News

Leadership induction assembly 2021

Sat, 20 Feb 2021 10:29:03 AEDT

Leadership induction assembly 2021

Volunteering with the P&C

Sat, 20 Feb 2021 10:18:09 AEDT

If you are interested in volunteering for the P&C, please visit the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/CHPScanteen

For more information on how you can volunteer for the P&C, click here.

School readiness program

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 09:19:49 AEDT

School readiness program 2021

Uniform shop update

Sat, 30 Jan 2021 10:07:00 AEDT

Uniform shop update

Updated Covid Advice – School Access

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 15:00:03 AEDT

Dear parent and carers,

Welcome back. I do hope everyone has had a wonderful Summer break.

You may have been made aware that some minor changes have been made to the Covid restrictions in school including adult access.

Each school has developed an individual Covid-19 response plan in regards to adult access. There have been only minor changes to our 2020 Covid guidelines because of the recent Berala outbreak. Please read the following carefully.

Parents of Year 1 and year 2 students can only drop off their child to the COLA area adjacent to Proctor Parade on Friday 29^thJanuary, Monday 1^st and Tuesday 2^nd February. All adults must scan in using the QR code at each of the gates. Students will still exit the school in the afternoon through their Sport House gate as per 2020.

No adult is allowed to linger or gather together with other parents. Please drop and go.

Parents / carers of our new 2021 Kindergarten students will report to the school office at the time of their Best Start appointment to scan and sign in. More information regarding Kindergarten parents access to the school will be given next week.

A reminder that no parent / carer of a student in Years 3-6 can enter the school unless they need to go to the school office or have a uniform shop appointment.

No adults are allowed at the school canteen.

All these guidelines are in place to ensure we have the safest learning environment for both our students and staff. I was very proud of the way our school community followed the access guidelines last year. I am sure it will be the same in 2021.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Get #FirstDay2021 ready for the new school year

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 16:12:20 AEDT

Be prepared for the new school year with our back to school tips and tools.

The start of a new school year can be both an exciting and demanding time for parents and students alike.

Our parents and carers Back to school hub can help you prepare for the year ahead with practical articles, tools, activities, calendars and checklists so you and your child can be ready from day1, term 1.

Find out about our COVID-safe school guidelines, download fun activity sheets to complete with your child, read about our health and wellbeing resources and more.

If your child is starting kindergarten, check out our starting school guide for everything you need to know from enrolment to what to expect throughout your child’s first school year.

Video – #FirstDay2021

Duration – 0:49

Uniform shop update

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 08:10:34 AEDT

www.psw.com.au/schools/chester-hill-public-school.html

School photo delay

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 14:45:27 AEDT

For more information about the school photo delays please click here.

Presentation Day 2020

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 15:14:22 AEDT

End of year update

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 14:18:10 AEDT

End of year update and 2021 Reminders

Dear Parents and carers,

The end of 2020 is fast approaching. The information below relates to our end of year activities and some reminders regarding the beginning of 2021:

Covid-19: You may have read in the newspapers or heard on the news that there is a proposed relaxing of guidelines for parents and school in 2021. At present this is only a draft and will not be re assessed until the end of January 2021. At present all parents and carers are unable to enter the school grounds unless to visit the office or attend a meeting. This will continue to be the case until the draft guidelines are re assessed at the end of January. When any changes are announced I will post an update on our school website and Facebook page.

Presentation Day Assembly: Because of the Covid-19 guidelines our end of year student awards ceremony will be restricted to students only. Award winners will receive their class and specialist award. The Major awards will be announced as well as the new School Captains and prefects for 2021. Unfortunately, the sporting and cultural awards will not be awarded this year. The students will be able to watch the event from their classrooms as it happens. We are filming the ceremony and when edited will be uploaded to our school website and Facebook page by the beginning of next week.

Year Six Farewell Dinner: I am so happy to write that this will go ahead for our wonderful year 6 students albeit in a modified form. A separate note for those attending will be sent home by Miss Stavrinos. Parents please read it carefully and support all that is asked within the note. The rules and directions are from the premises so we must adhere to their guidelines.

Semester 2 Student Reports: All semester two student reports will be given out on Monday 14^th December. I hope that all parents and carers take the time to sit down with children and carefully read through each report paying particular attention to the teacher comments and to the student application ranking. I have always stated that regardless of the achievement level it is how hard a student applies themselves to learning that is the best indicator of future academic success.

PBL Blue Day: On Monday 14^th December we will be celebrating our PBL Blue Day. This day recognises all students who have remained on Blue level this term. Unfortunately, those students who have not demonstrated the correct behaviour and have been placed on either levels 1,2or 3 will not be able to attend the planned activities. They will be placed with other grades while their grade participates. Please note it is full school uniform on the day.

Farewell Arch: On the final day that students attend, at the end of the day we have our Farewell Arch. Any students or teacher who are leaving the school walk through the arch to be farewelled by all students and staff. The main leavers are of course our Year Six students. Again, unfortunately because of the Covid-19 restrictions no parents will be allowed on site. We will end the tunnel this year with the graduating year six at the end of the COLA near the office steps so that those students will be visible from our front gate. Not perfect but the best we can do under the circumstances.

End of Year: Wednesday 16^th December will be the last day of school for all students. The school Office will be open on Thursday 17^th December from 8.45am – 3.00pm for any enquiries. The school will be fully closed from Friday 18^th December.

2021 School Year: The school will re-open for staff only on Wednesday 27^thand Thursday 28th January. The first day for all students (except Kindergarten) is Friday 29^th January. Kindergarten will commence their Best Start testing on Monday 1^st February. The office will be open from 8.45am commencing Wednesday 27^th January.

Students will be initially placed in their 2020 classes until all students return. I cannot form 2021 classes until I know our exact student numbers.

2020 has been a very difficult and challenging year for all members of our school community. There is definitely now a much brighter light at the end of the tunnel and so hopefully 2021 will be back to some normalcy.

To every member of our school teaching and administrative staff and to our extended school community I wish you all a very safe, restful and happy Summer holiday break. May it be a time of family and friends and I look forward to seeing all our returning students and families for 2021.

Brent Kunkler

Principal

Schools Spectacular remixed for television

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 16:31:56 AEDT

Relive memorable acts and performances from the past four years in a special televised Schools Spectacular event.

The annual Schools Spectacular, cancelled this year due to the pandemic, will entertain audiences with a special television broadcast next week.

The Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed will air on Channel 7 on Saturday 5 December at 7pm.

The two-hour broadcast will feature memorable acts and spectacular moments from the past four years.

The show will also feature a surprise digital performance from this year’s graduating Class of 2020 with the Year 12 students sharing their passion and talents while celebrating with NSW Education for one last time.

This technical feat aims to inspire audiences as more than 70 dancers, singers, instrumental musicians and signing performers from across NSW assemble virtually for the performance.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, said this event is an opportunity to revisit memories of past performances and celebrate the talents of students in NSW public schools.

“Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed will be an extraordinary broadcast and a unique opportunity to look back at some of the many achievements of our talented performing arts students and their hard working and committed teachers from the past four years,” he said.

Audiences can also share their own memories and see highlights from past Schools Spectacular performances on the Schools Spectacular Facebook page.

Schools Spectacular Remixed 2020 is produced by the NSW Department of Education and proudly supported by Presenting Partners, Telstra and the NSW Teachers Federation, and Segment Partner, RØDE Microphones.

Celebrate Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed on Saturday 5 December at 7pm on Channel 7.

Supporting effective learning at school and home with the 'What Works Best: 2020 update'

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:37:12 AEDT

The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines the eight most effective teaching practices and how these can be supported at home.

Parents and carers can support effective student learning at home through the ‘What Works Best’ resource, now updated for 2020.

The What Works Best resource has been very successful helping teachers bring the best teaching practices into their classrooms. The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines eight evidence-based teaching practices that teachers can use in their classrooms to improve student learning.

You can find out more about these practices, how it’s used in schools, our handy guide for parents and carers and conversation tips to help continue student learning at home when you visit the ‘What Works Best’ parents and carers hub.

School Updates App - be prepared for any emergency

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 15:28:12 AEDT

Receive notifications of school closures. Opt in to receive timely, accurate notifications about the operational status of your chosen NSW public school(s).

The NSW School Updates App was created to help our parents and carers check on the status of their school during last summer’s bushfire season. And it’s been invaluable during COVID when schools were required to close for deep cleaning.

The app is free and available now for iOS and Android users.

Visit NSW School Updates App to download and for more information

Privacy information

The app doesn't store any personal or identifiable information.

Join in the virtual NAIDOC Week celebrations

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 18:26:52 AEDT

Education celebrates NAIDOC Week 2020 (8 – 15 November 2020) with the theme ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’.

It’s a time to reflect and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of the First Nation peoples – recognising them as the traditional owners of the land.

Schools were invited to film and submit videos to celebrate history, culture and achievements of past and present Aboriginal and Torres Strait students.

Secretary, Mark Scott will give an opening address on Monday, 9 November and then Aboriginal students run a Question and Answers session with Mark Scott, Cindy Berwick, President of the NSW AECG; Martin Graham, Deputy Secretary; Michelle Hall, Executive Director, Connecetd Communities and Karen Jones, Executive Director, Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships.

Tuesday will showcase how NSW public schools are embedding Aboriginal cultural practices. Special thanks to; Windale Public School Preschool, Terrigal Public School, Wilcannia Central School and Murrumbidgee Regional High School for participating.

Wednesday will highlight the outstanding achievements of Benson Igua Saulo, In-coming Consul-General to the US based in Houston (2021), as his is interviewed by current students from his former schools, Tamworth High School and Peel High School.

Thursday will see Uncle Michael Jarrett deliver a Gumbaynggirr language lesson.

Friday will close out our virtual celebration with a beautiful virtual choir led by Uncle Archie Roach. Students will join him singing ‘Took the children away’ and ‘Children came back’.

