Wallsend South Public School Annual School Report · Class Teachers Li Trent Kandler ... Kerrie...

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3841 2012 Wallsend South Public School Annual School Report

Transcript of Wallsend South Public School Annual School Report · Class Teachers Li Trent Kandler ... Kerrie...

Page 1: Wallsend South Public School Annual School Report · Class Teachers Li Trent Kandler ... Kerrie Dixon – Support Teacher Learning Blake Bradshaw Simone Cadell ... Wallsend South

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Wallsend South Public School

Annual School Report

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Our school at a glance

Students

In 2012, Wallsend South Public School had an enrolment of 552 students. There were 275 male and 277 female students. These students ranged in age from 4.5 to 13 years of age.

Staff Principal Ian Hamilton

Deputy Principal Colleen Innes

Assistant Principals Rob Lord Helen Smart / Tracey Lovat Rob Naylor Simone Cadell / Melanie Serjeant

Class Teachers Trent Kandler / Margaret Bramble Angela Webber / Sue Farmer Lisa Matthews Melanie Serjeant Leone Webb Kerry Pike Michelle Murphy / Lynn Ali Tracey Moloney Tracey Houston Janelle Harwood Erinne Kuranty Suzi Gillett Michelle Jackson / Melissa Mitchell Leah Waterman Miriam Leary Helen Smart Rachael Smith / Blake Bradshaw

Rob Lord Thea O’Sullivan Karen Diehl Matthew Lowrey Kim Burton Rob Naylor

Support Teachers Tracey Lovat – Reading Recovery Kerrie Dixon – Support Teacher Learning Blake Bradshaw Simone Cadell

Librarian Peta Finnane / Leah Waterman

School Counsellors Aurora Sacchetti Peter Swain

School Administrative Manager Kristine Murray / Joanne Bunny

School Administration Officers Gail Mayers Julie Davey Nea Cooper

General Assistant Wayne Godfrey

Canteen Supervisor Nicole Quinn

School Learning Support Officers Belinda Furgiuele Virginia Murdoch Lisa Gibson Sharon Watt Jackie Fennell Wayne Bull Nicole Bradley Romana Soldas Elizabeth Wilcox

All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.

Student achievement in 2012

Literacy

K-2 results indicated results above the Regional average for Reading. In Year 3 this is continued where Year 3 students scored above the state

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average in the higher achievement bands for reading. For Year 3 students, results in Writing, Spelling and Grammar and Punctuation were all above state average. The Year 5 students did not score as well as they have in the past with disappointing results in Writing and Spelling.

Numeracy

Results for Year 5 were good in Number with students scoring well in the top two bands. The other aspects of Numeracy were equivalent to the expected State average. For Year 3 all areas of Numeracy were positive with particularly good numbers of students in the top two bands.

Messages

Principal’s message

2012 has drawn to a close and WSPS has had another successful year of learning. Learning has taken place in the classroom, the playground, the sporting arena, the stage and within our values framework. The relationship between home and school has continued to foster a positive approach to learning for our children as they move from one environment of respect and support to another. Our expectations remain high for our students and this encourages our children to take the risks to do their best and push the limits of their learning. Our duty as teachers is to best prepare our students to be positive contributors to the world they will join as adults. You have every right to be proud of your children, and we remain proud of our students.

I certify that the information in this report is the result of a rigorous school self-evaluation process and is a balanced and genuine account of the school’s achievements and areas for development.

Ian Hamilton

P & C message

Wallsend South Public School is certainly an outstanding school and its successes and achievements are reached with the help and support of a wonderful school community. Parents demonstrate a high level of involvement in many aspects of the school. There are many committed and enthusiastic volunteers who work extremely hard to assist with fundraising, canteen, uniform shop, school banking, as well as helping in classrooms.

Through successful fundraising the P&C was able to provide valuable resources for the school. Our Easter Fair in March was a great success, which resulted in a profit of approximately $16500. These funds, combined with monies raised at other events such as school discos, mothers and fathers day stalls and entertainment book sales , enabled us to provide covered walkways to classrooms. With funds from our building account, combined with the commission from the school banking program, we were able to provide a shelter for the “pick up and go” area.

2012 also saw the appointment of our new canteen supervisor Mrs Nicole Quinn. Nicole has worked tirelessly throughout the year and has managed to increase our canteen sales and profit dramatically. The children have enjoyed seeing their parents and grandparents helping out in the canteen.

Our uniform shop continues to thrive and we are ever grateful to all of those parents who have been able to assist.

I would encourage all parents to join our P&C. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month and are a wonderful source of information about what is happening throughout the school community. Our numbers are continuing to grow and it is great to see so many new faces.

