PRINCIPAL’S REPORT – MARCH NEWSLETTER

Wow one month into the 2019 academic year and already so much has been achieved in our school community. Our March newsletter certainly is a bumper issue with information about our students, staff, parents and programs from Kindergarten to Year 12. Please take your time to read this publication over the month of March. I know you too will be as impressed with and proud of our school as I am.

TEACHERS AT ALEX PARK PRESENTED WITH PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

Congratulations to Ms Winfield and Mr Hansen on receiving a 2018 St Peters Office Network Award. These awards recognise individuals, schools and/or groups of schools (communities of schools) that have made a significant contribution to the achievement of the corporate goals of the department and to the promotion of public education in NSW. Mr Skinner our Director of Educational Leadership and George Clooney were thrilled to be able to present the awards at our School Development Day this year.

THE LEADERSHIP TEAM AT ALEX PARK

As a Principal I am so fortunate to have the expertise of my 2 executive leadership teams. The Deputy Principals, Head Teachers, Assistant Principals and Aboriginal Education Officers are the best – they know their students as individuals and value and care for them, they know their syllabus and know how to teach all our students, they lead the professional learning and development of all staff teams and ensure that Alex Park is an engaged and connected K – 12 community school.

Newsletter

Community Opportunity Success in a caring learning environment

Park Road, Alexandria NSW 2015 P: 02 96981967 F: 02 9319 5007 alexparkcs-c.school@det.nsw.edu.au Term 1, March 2019

THE PRIMARY SCHOOL EXECUTIVE TEAM

From left to right Mrs Lucy Smith, Ms Jessica Wayland, Ms Amanda McLeod, Mrs Debra Lade, Ms Thea Wilson. Front row: Mr David Olsen, Ms Diane Fetherston.

THE HIGH SCHOOL EXECUTIVE TEAM

Back row: Ms Kadek Arya, Ms Jane Ryan, Ms Louise Hawkins, Ms Thecla Siamas, Ms Rochelle Foley, Mr Muhammed Abdullah. Front row: Mrs Sheree Bourke & Ms Diane Fetherston

THE ABORIGINAL EDUCATION OFFICERS

Uncle Hilton and Aunty Deb with Miss Fetherston

WELCOME TO OUR NEW TEACHERS

Name: Grace Humphreys Academic Qualifications & Institution: Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood & Primary Teaching). Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW. Teaching experience Schools: Stanmore Public School: 2016-2018, Causal Teacher, Inner West of Sydney: 2016, Causal Teacher, Blue Mountains: 2015, Katoomba Children’s Cottage (Early Childhood Educator/Teacher): 2010-2015 Being a teacher at Alexandria Park Community School allows me to be an active member in a community that strives to holistically support children and therefore impact the future. I am excited to be on Kindergarten this year and look forward to supporting students’ in their learning, happiness and overall growth. I am particularly passionate about

developing student’s abilities to confidently explore literacy and numeracy. I utilise the creative arts to ensure all learning experiences are engaging and fun. A core aspect of my teaching philosophy is the importance of developing a culturally inclusive learning environment that celebrates diversity. My first impression of Alex Park was how welcoming and supportive the Staff at Alex Park are. Everyone displays the importance of collaboration in order to develop a child and family centred community. The warm welcomes I have received from Alex Park were not only from the staff but also from many helpful and kind students. I look forward to working in this community.

Name: Dylan Cosgrave Academic Qualifications & Institution: I studied Marine Biology at UTS and completed my Graduate Diploma in Education at Curtin University in WA. Teaching experience Schools: I began teaching at Melville Senior High School (WA) in 2016. I moved back to Sydney in 2017 where I had a science position at Canterbury Boys High School before being offered a position up by Alex Park Community School.

Course: I’ve worked as a tour guide at Sydney aquarium during Uni before becoming the manager of the education department. I later worked for Manly Aquarium before leaving to become a teacher. In 2017 I also spent time working with Sydney Water as a sampling officer. I enjoyed creating engaging education experiences and forming relationships in my previous positions and I think it’s a skill I bring with me to teaching. This year I’ll be teaching year 7-10 IST (Information and Software Technology) and year 7 and 10 science I’m passionate about combining technology with science wherever possible. I’m very excited to start a sustainable aquaponics system this year with my classes and I look forward to be involved in the Alex Park community. I believe creating strong student-teacher relationships is crucial in helping students achieve their goals. I look for improvement in students as a marker of success. I believe in a growth mindset and that you learn through making mistakes and asking questions. My goal is to help students achieve the best results they can. I’m very happy to be at Alex Park. The students have been very kind and the teachers are very positive. I feel at home because Alex Park has a country town feel and it’s easy to get to know everybody. I love the ocean and if you are interested in pursuing a career in science please come and have a chat.

Name: Joanne Green Academic Qualifications & Institution: BA Culture History Philosophy, MA Primary Education, Graduate Cert. Leadership University of Western Sydney and Monash University

Teaching experience Schools: 2 years Ravenswood Height Primary School Launceston Tasmania 2013-14. 2 years Padstow Heights Primary School Sydney NSW 2015-16. 2 years Nakara Primary School Darwin NT 2017-18 Course:

25 years in Corporate Sector – QANTAS, Telstra Wholesale, NSW Health – Project Management, and Policy and Regulatory. My experience in the corporate sector has provided me with an insight into how quickly workplaces evolve and how necessary employees must adapt. I have gained skills such as collaboration, problem solving, creativity, and communication. This experience has highlighted just how important future focused skills are for our young learners as they head into an unknown workplace. 2019 teaching load at Alex Park (courses, years): Year 4 2019 I have experience and enjoy coaching music students (guitar piano voice) and have facilitated jam session and whole of school showcases. I am experienced in drama and performance, and especially teaching Shakespeare for young learners. I am Interested in developing Maths club – specifically numeracy games. I aim to build strong relationships with my learners, a vibrant classroom culture where high expectations, independence, and where student agency prevails. First impressions of Alex Park: Supportive staff, modern classrooms with the potential for flexibility, innovation and collaboration. I am a dedicated teacher who places the social, emotional and academic needs of my students above all else. I seek fun in learning through risk taking, student participation in planning and the implementation of authentic learning tasks. I delight in sharing my room with other classes in the learning process and building solid relationships. I never stop learning.