Join the virtual celebration via video streams hosted by Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships , each weekday morning, at 9:30am, during NAIDOC Week 2020.

2021 term dates now available

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:31:18 AEDT

Most students start Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division) in Term 1 2020.

To support a strong start to 2021, school staff will now have two school development days at the beginning of Term 1.

For 2021, students will return to school on Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division), unless otherwise notified by the school. School term dates for 2021 are now available.

Western division schools, also known as ‘late start’ schools, are located in the far western region of NSW. Check if your school is a Late start school.

#MathsTrainsBrains for the future

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:41:31 AEDT

Parents and carers can now explore the importance of mathematical skills with the new Everyday Maths experience, featuring activities, resources and explainers targeted to year groups.

The digital launch is part of the NSW Mathematics Strategy 2025, which aims to strengthen mathematics teaching in NSW public schools, promote understanding of the usefulness of mathematics and build positive perceptions of mathematics.

Tune into Education LIVE to find out how high profile Australians like media guru Kellie Hush, former Olympian Steve Solomon and former Masterchef Alice Zaslavsky use maths in their everyday lives.

Video – #MathsTrainsBrains

Duration – 1:00

Kinder enrolments 2021

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 14:07:58 AEDT

We are now taking enrolments for Kindergarten 2021!

Protecting children online

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 14:20:21 AEST

With children spending increased time online, it can be difficult to know how to best protect them and keep them safe. The eSafety Commissioner has a booklet of advise to assist parents and carers to protect their kids online.

eSafety Commissioner booklet

eSafety Commissioner guide for apps

Tell Them From Me survey

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 07:58:25 AEST

Parent update

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 07:27:49 AEST

Covid-19 Update

Dear parents and carers,

As of the 17^th August further advice was given to schools in relation to supporting the safety of students and staff at schools.

The first two points below relate to new guidelines about students who are unwell. As stated if your child has a Covid-19 test they cannot return to school until a negative test result has been sighted by either the school office or classroom teacher. Of course, that means as Principal I need to be able to trust my school community that they get their children tested and then wait until the results have been communicated.

The majority of the advice remains the same as before but please read below carefully:

In accordance with advice from NSW Health, parents and carers are reminded NOT to send children to school if they are unwell, even if they have the mildest flu-like symptoms. Schools will make arrangements for students who present as unwell or have flu like symptoms to be sent home.
Students and staff with flu like symptoms will need to provide a copy of a negative COVID-19 test result before being permitted to return to school.
Schools are not required to conduct widespread temperature screening or mandate the wearing of a mask.
Physical distancing of students in schools is not required under the AHPPC guidelines.
Non-essential adults are still not permitted on school grounds or at school events. This includes parents and carers except for face-to-face parent/teacher meetings that are essential (e.g. to discuss disciplinary or other welfare matters).

If you have any questions relating to the above please contact me through our school office.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Home School communication

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 15:04:06 AEST

We are moving to using email and sms to share vital information about the school and your children. We need to ensure your mobile and email is correct so you don’t miss anything, in particular about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Please click here to access the Home School communication survey.

A message from our new Arabic community language teacher

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 12:55:27 AEST

Have your before and after school care needs changed?

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 10:53:42 AEST

The Department of Education wants to hear from all NSW parents about their specific care needs in light of COVID-19.

The NSW Government is committed to making before and after school care available to families at all NSW public primary schools, but we understand your work arrangements and care needs may have changed due to COVID-19.

To better understand how parents can best be supported to access the before and after school care, the department and Service NSW have developed a short survey.

Have your say:

visit service.nsw.gov.au/basc
email BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Homework help

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 14:32:37 AEST

Homework help will be returning to Canterbury Bankstown libraries.

Please click here to see the flier.

CHPS Yarning Circle

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 08:25:23 AEST

Chester Hill is located on Dharug land. The Dharug people share strong ties of kinship and, in pre-colonial times, survived as skilled hunters in family groups or clans, scattered throughout much of Sydney.

A Yarning Circle is is a creative and collaborative way of communicating. It encourages responsible, respectful and honest interactions between others by building trusting relationships.

Students from each class were selected to paint a Yarning Circle stump and will be painting their stump designs in Education Week (week 3).

Click here to see the gallery of Yarning Circle stump designs.

Canteen closure

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 10:55:28 AEST

On Friday 31st of July (week 2), our canteen will be closed for the day.

Lunch orders and over the counter sales will not be available. We ask all parents to ensure that children have enough food for fruit break, lunch and recess, as well as a drink bottle.

We apologise for the inconvenience, and thank you for your understanding.

CHPS P&C

Updates to COVID-19 restrictions affecting NSW schools

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 23:05:51 AEST

Latest COVID-19 case locations in NSW

NSW Health has a website to inform you of the actions you should take if you have been in a location where there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 within NSW. Monitor the site and follow the relevant health advice if you have been at any of the locations at the specified dates and times.

Students and staff who have travelled through or visited Victoria

All students and staff who have visited Victoria must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for 14 days.

Except for students and staff who reside in a border town, all students and staff who have visited Victoria in the 14 days before the commencement of school should not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

Students and staff who are unable to return to school due to these self-isolation requirements will be supported to learn and work remotely during the self-isolation period via the online learning hubs until they return to on-campus learning and teaching.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Information for students and staff on new NSW-Victoria border restrictions

The NSW Government has announced further tightening to the restrictions for people travelling across the NSW-Victorian border.

From midnight Tuesday 21 July a border zone, defined along the Murray River, will be established.

Anyone travelling from Victoria to NSW must apply for a new permit through Service NSW.

Victorian residents who have been in one of the restricted areas in Victoria in the last 14 days must not enter NSW.

Attending schools along the border

Current permits will expire at midnight, Tuesday 21 July. We strongly encourage all parents and staff to check they have a permit and if not, apply for one through Service NSW.

Students and staff who reside in Victoria will need to be eligible for a border permit to attend school in person.

Under the new public health order, the border zone has been reduced significantly.

Not all students and staff may be eligible for a border permit under the public health order. If you are not eligible for a border permit you will not be able to cross the border. Students and staff will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

Further information on the new border zone is available from Service NSW.

Border permits can be rescinded at any time if a cluster outbreak in your community occurs. We encourage parents to monitor local circumstances regularly as things may change in the coming days or weeks.

Transport to and from school will run as scheduled. For travel advice to and from school refer to Transport for NSW.

New restrictions affecting boarding schools

Any student returning from Victoria to reside at a boarding school in NSW must now self-isolate for 14 days in a NSW location separate to the boarding school. They must also obtain a negative test swab from day 10 of their isolation before entering school and have written confirmation of the test result and the period spent isolating.

Those who are unable to return to boarding while they are completing the self-isolation period will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

More information

Term 3 update

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 08:23:19 AEST

Term 3 update

Returning to school in Term 3

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 11:49:59 AEST

Our school will be open to welcome students back to onsite learning from the beginning of Term 3 – Tuesday 21 July 2020.

As you would be aware the border between NSW and Victoria closed as of 12:01am 8 July 2020.

All staff and students returning from Victoria after this time must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days.

All students who have been in Victoria in the last 14 days before the commencement of school must not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Students who are unable to return to school due to the border closures or self-isolation will be supported to learn remotely.

We would like to remind our community the most important action you can take is to practise good hand hygiene and physical distancing. Our school will be vigilant in implementing these requirements to minimise the risk at school.

Uniform shop update

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 12:25:04 AEST

Curriculum reform focuses on deep learning

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 18:58:31 AEST

Changes to the NSW school curriculum will be the biggest education shake-up in 30 years.

The reforms, announced by the NSW Government on Tuesday, will start rolling out in 2021. All Kindergarten to Year 12 students will learn the new curriculum by 2024.

The changes are in response to the NSW Curriculum Review by Professor Geoff Masters and will ensure every student is prepared and ready for their future.

The reforms are based on:

decluttering the curriculum by reducing unnecessary subjects
a ‘back to basics approach’ that will see a renewed focus on the core subjects of English, maths and science
Year 11 and Year 12 prequalification for university and TAFE courses.

Education Week to celebrate learning together

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 11:21:00 AEST

Education Week 2020 will be held from Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August.

Education Week is our annual week of celebration to highlight the achievements of our students and staff and the role of public schools as the cornerstone of their communities.

This year’s theme is ‘Learning together’ and it reflects the incredible months of 2020 where NSW public school students have continued to learn and achieve, despite natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our schools have experienced significant disruption but our staff – in partnership with parents and carers – have worked tirelessly to ensure that high quality teaching and learning has continued for all students.

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott said the best learning takes place when there is a partnership of students, teachers, parents, carers and the community.

“Our schools and families benefit from strong, respectful relationships where responsibility for student learning is shared,” Mr Scott said.

“As our lives slowly return to normal, it’s time for us to reflect on the achievements and resilience of our entire school community. We look forward to celebrating Education Week with all of you in August.”

Statewide events for Education Week include:

a live stream launch on Monday, 3 August
activities for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day on Tuesday, 4 August
a live streamed student film festival on Wednesday, 5 August.

Schools are invited to share photos, videos and stories of local celebrations on social media using the hashtag #EdWeek20 or send an email to educationweek@det.nsw.edu.au.

Face to face learning guidelines

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 08:12:41 AEST

The NSW Department of Education has created a guide for parents and carers in relation to NSW school students returning to face-to-face learning.

In line with health advice, schools are operating full time, and many additional activities are now able to recommence.

To read the guide, please click here.

Refugee Week 2020

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:13:08 AEST

This week marks Refugee Week in Australia. Some of the aims of Refugee Week are to educate the Australian public about who refugees are and why they have come to Australia and to help people understand the many challenges refugees face coming to Australia.

Contacting the school

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 10:47:43 AEST

School uniform shop information

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 17:01:50 AEST

Physical distancing - a reminder

Thu, 28 May 2020 11:15:13 AEST

The danger of contracting the corona virus at school is not from the students but from adults. That is why I have been directed to ban any non-essential adults from our school grounds. This includes parents. Again, the vast majority of parents have supported this safety action. The afternoon pick up is the most dangerous time. So, to spread adults out we have our designated exit house gates. It is very important that all parents support this system for the safety and protection of our students.