I am very pleased with our achievements for the year and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the entire WSPS school community.

Sally Conley P&C President

School Council message

2012 was another full year for School Council. We have seen the completion of the three year

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building program, including a new COLA, the new K block and other minor works.

The WSPS Homework Policy was reworked matching the expectations of teachers and parents, and WILF (What I am looking for) became a regular concept utilised by teachers.

In 2013, we look forward to the installation of our new lift, linking K Block to the Library and the replacement of our Canteen.

School Council continues to have an active role in developing the policies that are implemented in the school. The Council is vital in presenting the views of the parent population as well as input from community members that generates a truly representative viewpoint of issues of concern to our school.

Craig MacClure, President

Student representative’s message

2012 has been a very exciting and successful year for the school leaders. We are very proud to have the position of school leaders at this amazing school. We are so honoured to represent our school at a range of different venues and events.

In March, we travelled with Mr Lord to Sydney. We attended the 2012 National Young Leader’s Day. We listened to some very inspirational speakers and we learnt about leadership and how to be a great role model.

On the 25th of April, we attended an ANZAC service at Federal park where we marched and honoured the people who fought for our country. We had the honour of laying down a wreath each.

Back at Wallsend South, we hosted an ANZAC assembly with special guests from the army.

On Grandfriend’s Day, we helped out and spoke in front of all of the grand friends.

Mrs Butters, the previous canteen supervisor left our school this year. The school leaders hosted a farewell assembly for her. Another staff member, Mrs Finnane (Librarian) left our school and we also hosted a farewell assembly for her.

The representatives from Wallsend South (SRC and School Leaders) decided to help raise funds for Matthew Storey and his expensive medical

treatment (an ex-Wallsend South student). In total, Wallsend South students raised $1065.

The school leaders hosted Celebration night, an annual recognition of the successes of the year.

All year, we hosted the weekly Friday assemblies. Just recently we have improved the acknowledgment of the country that begins each assembly.

We are so proud of our school and we look forward to seeing what the new school leaders do in the future.

Jamie Lord; Sofia Nolan; Emily Mitchell; Luke

Quaas; Jack Ward; and Sam Hawkins at the 2012

National Young Leaders Day.

School context

Student information

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

Student enrolment profile

Gender 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Male 313 311 310 313 286 274

Female 255 250 266 272 272 279

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Student attendance profile

Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

K 93.8 93.9 95.8 95.2

1 95.5 94.6 94.5 94.2

2 94.7 95.5 94.2 95.1

3 94.7 94.9 95.3 94.5

4 94.4 94.4 94.0 95.4

5 94.7 93.4 95.1 94.5

6 94.2 94.6 93.4 94.2

Total 94.6 94.5 94.4 94.6 94.7

Management of non-attendance

Parents notify the school in writing, by email or over the telephone when a student is unable to come to school. This is in line with DET policy. In the event of long absences, the school makes contact with the parents to ensure the absence does not impact greatly on the student’s learning.

In extreme cases, the Home School Liaison Officer is invited to contact parents and assist in the return of the student to regular attendance at the school.

Staff information

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

Staff establishment

Position Number

Principal 1

Deputy Principal(s) 1

Assistant Principal(s) 4

Classroom Teachers 22

Teacher of Reading Recovery 1

Support Teacher Learning Assistance

and Teacher of ESL

1

Teacher Librarian 1

Counsellor 2

School Administrative & Support Staff 12

Total 45

The National Education Agreement requires schools to report on Indigenous composition of their workforce. Wallsend South Public School has a non- indigenous staff of 45.

Teacher qualifications

All teaching staff meet the professional requirements for teaching in NSW public schools.

Qualifications % of staff

Degree or Diploma 93%

Postgraduate 7%

Financial summary

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

Date of financial summary 30/11/2012

Income $

Balance brought forward 204307.72 Global funds 306304.12 Tied funds 274341.35 School & community sources 237551.77 Interest 10800.31 Trust receipts 25745.70 Canteen 0.00

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Total income 1059050.97

Expenditure

Teaching & learning Key learning areas 59354.93 Excursions 85467.49 Extracurricular dissections 102011.16

Library 8132.68 Training & development 5861.37 Tied funds 264861.30 Casual relief teachers 88061.80 Administration & office 74407.18 School-operated canteen 0.00 Utilities 62106.09 Maintenance 46037.79 Trust accounts 24450.27 Capital programs 28282.73

Total expenditure 849034.79

Balance carried forward 210016.18

NB: Tied funds also contain some Training & development.

A full copy of the school’s 2012 financial statement is tabled at the annual general meetings of the School Council and/or the parent body. Further details concerning the statement can be obtained by contacting the school.