Name: David Moir – 1W Academic Qualifications & Institution: Bachelor of Music (Jazz Performance) – University of Sydney. Master of Teaching – University of Sydney I started teaching in 2012. I taught as a casual for 2 years at a number of schools, then had 3 years at Newtown Public School on Stage One classes. Before training as a school teacher, I was a musician and music teacher. I taught violin

and piano, and played keyboard in a number of bands. I’ve also taken music incursion programs into schools as part of a tour through regional Victoria. I try and incorporate music and creative arts into the classroom as much as possible. 2019 teaching load at Alex Park (courses, years): Year 1, Thursday and Friday. My biggest goal in teaching is to instil a growth mindset into students. Once students understand they are capable of learning and growing then anything is possible! I believe learning needs to be purposeful and teaching explicit. I expect my classroom to be a place of respect, where mistakes are celebrated as an opportunity to learn, where students can feel safe, and where everyone is trying their hardest. I set explicit and personalised learning goals with students and we celebrate these publicly when they are achieved. I’ve been into many schools as a casual, and some schools you walk into and feel a sense of ‘home’ straight away. Alex Park is one of those schools. I felt welcomed straight away, by staff, students and parents. I was impressed with the thoroughness of the programs left out for me as a casual. I live close to the school with my wife and 3 kids. My daughter will be starting at Alex Park in 2020

Name: Tim Schepis – 2S Teaching experience: New Graduate with University course experience at Ultimo Public School, Drummoyne Public School and Yennora Public School. I have worked as an after-school Educator at Forest Lodge Public School from 2015-2018 to which I was required to organise and facilitate a variety of sporting, creativity and sustainability activities. This required me to build healthy relationships with my students to engage them in learning new skills and knowledge.

This is my first year at Alexandria Park Community School teaching in a full-time position. I have a strong connection to sport and languages which I am hoping to utilise in my teaching at Alexandria Park Community School. I believe that all students have the potential to succeed in life. It is my goal to provide genuine support and guidance to each student to achieve their highest educational potential in a caring learning environment. My first impression of Alexandria Park Community School is that the staff are incredibly supportive, accepting and professional towards the students, families and the greater community. The school utilises a whole-school framework to develop relevant and modern educational programs and to create a safe and welcoming learning environment for all community members. I am a young and passionate undergraduate student ready to get involved with the local community. I am a friendly and caring person who likes to have a chat. This year I will be teaching 2S, if you would like to get to know more about me please feel free to get in contact with the school office.

Name: Elise McLaurin Teacher’s Certificate Work history: Raha International School – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Southbank International School – Kensington, United Kingdom. Causal teacher working for Destination Education, Smart Teachers and teacher at Southbank International School. Bradfordville Public School –NSW. Employment experiences: Worked as a tutor in London for several families.

2019 teaching load at Alex Park: Release from face to face. I believe that it is important to collaborate well in a team environment by sharing resources, ideas and laughs. The first step is developing relationships with students based on mutual respect, differentiated by goals and expectations. First impressions of Alex Park – Energetic and productive atmosphere. Staff are friendly and supportive. I look forward to getting know the staff, students and parents.

Name: Mrs Bernadette Reid I attended the University of Wollongong where I gained my Bachelor of Arts (English Literatures and Drama). I completed my Diploma of Education at the University of New England.

In 2018, I worked as a casual teacher across a number of metropolitan schools, predominantly Alex Park across years K-6 and James Cook Boys Technology High School in Kogarah. Prior to coming to Alex Park, I worked at Westpac Banking Corporation as a Training and Development coach. While my focus was teaching adults, I gained a lot of experience in teaching and learning strategies that I now

bring to the classroom. It was a rewarding role, but my passion is working with children – I love the humour, spontaneity and joy that they bring to the classroom. I will be teaching in the Library (Years 3 – 6) and supporting EAL/D students in the classroom.

I am looking forward to collaborating with Stage 2 and 3 classroom teachers to develop engaging and stimulating library lessons. Library sessions are not only about borrowing books and research projects, but are an opportunity for students to step into an exciting and dynamic learning space outside their classroom. Throughout the year, my goals are to teach students how to be discerning users of information, navigate the limitless uses of technology and to provide experiences to encourage reading for pleasure. I have taught at many schools casually across Sydney – but Alex Park has found a special place in my heart. Learning at Alex Park is interactive, collaborative, informative and fun. The caring and nurturing staff and teachers provide students with the social and emotional skills for life and further schooling – students at Alex Park are confident and passionate about life! I love community, meeting new people, learning about cultures and being humbled by the students I teach. When I am not teaching, I love getting outdoors with my children or curling up on the lounge with a good book. Name: Cameron Craig

Academic Qualifications & Institution: B.Ed (Sec) - University of Sydney Teaching experience (courses, years, schools): 2009-2013: Homeroom and Classroom Teacher, Adaptive Technology Co-ordinator. 2016-2018 Casual teacher: John Berne School, Lewisham; Eileen O’Connor School, Lewisham; Green Square School, Green Square; Alexandria Park Community School, Alexandria; Sydney Secondary College, Glebe; Tempe High School, Tempe. 2019 teaching load at Alex Park (courses, years): Year 7 and 8 music maths and HSIE. Big History Project 2 Other responsibilities at Alex Park: Band (Thursday lunch); Jam sessions (various); Technology Committee;

Beliefs/goals in relation to teaching, learning and student achievement: How to answer in words? It’s in actions, and it’s student-centred. First impressions of Alex Park – What do I think of it? I send my child here, and I tried my hardest to work here. This is my community. Staff Profile: Natalie Casale

The PDHPE department has the honour of welcoming Natalie Casale to its staff. Natalie has been teaching PDHPE and Dance at Westminster Academy in London, UK and is now very excited to be joining us at Alex Park. She enjoys playing and coaching team sports particularly soccer, basketball and netball. During her high school years she represented MLC School in netball, water polo and soccer in Canada and the USA. Other than her passion for teaching, she religiously attends 5am high intensity functional training sessions, practices Vedic mediation and most importantly, enjoys long walks with her much loved fur baby (puppy) named Henry. If you see Natalie in the playground or sports field, be sure to say hi.

Name: Kylee Heslop

Degree in Agriculture Science, Bachelor of Education. 10 years teaching Agriculture, Primary Industries (VET), Biology, Science and Mandatory Technology. I have taught at various schools including; Dubbo College, The Kings School and South Sydney High School. Other employment experiences: Exhibiting livestock and poultry at Sydney Royal Easter Show which create new opportunities for students and the role Agriculture plays in their lives.