As the morning drop off is naturally staggered students can enter from any gate but in the afternoon, it is as follows:

Farrar Gate 1: Proctor Parade Hume Gate 2: Proctor Parade

Macarthur Gate 3: Wellington Road Sturt Gate 4: Cnr Wellington & Veronica

These systems will be in place to the end of term 2.

Parent update (May 21, 2020)

Fri, 22 May 2020 14:53:16 AEST

Dear parents, students and carers,

Even though students are returning to school five days a week it does not mean that it is business as usual. Please take the time to read what will be happening from next week as they effect everyone:

Physical Distancing

To continue to support the students and staff parents will not be able to enter the school grounds until at least the end of Term 2. No parent can access our school canteen nor the uniform shop. The only place a parent can go is the main school office.

To support the need to physical distance our parents and, with all students returning from next week, there will be a change to how students are picked up in the afternoon. From Monday all students will exit the school from a designated gate. To enable family groups to exit together we will again use our Sport Houses. Therefore, if your children are in:

· Farrar will be exiting the school by the main gate on Proctor Parade (gate1)

· Hume will be exiting by the Kindergarten gate on Proctor Parade (gate 2)

· Macarthur will exit by the top gate on Wellington Road (gate 3)

· Sturt will exit by the gate at the corner of Wellington and Veronica (gate 4)

See gate map here

I do understand that this may inconvenience some families but it is the only practical solution to maintaining the physical distancing required by the government. If the curve spikes to much we will be back to remote learning therefore, I do ask you to be flexible and supportive. For the first week our Kinder and Yr. 1 will be taken to their correct gate each afternoon. Their Yr 2to Yrs 6 siblings will meet them at that gate.

As students arrive at different times during the morning any gate can be used to access the school. However, gates 2,3 and 4 will be locked at 9.05 each morning.

Canteen and Uniform Shop

As no parents or non-essential adults are allowed to enter the school their will only be two ways in which students’ lunches can be ordered. The preferred method is online through our new Munch Monitor software. The second is students only ordering at the canteen.

The canteen will be fully operational from next Monday. Please use the Term one menu and pricing information. All information relating to how to use Munch Monitor can be found on the P&C Facebook page or through the link on our website.

The Uniform Shop will open from Monday June 1. Again, it will only be online. To get a better understanding of how this will work please go to the P&C Facebook page or our school website.

Just to recap:

· No parents or non-essential adults are allowed on school grounds unless they need to access the school office.

· All students will exit the school at 3.00pm by their designated Sport House gate. Any gate may be used in the morning

· The school canteen is open next Monday but will only take orders online or by students – No parents

· The Uniform Shop will open online on the 1^st June.

We all need to be flexible and supportive of these changes as they are in place only to help keep all our school community safe.

B.Kunkler - Principal

A guide to NSW school students returning to face-to- face learning

Wed, 20 May 2020 10:49:26 AEST

The Department of Education has created a guide for parents and carers, relating to students' return to face to face learning.

Please click here to access the guide.

NSW students return to the classroom full-time

Tue, 19 May 2020 09:54:21 AEST

Students across NSW will be back in the classroom full-time from next Monday, 25 May.

The success of the phased return to face to face teaching has demonstrated the education system and community are ready for school to come back full-time.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell thanked school communities and parents for their patience during this difficult time.

Ms Berejiklian said a return to full-time face to face teaching and learning is crucial for the education progress of every child in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.

“Since starting a managed return to the classroom, we have seen a strong degree of confidence from our school communities in managing COVID-19 and a clear desire for all students to be back at school,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We expect schools to stick with the health advice – increased cleaning, access to hygiene supplies and compliance with hygience practices – and look forward to seeing all students back on campus five days a week.

“The health advice is very clear; a return to full-time face to face teaching is safe.”

Over the last two weeks schools have been working hard to support students practise good hygiene and implement new routines at school, which has been successful giving the community confidence that full-time face to face teaching can resume.

Ms Mitchell said she was eager to see students back in the classroom full-time.

“Our principals, teachers, support staff, parents and carers have gone above and beyond to continue the education of our students while we respond to this pandemic,” Ms Mitchell said.

“My priority is the education of our children. We know that parents across NSW share our desire for students to be back in school, and that is our expectation.

“Schools will need to maintain the measures and precautions they have put in place for the foreseeable future, including no assemblies and excursions.

“Teachers will be focused on identifying where their students are at in their education and we will be supporting them to recognise and assist those students who need additional help.”

Read the department's latest advice for families.

Parent update (May 19, 2020)

Wed, 20 May 2020 10:34:01 AEST

Dear students, parents and carers,

The Premier and Education Minister finally gave us the message we all wanted this morning by confirming all students return to five day a week school from next Monday 25^th May. Of course, there were many questions about this return that were not answered. However, I do have a state-wide video conference this afternoon about the students returning so hopefully I will have more information tomorrow. I do realise that many of our Muslim families will celebrating Eid next Monday and Tuesday so I expect all those students to be back at school on Wednesday 27^th May.

As we only have three days, to go from a remote learning system to a school-based learning system, I do hope that all parents will continue for this week only sending their children on their sports house day. Every family has been so good in supporting the school I am just asking that to continue for the rest of this week. This will enable our very hard-working staff time to begin that huge process of planning for next week. Essential workers children and those given permission by myself are welcome each day. No sporting house students on Friday please only essential workers children and those given permission by myself.

Canteen and Uniform Shop

The school canteen will be open and operational from next Monday. Obviously with the current physical distancing guidelines for parents still in place the preferred method of ordering will be online through our new Much Monitor system. Information regarding how you sign up and how to use the software will be made available this week by the P&C. Only students will be allowed to order lunch at the canteen.

The uniform shop will again be open from 1^st June but only for online orders. How this will work will also be explained in another update.

Physical Distancing of Parents / Adults

There has been no change to the physical distancing rule of parents / adults at school. Parents are still asked to drop their children off at one of our gates and pick them up at the same gate in the afternoon. This has been working very well over the last two weeks.

However, with all 700 students returning by Wednesday of next week a new procedure will need to be developed, especially for the 3.00pm pick up to try to avoid adult congestion around the school gates. More about that later in the week.

Again, please pass this information on to any friend who does not have access to our website or Facebook page. Also, if they do have the internet teach them how to access those sites. After all, we all have been teachers for the last few months.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Parent update (May 15, 2020)

Mon, 18 May 2020 12:43:26 AEST

Dear students, parents and carers

Week Four

We have now completed our first week of Phase 1 student return and as I have had no direction otherwise from the Premier we will continue with Phase 1 for next week.

I and the staff are very grateful that our community are being supportive by only sending their children on their sport house day. I am aware that so many families and students are wanting to return to school and I am hoping very much that after next week that will happen. But until I am directed otherwise please follow this week’s organisation next week:

Monday: Farrar Sport House students + students of essential services + identified students

Tuesday: Hume Sport House students + students of essential services + identified students

Wednesday: Macarthur Sport House students + students of essential services + identified students

Thursday: Sturt Sport House students + students of essential services + identified students

Friday: Students of essential services + identified students

If anything changes I will let all parents know as soon as possible

Physical Distancing Requirements

As for this week to ensure that school staff and students are as safe from the virus as possible parents are again asked to say goodbye and to pick up their children at one of the school gates. No non-essential adults are allowed on our school site unless you need to visit the office.

A reminder to make sure your child/ren know exactly which gate they will be picked up from at 3.00pm and by whom.

New School Landscaping + Yarning Circle

Many of you may have seen the new school landscaping taking shape. I am very excited as I have wanted to landscape several areas for many years. It should all be completed by the end of next week.

We will also be constructing an indigenous Yarning Circle to support both our Aboriginal education lessons and pupil welfare facilities. Both projects will enhance our developing outdoor learning capabilities.

Please stay well and stay safe

B.Kunkler

Principal

Parent update (May 12, 2020)

Wed, 13 May 2020 10:38:47 AEST

Dear parent, student, carer

A very big thank you to all the Farrar and Hume families for their attendance yesterday and today. It was wonderful to see and hear our school becoming more like itself. I am sure that Macarthur and Sturt families will be just as good.

Social Distancing

A reminder that to safe guard our students and especially our staff parents are not allowed to enter the school unless on specific business or to go to the school office.

All parents are to drop off their children at one of our four main school gates in the morning and I suggest meet their children at the same gate in the afternoon. The Farrar and Hume families did a wonderful job, so fingers crossed the Macarthur and Sturt will be as good.

On Friday the school is open and operational however, I ask that only those students who have to be here attend. That way the teachers have valuable time to continue planning more excellent learning lesson for future use.

Day Cleaning

As I wrote in a previous update our day cleaning began yesterday. This means that we have an extra cleaner onsite who cleans toilets, washrooms, handles, railing and hard surfaces during the day. This is extra to our normal cleaning and our enhanced cleaning. An excellent initiative from the Department of education.

I feel that the Premier is very happy with how things are going with the Phase 1 of student return. This may mean a quicker return to 5 day a week school for all students. Any changes I will keep you all informed.

Stay safe, stay well.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Parent update (May 8 2020)

Fri, 08 May 2020 14:41:29 AEST

Dear students, parents, carers

We are moving into Phase 1 of student returning to school. Please read the information below very carefully:

Phase One Student return

From next Monday (May 11^th) students will be coming back to school for one day a week. We are using our Sport Houses to indicate which day your children are to attend:

Monday – Farrar Tuesday – Hume

Wednesday – Macarthur Thursday – Sturt

Please note that only those students from those houses plus those students who need to be at school and children of essential personnel are to attend on those days. This is to help me organise the necessary number of staff each day.

