1

2

CONTENTS

Welcome Information Communication Learning Technology (ICLT)

General Information Key Learning Areas (KLA’s)

History Leaving Notification

St Carthage’s School Library

Colour Houses Liturgies and Masses

Active Kids Before and After School Care Lost Property

Additional Needs Medical

Altar Servers Asthma and Anaphylaxis

Appointments First Aid

Assemblies Medication

Banking General Health

Before School Supervision Mobile Phones

Bell Times Music

Best Start (Kindergarten) NAPLAN

Bicycles/skateboards/scooters Parent Assembly

Book Club Parent Helpers and Volunteers

Book Fair Parent Visits with Students

Building Maintenance Committee Parish School Forum

Bus Travel: Parking

General Information Pastoral Care/Well Being Officer

School Bus Procedures Performance and Sports Fee

Code of Conduct for School Students on Buses Pick up and Drop off

Bus Companies (Appendix 1) Before and After School

Canteen During School Hours

Canteen Rebate Private Car Allowance

Change of Address Reading Recovery

Child Protection Religious Education

Choir Reporting

Clothing Pool Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

Communication…Home to School Sacramental Program

Communication…School to Home School Fees

Compulsory School Attendance (Appendix 2) School Leaders

Contact Grids (Appendix 3) School Maintenance Levy

Corporal Punishment School Office

Custody Issues School Term Dates (Appendix 4)

Discipline Staff Development Days (SDD)

School Behaviour Expectations Technology Levy

School Rules Uniform

Enrichment Uninterrupted Learning Time

Enrolment St Carthage’s Values (VOO)

Eligibility Visitors Protocol

Excursions Website

Flood Procedures Appendices:

Going Up Day Appendix 1 – Bus Operators

Grievance Procedures Appendix 2 – Compulsory School Attendance

Head Lice Appendix 3 – Contact Grids

Homework Policy Appendix 4 – School Term Dates

Immunisation

3

St Carthage’s Primary School

LISMORE

Welcome to St Carthage’s Catholic Primary School. St Carthage’s is a school that has a rich history and an exciting future and we look forward to introducing you to our school community as we are at the heart of the Church’s mission making connections between life, faith and culture. As a Catholic School, we believe we have four dimensions to our being- Spiritual, Emotional, Intellectual and Physical. In partnership with the home, the school provides teaching and learning activities in the Catholic tradition to support children’s development in these four areas. The important key is the partnership that is formed between the home and the school. We seek to create a school community where all members feel welcome, valued and develop a sense of belonging. The sense of belonging to a community is essential if all are to grow in self-esteem. Lismore Diocesan Schools are involved in Proclaim ensuring the New Evangelisation is central to the life of our parish schools. Since the mid-1960s the Catholic Church and its school educators have been committed to finding ever more effective ways to proclaim the life giving message of the Gospel to the real issues in students’ lives. We have done a good job of bringing the light of the Gospel and our Faith to students in a rapidly changing culture. Now we have to work together again to listen to the reality of our students’ lives and ask could we provide them with even more effective ways to live the Gospel way of life, centred on a loving friendship with Jesus Christ. The teachings of Jesus Christ call us to live in relationship with others based on the timeless principles and values of honesty, trustworthiness, tolerance, inclusion, respect, responsibility and compassion. These principles and values underpin the ethos of our school and are given life through the teachings of Christ. Pope Francis in his encyclical Evangelii Gaudium – The Joy of the Gospel ‘invites all Christians, everywhere, at this very moment, to a renewed personal encounter with Jesus Christ, or at least openness to letting him encounter them; I ask all of you to do this unfailingly each day.” This Information Handbook is designed to answer your many questions, to provide you with information about our school, and to share the joy and enthusiasm we have for the Catholic Education of all the children who attend St Carthage’s School. We hope that as you read through its many pages you will see, as we all see, that St Carthage’s School is a wonderful place to be, whether you are student, staff member, or parent. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the school for clarification.

Yours sincerely, Janelle Heffernan

4

PRINCIPAL

St Carthage’s School General Information 2017

Address: St Carthage’s Primary School 2 Dawson St P.O. Box 1114 Lismore NSW 2480

Phone: (02) 6621 5529 Fax: (02) 6621 4098

Email: stcarth@lism.catholic.edu.au

Website: www.stcarthlism.catholic.edu.au

Parish Administrator: Father Jim Griffin

School Chaplain: Father Jim Griffin

Principal: Mrs Janelle Heffernan

Assistant Principal: Mrs Teresa Koning Assistant Principal – Mission Mr Danny Hatchman

Co-ordinators:

Mrs Janette McFadden Leader of Curriculum Miss Amanda Egan Leader of Pedagogy

Mr Brendan Matthews PDHPE Co-ordinator

Other Roles:

Mrs Kathleen Driver Additional Needs Teacher

Mrs Tracey Llewellyn Reading Recovery

Secretaries:

Mrs Lyniese De Maria Principal’s Secretary

Mrs Sharon Ellison School Secretary

Mrs Patricia Steele School Secretary part time

Mr Warren Whitney School Fees, Accounts

Ancillary Staff:

Mrs Laraine Barratt Canteen Supervisor

Mrs Maree Morrissey Library Assistant

5

History of St Carthage’s School

1886 - 2012 St Carthage’s School was opened with an enrolment of 70 students on 11th October 1886 under the leadership of Mother Carthage Price, a Presentation Sister from Ireland. The building, measuring 50 feet by 25 feet, was erected in less than a month and was capable of seating some 200 students. In 1886 Lismore was still part of the Armidale Diocese and the Parish Priest was Father J.J. Doyle, who shortly after became the first Bishop of Lismore. When the parish church was burnt down in 1905, the school, which was situated on the corner of Dawson and Leycester Sts (next to the old St Joseph’s School site), was used as a church until the Cathedral was opened in 1907. The Marist Brothers came to Lismore in 1911 and taught the boys in Years 4, 5 and 6. After 60 years of frequent flooding, the flood of 1945 took its toll on the old building. The original school, now crammed with some 400 students, was replaced with a new school on high ground, the present site. In 1967 the first Co-ed School for Years 11 and 12 students was built in the grounds of St Carthage’s School. This is now our Kinder to Year 2 Classrooms. Bishop John Satterthwaite was consecrated in 1969. He retired on 1st December 2001 after 32 years as Bishop of Lismore. On 12th December 2001 Geoffery H Jarrett was consecrated the 5th Bishop of the Lismore Diocese. From 1971 to 1981, because of increasing enrolments, Year 3 students were bussed each day to the old school at North Lismore formerly staffed by the Presentation Sisters. In 1977, following the introduction of co-education in Years 7 – 12, the Primary boys at Marist were transferred to St Carthage’s, and the K-2 classes took over the original Years 11 and 12 school, except for the science rooms on the top floor. Sister June Cole was Principal and Brother John Wells the Deputy. Three Year 3 classrooms were added in 1981 and four Year 6 classrooms in 1983. Two demountables were also installed in 1983 to cater for the growing enrolments and the restructuring of the school. The School celebrated its Centenary in 1986 with the theme: “Give Thanks with Joy!” Sister Julia O’Sullivan was our last Presentation Principal from 1985 to 1989. In 1990 Brother Pius Badior became the first Marist Principal of St Carthage’s. Active involvement of the Marist Brothers ceased at the end of 1996 when Brother Jerome Hickman completed his term as Principal. It was in this same year that the Admin, Library and Staffroom complex was built. Following the death of Sister Maria Thomas (School Librarian for many years) in 1998, St Carthage’s was staffed fully by lay staff. St Carthage’s School these days is a feeder school for St John’s College (Woodlawn) and Trinity Catholic College (Lismore), both high schools being part of our Lismore Parish family.

Father Nicolas Maurice is Administrator of the St Carthage’s Parish; Father James Foster is our School Chaplain.

In 2011 St Carthage’s celebrated its 125th birthday and also completed a multi-million dollar upgrade that included classroom refurbishment, an upgrade of technology and a new hall. In 2012 Our Lady of Lourdes Infants School amalgamated with St Carthage’s school.

6

History of St Carthage’s Colour Houses Jerome – Jade (Green)

Jerome House has been named after Brother Jerome. “I represented the Marist Brothers. I was the last Religious Principal of St Carthage’s from 1991 to 1995. When I became a Marist Brother I was given the name Jerome. I asked myself if I am a Jerome and what does the name call me to do. The man... St Jerome.