2019 teaching load at Alex Park Yr 11 Biology, Science, Agriculture, Agrifoods and Mandatory Technology. I enjoy touch football, Rugby, and Rugby League. I Hope to assist with coaching and establishing an extra- curricular Agriculture show team. It’s important my students feel comfortable in the learning space I provide, allowing them to excel to their full potential. First impressions of Alex Park: Everyone is friendly in an inclusive environment. INNER SYDNEY HIGH SCHOOL – REVISED CATCHMENT

The new Inner Sydney High School is scheduled to open Day 1, Term 1 2020 for Year 7 students. Congratulations to Ms Robyn Matthews (previously the Principal of South Sydney High School) on her appointment as the founding principal of our newest high school.

Following the announcement on 14 December 2018 of the catchment area and enrolment pattern for the Inner Sydney High School, opening in 2020, a review of the proposed boundaries has taken place.

The review has been completed and the revised catchment area is now live. You can view the catchment area here: https://amswebapps.det.nsw.edu.au/amsWebApps/egis/ishs_catchment.php . If you have a child in Year 6 in 2019, he/she may be eligible to enrol into the Inner Sydney High School for Year 7 in 2020. A student is able to enrol into the Inner Sydney High School as an in-area student if their permanent and principal place of residence is located in the school’s designated catchment area. If your child is currently enrolled at Alexandria Park Community School and their residence falls into the Inner City High School catchment area they will have the choice of enrolling into year 7 at Alexandria Park Community School or the Inner Sydney High School. Enrolments will be undertaken in accordance with the NSW Department of Education's guidelines and procedures.

Primary schools have received enrolment information for Year 6 students as part of the normal high school enrolment process. Forms will be distributed to parents shortly.

You can find out more about this exciting new high school at the school infrastructure website here: https://www.schoolinfrastructure.nsw.gov.au/projects/i/inner-sydney-high-school.html

ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL

Regular school attendance is critical to student learning and well-being. It is a core rule in our public schools that students ‘attend school every school day, unless they are legally excused, and be in class on time and prepared to learn.’

If your child is absent from school, parents and carers need to provide an explanation for the absence within 7 days. This explanation can be provided in person, or by telephone call, written note, text message or email. The written note can be handed to the administration office on either campus or to the class teacher (for primary students) or period 1 teacher (for high school students).

If you have concerns about your child’s attendance please contact the class teacher (for primary students) or Year Advisor (for high school students) and we can work together to support regular school attendance.

FAMILY HOLIDAYS AND TRAVEL DURING THE SCHOOL TERMS

As of 2015, the Principal cannot approve students being exempted from attending school to go on family holidays or to travel. Holidays and travel need to be scheduled during the school vacation periods. If you believe that you have extenuating circumstances which require your child to absent from school for an extended period time to travel during the school term your will need to make an appointment to discuss the matter with either the Deputy Principal or the Principal. If the reason for the travel is in the best interest of the student a Certificate of Extended leave may be approved, with the period of the absence being counted as absences from school.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS, CARERS AND VISITORS TO OUR SCHOOL.

A code of conduct for parents and visitors ensures that everyone who visits the school site is able to do so in a safe and harmonious manner and to ensure that students, staff, parents and other visitors are not subjected to aggressive, hostile or violent behaviours.

I remind parents and carers that if they have a concern or problem with a student in our school they are not allowed to approach that child or their parent about the concern. Parents and carers are expected to discuss issues or concerns about other students through the correct procedures.

If the concern is occurring during class time parents are to contact the class teacher and talk to the teacher about the concern or problem.

If the concern is happening on the playground or whilst travelling to and from school the parent is to contact the Assistant Principal or Deputy Principal to explain what is happening and allow the AP or DP to investigate and manage the students issue within the school’s ‘Student Behaviour Code’ and ‘Positive Behaviour for Learning’ practices.

Parents and visitors are expected to treat all persons associated with the school with respect and courtesy. This includes all of our students.

Congratulations to Elijah Munro from Year 11 for securing a place in the Statim-Yaga Indigenous Employment in Construction pre-apprenticeship program. This is an initiative of Hutchinson Builders and provides 10 weeks of solid training to interested Indigenous people in the Construction Industry. On completion of the course, participants are offered full-time apprenticeships with Hutchinson Builders.

SCHOOL CALENDAR

Date What’s happening 4 March P & C meeting at 6.30pm 5 March PSSA Zone swimming carnival 6– 8 March Year 7 camp 8 March K-2 Assembly – Hosted by 2S 12 March High School recognition assembly - Sport 13 March Year 11 Modern History excursion 15 March 3-6 Assembly – Hosted by 5/6M 19 March Harmony Day – High School 21 March Harmony Day – Primary School 22 March K-2 Assembly – Hosted by 1-2 M 26 March K-6 Parent/Teacher Interviews 27 March High School Tour 29 March 3-6 Assembly – Hosted by 5O 1 April P&C Meeting at 6:30pm 5 April K-2 Assembly – Hosted by 1A

NSW Department of Education – School Infrastructure schoolinfrastructure.nsw.gov.au Alexandria Park Community School project Alexandria Park Community School is being redeveloped to cater for increasing student enrolments from Kindergarten to Year 12. This project will deliver a new school to accommodate 1,000 primary school students and up to 1,200 high school students. The proposed redevelopment will replace existing classrooms and provide 104 new permanent learning spaces, 6 special education learning spaces, and 12 special program rooms (high school) for subjects including visual and performing arts, science and metal and woodwork. It will involve new core facilities including an administration area, hall, library, gymnasium, multiple sports courts, and play spaces. To facilitate the construction of the new school, two pop-up schools, one for K-6 and the other for senior students have been established. Learning will continue from these pop- up schools for the duration of construction. Planning approval received The State Significant Development application was approved in February and the construction contract has been awarded to Richard Crookes Constructions (RCC). Construction commencement To prepare the site for construction, some early works will be undertaken in March. This will involve putting up boundary fencing and hoardings so that construction work can be physically separated from school activity. The whole school development project is expected to be completed in early 2022. The safety of our students, staff and visitors is of the highest priority. We are here to make sure that work is completed safely and efficiently. Get in touch We will provide regular updates and opportunities to talk with the project team over the course of this project. If you would like to get in touch please see the contact information below. Frequently asked questions