Your child may not have their own teacher on the day they attend but they will have a teacher from their grade giving explicit learning lessons. These lessons will support students to complete Learning Module 3 at home. All students need to return Learning Module 2 when they attend on their day. It does not matter if it is not completed.

For Phase 1 parents can choose to keep their children home. However, if your child /children do not attend on their day they will be marked absent and a note of explanation will be needed.

The canteen will not be open and therefore all lunch and recess will need to be brought from home. The school has no provision to supply food.

Adult Social Distancing

To ensure the safety of all our school community members but in particular students and school staff from Monday 11^th May ALL students are to be dropped off and picked up at one of the school gates. No parents are to be allowed into playgrounds or near classrooms. Parents who need to access the school office can only enter through the main Proctor Parade gate. All other gates will be locked at 9.20am and re-opened at 2.50pm.

Hopefully these measures will not be in place for too long. However, I need all parents to follow this new rule to ensure the safety of all students and staff.

Enhanced Cleaning

I have been informed that our school will be getting three hours extra each day of enhanced cleaning. This will mean that all hard surfaces and toilets will be cleaned and disinfected continually during the day. I have also installed soap and /or hand sanitisers in all classrooms and toilets. Please remind your children of the basic hygiene rules around handwashing, coughing and sneezing.

By following what I have written hopefully there will be no spike in Covid-19 cases. If there is a spike schools will go back to the full remote learning of previous weeks. So lets all do our best!

B. Kunkler

Principal

Students begin return to classrooms

Fri, 08 May 2020 18:16:43 AEST

From Monday 11 May (Week 3) students will begin a phased return to school.

The phased return will maintain distancing in the classroom while supporting students' education and wellbeing.

Most students will continue learning from home and will only attend school 1 day each week.

Our school will continue to provide detailed information about the return to the classroom throughout the rest of Term 2.

Measures to keep schools clean and safe for all students and staff include:

25% more cleaning time focused on high-touch areas
priority deliveries of hygiene supplies including soap and hand sanitiser
local school changes to pick up, drop off, lunch and recess times and processes.

School Update (May 6, 2020)

Thu, 07 May 2020 09:00:50 AEST

Dear students, parents and carers,

Please read the following information very carefully and if you have any questions please contact the school.

Phased Return to School
Yesterday all families would have received a text message detailing the sports house their children are in and the day their children are attending school. It is very important that your children are sent to school on the day you were told. This is to help me ensure that I have the correct number of staff on site that day to cater for those student numbers. Of course, there may be a valid reason why a day may need to be changed. If so, please call the school to get permission to change days. Not being with friends or relatives if not a valid reason. Students are to wear their normal school uniform.

Social Distancing – Parent Responsibility
As you would have heard or read, once a child is at school the normal social distancing guidelines do not apply. However, during phase one of student return we will be limiting the number of students in classrooms to conform to the 4 square metre rule. The playground area is large enough for all to social distance.

The main danger to our school community of the virus spreading is the possible increased interaction between adults in the school setting. To ensure that everyone - students, parents and teachers are as safe as possible, from next Monday parents will be expected to drop off and pick up at one of our main school gates and not enter the school grounds. Again, this is to support all our students and staff to remain healthy.
I would suggest that you explain to your children that the gate they are dropped off at in the morning will be the gate they are picked up at in the afternoon. For the afternoon especially, you will need to organise a pickup point away from the gates as they will be very crowded. I would suggest that parents of Kindergarten children organise their pick at the gate adjacent to the Kindergarten classes. Staff will be at the gates to help with any questions or if you need to visit the school office. All gates, except the main Proctor Parade gate will be closed at 9.20am and will not be re-opened until 2.50pm.

Canteen and Uniform Shop
The canteen and uniform shop will not be reopening until later in the term. Therefore, from next week when sending your children to school you will need to ensure they have food for lunch and recess. The P&C and I will keep you in touch regarding when both services will re-open.

Please support the school and do what has been asked. That way we can support everyone staying healthy. Please communicate this information to all parents of our school community.

Stay safe and well.

B. Kunkler
Principal

Parent questions and answers

Fri, 08 May 2020 14:47:43 AEST

Parent update (May 5, 2020)

Tue, 05 May 2020 12:40:53 AEST

Dear students, parents and care givers,

Parent Questions and Answers

Many parents have been contacting the school asking many of the same questions. To ensure that there is no confusion below are a selection of those question with my response.

As with all public schools Chester Hill P.S. must conform to the policies of the NSW Department of education. Many of my answers will reflect their policies. Some of the questions, especially around parent access to the school from week 3, have yet to be finalised. More information regarding that issue will be sent out later in the week. These answers are what will be happening at CHPS unless otherwise directed by the Premier. Please use these answers when speaking to other school community members.

To view the Parent Questions and Answers please click here

Confirmation of Sporting House and full day attendance

An SMS will be sent out today to all families which will confirm the Sports House their children are in and the full day they are to attend in week 3. The phone number will not be from the school so please check all messages.

Learning Module Two

I cannot believe that we still have 55 Learning Module Two not collected. For those parents / carers who have not picked up the modules they will be sent home with the children when they attend their day next week. I do ask that those who have yet to pick them up come to the office and collect the package.

As always, I am available to answer each and any question. However, with the situation changing daily I may not have all the answers.

Stay well

B.Kunkler

Principal

Religion and ethics lessons continue at home

Tue, 05 May 2020 11:44:07 AEST

Students learning from home can continue to access Special religious education (SRE) and Special education in ethics (SEE) classes.

Face-to-face SRE, SEE and Voluntary student activities of a religious nature in schools (VSA) will not be available until schools resume normal operations.

In response to requests from school communities, SRE and SEE approved providers are delivering their authorised curriculum with modifications to allow students to learn from home from the start of Term 2.

The lesson content and the mode of delivery has been reviewed and modified for easy access by students. The approved providers recognise that learning at home will not replicate face-to-face learning at school.

The learning from home SRE and SEE programs are now available:

Parent update (May 1, 2020)

Sun, 03 May 2020 11:08:37 AEST

Dear parents, carers and students,

We have completed week 1 and I want to again congratulate our community on keeping the majority of our students at home. By supporting the Premier’s advice this week and next week it will keep the curve going in the right direction and eventually that will mean all students back at school sooner. Of course, our school is open and operational for any student who needs to attend school. All I ask if that you do send your child to school they must bring learning Module 2 with them. They use it at school as well as home.

I am very disappointed at the number of Learning Module 2 packages that have not been collected. I urge all families who have not collected package 2 and returned package 1 to do so on Monday. Your children are missing out on important learning.

Your teachers and administration staff have been working throughout their holidays to ensure every Chester Hill P.S. student continues to learn. Those Learning Module 2 packages uncollected do not demonstrate an appreciation by those families of all the hard work and time given by the teachers.

Gradual Return to School

I wrote previously about the gradual return of students to school and Face to face teaching. This will begin on Monday May 11^th. We will be using our Sports Houses to divide to school into 25% lots. The schedule will be:

Monday: Farrar Tuesday: Hume

Wednesday: Macarthur Thursday: Sturt

Friday: only students of essential personnel - the school is open and operational for any student who needs to attend.

All families will be reminded of their sport house by the end of next week. Your child/ren are expected to attend on their designated days. If not, they will be marked as absent. Schools have been identified safe by NSW Health.

More information and some answers to questions I have been asked will be posted next week.

With some relaxing of the social distancing rules I hope that everyone has the chance to catch up with family and friends over the weekend.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Tune in at 8.45am to NSW Education LIVE

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:42:43 AEST

To welcome our students back for Term 2, join us at 8.45am from Wednesday 29 April to Friday 8 May for a special live stream.

Musician Guy Sebastian, TV foodies Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and Manu Feildel, Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis, Sydney Swans player Ollie Florent, and our very own Eddie Woo, have donated their time to kick start learning from home each morning from 29 April - 8 May.

Tune in each day at 8:45am. We can't wait to see you!

Term 2 Week 1

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:50:03 AEST

Dear Students, Parents and students

Welcome back to Term Two at Chester Hill P.S. I do hope you have had a wonderful Easter break and are ready for hopefully a gradual return to normality by the end of this term.

Whilst our school is open the Premier has again asked that the children of everyone but essential personnel be kept at home for the first two weeks. This is to ensure that the spread of the covid virus continues to decline. To support you with remote learning our Learning Module Two pack is ready to be picked up at school. Please can everyone come to school to pick up the new modules and to return Learning Module One. It does not matter that all the work in Learning Module One is not complete we need to assess what has been completed.

At present from week 3, Monday 11^th May, there will be a gradual return to face to face learning. From week 3 25% of students per day will be attending school for face to face instruction. As the Premier favoured family groupings, we will be using our sporting houses to assign families to a specific day. Children will be taught in grade groups not necessarily by their own class teacher. At this point in time they will still be using their learning modules both at school and at home. Do not worry if you are unsure of your children’s sports house that information will be confirmed with all families prior to week Three.

I and my executive are still working through the final organisational details to support the gradual return of students from week 3. More information will follow later in the week. However, information relating to schools is changing constantly and with the Premiers comments this morning they may change again sooner rather than later. I can only ask for your support and understanding through this difficult time. Our Chester Hill P.S. community has been wonderful in supporting all our students and staff I am sure that all parents will continue to do this by keeping their children self-isolating for the next two weeks. Also, by helping to communicate this information to those community members that may have language or technology difficulties.

Finally, to all our Muslim families Happy Ramadan.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Kindergarten 2021

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 13:54:38 AEST

Kindergarten 2021

I know that it is early in the year but any family who has a child beginning Kindergarten in 2021 is now invited to contact our school office to complete an enrolment form.

Also, if you have a child eligible for kindergarten in 2021 who has identified support needs I would ask that you contact the school to make an appointment with me to discuss the enrolment and begin to explore extra support options.

The school telephone number is 9644 1286 or our email address is chesterhil-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Term 2 Update

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 15:38:53 AEST

Dear parents, carers and students

I hope that you all have been having a wonderful holiday.

