HOD Curriculum Newsletter 29^th August 2022

Pre Prep PLAYGROUP PROGRAM

We now have over 20 children registered to attend the 6 weekly playdates commencing on Monday 10^th October (see flier attached to the newsletter). Thanks to current parents Dahna and Rachel for offering to help out. We are looking for another parent or parents to help out on Wednesday 26^th October and Wednesday 16^th November. They will be mentored by Jo Keehan and Judy Loudon (HOD Curriculum). Please email admin@newfarmss.edu.au if you are interested in helping out with this initiative.

Last Monday over 15 staff attended our Early Years Community Connections Network as we seek to actively promote networking with Early Childhood Education Centres in our local area. This is part of our Transition to School Plan. Our guest speaker from the Benevolent Society, Jenny Machin, presented about their Early Childhood Approach and the support this organisation offers families. Further information about their services can be found at www.benevolent.org.au or email benevolent.ECEI@NDIS.gov.au or phone 1300 003234.

The Department of Education is committed to providing high quality education to all Queenslanders. This commitment means that children and young people from all social, cultural, community and family backgrounds, and of all identities and all abilities so they are able to:

• attend their local state school or education centre and be welcomed;
• access and participate in a high-quality education and fully engage in the curriculum along-side their similar aged peers;
• learn in a safe and supportive environment, free from bullying, discrimination or harassment; and
• achieve academically and socially with reasonable adjustments and supports tailored to meet their learning needs.                                                            
  
  

The Metropolitan Region - Early Childhood Education and Care sector Term 3 recommendations include-

• Refer to the Starting School Guide.
• Parents/caregiver are a valuable and valued contributor to the transition plan. Contact the school to arrange a meeting to discuss your child’s transition to school. Discuss your child’s needs, strengths, and any concerns you may have about their transition to school.
• Support your child to attend all transition activities scheduled by the kindergarten and school.
• Contact the on-site Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) service to enrol your child for the Prep year should this service be required.
• Establish a regular bedtime and bedtime routine that includes reading a story with your child.

Term 4 recommendations include-

• Attend and contribute to any meetings made by key partners.
• Contribute to the Kindergarten Transition Statements and/or ECDP Transition Summary.
• Support your child to attend all transition activities scheduled by the kindergarten and school.
• Attend Prep information sessions conducted by the school.
• Complete the book list order, organise school uniform (including shoes) and device requirements (if needed).
• Have your child’s hearing and sight tested prior to school (they can access a free 4-5-year-old Child Health check).
• Note important information for the Prep year, including the date of the first day of school, school start and finish times and the school contact information.

Term 1 of the school year recommendations include-

• Ensure your child attends school regularly and on time each day.
• Prepare and pack a nutritious, healthy lunch box each day.
• Read the school newsletter and all email communication from your child’s teacher and/or school community. Take note of important information such as key dates, specialist lessons and days and upcoming events.
• Check in with your child’s teacher or key contact person (as determined in Term 3) about your child’s progress.
• Stay updated by joining the P&C or volunteering in the school community.