What steps will be taken to control noise and dust impacts? Hoarding and shade cloth will be set up to reduce noise and dust impacts on the school and its neighbours. Dust from demolition and construction works will be hosed down with water as required. We will ensure that trucks entering and leaving the site will cover their loads. What traffic management will be provided during construction? During construction, traffic management will be implemented as required to ensure the safety of students, teachers, staff, site visitors and residents. The school community and residents will be kept updated by Schools

Artist impression of the Alexandria Park Community School redevelopment

Project notification

Infrastructure NSW about heavy vehicle routes, site entry, and traffic disruptions on public roads over the course of the project. Who is the contractor? The contract has been awarded to Richard Crookes Constructions. When are works expected to begin? Site establishment, including the installation of fencing and hoardings, and early works are expected to begin in March 2019. When is the project expected to be completed? The upgrade to Alexandria Park Community School is expected to be completed in early- 2022. How are you managing the safety of the students during construction? The safety aspects of the building program will be very carefully managed. Construction planning will ensure minimal impact on school operations. Measures such as hoardings, signage and separate access points are in place to ensure students will not have access to the construction site.

How will noise during construction be managed?

The construction program has been designed to minimise impacts of noise for students, staff and residents. Particular focus has been placed on ensuring there is minimal noise during school hours and examination periods. The construction site will be physically separated from the pop-up temporary school which will also minimise the impact of noise. When we need to carry out potentially disruptive work we will give advance notice to local residents so they know what to expect. What are the construction working hours? The construction hours for this project are 7.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, and 7.30am to 3.30pm on Saturdays. No work may be carried out on Sundays or public holidays. When will main works commence? Main site works are scheduled to commence in early 2019. What safety measures will be in place? The safety of the school and local community is our highest priority. Construction hoardings will be erected around the construction area to separate the site from occupied areas of the school to ensure the safety of staff and students. Deliveries will be scheduled for outside drop off and pick up times and traffic controllers will be on-site to assist with contractor deliveries. What are innovative learning and teaching facilities? Innovative learning prepares students across all curriculum areas and learning stages with skills and capabilities to thrive in a rapidly changing and interconnected world. It connects students and engages their sense of curiosity. How can I get in touch? We will keep you updated and provide opportunities for feedback throughout the project. If you would like to get in touch please visit https://www.schoolinfrastructure. nsw.gov.au, email us at schoolinfrastructure@det.nsw. edu.au, or call our hotline on 1300 482 651.

PRIMARY SCHOOL

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL REPORT

We have had a wonderful start to our new school year and I would like to again welcome all of our new families including those who have moved to the area, our 5OC students and also our 72 Kindergarten students. This year we have formed 18 classes in Years K-6 and have a total of 427 students. I have been able to visit all of our K-6 classrooms and I have been very impressed with how well our students have settled into the new school year. At Alex Park as part of our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) program we have a school wide approach and work together to follow our three school expectations: Be a learner, Be respectful and Be Safe. It has been wonderful to see so many students working towards these expectations both in the classroom and in the playground.

As we no longer have access to the Denzil we have needed to change our assembly format for this year. We now have K-2 & 3-6 assemblies on alternate weeks. Our first assembly was hosted by 6O who did a wonderful job sharing some of their entertaining narratives. 2W were just as impressive sharing a poem with us. We were also officially introduced to our house and school captains. Each week at our assemblies we acknowledge a student from each class who has met our school expectations. Congratulations to all of our award recipients from K-6. If you would like to see who is hosting our weekly assemblies, please check on our website under upcoming events.

Due to the closure of Park Rd the following information has been updated in regards to our Entry & Exit points to the Park Building.

Entry/exit point descriptions:

• Gate 1: Main entry for high school (Years 7-12 administration entrance on Buckland St). No primary students should access the school site via this entrance.

• Gate 2: Buckland Street pedestrian entry and exit. Primary students who walk to and from school should use this gate.

• Gate 3: Main entry for primary school (K-6 administration entrance on Park Rd). Primary students who walk to and from school, should use this gate. This gate is also the most convenient gate for accessing Camp Australia (before and after school care).

• Gate 4: Bus bay entry and exit and car drop off and pick up point. Primary school students who travel on bus transportation, or get dropped off and picked up by car transportation should use this gate. The 750 school bus is only for Primary students. Yurungai bus pick up from this point.

• Gate 5: Belmont Street pedestrian entry and exit. Primary students who walk to and from school should use this gate. This gate should not be used for car drop off and pick up (this should occur through gate 4 on Park Rd).

• No pedestrian access through the car park. If entering from Belmont Street, enter through gate 5. • Bike and scooter parking Students are able to park their bikes and scooters at the bike racks located

near the bottlebrush lawn in front of the student toilets. Every week our Primary Executive Team meet to plan for events, discuss our school’s strategic directions/plan, share programming information and set goals for our students, staff and teachers. We are all looking forward to working with you this year.

SASS STAFF From left: Mrs Leanne Turner, Mrs Nicole Johnson, Ms Tammy Cameron, Mrs Charlene Flood, Mr Sam Bogdanovska, Mrs Jo Bogdanovska, Ms Joasia Gajda, Mrs Kathleen Bujeia & Mrs Anna Povey

EARLY STAGE 1 (KINDERGARDEN)

Welcome back to School from the Early Stage One Team!

Ms Amanda McLeod (Assistant Principal) Ms Jade Fogarty KF, Ms Grace Humphreys KH, Mr Daniel Gleaves KG & Ms Coco Page KP

Kindergarten students have already completed their Best Start assessments, and have started their very first year of schooling at Alex Park. We have had lots of fun in our new classes, and we have already learnt a lot about what it is like at “Big School”.

This year the Early Stage One Kindergarten team is being led by Ms Amanda McLeod (Assistant Principal) who will be teaching KP on Wednesday’s. Ms Coco Page will be teaching KP, Ms Jade Fogarty KF, Ms Grace Humphreys KH and Mr Gleaves KG. Mr Cameron Whipp and Mrs Roslyn Broomfield will also be supporting Kindergarten, teaching specialist subjects such as Music and Library. The Kindergarten team bring a wealth of experience, ideas, and enthusiasm to Alex Park.

We would like to extend a special welcome to all the Kindergarten Parents and families who are new to the school this year. We are really looking forward to getting to know you and your children, and learning and growing together in 2019.

STAGE 1 TEAM (YEARS 1 and 2)

Welcome back. Stage 1 are very excited about how their stage is growing and about the New Year that lies ahead.