School performance 2012

Achievements

Band

The Wallsend South Public School Concert Band has enjoyed another successful year. After losing thirteen of our band members to high school and another 3 to different schools at the end of 2011, the band started out smaller at the beginning of the year with only 28 students. We welcomed approximately 20 new students from years 2-5 who joined the band throughout the year strengthening the band once again to a large group of 48 members at full strength. This is an above average size for a band at primary school level. The band’s fundraising allowed the purchase of a new tenor saxophone which will allow for further growth in the numbers in future years.

The band has enjoyed playing at school assemblies, Grandfriend’s Day, and other special in-school events. The band performed regularly for the Wallsend Seniors Group, an afternoon

where the children play for, and mix with some of our local seniors for afternoon tea and a chat. The children joined with 4 other local school bands at Kotara High School where a workshop was held. In November, 17 of our band members grasped the opportunity to attend a local three day Band Camp at Glenrock Lagoon. This allowed them to join with children from other schools to further develop their musical skills and love for music.

The band was very successful again at this year at the NSW School Bands Festival, displaying some of the best talent in the contest and winning a Bronze medal with our outstanding performance. Our musicians were able to showcase individual talents at our Annual Family Band Night, performing solo and small group items, and playing as part of our band. Our band was given the opportunity to play at our school’s Celebration Night, which was a great opportunity to show our talents on a larger scale to our school community.

The fabulous achievements are largely due to the many hours of hard work that the children put into practice sessions, the dedication of our band conductor Alison Tonkin, the band organisers Tracey Moloney, and Leah Waterman and of course, the ongoing support of our parents.

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Senior Choir

The Wallsend South Public School Senior Choir consists of students from Years 5 and 6. This year the choir had over 58 members.

There is no audition process to join the Senior Choir, rather encouraging and accepting any student who is willing to attend the practices. The choir has three timetabled practice sessions each week: - Monday lunch time 1:20 – 1:55pm, Tuesday morning 8:20 – 8:55am and Wednesday morning 8:20 – 8:55am. When new repertoire is being learnt, Sopranos practice on Tuesday mornings and Altos practice on Wednesday mornings. When the students have learnt their parts separately, the full choir then sings together at Monday lunch time and Wednesday mornings to perfect their pitch, timing, entries and use of dynamics in preparation for public performances.

This year, the Senior Choir’s first performance was for the WSPS community on Grandfriends Day in first term. This was followed by a performance at Charlestown Square during Education Week in Term 2. In Term 4 the choir sang for members of the school and local aged community at a Performing Arts Concert.

The highlight of our year for the Year 6 choir members was our successful audition for the Festival of Choral Music Combined Primary School Choir. Out of the 158 choirs to audition, WSPS was one of the 80 schools selected to perform in one of the 4 concerts scheduled at the Concert Theatre in the Sydney Opera House. This allowed us to take the 34 Year 6 Senior Choir members to sing 11 items at the Sydney Opera House in a combined choir of over 500 children, which was absolutely thrilling.

To conclude our year, members of the Senior Choir, along with a few other musically inclined

children from Years 5 and 6, were given the opportunity to attend Hunter School of Performing Arts’ musical production of Beauty and the Beast.

Junior Choir

The Junior Choir consists of 42 students from Years 3 and 4. The choir began the year with a busy practice schedule with 20 students selected to perform in Starstruck 2012 “The Time Machine”. The group was highly enthusiastic and involved in numerous group practice sessions with the Starstruck Choir and performed in all matinee and evening performances. Other performances included Charlestown Square for Education Week and our school “Grandfriends Day”. The choir also gave performances and entertained residents at Koombahla Nursing Home, Jenny Macleod Retirement Village and Woodlands Nursing Home in Term 3. In Term 4 the choir performed for the school community at our annual Performing Arts Night which also welcomed local Nursing Home residents to the school for a “Morning of Music”. This was thoroughly enjoyed by the choir and the local school community.

Dance

The Stage 2, Year 4 students from Wallsend South Public School were once again involved in the Department of Education and Communities’ Starstruck Production at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre in June. Our school has continued to participate in this Performing Arts event for over 10 years. Following a successful audition, 16 students from our school were

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chosen, 15 girls and 1 boy to dance in the extravaganza entitled “The Time Machine”. They committed to many hours, learning the choreography for 2 dances and a third dance being the Finale. The students, together with some equally committed teachers from our school, took part in the rehearsals and organization for the event. The parents were equally supportive in carpooling to and from rehearsals and concert sessions. One of our students also auditioned successfully to be a featured dancer in a ballet piece. The choir, solo singers, group dancers and dramatic performances demonstrated the talent within the Hunter Region with over 3,000 primary and secondary public education students performing for a live and televised audience. The students from Wallsend South Public School demonstrated integrity both on and off the stage and made the staff, parents and community extremely proud.