Jerome was born in Hungary in the year 342 AD. As he grew up he showed a great enthusiasm for education so he was sent to Rome, the centre of education in those days. He proved to be a brilliant student and quickly mastered Latin and Greek, the two common languages. He ended his study by becoming a lawyer. Before leaving Rome he was baptised. After 370 he spent four years travelling, visiting various centres of learning, ending up in the city of Antioch where he was ordained a Priest. He next went to Bethlehem where he studied Hebrew. This was the language in which the Bible, the story of Christ was written. The Pope them asked Jerome to translate the Bible into Latin, the language of the Roman Church. He died in 420AD.

So to you who have become a member of “Jerome House” what are you called to do? To work hard and constant at your education! To follow your call. I followed my call by being a Marist Brother. To study the Bible which we can now read in our own language. To take the story of the Bible and share with others.

… Written by Br Jerome

Doyle - Purple

Jeremiah Doyle was born in Ireland in 1849, ordained a priest in 1874 and arrived in Sydney in November 1874. From Sydney he went to Armidale then to Casino and was ordained Bishop in Sydney in 1887. He came to Lismore, which became the centre of the Diocese because he thought it had a better future. Bishop Doyle had a great interest in education and was responsible for the Presentation Sisters coming to Lismore to establish schools. He was also responsible for the building of St Carthage’s Cathedral. His involvement in the civil and religious life of the underdeveloped region won him great respect.

He had great organisational skills and was involved in the Lismore School of Arts, the Agricultural and Industrial Society, the Hospital Board, advocated the extension of the railway and the breakwater at Byron Bay. He promoted the development of a water and gas supply for Lismore and claimed to be responsible for the installation of the telephone. He died on 4th June 1909 and is buried in St Carthage’s Cathedral. He was greatly respected and missed by the Lismore Community.

Thomas - Blue

Sr. Maria Thomas was a part of St Carthage’s story for many years and for many reasons. She is remembered for her dedication to learning and passing this on to the many children she taught.

Sr. Maria taught in different schools on the Far North Coast and people remember her for teaching football to the boys, expecting 100% at the Christmas Carnival, her love of cricket, the never-ending effort to keep the school clean and tidy and the great knowledge she had of life. Sr. Maria went to New Guinea in 1985/86 to help set up a Library in one of the Presentation schools there. She had the help of Imelda, a member of the school, and in 18 months they established the Library – from nothing to a functioning Library.

Sr. Maria was an organiser and hard-working Librarian at St Carthage’s School. She has a special place in the story of our school.

7

Nagle - White

Nano Nagle was born in 1718 in Ballygriffin in Ireland. She had 4 sisters and 2 brothers. Catholic Schools were not allowed so Nano attended a forbidden ‘hedge’ school. When Nano was 12 she was smuggled to France for the education forbidden in Ireland.

She was well educated, talented and enjoyed the life in France but she decided to return to Ireland and teach the poor children. Nano found that this was not possible and the strict laws had not changed. She returned to France in order to become a Nun and be able to pray for her Irish people. Nano could not settle to this and knew that she had something important to do. She returned once again to Ireland and lived in Cork with her brother Joseph where she secretly taught children.

Soon there were 7 schools being taught by Nano and some other ladies. When she wasn’t teaching, Nano was visiting the sick, poor and lonely around Cork. When it was dark she carried a lantern and soon she was known as the “Lady of the Lantern”. When she was 57 Nano Nagle founded the Order of the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary – the Presentation Sisters. There were three ladies with her and she knew that a Religious Order was needed to carry on the work they were doing.

She was a sick lady and on the 29th April 1784 she died. In 1886 a small group of sisters left Lucan in Ireland and came to Lismore to establish a Convent and schools. On 11th October 1886 St Carthage’s School was opened. May the Spirit of Nano Nagle and her Sisters who have been a part of our School’s history continue to grow in each of us.

D’Arcy - Orange

In 1886, Presentation Sisters from Lucan near Dublin came to Lismore, a developing town in the north of New South Wales. They came at the request of Dean Jeremiah Doyle with the blessing of Bishop Torreggiani of Armidale. Leader of the group was Mother Stanislaus D’Arcy, a woman of vision and energy. She was a trained teacher and a gifted musician, and in keeping with Bishop Torreggiani’s mandate, established St Mary’s College and St Carthage’s School in 1886. Carthage - Red

Young Mochuda (Carthage) was born in Country Kerry, the son of Fingen and Mead. Fingen was a chieftain who owned two castles – one south of Tralee Bay and the other on the banks of the Maine near Dingle Bay. As a young boy he worked on his father’s property minding the pigs.

One day, a procession of monks with their Abbot, St Carthage the elder, passed by on their way to their Monastery at Tuam. They were singing psalms as they walked and young Carthage was so fascinated that he left his father’s herd and followed them all the way to the Monastery gates. Later his father sadly agreed to let his son enter the Monastery where he trained to be a Priest. The Abbot Carthage ordained him in 580 when he was 30 years old and he took the name of his beloved Abbot.

Later young Carthage founded a new Monastery at Rahan and lived there for forty years. He wrote a famous Monastery Rule which still exists and over 1000 men joined the great Monastery, where young boys from all over Ireland, England and even the continent came to be educated in Latin, Greek and Gaelic. This school produced many fine scholars and was famous for the love of learning it encouraged.

Late in life he was consecrated Bishop of Lismore. After his death, the Church was renamed St Carthage’s in his honour. St Carthage is now the patron Saint of the Diocese of Lismore and Waterford in Ireland and the patron saint of our own Diocese of Lismore in NSW.

8

Active Kids Before and After School Care St Carthage’s offers outside school hours’ care. After School Care: Families of children at St Carthage’s are welcome to make use of this service if they require it. Before School Care: This service is available from 7:00am – 8:30am and includes breakfast. Information about the program and enrolment forms are available at the school office. Based on demand, care may also be offered on Staff Professional Development Days. Additional Needs At St Carthage’s School we have established an Additional Needs Team to meet the needs of individual students, including students who:

have additional needs in Literacy and Numeracy

as gifted students will benefit from extension work

will benefit from Reading Recovery/STAR Reading in Year 1

are integrated students with additional needs.

Altar Servers Both boys and girls of Catholic faith can volunteer to be an altar server. They must be in Year 4, 5 or 6 and have completed the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). Children and their parents must be committed in this service. The children are trained for this role by a priest or lay person and are then placed on the Parish roster to assist at weekend Masses. These children also assist at School Masses when required. Appointments Parents are encouraged to discuss any aspect of their child’s education with the class teacher. Please phone, email the school or send a note for an appointment.

Parent/Teacher interviews are held during Term 1; at the end of Semester 1, following school reports in June; and upon request, at the end of Semester 2 Reporting in December.

Parents are always welcome to discuss any concerns they may have. Please refer to “Contact Grids”. For appointments with the Principal, please speak with the Principal’s Secretary Mrs De Maria so that a suitable time can be arranged. Assemblies Whole School Assemblies are held in our School Hall at St Carthage’s twice in Terms 1 & 4 and three times in Terms 2 & 3. During this assembly children receive special awards. A School Assembly is held at 8:55 a.m. on Mondays before classes start.

9

Banking The Commonwealth Bank provides School Banking facilities at St Carthage’s School. Bankbooks are given to the class teachers on Tuesday morning and sent to the office to be processed first thing Wednesday morning.

This is a fundraising activity for the school. The school receives a commission from the bank based on the number of deposits and any new accounts opened.

All children are encouraged to bank at school. Before School Supervision Morning Playground Supervision commences at 8:30am. All children who arrive at school before 8:30am must sit down in the Canteen area and wait for teachers to start morning duty. All classrooms will be locked and are out-of-bounds to children and parents at this time. At 8:30am the teachers on duty will direct grades, one at a time, to place their school bags onto their classroom bag racks. Children will then have supervised play time on the bottom playground and in the quadrangle. Bell Times 8:55 a.m. Start of school (assembly on Mondays) 10.55 a.m. Recess/Morning Tea 11.15 a.m. Classes resume 1.15 p.m. Lunch 2.15 p.m. Classes resume 3.15 p.m. School concludes

Best Start (Kindergarten) This assessment program has been developed by early learning experts in the Department of Education and Training and is used to discover what your child knows and can do as they start school. The assessment will assist their teacher to better plan for individual student needs. The assessment focuses on numeracy and literacy skills.

It is important to note that Best Start is not a test.

Bicycles/Skateboards/Scooters Children are not permitted to ride bicycles, skateboards or scooters to school due to the heavy traffic flow around the school. We do not have a storage area to store bikes, skateboards or scooters during the day. Book Club We participate in Scholastic Book Club so that the children may have access to interesting books, suited to their age and interest at a reasonable cost. Our school benefits from every order placed by receiving credits to purchase books and school resources for the staff and students to use.