Stage 1 Classes

1AB- Miss Martha Austin (Mon-Thurs) Mrs Ros Broomfield (Fri) 1MW- Mrs Cassandra Woodburne (Mon-Wed), Mr David Moir (Thurs-Fri) 1DT- Mrs Donna Davey (Mon-Wed), Mrs Leanne Toia (Thursday-Friday) 1/2M Mrs Deborah Morgenstern 2S- Mr Timothy Schepis 2W- Ms Thea Wilson (Assistant Principal Stage 1) Additional staff who will be supporting Stage 1 include; Aunty Deb, Aunty Jayne, Deb Heggatonklenner, and Mary Laumua. We all bring

a wide range of interests and skills to the team, and are really looking forward to working with the Stage 1 students, parents and community in 2019.

Stage 1 (Year One and Two) students have been really enjoying getting to know their new classmates and teachers. Students have already been spending lots of time learning about the school expectations “be a learner, be respectful, be safe” and what this entails at our campus.

STAGE 2 TEAM (YEARS 3 and 4)

Mr Bradley Hansen 3H, Ms Joanne Green 4G, Ms Molly Moore 4/5M, and Ms Jessica Wayland 3J (Assistant Principal)

Stage 2 have jumped straight into hands on learning by creating athletes for ‘Potato Olympics’. Each team chose a country to represent and created a profile that reflected their research. The teams then competed in a range of races that incorporated different units of measurements. The children enjoyed participating in the games and have created newspaper articles and made short

video interviews to reflect their learning. A great time was had by all, teachers included!

STAGE 3 TEAM (YEARS 5 and 6)

Welcome back to all students in Stage 3, especially our new students and our new Opportunity Class (OC). Mrs Oluk created a display of her class to help students recognise each other and get used to their new class environment.

Stage 3 continues to offer a challenging and engaging study program in all areas of the curriculum.

We’ve kicked off our new year with an active-lifestyles unit in PE, and our Year 5 and Year 6 OC have been joining up to develop their soccer and softball skills.

In Science and Technology, we are learning about how living things adapt to their environment. In these investigations, students collected leaves to make observations about their characteristics, and made worm habitats to observe how earthworms fertilise soil.

In English, students are learning about the Super 6 comprehension strategies, such as predicting, and applying them to a range of texts.

Students are exploring the world of weaving in visual arts, experimenting with indigenous weaving techniques from across the globe.

Year 6 students have also commenced the Kindergarten Buddies program, meeting with their designated buddy on Tuesday afternoon for some art and craft. We can already see some strong relationships forming and it’s a great opportunity for Year 6 students to develop their leadership qualities.

HIGH SCHOOL NEWS

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Welcome to 2019, a fresh start for everyone and an exciting year ahead for all. Congratulations to the HSC Cohort of 2018, for their fabulous success and outstanding results. I would also like to acknowledge the dedication, commitment and expertise of their teachers and thank them for their hard work. We wish the 2018 cohort every success for the future.

Tuesday the 19th of February was our Meet the Teachers evening for our Year 7 parents, carers and students. This was a great success and even the wind didn’t stop the celebrations. Year 7 students received a Curriculum, Programming and Assessment Booklet containing lots of valuable information about what they will be learning in their course this year and the assessment tasks they will be completing. This booklet is now up on our website, under the learning at our school tab. We will be introducing booklets with similar relevant information to Years 8, 9 and 10 throughout this semester.

This term our Positive Behaviour for learning focus is be a Learner. Students will be participating in activities in their year meetings, classes and assemblies and discussing what it means to be a good learner. Some tips for being a good learner include:

- Arriving to school and to class on time - Being prepared for all your classes: packing your bag the night before to ensure you all have all the

required equipment for each lesson - Making sure your phone is on silent or off and in your bag - Asking questions if you are unsure of something, this includes asking for feedback on your completed

work. Ask your teachers and parents how you can improve and also what your strengths are. - Be enthusiastic about learning

Some of our high achieving students from 2018 attended our 7 to 12 Assembly on Tuesday 26th of February to talk about the strategies they used to achieve such incredible results.

APCS has subscribed to www.studyskillshandbook.com.au and all students and their families have access to this wonderful resource. On the website you will find worksheets and videos on how to study effectively, goal setting, and managing stress and there are also resources for improving your literacy and numeracy skills. The username is alexandriapark and the password is 11success.

Congratulations class of 2018 – Some of our high achievers and their destinations

Jia Ying Pang School DUX Band 6 Business Studies Band 6 Economics

Susmi Susmiha 94.50 B. Engineering/Commerce UNSW

Matilda Folwell 92.00 B. ART/Social Work USYD Band 6 PDHPE Band 6 Aboriginal Studies

Joe Jiang 92.00 B. Medical Science USYD

Tabassum Ghani 88.20 B. Adv Studies USYD

Esmir Hargraves 87.15 Band 6 Mathematics

Christine Ho 84.85 B. Science Band 6 Mathematics

Ilham Ranau Band 6 Economics

Leo Wang Band 6 equivalent Maths Extension 2

English/LOTE/Visual Arts

Back row: Tahlia Sanders (English/Art), William Sharp (English/Mandarin), Alex Forbath (English/HT admin), Laura Medway (EAL/D), Geraldine Prexl (English), Maeve Thomson (English/Aboriginal Studies), Dee Cantrell (English/EAL/D)

Front Row: Jane Ryan (HT English/LOTE/Art), Mara O’Toole (Art/music), Harry Jun (English, Korean)

As a team we are committed to the education of our students through strengthening their critical and creative thinking skills through enriching language,

literature and art experiences.

This year we welcome William Sharp to our wonderful and dynamic team of English, LOTE and Visual Arts. Mr Sharp is an experienced teacher of Mandarin and English and has added to the collective experience of our team. We’re also fortunate to have the enthusiastic and energetic artistic and musical talents of Mara O’Toole, who is replacing Mr James whilst he is on leave.

Year 7 English

This term we are doing a novel study focusing on Crow Country by Kate Constable. Students have engaged with the ‘Super 6’ (predicting, visualising, making connections, monitoring, summarising and questioning) to ensure they are comprehending what they are reading.

Please see the image of some of the maps of Boort students created to ensure they understand the setting of the novel. This focused on summarising and visualising.