Debating

The debating program at Wallsend South Public School has given students in Years 5 and 6 the opportunity to participate in debating workshops and to develop skills needed to compete in the Train-On Squad and Premier’s Debating Challenge. Owing to the high standard of participants in both Years 5 and 6, we were able to have one team in Year 5 and two teams in Year 6. Our Year 6A Team made it through the competition undefeated only to be narrowly beaten in the regional semi –final, finishing third out of 114 schools. Our 6B team only had one defeat and that was by our own 6A team. With the help of our dedicated volunteer, Karen Turner, all teams enjoyed a positive and rewarding experience.

Public Speaking & Multicultural Speaking

Our school public speaking program is a major event held annually K-6. It plays an important part in the implementation of the Talking and Listening strand from the English syllabus. Through the skills learnt from this program students run assemblies and have the confidence to participate in the school’s Student Representative Council program.

Wallsend South Public School has a reputation for high levels of aptitude in the public speaking

arena. Once again, our public speaking was of a very high standard this year. Two student representatives from each stage were selected to present their speeches at the Zone Finals. Three students from Early Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 received high commendations for their speeches.

We congratulate all our students on their fine efforts in presenting interesting speeches as part of our Public Speaking Program.

Spelling Bee

During Term 3, Years 3 to 6 participated in class spelling bees and activities in preparation for the School Spelling Bee. Two representatives were chosen from each class to compete in the competition. The words were challenging but the skills displayed by the competitors were exceptional. Four students went on to represent the school at the Stage 2 and Stage 3 Regional Final hosted by Wallsend South in September. Ezekiel Gentle, David Wake, Jessica Leggett and Hugh Fitter all progressed through to the final rounds with Hugh being runner-up in the Stage 3 competition.

Sport and Healthy Lifestyle

Students at Wallsend South P.S. continue to enjoy a range of sports and activities both during and after school hours. Class programs were tailored to develop both fitness and specific skills, and exposed students to a range of modified sports. The Fundamental Movement Skills Program was a focus in the early years. Specialist

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gymnastic instructors were engaged to enrich the PE program, which was greatly enjoyed by students across all stages. The school swimming program was once again a success, with most taking advantage of this opportunity. Students had the chance to participate in the Active After School Program, and consistently filled the vacancies to capacity. Activities included surfing, orienteering, Frisbee, basketball, dance and golf. These were taught by specialists and supported by staff two afternoons per week.

A healthy lifestyle program continues to be promoted with a great canteen and the Crunch and Sip program. Students of all ages enjoy the opportunity to eat fruit or vegetables with a short break at 10am. Water bottles are encouraged in classrooms to promote hydration.

Team sports continue to be an area of excellence. In the Knockout competition, the girls’ soccer team reached the highest level, winning the state competition. The boys’ hockey team made it to the top four in the State. These are certainly extraordinary achievements.

PSSA Winter sports continues to be a greatly anticipated program by students from Yr 3 to 6. Students compete with other local school teams in both junior and senior netball and soccer on a weekly basis. The school has become known for its sporting excellence and fair play.

The school swimming carnival was a great success at the Forum Swimming Centre. Students were able to compete in the events carnival and the novelty carnival, depending on their swimming interest and ability. Participation and fun were the cornerstones of the carnival. Students and parents enjoyed an excellent day of water activities. A large contingent of students from Yr 2 t0 6 represented the school at the Zone carnival, demonstrating the highest levels of sportsmanship.

Individual achievements at Zone, Regional and State level are regularly celebrated. In State Athletics, we were represented in the Senior Girls 4X100 relay, boys high jump and the girls 100m and 200m. WSPS prides itself on excellence in sporting achievement but an even greater achievement is in the consistent adherence to the values of integrity, persistence and resilience in sport and lifestyle choices.

Support Programs

The support programs at Wallsend South Public School focused mainly on literacy. The school began the year with an allocation of two days a week STLA funding and five mornings of Reading Recovery supplemented by fourteen extra teaching hours funded by the school.

With these resources the school was able to support all grades from Year 1 up: the STLA focused on small group withdrawal three mornings a week for Years 1, 2 and 5; one lesson per week for Year 6 withdrawal; the Reading Recovery teacher supported Year 1; and the extra teaching hours provided support to year groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 for three mornings a week.