There are generally 2 issues per term (no Book Club during the Book Fair) with reading levels catered to by different “Clubs” (Busy Bee, Wombat, Lucky, Arrow and Star) which are distributed accordingly. Additional special issues may also be offered.

There is no pressure on parents to purchase any books.

10

If ordering, please assist us by:

returning the order form by the date specified

sending correct money and order forms to the class teacher in a sealed envelope marked “Book Club” and with child’s name, class and the amount of money clearly printed on the outside.

Payment can be made by cash, cheque or credit card. Please make cheques payable to St Carthage’s School. Credit card payments can be made as per instructions on the Book Club order forms.

Book Fair The school holds an annual Book Fair in the St Carthage’s Library during Term 3 as part of the Literacy & Numeracy Week/Book Week activities. Students are given the opportunity to look at the books and make a wish list. Families are also invited to inspect the display and purchase books. The school earns a commission on sales which is used to purchase books and resources for the library. Families may also choose to purchase a book to donate to the library. Building Maintenance Committee With the recent building and refurbishment program, a Building Maintenance Committee has been established to oversee and guide the upkeep of our school buildings. Representatives on this committee include the Principal, Assistant Principal, Parish Finance Manager, School Clerk and parents involved with the trade industries.

Bus Travel General Information: 1. All children in Kinder to Year 2 are eligible for free bus travel. 2. To be eligible for free bus travel, Primary children must either live outside a 1.6km

radius of the school, or 2.3 km or more by the most direct practical walking route to the nearest point of physical entry to the school.

3. When children commence bus travel, parents must complete a bus travel application form available from the school office.

4. Parents are asked to contact the appropriate bus company for details of their child’s bus number, pick-up and drop-off places and bus times and notify your child’s teacher when commencing bus travel at school.

5. If your child ceases to travel on a particular bus please notify the school office promptly. New forms must be completed if you change address or when the child progresses from Year 2 to Year 3.

6. Children are expected to demonstrate appropriate behaviour and abide by the Code of Conduct for School Students on Buses whilst travelling on buses.

7. Parents, whose children experience difficulties whilst travelling on the bus should contact the Bus Company concerned.

8. Free travel is only given to those children who travel between school and home.

School Bus Procedures: a) When school finishes children are to leave their classrooms, correctly dressed in

school uniform wearing their school hat and assemble in designated Bus Bay waiting areas on the school grounds as follows: Bus Bays 1-3, 4-6 & 7-9 under the Library;

Bus Bays 10-12, 13-16 & 17-20 in the quadrangle (undercover area near canteen if raining).

11

Children who are walking home, walking to Trinity or have other arrangements line up with Bus Bays 17-20, walk out the gate accompanied by the teacher and walk to where they are going. Bus children will be supervised by the teacher on duty until they get on their bus. Under teacher supervision, students will walk in an orderly manner, down the ramp to the crossing on Leycester St. b) The children are to wait at the white line until told to cross by the Crossing

Supervisor. c) Children are to walk across the pedestrian crossing, keeping on the crossing marks

and inside the small islands. d) Children are to go immediately to where they line up:

Some assemble at the barrier fences ready for their buses

Some assemble near their bus bay

Children in Brewster St are not to go beyond Trinity fence

All children should be correctly dressed in school uniform before getting onto the bus

In wet weather children should be in the bus shelters and must be wearing wet weather gear.

Children are not allowed to go to the service station, McDonald’s, Foodworks or Trinity Canteen before or after school.

Code of Conduct for School Students on Buses: It is every student’s responsibility to behave in a manner that ensures the safety and comfort of passengers and drivers. This includes: Behaving appropriately

Respect the needs and comfort of other passengers (e.g. no use of offensive or racist language, fighting, spitting, placing feet on seats, throwing things in or from the bus, eating or drinking- except water- unless the bus operator gives written permission)

Give up seats to all adult and disabled passengers

Obey reasonable directions from the driver (e.g. where to sit or to remain in the bus)

Keep arms, legs and head inside the bus

Refrain from attracting the attention of the driver except in the case of an emergency

Respecting Property

Protect bus property

Ensure that buses are not vandalised

Report any vandalism e.g. graffiti and window etching Holding Passes

Show travel passes or tickets to the driver on boarding and when requested

Use the travel pass only for its intended purpose

‘swipe’ or ‘dip’ passes in ticket readers if available when boarding

Keep your pass for your own use - you should not lend your pass to other students or borrow one from them.

Disobeying these rules may lead to the withdrawal of school bus travel passes and/ or prosecution.

Remember your Bus Pass is a privilege not a right. Respect it.

12

Bus Companies: Refer to Appendix 1.

Canteen St Carthage’s Canteen is open for morning tea and lunch every school day. Lunches may be ordered by sending a clearly marked bag with name, lunch order, and correct money to school with your child. Orders are placed in class tubs outside the canteen before school. Mrs Laraine Barratt (Canteen Supervisor) always appreciates parent helpers in the canteen.

Menu for canteen is available on the school website under the “Information” tab.

Canteen Rebate: A parent who works in the Canteen for 8 full days (9am-2pm) throughout the year will receive an $80 rebate on the following year’s school fees. Please contact the school office if you have any questions. Change of Address It is important that parents notify the office in writing with details of change of address, change of phone numbers, emergency contact and any other relevant information, as soon as possible so we can update our records and are able to contact you when necessary (e.g. when your child is sick). You will also need to complete a new bus travel application form for your child if they travel by bus (even if they are still travelling on the same bus). Bus Travel forms are available from the school office. Child Protection Staff wear special badges which are easily identified by students. Casual staff are also required to wear a badge, easily identified by students. Parents, visitors and volunteers must sign in at the front office and wear a dated sticker for easy identification by students and staff.

Under no circumstances are visitors or parents to talk to a student regarding an issue, nor should they approach another parent. Parents are to refer to the contact grid to see who the appropriate person is to contact.

Should you have any concerns please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs Janelle Heffernan (Principal) at school (6621 5529). Choir Students from Years One to Six who are interested in singing are welcome to join the School Choirs. Choirs may be involved in school activities, eisteddfods, recordings (e.g. Our Kids), community service and religious celebrations. Choir practice takes place once a week during lunch time. Stage Three Choir includes students in Years Five and Six. Stage Two Choir includes students in Years Three and Four and Stage One Choir includes students in Years One and Two.

13

Clothing Pool The Clothing Pool operates out of the St Carthage’s Canteen. Second hand uniforms, School Sport socks, communication bags and chair bags are readily available. Operating Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 11:30am – 12:30pm ONLY.

Communication…Home to School If you wish to make an appointment to see your child’s teacher, please contact the teacher or telephone the office to arrange a mutually acceptable time. Teachers are involved in:

Monday morning meetings

Staff Meetings each Tuesday afternoon after school

Staff Prayer each Friday morning

bus and playground supervision daily Signed notes are needed from parents if:

a child needs to leave the school grounds

there is a change of address or transport arrangements

a child needs to take medication (see “Medical”)

a child is not in the correct uniform

the child is taking part in school excursions. Note: this does not apply to visits to Trinity Catholic College or the Cathedral.

Communication…School to Home

School Newsletters are published fortnightly on a Wednesday and are available online, via email or if requested, sent home with the youngest child in the family. Parents are asked to read these carefully and refer to the newsletter regarding upcoming events and dates. It is our main way of communicating with everyone at home.

Notes will be sent at different times regarding specific matters and on many occasions these will require parents to complete permission notes to attend school functions, excursions etc. Please return these notes promptly. (Copies are posted on the school website.)

School Website: The school website is a valuable source of information for parents. Please familiarise yourself with the information available on the website.

Parish School Forum News will be incorporated in the fortnightly newsletter.

School Reports on the academic progress of your child/ren will be sent home in June and December. Parents are encouraged to make an appointment with the class teacher if you have any concerns at all.

Teachers will contact parents if they have any concerns about a child’s personal or academic growth. A Parent Information Evening is organised during Term 1 each year.

School Stream – notifications via smart phones and tablets. Download the School Stream app.

14

Compulsory School Attendance Refer to Appendix 2 - Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Office (C.S.O.)

Contact Grids The Contact Grid has been produced to assist parents who have a question or concern. The grid will help you know who to contact at school.

Some issues indicate more than one person as a contact. In this case, you begin by contacting the person with the number (1) next to them. If the issue is not resolved please contact the next person indicated on the grid (2).

Your child’s education is greatly enhanced if school and home work in partnership, so please contact the school if you need to talk to us. Refer to Appendix 3. Corporal Punishment Staff in all schools of the Lismore Diocese are prohibited from using corporal punishment as a means of punishment or correction of students. The use of corporal punishment to enforce discipline at St Carthage’s is not permitted by any member of the school community.