YEAR 8 Year 8 are completing a novel study in English, focussing on the novel Apple and Rain. Recently, we completed an activity on one of the poems featured in the novel. Students were asked to create their own poems about ‘solitude’ and what solitude means to them. Below is a poem by the talented Jude Carters in 8A: Solitude Solitude is Quiet Solitude is war with noise and peace with self It is found in civilisation, in the most crowded place to the most uninhabitable place on earth It is in every soul, but some reject it and others welcome it with open arms Some wish to live in it others it is a custom hell But solitude isn’t isolation it is a state of mind

Where one is at peace with themselves for they know solitude is being content and alone, just like one’s mind, happy-ness and quiet are lost siblings forever waiting for each-other. For peace. 新年快乐

Alexandria Park Community School is very pleased to wish our local Chinese community a happy and prosperous new year. We now provide all year 8 students with the opportunity to study Mandarin and we look forward to the many exciting opportunities this will unlock for them. Year 8 students have been learning all about the folktales surrounding Chinese New Year and mastering their numbers as well as some basic greetings in Mandarin. The students have also had a chance to try their hands at some Chinese paper cutting to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Year 10

For English in Term 1, 10A are engaging in a novel study. The novel that we are studying is The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. The novel focuses on Junior, a teenager who lives on a Native American reservation in Wellpinit, Washington. The novel, as stated in the title is an honest diary that contains Junior’s most intimate thoughts and feelings, as well as cartoons and comics that he draws. Recently we read a chapter on Mr P, who is one of Junior’s teachers. Junior draws a cartoon depiction of his teacher and includes funny little notes on what he thinks of him. I asked my year 10 students to do the same for me! Please enjoy their brilliant artworks.

Stage 6 (years 11 and 12)

At the beginning of the year Sydney Story Factory delivered a workshop on the mandatory Craft of Writing to the standard and advanced Year 12 English classes. It was an engaging time that had the students thinking – and writing.

The year 12 advanced class are studying the poetry of John Donne and the 1995 play W;t as the texts for their Module A study ‘Textual conversations’. Currently we are delving into the poetry of John Donne before we embark on W;t and the ‘textual conversation’ between the late 20th century play and the early 17th century poetry.

Visual Arts Our Year 12 students are well under way with their preparations for the HSC. There are some brilliant ideas circulating for their Bodies of Work, including the forms of embroidery, landscape paintings, hyper-realistic pencil portraits, sculpture and video, to name a few. Each student has chosen a concept to focus on, and with examples such as the refugee crisis, relationship violence, and synaesthesia. They are all on the right track to complete highly thought-out and well-refined works of art.

SECONDARY EAL/D TEAM (English as an additional Language or Dialect)

Ms Dee Cantrell, Ms Laura Medway, Mrs Qing (Quinnie) Yang

Learning English is essential for success at school and for further education, training and employment for students who speak a language other than English as their first language. English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D) student support aims to develop EAL/D students’ English language competence across the curriculum, so that they can fully participate in schooling and independently pursue further education and training. Our EAL/D team are specialist teachers delivering EAL/D education in a variety of ways to meet

the diverse needs of EAL/D students at different stages of learning English. Our secondary EAL/D team provide English language support for EAL/D students from Year 7 to Year 12 as well as supporting classroom teacher professional development in meeting the needs of our English language learners. The EAL/D team at APCS values Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students who speak a dialect of English as their main home dialect, and we recognise and value the backgrounds and cultures of all students. We promote an open and respectful attitude towards different cultures, religions and world views.

SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY and APPLIED STUDIES

The talented APCS Science/TAS staff include: Mrs F Mishra, Mr Bashir, Ms Agathopoulos, Mr Cosgrave Mr N Alexopoulos, Ms A Povey (SASS), Mr Conolly, Ms N Johnson (SASS), Ms Heslop, Ms C Caswell and Ms S Bourke

(HT)

Technological and applied studies (TAS) is one of the fastest-growing and most innovative subject areas.

TAS teachers thrive on both the creative and practical challenges associated with teaching cutting edge subjects at APCS such as Agriculture, Engineering, Food Technology, Graphics Technology, Information and Software Technology, Industrial Technology, Technology (mandatory), Textiles and Design & Technology.

Students complete a mandatory technology course in Years 7 and 8, allowing students to find creative solutions to meet the needs of society. They can build on these skills to choose interest subjects in electives from Years 9 through to HSC. IST students are coding “Spheros”.

Agriculture students are busy with chickens and preparing the display for the Sydney Royal Easter Show. An excursion will be for all Yr 7 students along with Yr 9 and 10 Agriculture students coming up in April. Stage 5 Ag students are redesigning the Ag plot and with supplying the staff with fresh eggs.

Hospitality students are keeping staff cheerful as they refine their barista skills and Yr 12 D and T students are finalising their designs for their major projects.

SCIENCE

Stage 4 ( Year 7 ) Scientists have been putting their inquiry and research skills into practice, investigating Branches and future careers in Science. The Year 7 Research assignment on an Australian Scientist will inspire our budding Scientists.

Year 8 Scientists have been very engaged in studying the many different roles parts of the body play in making a functioning living thing. Soon they will able to monitor the growth rates of the chicks to enhance their learning.

Stage 5 Scientists are studying the electricity in Year 9 and motion in year 10.

STEM subjects are a popular choice for Stage 6 students. Yr 12 have commenced the new NESA syllabus for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. With a focus on depth studies, students are able to broaden their understanding with investigation into those areas that spark their imagination.

MATH FACULTY TEAM

Members of the Mathematics faculty in 2019 are Head Teacher Joanne Ridge, Muhammad Abdullah, Xiaoxi Liang, Rachel Driessen, Matthew Bowman and Stephen Bennett.

The faculty welcomes back the Head Teacher, Joanne Ridge from maternity leave and a new appointment Rachel Driessen. Rachel comes to the classroom after a successful mathematics career and will be an excellent addition to the faculty.

This year will be extremely busy in the faculty as we prepare the year 12 Mathematics Standard students for the first HSC examination in this course. 2019 will also see the commencement of the new calculus courses, 2 Unit Advanced Mathematics and Mathematics Extensions 1 in year 11. Staff have been preparing for the introduction of these courses since their publication in March 2018. The preparation will continue, including professional

development and faculty collaboration, in readiness for the commencement of the year 12 courses at the beginning of term 4.

In 2019 we wish to continue the strong performances of our 2018 students who achieved excellent results at the HSC. It was particularly pleasing that many students were able to achieve at band levels higher than would have been initially expected. Many of these students have made a persistent and consistent effort by attempting extra work seeking assistance from teachers in class and after school at the homework centre.