The second half of the year brought changes with the NSW DEC implementing a changed funding model for the allocation of support teachers, now to be Learning and Support Teachers (LAST). Wallsend South Public School received an extra 2 days per week and an extra staff member. This extra support was distributed across all stages including Early Stage 1. The delivery of support was diversified to include team teaching as well as withdrawal and is now supporting literacy, numeracy and behaviour.

SLSOs funded by the DET provided personal support to individual students.

Academic

In the National Assessment Program, the results across the Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 literacy and numeracy assessments are reported on a scale from Band 1 to Band 10.

The achievement scale represents increasing levels of skills and understandings demonstrated in these assessments.

Yr 3: from Band 1 (lowest) to Band 6 (highest for Year 3)

Yr 5: from Band 3 (lowest) to Band 8 (highest for Year 5)

Reading – NAPLAN Year 3

70 students participated in the Literacy aspects of NAPLAN in 2012. Reading continues to be an area of strength at WSPS: 58% of boys achieved in the top two bands compared to the stage

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average of 39%; and 65% of girls were in the top two bands compared to the state average of 50%.

Persuasive writing was challenging for the boys with a decline in the top bands. Girls had no representation in the bottom two bands and only one child was in Band 3. Representation in the top three bands is above state average and reflects the focused attention to improved writing pedagogy in the Strategic School Plan.

In spelling, 95% of boys scored in Band 5 and 6. The achievement for girls has continued to improve steadily (an increase of 11% is evident in Band 6) but is still below state average. Grammar and Punctuation are areas which demonstrated significant success, 75% of boys being represented in Bands 5 and 6 compared to the state average of 56%. Trend data shows boys are 22 points above State achievement. Boys are widening the gap in this area. Half of the girls scored in the top band for Grammar and Punctuation. Trend data shows girls are maintaining a gap of 31 points above state achievement.

Areas for focus in 2013 include strengthening the development of persuasive writing skills. In particular, presenting elaborated ideas and sustained use of persuasive devices. Targeted improvement in reading, particularly developing skills such as inference, is a key area for professional development.

Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 3

In 2012, 69 students participated in the Mathematics aspects of NAPLAN. In Numeracy, boys are still achieving above the state by 16 points, 58% of students being in the top two bands compared to the SA of 39%. Girls were above state average in the top band and this continues to improve. Yet, there was also an increase in representation in the bottom two bands.

A focus for 2013 will be to strengthen skills and knowledge to move these students to the mid-bands. Boys did particularly well in Data, Measurement, Space and Geometry as well as Number, Patterns and Algebra, while 60% of girls achieved in the top three bands in Data, Measurement, Space and Geometry, as well as Number, Patterns and Algebra. A focus for 2013 will be to develop skills in whole number such as expanded notation. Use of operations to add and subtract 2-digit numbers will also be an area of focus.

Reading – NAPLAN Year 5

In 2012, 74 students in Year 5 sat for the NAPLAN

test in Literacy. Overall results in Reading were

positive, with results consistent with the state

averages. There has also been pleasing growth in

this area, 64% of students scored in the top 3

bands, compared to the state average of 59%.

When compared to state averages, our students

were better able to locate and interpret details

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Percentage in bands: Year 3 Reading

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and make inferences in texts, interpret character

personalities and sequences of events.

In Writing, 43% of our students scored in the top 3 bands, compared to the state average of 52%, although 15% of our students scored in the bottom two bands. The overall achievement in Writing this year has been slightly below state average.

In Spelling, 68% of students scored in the top 3 bands, which was slightly higher than the state average. Over 44% of students in the cohort achieved greater than expected growth. The boys’ results were significantly higher than the state average for boys.

As was the case in previous years, the most notable results were in Grammar and Punctuation, where 66% of students scored in the top 3 bands, compared to the state average of 59%. Our students were more proficient when selecting the correct verb form, identifying relative pronouns and using commas.

Numeracy – NAPLAN Year 5

In 2012, 73 students participated in the Year 5 NAPLAN test in Numeracy. Overall results showed the school performed well in all areas of Number, Patterns and Algebra, Measurement, Space and Geometry. Our students have shown slightly less growth in Numeracy areas compared to other schools in the state.

The achievement in the top band was very positive, with 21% of students scoring at this level, compared to the state average of only 16%. Student responses were well above state averages when dealing with questions in patterns and algebra, volume and capacity, fractions and decimals, and chance.

Progress in reading

Progress in numeracy

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The My School website provides detailed information and data for national literacy and numeracy testing (NAPLAN).

Click on the link http://www.myschool.edu.au and enter the school name in the Find a school and select GO.