Corporal punishment is defined as the application of physical force in order to punish or correct a student, but does not include the application of force taken to prevent personal injury, damage to, or destruction of, property of any person, including the student. (Diocesan Education Board 1996) Custody Issues

If students are subject to custody orders then a copy of these orders MUST be given to the school so that the school is aware of any implications affecting the student’s schooling and safety.

Please also refer to “Parent Visits with Students” later in this handbook. Discipline

Our school aims to encourage in its children growth towards self-discipline and self-control. The staff aims to do this through:

development of attitudes of responsibility;

provision of skills and techniques to achieve self-control;

opportunities to participate in formulation of their own suitable consequences, restraints and goals.

Restorative Practice is utilised as part of our school discipline policy. The Key Principles are:

Talk about the behaviour without blaming or being personal.

Focus on the relationship and how people are affected.

Restore damaged relationships.

Be future focused and talk about how to make things right.

See mistakes and misbehaviour as an opportunity for learning.

Students often cycle through change – plan how to manage setbacks.

15

Accept that sometimes we cannot get to the ultimate truth.

Sit and Think (SAT) is a key strategy that we use with children in order for them to reflect on their behaviour, how it has affected others, how they can make it right and what they can do next time. # A copy of our school’s Discipline Policy, “Growing in Discipline,” is available from the school office and the school website www.stcarthlism.catholic.edu.au

School Behaviour Expectations Our Vision is to: o Act Safely

Exhibited through: - following teacher instructions; - using equipment correctly; - observing rules and procedures; - controlling temper; - keeping hands and feet to yourself.

o Respect self & others Exhibited through: - speaking politely to other students and staff; - respecting yours, others and school’s property; - active listening; - keeping our school environment clean.

o Be self-responsible Exhibited through: - working independently; - accepting corrective advice; - admitting mistakes and successes;

- being accountable for behavioural outcomes. o Be self-motivated

Exhibited through: - attempting to complete set tasks; - being punctual; - being prepared;

- being involved.

Our School Rules are:

What the teacher says we do! Hands off other people and their belongings!

Out of sight- out of bounds! No hat- no play!

Speak to please not to tease! Enrichment Giving children greater responsibility for their own learning is exciting, more appropriate and interesting and helps them to understand what, how and why they learn. We provide unique opportunities for students wishing to further their learning experiences. Some of these experiences include: Master Chef, Tournament of the Minds, Art shows, Sporting opportunities, Band, Choir, Chess and ICAS competitions. Enrolment St Carthage’s School population is drawn from the Catholic communities of the Cathedral Parish.

16

Children applying for enrolment are subject to the enrolment policy formulated by the Catholic Schools Office. This policy states that all children must be turning five years of age by 31st July in their first year of school.

It is presumed at the time of enrolment, that all Kindergarten students will progress to Year One the following year.

1. Priority is given to: a) Catholic families with a commitment to the faith life, worship and service of the

parish; b) Other Catholic families of the parish; c) Catholic families from other parishes

There is a limited intake of other than Catholic students provided that:

a) The Principal and Parish Administrator agree; b) There are vacancies; c) The pupil participates in all Religious Education programs d) Following an interview with the parents, the Principal and Parish Administrator

are convinced that they are in complete agreement with the philosophies and practices of the school.

Enrolment forms and information are available from the school office and the school website: www.stcarthlism.catholic.edu.au Excursions School excursions linked to units of work being studied, greatly benefit and enrich the children’s education. Permission Notes are required from parents before children are permitted to take part in an excursion. Excursions are part of the teaching and learning program of our school and as such, children are expected to attend. If for some reason your child cannot attend an excursion, the class teacher and/or Principal needs to be informed.

In order to participate in an excursion, a student must display responsible behaviour at all times throughout the year, as participation in excursions is a privilege not a right. School Fee restrictions apply to our major excursions (Year Five camp and Year Six Canberra excursion). If school fees or payment agreements are not up to date, students may be excluded from excursions.

The children will always be accompanied by adults. Parents are invited to take part in many of our excursions. All staff are accredited with CPR training annually. Flood Procedures In the event of flood rain during a school day, school buses may begin arriving earlier than usual because of the risk of road closure. Children on affected bus routes will be called to the office. Only children whose parents have been contacted will be allowed to catch the bus home.

Some staff members may also have to leave school early if they are likely to be affected by road closures.

Floods of a certain height will result in school closure. Announcements of school closure will be announced on the local radio stations (ABC, 2LM & ZZZ) and on the school website.

17

Going Up Day The induction day for all students in K-6 is held in December. All children at St Carthage’s Primary School, including new students, are introduced to their teacher and classmates for the following year. At this time they will be given a list of class requirements for next year (e.g. pencils etc.) Grievance Procedures If, after referring to the Contact Grid and contacting the relevant party/ies, parents feel that an issue or concern has not been addressed, they should then contact the Catholic Schools Office (CSO). Ph. 6622 0422

Head Lice

If children have head lice, it is suggested that parents:

check all other members of the family

shampoo with one of the preparations available from any chemist

notify the school

keep the children at home until all eggs have been removed

keep long hair tied back

impress upon the children not to play with other children’s hair

ask children not to share hats

Homework Policy – (Please be advised our Homework Policy is under review)

1. Kinder- Year 2 Homework is not compulsory in K-2. However, children are encouraged to revise and consolidate their schoolwork, particularly reading and spelling.

2. Year 3- 6: All Primary students are expected to do homework each night as follows: Year 3 maximum of half hour per night (Monday – Thursday) Year 4 maximum of half hour per night (Monday – Thursday) Year 5 maximum of half hour per night (Monday – Thursday) Year 6 2.5 hours per week with maximum of one hour for any one night.

3. No weekend homework is to be given. 4. What is actually given for homework is the prerogative of the class teacher. 5. No punishment is to be given for incomplete homework. Immunisation

It is compulsory for parents to give a record of their child’s immunisation status. This information is requested as part of their enrolment application.

An Immunisation History Statement is readily available through Medicare by calling in to your local Medicare office, phoning 1800 653 809 or registering on-line at http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/medicare/australian-childhood-immunisation-register. A copy of your child’s immunisation record may also be provided by your doctor and is recorded in your child’s blue “Health Record book”.

In the event of an outbreak of childhood disease, a child who is not immunised will be excluded from school.

Information Communication Learning Technology (ICLT)

18

ICLT is valued as a vital part of the children’s education. Some features of our ICLT program include:

networked computers

Interactive Whiteboards

Net books

Tablets Technology Support is provided by the CSO.

Key Learning Areas (KLA’s)

In our school, the children are taught in the following compulsory and approved Key Learning Areas:

Religious Education Curriculum for Primary Schools

English K-6 Syllabus

Mathematics K-6 Syllabus

Science and Technology K-6 Syllabus

Human Society and Its Environment K-6 Syllabus – Geography and History

Personal Development Health and Physical Education K-6 Syllabus

Creative Arts K-6 Syllabus

Leaving Notification

Written notification is required if parents are withdrawing their child/ren from the school. Please include any change of address, contact details and new school details.

Library

The library is well-equipped with a wide range of books and resources to meet the needs of the children, staff and parents. The library is resourced from school funds, Parish School Forum funds, Book Club rewards and donations.

Parents are always welcome to visit the library and help is appreciated (e.g. book covering, Book Club processing etc.).

All students have weekly library lessons when they are able to borrow. Students are encouraged to borrow books for home reading and should have a library bag for this purpose. Library bags may be purchased from the St Carthage’s Canteen.

Please encourage your child to return borrowed books to the class library box after use. Reminder notices may be sent home on overdue books as a courtesy and are not meant to offend. If your child has not finished reading a book and wishes to do so they should return the book to school and re-borrow it. Replacement of lost or damaged books is by donation. The library also offers lunch time activities to students including access to computers, board games, drawing and Chess Club. Parent Library

We have a number of resources available for parents to borrow (i.e. books, CD’s) covering varying parenting issues. Borrowing is via a self-registration system. Please write the book/CD title, your name, date borrowed and date returned on the page provided. Parents are welcome to browse and see what resources are available. The majority of these resources have been generously donated by the Lismore Diocesan Parent Assembly.

Liturgies and Masses

19

All children K-6 are involved in the spiritual life of our school. Throughout the year we come together to celebrate whole school Masses or grade Masses. The Eucharist is the focal point of the Mass and Catholic members of our community who have made their First Eucharist are invited to receive communion. Grade Masses, Liturgies and Prayer Services take place to culminate a unit of work in Religious Education, to celebrate a special Feast Day or school event. Reconciliation is also offered to the students in Years 3-6. Parents, grandparents and carers are always welcome at these celebrations.