All students are encouraged to engage in a small sustainable amount of regular revision of their mathematics. This revision assists students to identify any areas of difficulty they may have in their understanding of a topic. It is important that students should then quickly seek assistance from the teacher in addressing this misunderstanding. On line resources can be helpful in facilitating this revision.

An online resource students are able to access is ‘MathsOnline’ which includes explanatory videos and appropriate level worksheets. A year’s licence for this site is available for $20. Payment may be made through the school website. Students also have access to the school homework centre to help address difficulties they may be having with their understanding of class work. This centre runs on Wednesdays after school.

WELLBEING TEAM

Welcome back to all our students and families to a new year at APCS.

We, in the Wellbeing team have a great year planned with a different focus each term on areas of student wellbeing. Term one is all about being a learner; term 2 is about being respectful and having respectful relationships; the focus in terms 3 and 4 will be on mental health awareness and online safety.

Our team includes the Year Advisers who support their students by being the first port of call whenever students or parents need help or advice of any kind. The Learning & Support team work with students and their families, the deputy principal, the school counsellor and the Head Teacher of Wellbeing to support students with any additional needs.

Welcome YEAR 7 2019

Year 7 have started 2019 with great success. From a three day orientation process where they got to know each other and their new school well to launching into learning a range of new subjects in a variety of different environments, it’s been a busy few weeks. We asked a few of our new students what their first impressions have been now that they are well and truly a part of the Alex Park Community.

‘I really like art class. Tech is fun because we get to grow our own plants. I like how we do lots of different sports in high school compared to primary school.’ – Sen

‘Tech was really fun because we got to make our own muffins and eat them. Sport was also really fun because there are so many different sports to choose from.’ – Simon

‘It’s different to primary school because you swap classrooms and you don’t have the same teacher for an entire year. I’m enjoying being in a brand new space’ – John

‘There are a lot more people in my year group which I like because it means I have different friends in different classes and there’s always someone to hang out with.’ – AJ

‘I feel like it’s really nice being in year 7. It’s a change. There’s not too much homework. I really recommend this school. There are lovely teachers. It’s a nice small school so you really get to know your cohort.’ – Kashi

‘I am really looking forward to the swimming carnival. Waratah is definitely going to win!’ – Tupou

‘It’s great because usually in other high schools they start by being hard on the students but at APCS it’s supportive.’ – TT

‘I think it is really good in high school that you get a more in depth focus on each subject because each teacher is an expert in their area.’ – Derrick

‘High school never really gets boring because each hour you switch subjects and teachers, which keeps it interesting. Sport is really fun and there is lots of it’ – Vale

‘Coming to high school at APCS wasn’t that hard because I have cousins and friends here because I‘ve been at APCS since year 3. I like English and Sport at the moment.’ – Richard

The CAPA team (Creative and Performing Arts)

Mr Cameron Craig, Ms Leanne Winfield, Mr Cameron Whipp and Ms Mara O’Toole

Human Society and its Environment faculty team (HSIE)

Welcome to 2019 from HSIE. We are very excited to welcome Daniel Waterworth to the faculty as a permanent teacher and Cameron Craig who will be teaching HSIE, Maths and music this year. All other HSIE teachers have returned and the team includes: Kadek Arya (Head Teacher Teaching and Learning), Andrea Fatouros (Year 12 Advisor and PBL coordinator) Stewart Okell (Year 9 Advisor), Adrian Johnson, Nathan McEwan, Maeve Thomspon and Thecla

Siamas (Head Teacher HSIE and Intellectually Gifted Student Coordinator). Hilton Donavan is also in the HSIE staffroom supporting both staff and students. Students will have all received an assessment schedule listing the topics studied and the dates that tasks are due. In terms one and two Years 7 to 10 will all be studying history. We will switch to geography in terms three and four. Year 7 have started studying the ancient world and Year 8 are discovering the Vikings and the Polynesians. In stage 5, Year 9 are studying the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trades and the two world wars and Year 10 will be looking at the civil rights movements in both Australia and America before studying The Holocaust in term two. Year 9 commerce has begun with an investigation into consumer rights and will be participating in the ASX stock exchange game. Year 10 will again all be participating in the Talk Law Program with the law firm King, Wood and Mallesons. This will be the third year that the Pro Bono team at the firm have worked with Alexandria Park Community School. In 2019 we will continue to deliver the Big History Project in Tuesday enrichment program time. Students in Year 9 are currently inventing a species that could survive on earth in 100 years’ time and having deep conversations around how technology is changing the world in ways that people living during the industrial revolution could not imagine. In year 11 and 12 the depth and breadth of the curriculum offered at Alexandria Park continues to grow. In 2019 we are offering Aboriginal Studies, Ancient History, Business Studies, Economics, Extension History, Legal Studies, Modern History and Work Studies. Finally a congratulations to the class of 2018 who achieved excellent HSC results in HSIE and overall. Well done, we are all very proud of you.

MUSIC NEWS

This year in music Mr Whipp will teaching all classes K-6, in addition to running the primary choir. Mr Craig and Ms Winfield will co-teach music classes in year 7. Ms Winfield will also teach elective music classes from years 9-12. This year there will be a High School Jazz Band for players of wind and brass instruments, keyboard, bass, guitar, drums and percussion. Rehearsals are on Tuesdays at 8.00. Please see Ms Winfield for more information. Mr Whipp and Ms O’Toole will be organising a rock band, vocal ensemble and acoustic jam group for high school students.

DIRECTIONS IN MUSIC BANDS

Following on from a very successful year in 2018, Directions in Music will run a Beginner Band as well as a Senior Band for Primary School students in 2019. The first performance for the year will be the “Sunday Funday” event on 31st March at Alexandria Park. The Senior Band will perform a selection of songs. Make sure to attend the event to hear their amazing playing and see the dog show, grab some food and see the fire brigade display.

ENCORE! Concert

Music students in years 11 and 12 attended the ENCORE! Concert at the Opera House last week. This concert showcases outstanding performers and composers from the previous year’s HSC exams. The concert provided the students with a valuable insight into performance techniques and repertoire.

LIBRARY NEWS

1. Dear APCS families, welcome back to a new school year. APCS library classes have started successfully. K-2 classes are taught by Mrs Broomfield. Yr3-6 classes are taught by Mrs Reid. Below is scheduled K-6 library. Students must have library bags in order to take books home. Library bag costs $10 each at the uniform shop near the school office. It is always good practice for students to bring their own pencil cases for learning in classes.