You may have heard that the Premier has given all schools an extra Staff Development Day. That means that no students are to be sent to school on either:

Monday 27^th or Tuesday 28^th April. However, you are still able to return learning module one and collect learning module two at the following times:

Monday 27^th April outside your child’s classroom 2.00pm – 3.00pm
Tuesday 28^th April Learning Module 2 packs will be available to be picked up outside your child’s classroom from 9.00am – 10.30am.
Wednesday 29^th April 9.00am – 10.30am but all packs will be collected from under the COLA.

Please only one person to return and collect from each family or families.

The first two weeks of term two will be the same as the end of term one. Only those students of essential service personnel should be sent to school. From week 3 a gradual one day a week return for approximately 25% of students per day will be commenced. More information about how this will look will follow in week two.

Please distribute this information to any school community member that you know that cannot access our social media sites.

Thank you again as it has been because of your support of social isolating that the curve continues to flatten.

B.Kunkler

Principal

NSW students to transition back to the classroom in Term 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 12:46:52 AEST

NSW school students will gradually transition back to the classroom during Term 2 as the Government continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell outlined the plan for students attending NSW public schools to progressively return to face-to-face learning in week three of Term 2.

Ms Berejiklian said health advice continues to be that schools remain open, and parents, teachers and students can be confident that school is safe place.

“We are grateful to all families who kept their children home from school at the end of Term 1 and to teachers who worked tirelessly to deliver education online,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This allowed us critical time to prepare our schools to develop better online learning options and for considering additional hygiene measures to allow schools to return.

“We know that nothing is more important than a child’s education, and we must begin to return our students to their classrooms in a considered way.

“Under these changes, from week three of Term 2, every student will be attending school for one day a week.

“We will look to increase the number of days students are at school in a staged way and hope to have all children back at school full-time by Term 3.

“I’d like to thank the Catholic and Independent schools for working with the NSW Government at this time, as well as staff, including teachers, principals and cleaners, for working so hard to prepare for a resumption of school.

“I’d also like to thank parents for what has been a tough month, often juggling working from home and caring for children. We hope the partial resumption of on campus learning will provide some much needed relief to those families.”

During the first stage of on-campus learning, parents will be encouraged to keep their children home except on their allocated day of face-to-face learning. Initially, about a quarter of a school’s students are expected to be on site at any one time. The specific days students will be required to attend school each week will vary from school to school and will be clearly communicated to parents.

Classes will be split across schools, allowing schools to appropriately social distance students and teachers.

As always, schools will remain open for students who need them and no child will be turned away from school.

Ms Mitchell said careful consideration had been given to support the school community, providing clarity and certainty on the path forward.

“This plan provides a clear path that balances community concerns with a need to deliver continuity of quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Hand sanitiser will be available in all classrooms and provisions are in place for at-risk teachers to work from home. Drop off, pick up, recess and lunchtimes will also be staggered to ensure social distancing.”

In addition to the staged return to school, the NSW Government has committed up to $95.7 million to help keep casual and temporary school staff engaged in active work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our casual and temporary teachers and other non-teaching staff across NSW schools are critical to our education system, and will help ensure the educational outcomes for our students during this staged return,” Ms Mitchell said.

A cross-sector working group of teachers will also be established to report back to the Minister on recent innovations and educational developments assembled during the COVID-19 period that are suitable to support future educational delivery.

“It’s important that we have an inventory of the cutting edge teaching solutions and recognise the best efforts of our amazing NSW teachers during a difficult time,” Ms Mitchell said.

Teachers will have an additional day to prepare for Term 2 on Tuesday 28 April making the first day of term for students Wednesday 29 April.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

End of Term Update

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 15:41:38 AEST

End of Term Update

Dear students, parents and carers,

Now that term one had finished it is time to look back and see how far we have come as a school community in such a short time. We have gone from a school-based learning system to a remote learning system in just a few weeks. It has been a huge learning curve for everyone.

I must congratulate and praise my whole staff for their huge efforts in ensuring that quality learning has continued to be available to all our students. Teaching and administrative staff all had to become experts in remote learning overnight. As Principal I am so proud of them all and as parents you should be equally proud. CHPS has an amazing staff. And I am sure many of you will have a better understanding as to how difficult and challenging it is being a teacher.

I am also very proud of our school community who have so brilliantly supported the fight against Covid-19. By keeping your children at home you have help flatten the curve of the virus. It is very important to continue to keep your children at home next term so that the curve does not spike which would cause a full school closure.

School Home Communication

To ensure that all students are engaging in learning and their well being can be assessed all schools are directed by the Department of Education to contact families several times over a week. We are bound to carry out this direction and so I hope all families will support our staff when they are contacted. Please be aware that calls are being made on many different phones so if you see “unknown caller” on your phone it may be one of our teachers or administrative staff. If we cannot contact a family after trying all numbers several times we will contact the police who will make a home visit just to check everything is all right. Again, this is a direction from our head office.

Term Two

Please read the following carefully and if you have friends who cannot access either Facebook or our internet page could you please support the school by communicating the information below to them.

· Remote learning will continue in its present form from the beginning of next term. Day one, April 27th is still a pupil free day so no students should attend.

Dates and times for Collection and returning of learning Modules 1 and 2:

· Monday 27^th April outside your child’s classroom 2.00pm – 3.00pm

· Tuesday 28^th April Learning Module 2 packs will be available to be picked up outside your child’s classroom from 9.00am – 10.30am.

· Wednesday 29^th April 9.00am – 10.30am but all packs will be collected from under the COLA.

· When picking up Learning Module 2 we need Learning Module 1 returned so it can be marked and assessed.

· If you have not completed the IT survey please do and also return it to one of your children’s teacher when picking up Learning Module 2

· More information regarding the loaning of iPads and Laptops will be found on our Facebook page and website early next term

The Easter holidays are now a time that we all can relax and refresh. With the social distancing laws in place it will be a different type of holiday but one that will still be enjoyable within each family unit. I wish you all a happy and enjoyable break. Please stay healthy and safe and I will be in contact again with you all the beginning of next term.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Keep your family entertained these school holidays

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 18:43:52 AEST

We know it’s been a challenging Term 1. Just as many communities began recovering from fires, droughts and floods, we moved to learning from home to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The school holidays are coming, which means your family is about to have a lot of free time and nowhere to go.

To support you while looking after children we’ve put together a handy guide of activities to stimulate young minds and keep your family busy and engaged.

Check out our parents and carers toolkit for important self-care tips, free parenting podcasts and apps.

If you need a break, the Service NSW before and after school care finder can help locate vacation care programs near you.

The Parents' Guide to Google Classroom

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 11:18:48 AEST

Please click here to see the Parents' Guide to Google Classroom.

To see other Learning from Home resources, you can visit our Learning from Home page here.

School update (April 3, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:07:14 AEDT

School Update 3rd April

Dear parent, students and carers

The end of another week and only one to go before the holidays.

I was informed by the Secretary of Education in a video conference yesterday that the current organisation of schools will continue for at least next term. This means that schools are open but where possible only students of essential service personnel should attend . This is to ensure that the virus curve continues to flatten and hopefully start to drop. I am so proud of the way the Chester Hill Public School community has banded together by where possible keeping students at home.

I will remind everyone that our learning module one is not meant to be used as a holiday activity, everyone needs a break. I will be expecting every Learning Module 1 pack brought back on Tuesday 28th April so the teachers can start evaluating the learning that has occurred over these two weeks. When learning module one is returned you will receive the second learning module.

I know there are so many things happening at the moment. I again say to you all that you are doing an amazing job supporting continual learning of your children. More learning support will be available from next term so hang in there until the holidays. Have a great weekend and I will catch up with you all next week.

B.Kunkler

Principal

School update (April 2, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:01:57 AEDT

Dear student, parents and carers,

A very big thank you from the staff for all the positive feedback you have communicated through our first contact calls and on our Facebook page. It does mean a lot to the staff and we all miss the students terribly. You may have heard the Police Commissioner today signal that the social distancing laws will be remaining in place for the next 90 days. I do not know for sure but expect education to follow their lead. If so this will mean remote learning for all of term two with children at home. I await confirmation from my bosses and will confirm the latest tomorrow.

When our teachers contact home these calls are mainly for us to ask the questions. As I have written before we do not have the time on a phone call to answer all your learning questions. We are working hard on other ways that we can engage with your and our students that is not telephone dependent. These will be up and running early next term.

If you receive a phone call and "unknown caller" flashes on your phone it maybe your child's teacher calling on their own mobile. Please answer in case. Finally many teachers are being frustrated by leaving voicemail messages and no one returning the call. It is very important that we make contact this term. So if that is you please call the school.

As always, stay safe and well.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Online learning modules

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 11:01:53 AEDT

The online learning modules can take a while to get used to, especially since the current learning situation is new for teachers, parents and students.

We have put together 'how to' guides to support you and your child's learning.

How to log on to Student Portal

Google Classroom Guides

How to get on to Google Classroom

How to find classwork on Google Classroom

How to submit work on Google Classroom

School update (April 1, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:02:02 AEDT

School Update April 1^st

Arabic translation

Vietnamese translation

Dear students, carers and parents,

A new month begins and lets hope it is the start of better things to come.

Thank you to all those parents who have been posting positive comments of encouragement for all our community on our various sites. Thank you also to those who have been helping friends and relatives with accessing information through our website and Facebook pages and also interpreting that information and the work that has been sent home to complete. Speaking of the learning modules we still have far too many at school having not been collected. If you know of anyone who for a legitimate reason cannot collect their packages get them to call the school.

Speaking of the learning modules I know several parents have contacted the school unsure about if they are doing the right thing. Following are some points to remember: Firstly, DON’T PANIC

· I know that you are not teachers. The learning modules were designed to be completed by the students with little need for help from parents

· As parents you need to ensure that all your children are attempting work every day. I understand this may be hard but that is your role in remote learning. Students that are not attempting to complete work can be marked as absent and an explanation has to be provided

· This type of learning is new for everyone teachers, parents and students. All I ask is that as a parent you try your best. This is what I expect of my student and what I expect from my parents and carers.