Lost Property

All clothing and articles should be marked clearly. If property is lost, parents and children are welcome to look in the Lost Property Box outside the canteen complex. Unclaimed clothing will be placed in the Clothing Pool or sent to the St Vincent de Paul society at the end of each month. Medical

It is important that the school is kept informed of children’s medical problems (e.g. asthma, allergies, medication).

Asthma, Allergies and Anaphylaxis:

Those students identified by parents as “at risk” of severe reactions are required to provide an annually updated Action Plan (available from your G.P.) at the beginning of each school year.

Relevant school staff and parents will work together to formulate an Individual Health Care Plan for those students identified “at risk” of severe reactions. This plan will be reviewed annually at the beginning of each school year.

Parents are responsible for ensuring that their child’s medication is in date.

We are registered as an “Asthma Friendly School” through the Asthma Foundation which recommends delivery of asthma medication inhalers via a spacer. If your child presents at sick bay for asthma medication without a spacer, the school is required to administer their medication using a “one use only” spacer. Parents will be asked to reimburse the school for the cost of these disposable spacers which are quite expensive. We therefore encourage parents to supply a spacer with their child’s medication.

In special circumstances, parents may prefer that their child carry their asthma medication with them in order to self-medicate whilst they are at or travelling to and from school. Parents are required to provide an Asthma Action Plan to the office, advise the school in writing that their child will carry their medication with them and why this is necessary.

In all other instances, asthma medication will be stored and administered by school staff.

First Aid: Only minor first aid will be administered by school staff. Parents will be notified in the case of serious injury and appropriate action taken (e.g. ambulance called).

Medication: Administration of medication to students is a serious issue and it is important to follow the guidelines accurately. They are quite specific in order to protect all parties concerned when administering medication to children.

20

a) When medication is prescribed by a medical practitioner and required to be administered to students at school or on school related activities, a parent/legal guardian MUST complete a Long or Short Term Medication Form. These forms are available on the school website under the “Letters and Forms” tab (Prescribed Medication Policy) or by contacting the school office. This completed and signed form must be returned to the office. Office staff will then inform the class teacher.

b) The Principal appoints the relevant staff member to give medication to the students provided the request is reasonable and in writing (i.e. Medication and Indemnity forms have been completed).

c) When a medical practitioner prescribes medication, the pharmacist, at the medical practitioner’s direction, should write instructions on the container that include dosage and specific times for administration. Medications will not be administered to students without this information and MUST be administered from the original pharmaceutical container.

d) Medication administered by the school is secured in the school office. e) Non-prescribed medications (e.g. Panadol etc.) will NOT be

administered by school staff at any time to any enrolled student.

General Health: It is wise to keep children at home if they are showing signs of illness before leaving for school. This helps prevent the spread of illness to others. It is also important that the school has current records of phone contacts in case a child needs to be sent home because of illness or accident. If your child is absent from school due to ill health, please advise the school of this and the dates that they were sick by any of the following methods:

provide a written note on their return to school

send a School Stream message

Return SMS message

send an email to their class teacher c/- the school email address: stcarth@lism.catholic.edu.au

send a note via fax: 6621 4098

telephone the school office

21

The following information is supplied by the Health Commission of New South Wales as a guide for parents: Condition Exclusion of Cases Exclusion of Contacts

Chickenpox

Exclude for 5 days after spots first appear and until blisters have formed scabs and the child feels well.

Any child with an immune deficiency or receiving chemotherapy should be excluded for their own protection. Otherwise not excluded. Pregnant women should seek medical advice.

Cold Sores

Not excluded. Carers of children with cold sores should not have contact with babies younger than 2 months.

Not excluded.

Conjunctivitis Exclude until discharge from eyes has ceased.

Not excluded.

Diarrhoea Exclude until diarrhoea has ceased.

Not excluded

Diphtheria

Exclude until medical certificate of recovery is provided after two negative throat swabs, the last at least 72 hours after stopping antibiotics.

Exclude family and household contacts until cleared by Public Health Authority.

Giardia Excluded until treatment given and diarrhoea has ceased.

Not excluded Faeces testing is recommended if contact has diarrhoea.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease Not excluded Cover blisters on hands and feet.

Not excluded

Hepatitis A

Exclude until medical certificate of recovery is provided, and not before 7 days after onset of jaundice or illness.

Not excluded See doctor for preventative immunoglobulin.

Hepatitis B Not excluded

Not excluded If bitten through skin by carrier or in contact with carrier’s blood, inform Public Health Unit and seek preventative treatment.

Hepatitis C Not excluded

Not excluded If bitten through skin by carrier or in contact with carrier’s blood, inform Public Health Unit.

Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV)

Not excluded, unless moist skin lesions cannot be covered with waterproof dressing, or another infection occurs requiring exclusion.

Not excluded

Impetigo (School Sores)

Exclude unless sores are covered with waterproof dressing, or another infection occurs requiring exclusion.

Not excluded.

22

Influenza

During flu outbreaks, exclude for 5 days after start of symptoms.

Not excluded.

Measles Exclude for at least 4 days after the rash first appears.

Immunised contacts not excluded. Unimmunised contacts are to be immunised within 72 hours of contact with the first case, or be excluded for a minimum of 2 weeks from the disease appearing in the last case, and as determined by the Public Health Authority.

Meningitis (bacterial) Exclude until well.

Not excluded. Contact local Public Health Unit re need for preventative antibiotics for family and child care contacts.

Mumps Exclude for 9 days after swelling first appears.

Not excluded.

Pediculosis (Head Lice) Exclude until day after treatment is started.

Not excluded. It may be advisable for all household contacts to be treated at the same time as the cause.

Poliomyelitis (Polio)

Exclude for at least 14 days after symptoms first appear, and until medical certificate of recovery is provided.

Not excluded.

Ringworm Exclude until day after treatment is started.

Not excluded. It may be advisable for all household contacts to be treated at the same time as the cause.

Rubella (German Measles) Exclude for 4 days after rash appears.

Not excluded. Pregnant women should seek medical advice

Scabies Exclude until day after treatment is started.

Not excluded. It may be advisable for all household contacts to be treated at the same time as the cause.

Scarlet Fever Exclude until 24 hours of antibiotics have been given, and person feels well.

Not excluded

Streptococcal Infection

Exclude until 24 hours of antibiotics have been given, and person feels well.

Not excluded

Trachoma Exclude until day after treatment is started.

Not excluded. It may be advisable for all household contacts to be treated at the same time as the cause.

Tuberculosis Exclude until allowed to return by Public Health Authority

Not excluded Household and childcare contacts may need screening.

Typhoid And Paratyphoid Fever

Exclude until allowed to return by Public Health Authority.

Not excluded

Whooping Cough (pertussis) Exclude for 5 days after starting a 14 day course of antibiotics

Exclude close child contacts until they have commenced antibiotics. Exclude unimmunised contact for first 5 days of a 14-day course of Erythromycin. Contact local Public Health.

Mobile Phones

23

The Student Mobile Phone Policy aims to establish guidelines for the use of student mobile phones within the school environment and aims to set out the responsibility of staff, parents and students.

Guidelines for Use 1. Once at school the mobile phones, iPods, iPads, other tablet devices and any

network enabled device should be turned off and handed into the School Office in a zip sealed bag labelled with the student’s name. Office staff will secure these devices until the end of the day. All devices need to be collected by students when dismissed from class at 3:15pm, at which time, they must be kept in students’ bags. Failure to do this, will lead to the device being confiscated.

2. Students must not lend a phone to another student for use as a phone, for text messaging or for use as a camera or video recording device. The student who owns the phone will be held responsible for its use.

Access to Internet Mobile Phones are not to be used to access the Internet. Students are not permitted to use a mobile phone/iPod/tablet/iPad or other networkable devices to access the Internet whilst at school. Music Children have the opportunity to join our school band. Tuition and band practice are held each week on a user-pays system. Mark Earl is our specialist band teacher. An Information Flyer is available from the School Office. NAPLAN

In 2008 the National Assessment Program- Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) was introduced for all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 in all government and non-government schools. Students are assessed using common national tests in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation) and Numeracy. NAPLAN tests broadly reflect aspects of literacy and numeracy common to curriculum States and Territories. The types of test formats and questions are chosen so that they are familiar to teachers and students across Australia. The results of the test will provide important information to schools about what each student can do, and will be used to support teaching and learning programs. Parents will receive a report indicating their child’s level of achievement. Each student’s level of achievement will be reported against the agreed national minimum standard of student achievement.