Significant programs and initiatives

Aboriginal education

Aboriginal Education continues to be well supported by programs at WSPS. “Welcome to Country” opens every assembly and formal occasion. The Aboriginal flag hangs proudly at the front of the school. Education about historical and contemporary Aboriginal issues is embedded into programs across the curriculum from K-6. These are well supported by a variety of resources in the library and DEC websites. Once again this year, students were treated to engaging performances by Aboriginal dancers and storytellers. NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week were celebrated at a classroom level, and recognised across the school in assemblies and in displays in the front foyer.

Personal Learning Plans were supported by the parent body, enabling our Aboriginal students to have their learning tailored to their specific needs. Our Aboriginal students perform particularly well in academic assessments, evidenced by NAPLAN results and school tasks. This has been consistent in Year 3, 5 and 7 results.

ESL and Cultural Diversity

The student population of Wallsend South Public School for 2012 comprised mainly students born in Australia with a handful born overseas. Enrolment data reveals we have 38 students with a language background other than English: 15 languages from the Indian subcontinent, Asia, the Pacific Islands, the Arabian Peninsula and Europe. Our diversity is less than in 2011 when 22 languages were noted in the enrolments.

We began the year with no ESL funding as we had no Phase 1 students and only a couple of Phase 2 students. A new enrolment in August attracted one day a week New Arrival Program funding

which was distributed over three days in the week.

Multicultural awareness is integrated into the curriculum across all stages. Particular emphasis is given to religious diversity and ethnic celebrations in the HSIE syllabus, and the way various cultures measure the passing of time in the Maths and Sciences syllabi.

It is pleasing to note the multicultural perspectives implicit in the new reading resources purchased over the last year for guided reading and for the library.

Visiting Performances

This year we were privileged to have two quality performers visit our school.

In March, Tjupurra played the Didgeribone which is an Australian made and designed instrument combining elements of the didgeridoo and the trombone. Tjupurra thoroughly entertained the students with an interactive performance, combining traditional instruments with modern musical technology.

“Saving Lil and Archie” entertained our students in Term 3. This performance, which was set on the imaginary planet of Arkon, dealt with issues of positive behaviours, cyber bullying and citizenship. It was an action packed adventure, where the students were faced with many ways to manage their emotions such as anger, frustration, joy and jealousy and to control their impulses.

Library

The library at Wallsend South is a useful resource centre for both students and teachers. Not only does the library house a large collection of books for children, it is also home to a large number of teacher resources, a maths resource room and a creative arts storeroom. The collection of books in our library continues to grow, with new books and resources being introduced to the library on a fortnightly basis.

The library is a comfortable, safe place for all students to visit and enjoy. Each class has a weekly library lesson in which they learn information skills and literature appreciation, as well as developing a love of reading. During these

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lessons, students are given the opportunity to borrow a limited number of books to take home for the week. Several learning spaces in the library are also used for other purposes, such as maths and literacy groups, enrichment groups, special needs student withdrawal and research. An Interactive Whiteboard in the main learning area has helped create more engaging, interactive learning in the library.

We are lucky enough to have 15 computers in the library available for student use. These computers are used during library lessons for research as well as for enjoyment at lunch time. Other lunch time activities include games, puzzles, drawing and reading. Our valued year 6 library monitors contribute to the smooth running of lunchtime library activities.

In term 3 we held our annual Scholastic Book Fair in the library which was once again a great success due to the support of the P&C and parent helpers. The commission raised helped us to expand our library collection further. Scholastic Book Club is also offered throughout the year, providing students with the opportunity to purchase books whilst also assisting the library through book commission. Book Week also fell in Term 3 and all students and staff members participated in a story reading rotation. This activity was enjoyed by all involved.

School Learning Support Team

During 2012 the School Learning Support Team held regular meetings to discuss student progress, new referrals and to review individual student needs. The LST team consists of the Principal, Deputy Principal, two School Counsellors, the Support Teacher Learning, class teachers and the Assistant Principal for the stage, when required. The team worked together to

adjust the curriculum, where necessary, to more effectively meet the needs of each student on the SLST caseload. Modified programs were also created for groups of students such as Literacy and Math Support groups.

Throughout the year, on-line applications were completed to support students moving to High School or for those students requiring a review of their support needs. Staff has assisted the learning support team by facilitating the best outcomes for students regarding individual support needs.

The School Learning Support Team monitors classroom and playground support through the School Learning Support Officers. Timetables are organised, hall and playground activities are scheduled, and detailed minutes of all meetings are stored electronically.

During 2012, an updated version of electronic recording was introduced and this has proved to be highly successful in keeping all parties informed of the latest developments for individual students. It has also been an effective tool in tracking student progress.

The School Learning Support Team wishes to thank parents, carers, teachers, outside agencies and health professionals for the way we have all worked together throughout the year. Our team approach ensured that identified students had access to the curriculum at their required level without loss of self-esteem and dignity.