· Contact will be made with you consistently for as long as the remote learning lasts. You are not alone but learning support cannot be as much as when a student attends school

· We are constantly asking how can we support our students better? How can we support our parents / community better? All of my wonderful staff are working as hard as they always do to answer those questions

· So, the big advice for parents with the learning modules is just try your best, be as supportive as you can for your children and do not worry.

Loaning Devices

I am waiting on the first shipment of devices to be delivered to our school. Even though the media and the minister talk big I feel that what we ordered may not be what we get. Let’s hope I am wrong. However, what ever the case I have to rely on the honesty of my community to ensure the neediest families are given priority. As the first two learning modules can be mostly completed without a device or the internet devices will be loaned from the beginning of next term.

Please keep safe and well

School update (March 31, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:02:06 AEDT

School Update 31^st March

Arabic translation

Vietnamese translation

Dear students, parents and carers

Yesterday as communicated all our students first learning Modules were available to be collected from the school. Thank you to all those families who came and collected the packages. It was disappointing that nearly 50% were not collected. Collection is still possible today between 2.00pm and 3.00pm or tomorrow from 9.00am – 10.00am or 2.00pm – 3.00pm.

Again, if you have a problem collecting the learning Module please call a friend or another family member to collect it for you. A call to the family will be made for any Learning Modules left at school by tomorrow afternoon.

Your child’s teacher or another member of our teaching staff will be contacting you prior to the weeks end to touch base and ask a few questions regarding contact details, the modules and learning. Please note teachers are not remote tutors. You cannot call school and expect your child’s class teacher to remotely teach. This learning module was put together with the sole purpose of enabling the parent to be able supervise learning at home. Students should be up and ready to learn at 9.00am just as if they were attending school. All grades have a timetable to help you coordinate the learning day. Students not assessed as not engaging with schoolwork at home will be marked as absent and an explanation from the parent will be expected.

These are challenging times and remote learning for all parents, students and teachers is a continual work in progress. Please all I ask is that every family try their best to engage with the work sent home or for the older students online. Everyone keep safe.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Parent update (March 30, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:02:11 AEDT

Moving Forward

Arabic translation

Vietnamese translation

Dear parent, student and carer,

Thank you to all who were able to come today to collect the first learning module package. If you were unable to come today they can be picked up in the COLA area between 9.00am and 10.00am and 2.00pm – 3.00pm tomorrow and Wednesday. If you are unable to come at those times please try to organise with a friend to collect the package. The packages need to be returned on the first day of school next term. You will then receive your second learning module package.

Much has been said in the media and by our politicians regarding online learning. In a perfect world where every home has an unlimited internet connection and multiple device that would be the case. As Principal I am well aware of the economic hardships faced by many of our families each day. They cannot afford unlimited internet access nor multiple devices. Or they will have one device for four or five children. The government continually states that every child will get a device or be given internet access. Of course how this will happen is not known at present. On a positive note I am organising to loan out the school laptops to those families with the greatest need. This will occur early next term. I stress the importance of completing our technology survey in the learning module package and returning it next term.

Our students will not be disadvantaged. All students will be supported with their learning. We will use a variety of strategies to enable all of our wonderful students to continually engage with their learning. I do remind all parents that we need your support at home to ensure that this will be achieved.

Thanks you and please follow all directions regarding social distancing so we can all stay safe.

B.Kunkler

Principal

List of free apps for learning at home

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 13:21:34 AEST

We have compiled a list of free apps to support your child's learning at home. The listed apps are on the school iPads.

Some of the listed apps may not be compatible on Android devices.

Please be aware that the apps may have in-app purchases.

Please click here to see the list.

Learning from home timetables

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 17:34:32 AEDT

Parents and carers,

In your child's learning pack for Term 1, there are timetables for week 10 and week 11 to structure your child's learning at home.

Here is a copy of each grade's timetable for you to use at home.

Term 1, Week 10

Term 1, Week 11

Chester Hill Public School update (March 27, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:01:50 AEDT

School Update

Dear parent, student and carer,

The information put out yesterday was how every child will access their learning until the end of this term and for the beginning of term 2. Today I would like to explain about the learning that is being sent home.

Learning Module 1

The first and most important point is that all students will need support from home. The help mainly will be that parents ensure that a good learning environment has been set up at home and that they are available to help with the learning.

All learning modules contain work and concepts that have already been taught at school. This is called mastery learning and enables all students the opportunity to reinforce known concepts. Do not let the student try to avoid work by saying “I have not been taught that concept” – they have. However, all students learn at a different rate so there are activities and expectations within the modules to cater for all levels of learning. All we ask is that every students completes as much of the work as possible. There are even activities for those students who complete their work ahead of time.

All learning modules will be collected and the work marked. This will count towards student’s evaluation and reports later in the year. It should be your child’s responsibility to ensure their work is not lost or thrown out or eaten by the dog. All learning from module 1 must be returned at the beginning of term 2.

A couple more things:

Included in the pack is an IT Survey. By completing and returning it next term it will help us to plan for learning in term two.

Lastly, over the next two weeks your child’s teacher or one of the teaching staff will be contacting you to touch base about the learning. So please ensure the school has your best and most up to date contact details.

I am very proud of all my teaching and administration staff who are working extremely hard every day to provide the best learning materials for our students.

Stay strong and well and keep supporting each other.

B.Kunkler

Principal

Collection of learning packages (week 10 and 11)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:02:15 AEDT

Dear student, parent and carer:

Please read the following in regards to the collection of the weeks 10 and 11 learning modules:

Individualised learning module packages can be collected between the hours of 9.30am and 11.00am on Monday 30^th March
Teaching staff will be on hand to mark off that your child’s package has been collected
To support social distancing families may organise one person to pick up several packs
Packs are to be collected and collectors are to leave immediately. When collecting please maintain the 1.5 metre rule between people. All gates will be open until 11.45am please use the closest entrance to your pick up point
If you are unable to collect the learning modules at that time please contact the school. A time will be arranged over the next two days for collection
All packs must be collected as we cannot mail or courier learning packs.

Collection points:

Kindergarten – outside K Green and K Red classrooms

Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) - COLA

Stage 2 (Years 3 and 4) – outside your child’s classroom

Stage 3 (Years 5 and 6) – outside your child’s classroom

More information regarding the learning modules and our home / school communication strategies will be communicated over the coming days on our Facebook page and Website. As always, thank you for your continuing support.

Arabic translation

Vietnamese translation

B.Kunkler

Principal

Chester Hill Public School Update (March 25, 2020)

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 09:01:52 AEDT

Dear parents, students and carers,

I would like to thank all of our parents who have kept their children at home. By doing this it will hopefully begin to flatten the infection rate and stop the transmission of the virus to those most at risk.

Our learning modules are at the printing stage and will be ready for collection next Monday. You will need to keep checking on our Facebook page or our website for collection information on Friday.

Until that time utilise the information that was in the newsletter this week to set up a home learning environment for your children. Set guidelines, routines and expectations for their learning. We all need to be flexible during this time and education is no different. This module will take your children to the holidays. Just like normal the holidays will be a time of wellbeing and fun so no modules will be sent home. They will commence again from the beginning of term two.

Our school is still open if you have any questions but the best information source for now and in the future will be our website and Facebook pages. Again I ask you to support other community members if they are not able to access the internet or have difficulty with English. I am trying to access translated documents in our two main languages other than English - Arabic and Vietnamese.

Our Chester Hill community is a strong caring community we really need to be flexible and support each other through this difficult time.

B.Kunkler

Principal

No child will be turned away from school

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 12:21:56 AEDT

Schools are open and no student will be turned away. Parents have been encouraged to keep their children at home if possible.

Schools will remain open for parents who want their children to attend irrespective of their profession or working arrangements.

The decision to keep schools open has been made based on advice from NSW Health, which has not changed.

The department will provide continuity of learning for all students both on and off campus and the Premier, for practical reasons, has encouraged parents to keep their children at home if they could.

Schools will communicate directly with parents on what learning options are available using their communication methods such as the school website, newsletters, emails and other online tools.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Chester Hill Public School COVID-19 Update (March 24, 2020)

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 09:25:48 AEDT

COVID-19 Update (March 24, 2020)

Dear parents, carers and students

Learning

I again reinforce the message of the premier that our school is open but unless absolutely necessary all students should be kept at home.

All staff members are working extremely hard at present developing and collating our single units of work for each grade. As stated previously these should be ready by Monday of next week and they will deliver a learning program until the end of term one. Until such times in our newsletter today there will be ideas for learning for all students for the next few days. Do not forget our newsletter is always posted on our website and there will be extra hard copies available at the office.(https://chesterhil-p.schools.nsw.gov.au/)

School Canteen

Today will be the last day of operation for our school canteen. The P&C association has ordered all canteens to close. What this means is that if you intend to send your children to school all lunch and recess items must be brought from home. The school will have no ability to supply food to any student.

B. Kunkler

Principal

New COVID-19 restrictions begin as schools move towards online learning

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 19:52:47 AEDT

The NSW Government has taken significant new steps to increase restrictions across the state - triggering the next level of enforcement necessary to fight COVID-19.

Following the decisions made by National Cabinet, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed the shutdown to protect NSW citizens.

"I understand many in the community are worried, and these changes will affect everyday lives, and may be upsetting," Ms Berejiklian said.

"But these decisions will make us all safer, they are taken with the health of all citizens in mind, and they must be taken now.

"If you have the capacity to work from home, you should do so."

In line with health advice, from midday today, the following non-essential activities and businesses will be temporarily shut down:

pubs, registered clubs
gyms, indoor sporting venues
cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs
restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery
religious gatherings, places of worship (excluding small weddings and funerals that comply with the 4m2 rule, which can proceed).

It is important to note essential gatherings at places such as hospitals, workplaces, constructions sites and for public transport are exempt and will continue.