Parent Assembly

Parents are the greatest influence on a child's life and education. Every parent to some degree needs support to fulfil their faith and educational responsibilities to their children. The Parent Assembly supports parents through:

Faith enrichment

24

Networking and support

Parenting Education

Advocacy The effectiveness of this support for parents is achieved through the Parent Assembly:

strengthening parents ability to build partnership with parish schools that enhances the religious, spiritual, educational and pastoral care of students;

engaging with the strategic priorities of the Catholic Education Office. The structure and mission of the Parent Assembly is guided by:

educational research on the role of parents in the educational partnership

the two directional documents of the Catholic Education Office: 1. Catholic Education in the Diocese of Lismore Foundational Beliefs and

Practices The Essential Framework 2. Creating a future full of hope – A Statement of Strategic Intent for

Catholic Education in the Diocese of Lismore 2010 – 2014.

The beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church that: 1. parents are the first and primary educators of their children. 2. the future of the Church and society passes by way of the family. 3. the family is the first and fundamental school of social learning. 4. God has bestowed on the family its own specific and educational

mission. 5. partnership between a Catholic school and the families of the students

must continue and be strengthened. These beliefs guided the development of the Parent Assembly when it was created in 1996, under the direction of the Bishop and the guidance of the Diocesan Education Board.

Representatives from our school attend Parent Assembly meetings and liaise with our school community to share information about what services and opportunities are available to parents. Parent Assembly has also provided the school with resources for our parent library. For more information about the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Parent Assembly visit their website - http://parent.lism.catholic.edu.au/ Parent Helpers and Volunteers Parent help is invaluable in areas such as excursions, swimming, sports carnivals, canteen, reading groups, numeracy groups, band helpers, Class Parents, library, fundraising, school banking, etc. From time to time, special appeals for your assistance are made through our newsletter and we appreciate your support when needed. Your support of our efforts to provide a quality Catholic Education by assisting in a variety of ways around the school is one of our most valued assets. We very much depend on and appreciate your support.

Child Protection legislation makes it mandatory for all visitors and volunteers (parents included) to:

report to the office

collect a dated sticker which must be worn before going to any of the classrooms or areas where children are likely to be present. In addition, all volunteers are asked to complete a Statutory Declaration. Parent Visits with Students Parents wishing to visit their son/daughter during the school day will need to gain permission from the Principal. As parents are not permitted unsupervised contact with

25

other children, all visits will take place in the School Library, between 10:55 am and 11:15am or 1:45pm till 2:15pm. Parish School Forum Parents are the first educators of their children. It is a lifetime task and commitment. We, as a staff, are privileged to share with parents in the education of the children.

The Parish School Forum is where parents and staff work closely together in a wide variety of activities to meet the needs of the children and of the school.

Educational research, Church documents, and common sense all indicate strongly that where parents are actively involved in their children’s education, the children are able to achieve more.

Our stated goal is to invite/challenge all members of our school community to be involved in at least one school activity or committee each year.

The Parish School Forum committees meet the needs of the children and of the school. These committees include:

Class Parents

Grounds and Maintenance

Fete/Fundraising events Parking

The School Visitor/Disabled parking area (outside the Administration building) is for short term parking between the hours of 9:15am – 2:45pm. It is not a pick up or drop off area for parent’s use before or after school.

Refer to “Pick up and Drop off” for appropriate parking areas for the regular collection of children.

Parents are asked to avoid blocking bus zones or private driveways and are not to park in the Police Youth Club Car Park, the Service Station, Foodworks Car Park or the Staff Car Park including the driveway access (located off Dawson Street).

Pastoral Care/Well Being Officer

St Carthage’s has a Wellbeing Officer employed one day a week. This officer helps to support our caring and positive school environment and is available to work with students, parents and teachers.

Please contact the school office if you wish to make an appointment for you or your child. Teachers also make referrals for students within their class and students are able to self-register. Performance & Sports Fee

All school performances will be booked after consultation with Staff & the investigation of appropriate curriculum links. Each Stage may have a different program of performances depending on the suitability of the available performances.

Families are asked to pay a one off ‘Performance and Sports Fee” in Term 2 to cover the cost for their children attending these performances and to participate in the Intensive Swimming Program and sporting carnivals.

26

Pick up and Drop off

Before and After School The following areas have been designated as safe areas for the children to be dropped off before school and to be picked up after school:

School grounds: Parents may collect children from the school grounds. Children will wait on the Library steps for collection. This should lessen the confusion and temptation that some children have to play on the playground equipment when the bell rings. Parents, this equipment is out of bounds until the Cathedral Line and the first Bus Bay Line have moved off. However, no child should be on the equipment at any time if their parent is not supervising them: Cathedral grounds (preferred option):

Children being picked up from the Cathedral of an afternoon, line up with their hat on, under the Year 3 building. A teacher will escort them, via the underpass, to the Cathedral. All children are asked to walk in an orderly way.

A “Drive-Through” operates as outlined below: Cathedral Pick-up and Drive-Through Guidelines

1. All children must sit on the grassed area and wait for parents to collect them. (No children are to run off to meet their parents). 2. No parking in the middle grassed area of the Cathedral grounds. 3. ONE WAY TRAFFIC only. 4. The Drive-Through-Lane is only for parents of children who do not need assistance getting into cars. (speedy operation) Parents, please do not leave your car. Teachers will direct your child/ren to your car when it is time and safe to do so. 5. NO CHILD is to enter a car from the right hand side of the vehicle when using the drive-through. 6. If your child needs assistance, parents must park in the “Pick-up Parking” area on the far side of grounds and walk over to pick up your child. 7. All pedestrian access via Cathedral steps and paths. Please do not cross in front of queuing “drive-through” traffic. 8. Vehicles exit “Pick-up Parking” area on inside lane of Drive-Through queue (see diagram below). 9. Parents in Drive-Through-Lane have RIGHT OF WAY. 10. Please do not block driveway access to the Presbytery, Parish Office or Priest’s residences. 11. Parents who need to park and collect children may wish to stagger their pick up time until after the initial rush. 12. At 3:40pm any children still waiting will walk back to school with the supervising teacher.

27

13. In the event of wet weather or storms, children are to be collected from the Library steps.

We would appreciate if all parents could read and share guidelines with other people who might pick up your child and support us in this endeavour in keeping your child safe.

Leycester St. immediately in front of the Kinder- Year 2 building (please do not double park);

Trinity Catholic College Car Park; Children walking over to the Trinity Car Park or Trinity Swimming Pool, line up with children going to Bus Bays 17-20.

Visitor/Disabled Car Park ; Between 8:30am-9:15am and 2:45pm-3:30pm use of the Visitor/Disabled Car Park outside the Administration building is restricted only parents or students entitled to Disability Parking.

DO NOT PARK: Parents are asked to avoid blocking bus zones or private driveways and are not to park in the Police Youth Club Car Park, the Service Station, Foodworks Car Park or the Staff Car Park including the driveway access (located off Dawson Street).

During School Hours

28

Students arriving at school after 9:15am must be brought to the school office by their parent/carer and signed in. The student will be given a pass to present to the class teacher. Parents/carers collecting students must present at the school office and sign them out. Staff will call students to the office for collection.

Parents are asked to try to make dental appointments, etc. outside school hours if possible.

Please Note: If unknown to Office Staff, parents/carers calling to collect children will be asked for photographic I.D. This is not meant to offend and is only in the interest of your child/ren’s safety.

Private Car Allowance Some parents may be eligible for Private Car Allowance if they are required to drive their child/ren more than 1.6km (walking distance) from the nearest transport pick-up point. If you think you may be eligible please contact the School Office.

Reading Recovery Students who are enrolled in their second year at school (i.e. Year One students who have not repeated Kindergarten or Year One) are eligible for Reading Recovery.

The lowest achieving Year One students are most at risk without early literacy intervention.

These students are identified using information from the following sources:

Observation Survey results

Class teachers of the students.

K – 2 Executive/Principal

Inclusion of students in the program is decided using the above guidelines. Parents/carers will be notified.

Religious Education Religious Education, as part of the Church’s mission of evangelisation, shares in the task of spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. The Religious Education curriculum aims to assist students to make sense of life in the light of God’s revelation. It is our task as Catholic educators to help our students access the Word of God in the Scriptures, the Church’s living Tradition, and in their own lives and experience. In doing so, we prepare our students to celebrate and respond to God’s Word in their lives.

Religious Education is taught in the context of a partnership between the home, school and parish and is supported by the resource books To Know, Worship and Love.

