival on Thursday the 1st of March.

Swimming Carnival Results (pdf, 88 KB)

Woolworths & McCains Competition

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:25 AEST

Woolworths Earn & Learn Docket Challenge

We have registered with the Woolworths Earn and Learn docket challenge this year. For every $10 spent in the store you will receive one point. All you need to do is bring the dockets to school and place in the specially marked box. We will do the entering of our points. This is a 9 week opportunity and began on the 18th July and will finish on the 18th September.

Tell all your family and friends so they can support us in our endeavour to redeem points for some wonderful resources like library books, classroom equipment, art and craft supplies.

McCain's Veggie Patch

Recently I received an email from a student with a fabulous idea:

This is Emily Moore I am emailing you because I believe our school should have a McCain's veggie patch. I have seen the ad on TV over and over again, and then I thought we should have a veggie patch and use the veggies at the canteen so the students are convinced to eat healthy and eat more munch and crunch.

What a wonderful idea and thanks to Emily, Mrs Gilyatt and Mrs Grover have registered our school in the McCain Veggie Patch challenge. What do we need your barcodes from McCain products. Further information will be provided in a separate note.

Cyber Bullying

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:22 AEST

Cyber Bullying

The issue of bullying is ever present in society. The issue of Cyber Bullying is becoming increasingly prevalent. The following tips have been provided to help deal with Cyber Bullying. Practical tips for kids dealing with an online bully:

Tell the bully in simple terms to leave you
alone. Tell them not to contact you again.
Log off immediately and stay offline for at
least 24 hours.
Do not reply to any future mail from the
bully. Do not reply to taunts, emails or gossip
written about you. By ignoring taunts, you
take the power away from the harasser and
refuse to play their game. You are now in
charge.
Never give your password or logon details to
anyone, even your best friends. It's really
easy for someone to log on to your
Facebook, Bebo or MySpace site and post
any kind of rubbish if they know your
password.
Stay out of chat rooms where you don't feel
comfortable.
Keep all harassing emails (and any replies
you've made) as evidence.
If you feel you are in physical danger or if
the bully has made physical threats against
you, tell your parents immediately and they
can decide if it's appropriate to contact
authorities.

For more great tips on staying safe online, see
www.schools.nsw.edu.au/click

Public Speaking

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

Kentlyn has recently been participating in the Premier's Debating Challenge. The challenge involved
schools entering a team of Year 5/6 students to compete in debates against other schools in a round
robin format.

The Kentlyn team participated in three debates, coming up against Macquarie Fields, Mawarra and
The Oaks. All team members gained confidence with each debate while gaining invaluable public speaking
experience. The team worked on developing essential skills to help present a strong persuasive
argument including researching, organising information and delivering a clear argument
including the effective use of rebuttals.

The team lost their first debate against Macquarie Fields but learned a great deal about the debating
process along the way. This experience contributed to a strong showing in the second debate against
Mawarra where Kentlyn presented some convincing arguments and only lost narrowly. All the hard work
payed off in the final debate against The Oaks where a confident Kentlyn presented well-organised,
tightly structured and passionate arguments, resulting in a well deserved victory. The win was a
good reward for the effort put in by each team member. Congratulations everyone on your
commitment and effort!

Kentlyn Debating Team
Aimee Walker Jaimie Redzic
Dominic Robinson Janya Koshnitsky
Emily Moore Isobel Friel
Naomi Cross Alexis Humphries

Year 6 Fundraising
We are asking for your support in a fundraising activity for Term 3. We are hoping to sell cakes and
slices on Open Day on Tuesday 2nd August as part of our Education Week activities. If you are able to
make some cakes or slices that we can sell on the day that would be fantastic and very much
appreciated. Mrs Milkins has also offered to sell tea and coffee as well.

Mr Gray Ryan
Assistant Principal

Christmas In July Fundraiser

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:22 AEST

Christmas In July

Come support our wonderful school and enjoy a bit of Christmas cheer.

When: Arrival 6pm, Dinner served 7pm

Where: Kentlyn's School Hall

Cost: $25.00 per person (covers entry and dinner)
Must be over 18
BYO Drinks

Childcare: Ms Lorraine McKean in Library for $10 per child, $20 per family

Premier's Spelling Bee

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:24 AEST

Premier's Spelling Bee 2011

The Premier's Spelling Bee word list for 2011 has been released. Interested students and parents may view the lists by following the link. Students in years 3-6 will be able to participate in the school-based stage of the competition in Week 4. There are two divisions: Junior (Year 3-4) and Senior (Year 5-6). The top two placed students in each division will gain the privilege of representing Kentlyn in the Regional Finals, held in September. A password may be required to access the word lists, user-name: teacher, password: arachnophobia

https://www.artsunit.nsw.edu.au/speaking-competitions/spelling-bee/2011-premiers-spelling-bee

Be an active family

Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:30:21 AEST

Children's Activator

Children love to be active. Making physical activity a part of
their daily routine is not only fun, but also healthy.
Physical activity is important for healthy growth and
development. Encouraging children to be active when they
are young also sets up a routine that could stay with them
throughout their life.

Did you know?

Children should be physically active for at least 60 minutes
a day and spend no more than two hours a day surfing the
net, watching TV or playing video games.
There are loads of fun ways that they can be active, whether
it's at school during lunch, recess or class time, or outside of
school with family and friends.
Want to see some of the many fun ways that young people
can be active? Well, sit down with your child or children
(remember not to sit for too long!!), follow the instructions
below and make your own special be active Activator.
It shows heaps of great ideas to get you started!

Instructions

What you need:
A sheet of cardboard, some scissors, glue and a split pin.
1) Stick this page to some cardboard with glue.
2) Use some scissors and carefully cut out around each circle.
3) Lay the three layers of your pinboard in the order
indicated below, with a split pin through the centre.
4) Turn the dial and be active!

Be an active family ideas (pdf, 816 KB)

South Australian Government

SPARC NZ have kindly permitted the use of the Push Play Activator concept