As confirmed last night by the Prime Minister schools will remain open, based on health advice, which has not changed.

But from tomorrow, in NSW, for practical reasons, parents are encouraged to keep their children at home.

"Because nearly 30 per cent of children are already being kept out of school, for practical reasons NSW is encouraging parents to keep their children at home," Ms Berejiklian said.

"This will ensure there is only one unit of work, whether the student is at home or at school.

"No child will be turned away from school."

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Excursion cancellations

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 14:57:48 AEDT

To limit the impact of COVID-19 in line with the precautionary measures introduced by the NSW Department of Education, the upcoming Year 5 excursion to Sydney Zoo and the Year 6 excursion to Darling Harbour has been cancelled. This was done to ensure the safety of students and staff.

The school is in the process of organising refunds. Further information will follow.

Schools to implement distancing measures

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 21:04:07 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education is introducing proactive measures to limit the impact of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in our schools.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the Department of Education, today announced that schools would adopt social distancing measures requiring them to cancel assemblies, excursions, travel, some events and conferences.

Mr Scott said these measures are precautionary and designed to reduce exposure via non-essential gatherings.

"Schools have been a focus of the community and the government as the impacts of coronavirus have developed globally," Mr Scott said.

"From Monday onwards, I expect school assemblies and substantial gatherings to be cancelled, along with all excursions.

"The community expects schools to be as safe as possible. We are implementing these measures to provide peace of mind for students, parents and staff."

"These cancellations also extend to inter-school arts, sports, initiative activities and events.

All major arts, sports and initiative activities and events will temporarily be ceased until further notice. This includes whole-school sporting events and inter-school events involving three or more schools.

"Local inter-school sport and other activities can proceed, but we ask organisers to ensure that as far as possible, reasonable precautions are taken," Mr Scott said.

"I trust our principals and staff to show leadership during this time."

Schools will be provided with more detailed advice and suggestions on how they can adjust their day to day activities with minimal disruption.

The department is continuing to prepare for further closures if necessary with scaling up of technology, additional training of staff and preparation of offsite lessons.

Families and students in self-isolation can find useful information to continue learning from home.

For the latest information, check COVID-19 advice for schools.

Updated information about Novel Coronavirus

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 14:15:11 AEDT

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:14:42 AEDT

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

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

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:47:38 AEDT

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

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

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

You’ll find:

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

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 17:18:07 AEDT

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

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

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

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

Travel health

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

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

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:31:08 AEDT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 17:27:28 AEDT

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

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

This year's events will feature:

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

Group bookings

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

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

Tickets for you and your family and friends

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

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:41:21 AEST

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

Have your say today on before and after school care.

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

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

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

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:27:37 AEST

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

Get involved at home

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

Join in from the classroom

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

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

Take the Book Swap Challenge

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

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

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

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

Duration: 0:38

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

Tell Them From Me: Partners in Learning survey

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 18:05:09 AEST

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:49:38 AEST

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

You and your child can find information on:

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

A toolkit to empower you and your child

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

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

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

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

Keep your child safe and happy online

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

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:15:46 AEST

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

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

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

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:44:19 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:28:34 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:26:45 AEST

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

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

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

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

National Walk Safely to School Day 2019

Wed, 08 May 2019 13:24:16 AEST

Now in its 20th year, National Walk Safely to School Day (WSTSD) is an annual event when all Primary School children will be encouraged to walk and commute safely to school. It is a Community Event seeking to promote Road Safety, Health, Public Transport and the Environment.

Well it’s that time of year again when our school seriously starts talking about walking!

Not only is walking a wonderful way to get you where you want to be, but it also gets your health – and your child’s health on the right track too.

So that’s why this year our school is participating in National Walk Safely to School Day on Friday 17 May 2019.

Walk Safely to School Day asks that we all consider our transport habits and try to incorporate more walking as part of a healthy, active way to get around. And although walking all the way to school isn’t realistic for many of us, it’s quite easy to figure out how you can build a walk into your family’s daily routine.

You can teach your child the healthy habit of walking more by:

Walking with them the whole way to school
If they get the bus or train, walk past your usual stop and get on at the next stop
If you have to drive, park the car a few blocks away from the school and walk the rest of the way.

Regular exercise like walking with your child not only helps them (and you!) beat chronic problems like obesity, heart disease, behavioural and mental health issues and diabetes. It also gives you a great opportunity to teach your child safe ways to behave around roads and traffic.

Remember, Active Kids are Healthy Kids so get planning your own Walk Safely to School Day journey for Friday 17 May 2019!

For more information, visit www.walk.com.au

www.walk.com.au

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:15:41 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

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

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

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

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:30:21 AEST

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

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

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

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

Children born in Australia

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

Adults born in Australia

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

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

School Community Charter

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 14:00:48 AEDT

The School Community Charter outlines the responsibilites of those involved in the school community.

To read the School Community Charter, click here.

More information will be provided in the upcoming school newsletter.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:47:44 AEDT

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

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

1. Be alert and aware

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

2. Hold hands

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

3. Choose a safe crossing

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

4. Set a good example

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

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

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

Practise makes perfect

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

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

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

Term 1 Community Hub program

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 19:07:56 AEDT

Driving safely around school

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 15:48:55 AEDT

This is just a friendly reminder to all parents and guardians to obey the road rules and the school zone speed limit.

To see the flyer that has been translated and distributed by Canterbury and Bankstown City Council, click here.

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:08:29 AEDT

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

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

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Get back to school ready

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 09:23:09 AEDT

To help support families and schools, the Department of Education and Communities has a special Back to School section with key information, tips and resources to get ready for the new school year.

Visit the Back to School page by clicking on this link.

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:28:48 AEDT

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

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

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

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

School Banking

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

Find out more about school banking.

The Pre-School is Open

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:22 AEDT

BCRG Chester Hill Preschool

Who are we…?

We are a community based Preschool located on Wellington Road, within the grounds of Chester Hill Public School.

We employ highly qualified and experienced teachers and educators
Our preschool offers early education that focuses on play-based curriculum for children aged 3-5 years
Preschool provides an educational program that supports the development of early language, literacy, numeracy, and social skills
Independence and self help skills are developed to support their transition to school
The curriculum is informed by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)
High quality early education gives children the best start at school and sets them up for the rest of their lives
Research shows that children who participate in quality preschool programs are more likely to arrive at school equipped with the social, cognitive and emotional skills they need to engage in learning
Children enrolling at Chester Hill Public School participate in Kindergarten Orientation visits in November of each school year to assist with the smooth transition to big school
We also access the school library to familiarise the children with the school environment and expectations

Contact Details & Hours of Operation

Monday to Friday

8.30am – 4.00pm

2018 Fees

$25 Concession (3 & 4 years old - low income families on health care card)

$35 Full rate (4 years old before 31 July 2018)

$45 Full rate (3 years old, and 4years after 1 August 2018)

Days of Attendance

Minimum 2 or 3 days attendance

Monday, Tuesday

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Thursday, Friday

For further enquiries please call 0422 699 860 or drop in and our staff will answer any of your questions. We look forward to seeing you.

Tell Them From Me Parent Survey

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

We are asking parents to complete the Partners in Learning Parent Survey once again this year.

The survey asks parents and carers questions about different factors that are known to impact on student wellbeing and engagement.

This survey will help our school understand parents' and carers' perspectives on their child's experience at school. Valuable feedback from the survey will help our school make practical improvements.

The survey is available in:

English

Traditional Chinese

Arabic

To complete the survey use the following link:

https://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/chps3698

The survey is open until Friday 25 August 2017

Parent Teacher Interviews

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:16 AEDT

Parent Teacher Interviews are being held at the end of the term. This year we will be making bookings via the school interviews website.

You can book your interviews at this website https://www.schoolinterviews.com.au/

Enter the code: 5dqsv

Bookings will close on Monday 27 March at 3pm.

If you do not have internet access, assistance will be available under the COLA on Tuesday 14 March and Tuesday 21 March between 2 and 3pm.

Parent Information Note (pdf 795 KB)

Like us on Facebook

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:14 AEDT

Facebook is one of the many ways we communicate with parents and the community.

Stay up to date with information about upcoming events by linking our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/chesterhillpublicschool/

Tel Them From Me Parent Survey

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

Parents are invited to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey designed for parents and carers. Our school can use the survey feedback to make practical improvements and inform school planning.

To complete the survey click on this link:

https://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/survey/splash/chps3698

Education Week

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:12 AEDT

We hope you can join us for our Education Week celebrations.

Education Week Note (pdf 47 KB)

Fruit and Veg Sense Workshop

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:12 AEDT

Return the slip on the note Fruit & Veg Sense Workshop (pdf 134 KB)

Kindergarten Excursion- Calmsley Hill Farm

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:13 AEDT

Today Kindergarten went to Calmsley Hill Farm as part of their HSIE unit 'Paddock to Plate'.

They joined the farmer to visit all the animals and went for a tractor ride up and down the hills around the farm. They watched the sheep dog demonstration and some lucky students got to learn how to crack the whip.

The farmer also let Kindergarten milk the cow and take some wool back to school to use in their art work. Everyone had a wonderful day on the farm and learnt a lot about where the food on our plate comes from.

Year 3 Community and Road Education Scheme Excursion

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:23 AEDT

This week Year 3 visited the Community and Road Education Scheme at Bass Hill.

After learning how to fit their helmet correctly and the basic road rules, it was on to the bikes! Constables Amanda & Jose were very vigilant and took points off the students licenses when they broke the road rules.

Everyone had a fabulous fun day and learnt some very important bike safety information.

The most careful riders and road rule followers were presented with a prize for their safety efforts.

'Tell Them From Me' Partners in Learning Parent Survey

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

To complete the parent survey, click on the link below: https://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/j_acegi_security_check?j_username=parent16918&j_password=Che3698

Active Kids After School Program

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:09 AEDT

A free after school sports program will be starting at our school on Tuesday 25th August from 3pm-4:30pm. To register your child you must attend an info and registration session on Tuesday 18th August in the Community Hub at 3pm.