Parents are encouraged to become actively involved with the Religious Education Program through:

Knowledge of the content for their child’s grade. The resource books ‘To Know, Worship and Love’ will be sent home for parents to complete the ‘Reflecting Together at Home’ section of each chapter. This will give parents the opportunity to share with their children on the matters of faith and its importance in their lives.

Involvement and support for the Sacramental Programs of Confirmation, Penance and Eucharist.

29

Reporting School reports are issued each semester. Government regulations require reporting of student achievement in each Key Learning Area using an A – E grading scale. Kindergarten students and students on IP’s will be exempt from this grading process.

Teachers use common assessment tasks across the grade to ensure consistent judgement in their reporting. When the quality of a student’s achievement has been rated, teachers must ensure they have work samples to substantiate their judgement. Parents are invited to meet with the class teacher to discuss any concerns or to seek clarification after reports have been sent home. Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Non-Catholics wishing to become Catholics are asked to contact the School Chaplain Fr James Foster at the Parish Office. Sacramental Program Children are prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation in Year 2 (usually Term 2) and the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist in Year 3 (usually in Term 1 and 3 respectively).

Children from Catholic families in Years 3-6 who have not previously received the Sacraments of Confirmation, Penance and Eucharist are also given the opportunity for preparation time in order to receive them.

Parents are expected to support their child/children in their Sacramental preparation by attending the Parent Information/Enrolment Meetings and attending weekend Mass. Children’s Liturgy is offered at the Cathedral on Saturdays and Sundays during this preparation time. School Fees School Fees are set at the end of each year by the Parish Finance Council. Fees are charged to cover the day-to-day running costs of the school. Fees are generally increased each year to reflect the increased costs in running the school. Every effort is made to keep fee increases to a minimum.

School fees are payable:

year in advance or

term in advance (due at the beginning of each term over 3 terms) or

by arrangement (contact Fees Clerk).

Payments can be made by cash, cheque, credit card, Bpay or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). Please contact the Fees Clerk to arrange payments by Bpay or EFT.

All School Fees are payable in full by the end of Term 3 each year. Any outstanding fees are collected during Term 4. Also payable are the School Maintenance Levy of $350.00 (paid once annually per family – due Term 1) and the Technology Levy of $70.00 per student. Discounts apply to school fees only with enrolments of 2 or more children.

30

A summary of current annual school fees for 2016 is as follows:

$1128.00 1 student + $350 School Maintenance Levy + $ 70 Tech Levy

$2171.40 2 students + $350 School Maintenance Levy + $140 Tech Levy

$3130.20 3 students + $350 School Maintenance Levy + $210 Tech Levy

$3699.84 4 students + $350 School Maintenance Levy + $280 Tech Levy

Parents who have difficulty meeting these fees are asked to contact the Principal to discuss a special arrangement during Term 1. All special arrangements must be renewed each year in Term 1.

Parents need to be aware that failure to meet these Fee commitments could result in a review of their child/ren’s enrolment status.

As per parish policy, monies paid are allocated first to the School Maintenance Levy, Technology Levy and then to school fees.

Please also see “School Maintenance Levy” and “Technology Levy” for further information. School Leaders Following a time of preparation in Year 5, School Leaders and Colour House Leaders are selected annually in Term 4. The new School Leaders are announced at the end of year Mass. The School Leaders and Colour House Leaders Inductions are held at the beginning of year Mass the following year. School Maintenance Levy A School Maintenance Levy of $350.00 is charged to all families. This levy assists with the capital maintenance and development of our school and other supporting infrastructure and is payable in Term 1. School Office The school office is situated in the admin complex and is open from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Mrs Lyniese De Maria (Principal’s Secretary), Mrs Sharon Ellison, Mrs Patricia Steele (Part time) (School Secretary’s) and Mr Warren Whitney (School Fees, accounts) will help you with any inquiries. Skoolbag St Carthage’s is now using the Skoolbag mobile app for schools. This app helps to deliver school information directly to parents on your mobile devices. This app will allow us to send reminders, cancellations, notices about upcoming events etc. directly to your mobile device. How to get the Skoolbag app on your mobile device: Is available from The App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Play Store (Android), search for St Carthage’s School - Skoolbag and download the app to your phone. School Term Dates

Refer to Appendix 4. Staff Development Days (SDD)

31

It is Diocesan Policy for staff to have a number of Professional Development Days each year. This is the most economical way to in-service staff and to keep them abreast of the latest educational matters. These days are Staff Professional Development Days so there is no school for students. Staff Professional Development Days are well advertised in our School Newsletter and on the School Webpage to give parents plenty of advanced notice. 2017 Pupil Free Days Friday 7 April Monday 24 April Thursday 19 May Friday 30 June Friday 22 September Based on demand, Active Kids may offer care on these days. Technology Levy An additional $70 per student has been introduced to offset the cost of technology resources e.g. net book computers, licences, Interactive White Boards, digital cameras. This is payable in Term 1. Uniform The wearing of correct school uniform is compulsory.

A note to the school is required if your child is not in correct uniform. Permission must be sought for a child to be excused for longer periods (e.g. medical reasons).

Please label each item of clothing clearly.

New school uniforms are available from Lowes (Lismore Square).

School Sports socks and school hats are available from the St Carthage’s School Clothing Pool. Second hand clothes are readily available from Mrs Laraine Barratt in the Clothing Pool between 11:30am – 12:30pm Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday (not Monday or Friday please). School Uniform Boys: Short sleeved blue shirt with school badge (tucked in) Grey school shorts Grey socks - blue and gold stripes Black lace-up leather shoes Royal blue school jumper Royal blue school hat Long grey trousers (optional for winter) Scarves for winter (Blue) (only available from School Canteen)

Girls: Blue/gold check skirt or culottes Blue with check trim overblouse Royal blue socks Black leather joggers shoes Royal blue school jumper Royal blue school hat (only available from the School Canteen) Royal blue tights. Navy are acceptable if Royal blue unavailable (optional for winter) School headbands (blue)

32

Scarves for winter (blue) (only available from School Canteen)

Sports Uniform Boys: Gold sports shirt Colour House shirt Royal blue shorts Black Joggers- not sandshoes/volleys St Carthage’s School Sport Socks (Optional)

Girls: Gold sports shirt Colour House shirt Royal blue sports shorts Royal Blue gym pants worn underneath skirt Black Joggers – not sandshoes/volleys St Carthage’s School Sport Socks (Optional)

Jewellery: Girls may wear one set of either plain sleepers or plain studs in their ears. Boys/Girls can wear a Cross or Medal. Leather jewellery is not permitted.

Please note: Tracksuit jackets, sandshoes or joggers do not take the place of regulation school uniform.

Colour House shirt: Children are to wear their Colour House shirt to represent their colour house at School Sports Carnivals (swimming, athletics, cross country etc.) and on selected week days specific to each Year Level as advised at the beginning of each year. (Available at Lowes)

Hair: Girls should have all long hair tied back. Boys are to have a conventional hairstyle. Uninterrupted Learning Time

Uninterrupted Learning Time is critical to children’s learning. To assist with this, during the morning session (8:55am – 10:55am) announcements over the school P.A. system are limited to emergency notices only and interruption to classes by parents is not permitted.

At any time during the day, parents wishing to speak to their children or deliver forgotten lunches, notes, school projects, hats etc., must go to the School Office for assistance rather than interrupt classes.

St Carthage’s Values – “We Value Ourselves and Others” (VOO program)

The Wellbeing Committee, in consultation with the staff have identified seven values for our school.

These values look at how we value ourselves and others.

33

1. Tolerance We show tolerance by being patient with people and accepting others differences and opinions.

2. Inclusion We show inclusion by being welcoming, accepting all people and playing fairly.

3. Respect We show respect by obeying rules, being considerate of others feelings and belongings.

4. Honesty We show honesty by telling the truth at all times and owning our behaviour.

5. Trustworthiness We show trustworthiness by being dependable and honourable.

6. Co-Operation We show co-operation by participating in all activities and listening to other people’s ideas as we work together.

7. Compassion We show compassion when we are loving and caring in our actions, thoughts and words.

Visitors Protocol

All visitors to the school are required to sign in at the School Office and collect a dated school label.

Website

The school website address is: www.stcarthlism.catholic.edu.au

We encourage parents to become familiar with the information available on the website and refer to it in the first instance for general queries.

The school website provides access to the following information:

Important announcements – Such as school closure due to floods, special events (e.g. sport events, fete) and reminder notices etc. may feature on the Home page.

Newsletters/notes – The newsletter tab on the website is the place to find the school newsletters. Copies of current permission notes (in case of lost copies) and forms such as “Long and Short Term Medication” can be found in the “Letters and Forms” tab.