Grounds Improvements

Building improvements and maintenance have continued during 2012.

Our vegetable garden, our citrus area, and our strawberries and grapes have been maintained through the wonderful volunteer efforts of Mr Roy Stanners. His dedication to the upkeep and ongoing improvements is greatly appreciated by staff and students.

Our hen house continues to be a winner providing the canteen with much needed eggs. A huge thank you to the men of the Elermore Vale Men’s Shed who extended the chicken run.

To help with storage, the school purchased a container to house the bigger sporting equipment such as the high jump mats, poles and general

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sporting apparatus. It has proved to be a worthwhile purchase. A roof was also erected over the existing container to assist with keeping the sporting things inside dry during storms.

The new school sign was attached to K block and a roof was built over the Pick Up and Go area – much to the delight of the students, Mr. Hamilton and Ms Innes.

The Hall was also repainted and the Hall eves were replaced and painted.

The school purchased a remote control door for the sports shed and a new air conditioner for the computer room. Garden boarders were installed around the huge tree under the bottom COLA as well as around various other garden beds throughout the school.

On National Tree Day the students planted a number of smaller trees and Mr. Godfrey then made garden borders to protect the saplings as they grow.

The school received a Solar in Schools Grant and a 20,000 litre water tank was purchased and installed behind the Hall. This was connected to the Hall downpipes and the water is now pumped to the toilet blocks for flushing of the toilets.

During the September school holidays the Smith Road walkway was widened. Ramps were installed to the computer room, the library entrance and to the Hall. In addition the bottom toilet blocks were repainted.

Through the wonderful efforts of the Salvation Army Youth Group, the murals under the COLA were repainted in September.

The long noisy process of building the lift and walkway to connect K Block and the Library was begun in October. The completed structure was finally available in February 2013.

The school wishes to thank the staff, the students and the community for their patience and understanding through the programmed building works.

Progress on 2012 targets

Target 1

Technology is an integral part of the teaching program.

Our achievements include:

All staff implementing all parts of the WSPS Scope and Sequence

Training in technology was a part of each teacher’s professional learning

All classrooms have access to IWB technology and at least three computers within the classroom.

Target 2

Regional targets and NAPLAN reflect improved outcomes in Literacy and Numeracy.

Our achievements include:

Thinking skills were a part of each teacher’s Professional Learning

The curriculum was rid of interruptions that didn’t contribute to effective teaching and learning programs

Quality teaching elements were evident in all teaching programs

School evaluation

NSW public schools conduct evaluation to support the effective implementation of the school plan. In 2012 our school carried out evaluation of curriculum, school culture, and parent satisfaction.

Key Evaluations

Curriculum

Background

Feedback was recognised from Staff Professional learning as a vital component of effective teaching.

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Students and staff were surveyed and interviewed regarding their thoughts on Feedback.

Findings

Much of the feedback students receive is from their peers;

Staff and students acknowledged that feedback on what students did well is more helpful than a grade or a mark;

Staff and students use verbal and written feedback;

Staff and students both said the most useful feedback comes when the teacher can tell the student where they need to go next with their learning.

Future directions

Quality feedback is vital in the learning process;

Feedback can be a learned skill and needs to acknowledge what has been achieved and where the student needs to go next;

Time needs to be set aside each day for quality feedback to students about their work;

Initial Positive feedback opens up the dialogue for areas to improve;

All levels of school community would benefit from honest, sincere and respectful feedback

School Culture

Background

As part of the information gathering, parents were surveyed in their thoughts on 13 major points that reflect the culture of any school. They were also given the opportunity to make extra comments. Staff members were surveyed on the same 13 points and students were interviewed by the Principal.

Findings:

Overwhelmingly WSPS is acknowledged as having the students as the focus in the decisions made;

Nearly every survey returned commented that the school knows its families and is supported by the parents;

Almost every response acknowledged that the school encourages students to do their best, encourages everyone to learn and caters well for the learning needs of all students;

The school is constantly finding ways to improve what it does and is willing to make changes when necessary;

All staff and students said they were proud of their school;

Staff acknowledged we should remain vigilant

in our efforts to provide a relevant curriculum

to all students.

Future Directions

To summarise the responses, we feel several quotes from the comment section say it best:

WSPS is exceptional because it provides leadership to its whole school community with regard to its values;

I am very proud that my two boys attend WSPS;

WSPS is a fantastic caring school where students can feel safe and accepted;

Every interaction I have had with the staff at WSPS has been positive.