2. If you find 2018 overdue library books at home, please let your child bring them back ASAP. Please write a return message on the back of an overdue slip if you believe the overdue books had been returned last year. There are no fines for late returns. However if books are lost, you need to pay $6 per book to school office. Below is a sample overdue note.

3. We host several book clubs again this year. The Redgum book club catalogue has been issued to students. Please place your order online only. The Scholastic book club catalogue will be distributed in Term 2. Below are sample brochures.

Ms Young (teacher-librarian) will focus on teaching information literacy to High School students this year. The Information skills program is best implemented within a co-teaching environment inside classrooms. The APCS library subscribes to the “Study Skills Handbook” an online tool, and facilitates its program through Yr7-12 classes. Students can access the website via the student portal both at home & at school. Below is an image of the link and log in details.

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) in the High School

At Alexandria Park Community School PBL is a K-12 whole school initiative that works to improve student behaviour, engagement and learning outcomes through a variety of rewards.

This term our PBL value in the high school is ‘Be a Learner.’ Our program for the term includes guest speakers, such as ex-students who are giving advice to our current students about what kind of learner they were and where they are now. We are also doing PBL activities in year meetings such as goal setting and rewarding our students with PBL

awards and canteen vouchers during recognition assemblies.

We would appreciate if parents and caregivers can speak to their child about the PBL value for the term and remind them to be prepared for class, complete all homework and pack their bag the night before.

Here are some positive comments written by teachers for Week 4.

Year 8 – Jai – Mr Berscheid

Jai did a great job today in maths. Very well focused on learning content on Fractions. Scored 80% on end of lesson assessment. Was fully engaged and determined to answer all questions correctly (he even went back to the ones he got wrong to redo them).

Year 10 – Sam – Mr Jun

Sam is a model representatives for PBL Be a Learner. He consistently completes his classwork to the best of his abilities, and is respectful in his relationships with his peers and teacher.

Year 11 – Ken – Miss Prexl

Ken was studious and completed the set writing task, showing diligence and maturity for using his class time wisely. Good job, Ken!

Congratulations to all students who have received positive comments and deadlies this term. Keep up the great work APCS!

Positive Behaviour for Learning: HIGH SCHOOL PUNCTUALITY

As a community school, we know, value and care greatly about all of our students. One of the easiest ways for a student to succeed at school is to arrive on time and attend regularly to maximise their exposure to routine and opportunity in a supported environment. A student who does not attend school regularly or is persistently late does not have the same opportunity to demonstrate their potential and this has a negative impact on their academic outcomes, future employability and overall wellbeing.

It is important that parents and carers understand the importance of punctuality to school and support their children to arrive for their first class by 8:40am daily. This will support a student’s ability to absorb all the learning and wellbeing opportunities available to them. Simple ways to ensure your child arrives on time are:

- Setting an alarm for the same time each day - Disconnecting devices at a specific time each night to ensure children get to bed at a reasonable

hour to wake up on time; and - Reminders about transit times

SCHOOL ACTION on Lateness.

To discourage lateness, all high school students who have three or more unjustified late arrivals in one week will be required to attend a lunch time detention every Thursday with Miss Kasz, the Attendance Adviser. Unjustified reasons for lateness include but are not exclusive to:

- Slept in/woke up late - Missed the train/bus - Traffic - Late - Train/bus was late

During detention, students will focus on activities that assist them to plan for more positive punctuality behaviours. If a student does not attend 3 detentions in a row, disciplinary action will follow from the Deputy Principal, which may result in warning of suspension and/or further action.

If a student has a genuine reason for being late to school, parents are responsible for notifying the school via phone, email, note or text, or providing evidence of an appointment such as a certificate.

ALEXANDRIA PARK COMMUNITY SCHOOL P&C

Who are we? The APCS’s Parents and Carers Association (P&C) is a committed and diverse group. Our members come from many parts of the school community, including: parents, carers and families, teachers and other staff members, people from the local community, including the Alexandria Park Community Centre.

Our P&C aims to foster communication between our members, school staff and the local community by helping to:

• Fundraise for the school to provide extra learning resources and equipment

• Deliver and support events to build a strong, connected community

• Support Alexandria Park Community School

How do we help the school community? By organising and running community events with our parent/carer volunteers, such as ‘working bees’, events to maintain the school grounds and gardens, school barbecues, student cake stalls, ‘meet the teacher’ BBQ, school raffles etc.

The P&C meets on the first Monday of each month in the Professional Learning Centre on Park Road Campus. Come along and join us to see how you can become involved in making our wonderful school even better! Membership cost is only $2 which allows you to vote at the meeting and receive monthly minutes – bargain!

Want more information? You can email us at: apcspandc@gmail.com or join our Facebook page to keep up to date https://www.facebook.com/groups/apcspandc/

COMMUNITY CENTRE Alexandria Park Community Centre now has two Facilitators sharing the SaCC position (Schools as Community Centres Program). Kate Houlahan is working as Facilitator on Mondays running a drop-in for families needing assistance with computer access, Centrelink support, job search, child care/school enrolment (from 11am-3:30pm). Jo Fletcher is working as Facilitator from Tuesday to Friday running a range of family support programs.

All Community Centre programs have started for 2019. In Week 1 the new Kinder students were provided with some get together playgroups before officially starting Kindergarten on February 4. Other programs at the Community Centre this term include Music & Movement (English & Japanese), Cantonese Rhymetime, 1.2.3 Magic & Emotion Coaching, Wellness Workshop, Swedish Playgroup, Community Playgroup, Japanese Playgroup and Family Food Co-op.

There is also a mini Toy Library available to families with young children. The Toy Library is open Mondays from 11am to 1pm and Tuesdays 9am to 11am.

The Community Centre also houses the Early Childhood Health Centre and has three part time early childhood nurses….Caroline, Jayne & Rachel. The nurses run new parent groups on and off site as well as an onsite clinic. Any new parent wishing to make an appointment with one of the nurses can call 99562 5400.

Save the Children Play2Learn Program also is based at the Community Centre and operate supported playgroups in the local area. They run playgroups in Woolloomooloo, Glebe and Waterloo as well as two closed playgroups (by referral only) at the Community Centre.

For more information about any of the programs running at the Community Centre call Jo or Kate mobile: 0419 119 390.