School calendar – The school calendar tab provides up-to-date details of up-coming school events. Click on the event for more detailed information.

General School and Curriculum Information – e.g. enrolment information, policies, annual school reports, canteen menus etc.

Appendix 1

34

BUS OPERATORS

Name/Address Run Details Business Mobile

Quinn Bus Company * Broadwater -Tuckurimba, Wyrallah, Monaltrie.

* Dalwood - Marom Creek, Tregeagle, Wyrallah, Loftville.

0428 28 2137

Ballina Buslines

PO Box 407, Ballina 2478

Ballina, Alstonville, Evans Head, Byron Bay 6686 3666

Bruce’s Bus Service

21 Snow St, South Lismore 2480

Caniaba, Springrove, Larnook, Cawongla, Rock Valley 6621 6559 0423 958 595

Brunswick Valley Coaches 6680 1566

Creighton’s Bus Service

PO Box 7073, Lismore Heights

Corndale, Rosebank, Richmond Hill 6625 2225 0402 089 775

0402 089 776

Dunoon Bus Service

PO Box 1755, Lismore 2480

Dunoon, Modanville, Tullera, Dorroughby. 6624 8734 0412 248 503

Hall’s Country Buses

188 Numulgi Rd, Numulgi 2480

Numulgi, Whian Whian, Dunoon, Woodlawn 6628 4101 0414 284 101

J & B Bus Service P/L

PO Box 337,

Lismore NSW 2480

* Geneva, Kyogle, Cedar Point, Bentley.

* Meerschaum Vale, Empire Vale, Tregeagle, Wardell,

Chilcotts Grass, Rous Mill, Rous Rd, Ellis Rd Alstonville.

6621 2279

J: 0412 448 146

B: 0412 944 472

Koonorigan Bus Services

159 Dunoon Rd, Lismore 2480

Koonorigan, Pinchin’s Rd Goolmangar, Blakebrook,

Tuncester

6621 5729 0428 215 729

Northern Rivers Buslines

PO Box 1135, Lismore 2480

Lismore, Coraki, Casino, Kyogle. 6626 1499

P & H Rayner

1 Union St, Coraki 2471

Leycester 6683 2561 0429 835 500

M. T. & C. J Quinn Buses

777 Pinchins Road, Goolmangar

Tuntable Creek Rd, Terania Creek Rd, The Channon, The

Channon Rd, Keerrong Rd, Blakebrook, Booerie Creek.

66282137 0427 282138

0428 282137

Sweeney Todd Bus Service

PO Box 4208 Goonellabah

McLean’s Ridges, Bangalow, Newrybar, Booyong, Eltham,

Richmond Hill, Nashua, Boatharbour, Pearces Creek.

6625 1192 0417 892 456

Waller’s Bus Company

PO Box 6503, Sth Lismore 2480

Nimbin, Bishop’s Creek, Coffee Camp, Blakebrook,

Goolmangar, Lillian Rock, Jiggi, Georgica, Stoney Chute

6622 6266 0428 255 284

Williams Bus Service

112 New Ballina Rd, Lismore

Rosebank, Bexhill, Corndale, Repentence Creek, Upper

Coopers Creek.

6688 2194

6624 2846

0419 010 567

G & N Bus Services

6 Rifle Range Road,

Bangalow 2479

Dorroughby to Dunoon,

Myocum, Mullumbimby (feeder service to interchange)

66872104 0416086141

35

V2

Diocese of Lismore

Catholic Schools Office

compulsory school attendance

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

Appendix 2

The compulsory years of schooling

Did you know that if a student misses as little as eight days in each school term, by the end of primary school the student will have missed over a year of education?

In New South Wales, all children from six years of age are legally required to attend school or be registered for home schooling. After they complete Year 10 and until they turn 17 years of age, students then have the following options. They may also be in:

full‐time further education and training (eg TAFE, traineeship, apprenticeship)

full‐time, paid employment of an average of 25 hours per week; or

a combination of both of the above.

Children are expected to attend all school activities, on time. Regular attendance helps your child:

develop the skills needed to access the world of

work and other opportunities

learn the importance of punctuality and routine

make and keep friendships.

Parents are asked to limit the times their children arrive late to school or leave early. Your child’s school will have procedures to follow when this situation cannot be avoided.

What if my child has to be away from school?

If your child has to be absent from school, you must tell the school and provide a reason for your child’s absence. To explain an absence parents and carers may be required to:

send a note to the school, or contact the school via

fax or email, or

telephone the school, or

visit the school.

The school will inform you of the required procedures for contacting the school.

A small number of absences may be accepted by the Principal. For example, if your child:

has to go to a special religious ceremony

36

is required to attend to a serious and/or urgent family situation (e.g. a funeral)

is too sick to go to school or has an infectious illness.

If you consider that it is in your child’s best interests to be exempted from the legal requirement to attend school you must discuss this with the Principal.

Under certain circumstances the Principal can grant your child leave (no form required) or they will provide you with an ‘Application for Exemption from Attendance at School’ form and assist you to complete it. The Principal will consider your application and decide whether to grant a ‘Certificate of Exemption from Attendance at School’.

Principals can grant exemptions from school attendance for

100 days or less in a 12 month period. However if the request for absence from school is over 101 days the application must go through the Catholic Schools Office to the Minister. Parents intending to seek an exemption must give the Principal at least a full term’s notice of the request.

These exemption regulations also apply for students requesting an absence from school to participate in employment in the entertainment industry, participation in accredited elite sporting programs and for students in Year 10 undertaking a full time apprenticeship or traineeship.

Parents of students who turn 6 years of age during the year and are not enrolled in a school need to be aware they are in breach of the law and should contact a school principal to discuss the situation. This situation can often happen when a child turns 6 later in the year.

Further information Further information can be obtained from the following websites.

Policy and information (Catholic Education Commission)

http://bit.ly/zdLonM The school leaving age (NSW Department of Education and Communities)

http://bit.ly/ginrQI

What are school Principals responsible for?

It is important to understand that the school and the Catholic Schools Office may take further action where children of compulsory school age have recurring numbers of unexplained or unacceptable absences from school.

Parents (and sometimes their child) can be asked to attend a meeting with school staff and support personnel from the Catholic Schools Office. The aim of such meetings is to identify support strategies for the child and the family. Other agencies may be invited along to assist if parents agree.

37

DIOCESE OF LISMORE

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS OFFICE

PO Box 158 Lismore NSW 2480 Phone: (02) 6622 0422 • Fax: (02) 6622 0990 www.lism.catholic.edu.au Licensed under NEALS • February 2012 • PN 3033

Compulsory Attendance Conferences can be called when attendance continues to be an issue. These conferences are run by a trained convenor. This type of meeting seeks a written agreement from the parents to change the situation.

The new attendance requirements now in operation allow for legal compliance through the Children’s Court by a Compulsory Schooling Order. Finally, if all attempts to address attendance fail, action can be taken in the Local Court and fines levied.

38

Appendix 3

St Carthage’s Contact Grid

Some issues indicate more than one person as a contact. In this case, begin by contacting the person with the number (1) next to them. If the issue is not resolved please contact the next person indicated on the grid.

Contact Person Class

Teacher

School

Office

Fees

Clerk

Librarian Coordinator Assistant

Principal

Principal

Issue

Allergies 1 2 3

Behaviour 1 2 3

Book Club 1

Bullying 1 2 3

Bus pass 1 2

Canteen 1 2

Curriculum 1 2 3 4

Excursions 1 2

Homework 1

Library 1

Medicine 1

Natural Disasters 1 2

Parish School Forum 1

Parish School Forum

Fundraising 1

Parking 1

Policies 1 2 3

Premier’s Reading

Challenge (PRC) 1

Representative Sport Sport

Sacramental programs 2 1 Mr Hatchman

School Fees 1 2

Sport Carnivals Sport

Student Fundraising 1

Teacher 1

Travel to & from

School 1 2

Uniform 1 2 3

39

Appendix 4

2017 School Term Dates

Term 1

Friday 27 January to Friday 7 April Year 1-6 students commence 30 January

Kindergarten Best Start 30 Jan – 3 Feb

Kindergarten commence 6 February

Term 2

Monday 24 April to Friday 30 June Students return Wednesday 26 April

Term 3

Monday 17 July to Friday 22 September

Term 4

Monday 9 October to Tuesday 19 December

Public Holidays Good Friday - 14 April

Easter Monday - 17 April

ANZAC Day – Tuesday 25 April

Queen’s Birthday – Monday 12 June

Labour Day – Monday 2 October

2017 Pupil Free Days

Friday 27 January

Friday 7 April

Monday 24 April

Thursday 18 May

Friday 30 June

Friday 22 September