Further conclusions include :

Staff are prepared for change and willing to implement change if change is needed and provides improvement;

Students understand their role in making WSPS a good school;

Students felt their teachers genuinely tried their best and were interested in them and their abilities.

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Parent, student, and teacher satisfaction

In 2012 the school sought the opinions of parents, students and teachers about the school.

Their responses are presented below.

Students and Staff were surveyed on Feedback and this is reported in the school organisation and Curriculum sections. Parents, however, were surveyed on a range of issues. Their responses included:

98% of parents reported that they believe their students had good access to technology

95% of parents believed that the communication between home and school was informative and of sufficient quantity

95% of parents felt welcomed at the school and that their views were valued.

88% of parents believe that discipline was managed well at school and 12% were unsure.

Representative sporting opportunities existed for 3-6 but were limited for K-2

Our work reviewing the excursion program has paid off with 100% of responses acknowledging the worth of the current Excursion Program.

The results of this survey were outstandingly positive. School Council has initiated a number of Focus Groups to run during 2013, to discuss School Policy and current relevance to our school situation.

Professional learning

During 2012 Professional Learning supported the School Plan as well as the goals of individual Teaching and Support Staff. Our whole staff Professional Learning focused on our review of our NAPLAN results and dealt with ways to improve our delivery of Literacy and Numeracy. This development generally took place during weekly Staff Meetings. The whole staff was also involved in a considerable amount of mandatory training in issues to do with Health as in anaphylaxis training, asthma training, CPR, first aid and emergency care. Staff also underwent

training in Code of Conduct, Child Protection, safe practices in sport and planning for excursions.

On an individual basis Staff members accessed training in a range of areas including Visible Learning, Technology, Autism, providing for special needs, Library and WH&S.

School planning 2012—2014

The school planning policy provides direction for the preparation and implementation of school plans including the identification of priority areas, intended outcomes and targets that are consistent with the NSW State Plan and the Department’s planning documents.

School priority 1

Outcome for 2012–2014

Teachers improve their classroom practice

2013 Targets to achieve this outcome include:

All staff complete professional learning in Visible Learning

Data collection better informs our teaching

Teachers evaluate their own practice for effectiveness

Yrs 3-6 staff take part in Professional Learning in Reading

Strategies to achieve these targets include:

The Visible Learning team drives the Professional Learning

Time from the Professional Learning Calendar allows for cooperative planning and reflection on current practice

Data collection includes a range of assessment to provide the data for improvement for students and staff

Teachers are provided with a matrix and the relevant training to evaluate their own practice

Professional Learning and supervision is tailored to the individual

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School Priority 2

Outcome for 2012–2014

Staff members are prepared to implement the new Syllabus documents.

2013 Targets to achieve this outcome include:

Staff undergo relevant Professional Learning

Staff build on their existing skills and knowledge

Resources are evaluated for relevance to the new syllabus

Assessment practices are evaluated in light of the new Syllabus.

Strategies to achieve these targets include:

Staff identify the similarities and differences of the new syllabus

Professional Learning reflects the necessary changes

All staff match existing resources to new syllabus and identify where resources are lacking and make purchases accordingly

Time is spent to ensure assessment practices are in line with the requirements of the new syllabus.

About this report

In preparing this report, the self-evaluation committee has gathered information from evaluations conducted during the year and analysed other information about the school's practices and student learning outcomes. The self-evaluation committee and school planning committee have determined targets for the school's future development.

Ian Hamilton Principal

Colleen Innes Deputy Principal

Rob Lord Assistant Principal

Helen Smart Assistant Principal

Simone Cadell Assistant Principal

Rob Naylor Assistant Principal

Tracey Lovat Assistant Principal ®

Thea O’Sullivan Assistant Principal ®

Kerry Pike Classroom Teacher

Tracey Moloney Classroom Teacher

Karen Diehl Classroom Teacher

Janelle Harwood Classroom Teacher

Tracey Houston Classroom Teacher

Kim Burton Classroom Teacher

Margaret Bramble Classroom Teacher

Leah Waterman Librarian ®

Kerrie Dixon Support Teacher

Erinne Kuranty Classroom Teacher

Jo Allen Classroom Teacher

Tracey Lovat Reading Recovery

Rachael Smith Classroom Teacher

Kris Murray Administrative Manager

Sally Conley P & C President

Craig MacClure School Council

School contact information

Wallsend South Public School

16 Smith Road, Elermore Vale, NSW, 2287

Ph: 02 49 65 6258

Fax: 02 49 50 2179

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.wallsends-p.schools.nsw.edu.au

School Code: 3851

Parents can find out more information about Annual School Reports, how to interpret information in the reports and have the opportunity to provide feedback about these reports at:

http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/asr