For more info contact Lina on 0403 433 212

SPACES ARE LIMITED!

Sculptures On The Hill

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:19 AEDT

Last week we celebrated Education Week by hosting ‘Sculptures On The Hill'. There were twenty-seven unique sculptures on display which were created by our students and teachers. One was even been created by the pre-schoolers and parents from our school readiness group.

Many of the sculptures were linked to learning in Science, Human Society and Its Environment, English or Mathematics. Some classes researched an environmental issue or used recycled objects to create their works of art.

The students worked hard and enjoyed creating their artworks. They had an even greater time walking around the trail to see them all. It was great to see so many parents out in the playground enjoying the sculptures our students produced.

Year 1 Featherdale Excursion

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:22 AEDT

Year 1 students have been learning about living things and their shelters. As part of their learning they were able to visit Featherdale Wildlife Park. They had a fantastic day! Students were excited to see some of their favourite animals and were lucky enough to be able to touch some of them during a special lesson with the park education officer. Their teachers were proud when the students were complimented on their beautiful behaviour. It was a great day and an important educational experience.

ANZAC Commemoration

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:10 AEDT

This week we commemorated to 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing. The captains and vice-captains hosted the commemoration and we had many distinguished guests. The choir sang 'the last ANZAC' and Miss Gorman shared her experiences of visiting Gallipoli for ANZAC day a few years ago. Students also laid wreaths.

Harmony Day Performance

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:12 AEDT

Mana - The Spirit of Polynesia

With an exciting and educational show in the lead up to Harmony Day, Polynesian performer Tony Mason took our school on a journey to celebrate different cultures and encouraged children to persevere towards their goals. After presenting a mindboggling hoop dance from the Native American culture, Tony showed us the traditional dances of our Polynesian neighbours including a light hearted Humpty Dumpty Haka. The message of accepting and understanding other cultures and reaching your goals was heard loud and clear by all who attended with some students even inspired to get their own hoops!

Antarctic Explorer Visit

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:10 AEDT

Antarctic adventurer Chris Olsen, who has been to Antarctica three times, came to visit Year 6 on Tuesday 1 April. He gave the students the extraordinary opportunities to touch ice from an Antarctic glacier, wear real Antarctic multi-layered clothing and even use an ice pick to chop up a huge block of ice. We were also able to touch rocks from Antarctica and a piece of wood from Mawson's hut! He set up 6RA to look like a campsite from his trip to Commonwealth Bay. He taught us about the human impact on Antarctica including showing us pictures of the thousands of rabbits that used to be on Macquarie Island.

By Daniel, Alex and Tarjan

Changes to Photo Permission

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:10 AEDT

At Chester Hill Public School we enjoy using our website to showcase some of the great learning which is taking place in our school.

Due to recent changes to the Department of Education's privacy policy, we are now required to gain more detailed information from parents and guardians regarding how we may use photos of their children. In response to this we have issued a new, more detailed permission note, enabling parents to be specific in how photos of their children may be used on the internet and in the media. Please read this note carefully and return it to school as soon as possible so that we can continue to showcase and celebrate the great learning at Chester Hill Public School.

New Photo Permission Note (pdf 520 KB)

New Photo Note - Arabic (pdf 647 KB)

School Fete

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

The fete is coming...

World Environment Day

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:22 AEDT

Recently we celebrated World Environment Day. Students participated in a competition to see which stage could reduce their lunch food waste and garbage. Students produced artworks on the theme and these combined for a fantastic art display.

Below is the article written about the day in 'The Torch'.

Minnamurra Rainforest Excursion

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:14 AEDT

This term Year 5 have been learning about Rainforests in HSIE. They have been researching and learning about the different flora and fauna found in a rainforest. To enhance their learning, Year 5 went on an excursion to Minnamurra Rainforest on Tuesday 2nd April. Minnamurra Rainforest is located in Budderoo National Park, a short fifteen minute drive west of Kiama past the village of Jamberoo.

On this excursion, students learnt about the native plants and animals as they were guided around the rainforest by a national park ranger. The excursion provided students with the opportunity to make real-life connections to their in-class learning. Students saw lots of different rainforest plants such as epiphytes, staghorn ferns and strangler figs. They also saw a lyrebird! The students had a great day and enjoyed looking for animal nests in hollowed out trees.

Earn and Learn

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

Last year our fabulous school community raised just over $10 000 for our school by participating in Woolworths ‘Earn and Learn ‘ promotion. We were able to purchase many educational and fun resources using the points we received.

‘Earn and Learn' is on again in 2013 and we have re-registered our school. We have high hopes of bettering last year's amount. More information will be in our next newsletter.

New Barbeque Area

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

Thanks to the fundraising efforts of our P&C and the Year 6 students of 2012, we are pleased to be adding a new barbeque area to our school grounds. Today the first brick was laid. We are looking forward to seeing it finished and testing it out.

Like us on Facebook!

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:14 AEDT

Are you one of the 11 million Australians on Facebook? Chester Hill Public School has joined you with our own Facebook page.

We are trialling use of Facebook in 2013 as another way of providing you with up to date information about what is happening at school. Go to facebook.com/chesterhillpublicschool and like our page to see updates.

Prefect Nominees

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:17 AEDT

Our prefect nominees have been campaigning for the past few weeks. They will be presenting their speeches to the school on Monday 26 November in the Hall at 9.30am. Parents are welcome to attend. After listening to the speeches, students in Years 1-5 will vote for their student leaders for 2013.

The Captains, Vice Captains and Prefects will be announced to the school at Presentation day on Thursday 13 December.

Parent Excursion to Sydney Harbour

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

The weather was perfect, and lunch was tasty as 15 parents and carers from our school enjoyed a day walking around Circular Quay and the Botanic Gardens last Tuesday. Parents brought a plate of food to share in a picnic lunch beside the sea and made the most of making new friends with others who took part in the excursion. The Indigenous performers at Circular Quay were a highlight of the day, with parents sitting beside them and playing their traditional instruments. Some of those who attended had never been; whilst others said it had been many years since they had visited our beautiful harbour.

The Men are doing 'Movember'

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

Well what can be said, the spirit is willing but the growth is lacking.

The embarrassing moustache growing is to support the Movember foundation to raise money to support research into prostate cancer as well as programs associated with men¿s mental health.

We are encouraging anyone who would like to donate and support the gents at Chester Hill PS in their quest to grow some of the worst moustaches ever seen, to donate at the schools office. There is a collection box at the office and every little bit counts. You can also donate on the website by accessing the following link. http://au.movember.com/team/622597

Grand total so far is $440. So come on and support the 'Chesmos' as they embarrass themselves for this excellent cause!

School Readiness Program 2013

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

Do you have a child starting school in 2014?

Enrolments for the 2014 School Readiness Program are open and filling fast. Give your child the opportunity to get ready for school in an educational, fun and caring environment.

The program will begin term 1, 2014 and runs every Thursday morning from 9:30-11:30am, during school term. Spaces are limited; call Lina on 96441286 for more information or to enrol.

Parent Programs Term 4

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:16 AEDT

There is something for everyone in the community room this term.

Click on the link below for the term 4 Parent Programs calendar.

Parent Programs Term 4 (pdf 11249 KB)

Solar Schools Grant

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:20 AEDT

Federal Member for Blaxland, Jason Clare congratulated Chester Hill Public School for being awarded a $15,000 grant under the Federal Government's National Solar Schools program.

Chester Hill Public School is one of six schools in our local area to receive funding from this program to install solar panels, rain water tanks and a range of energy saving measures.

Inspiring Signs Competition

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:13 AEDT

Our school was presented with a voucher for $5000 from SignCo Manufacturing after winning first place in the Inspiring Signs Competition. The competition, which was open to schools in the South Western Sydney region awarded the top three schools with the most inspiring messages on the changeable message boards. The Regional Director Murat Dizdar and representatives from the runner up schools from Auburn West PS, Heckenberg PS and Nuwarra PS joined us for a morning tea in the community room and each school was presented with their prize.

Maths Fun Day

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:14 AEDT

As part of our celebrations for Literacy and Numeracy Week, students participated in 'Maths Fun Day'. Students from K-6 enjoyed a variety of hands on activities. Have a look at the great fun we had.

Debating team through to the next round

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

This year Chester Hill Public School has entered a team in the Premier's Debating Challenge. The students have been practicing their debating skills by participating in a school competition. In Term 2 they participated in their first competitive debates.

The competition is quite difficult with students receiving the topic on the day and having only an hour to prepare their argument.

The first debate was against St Johns Park Public School. The topic for the debate was ‘we should get rid of school uniforms'. The toss of a coin decided that we would be the negative team.

The students were nervous about their first debate but felt confident. Farhad, Zeeshaan and Kathy spoke well and put forward some excellent arguments. Lan, acting as the team advisor, provided the rebuttals. Chester Hill was announced as the winner and the students were very excited.

The second debate was against Smithfield Public School. The topic was that ‘parents should not allow their children to use social media websites'. The students provided some convincing arguments and again they were pronounced the winners.

In the third debate, against Fairfield Public School, the topic was ‘the Australian flag should be changed'. Our students were the negative team, saying that our flag should remain the same. We won this debate, meaning that our team will now progress to the next round of the competition.

We wish the debaters luck in round two.

It's Academic

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:13 AEDT

Well done to the senior students who filmed episodes for Channel 7's It's Academic in the last week of Term 2. Our team won the competition against two other teams from Bargo and Hillsborough, Newcastle and will now compete in the semi-finals in early September. The students were also complimented by staff at Foxtel on their manners, behaviour and interpersonal skills. As always we are very proud of them. Thanks must also go to Mr Brown for his training sessions at lunchtimes with the team.

At this stage, subject to possible changes, the episodes are planned for screening on Channel 7 at 4pm from Monday 4 to Friday 8 February next year.

Kinder Farm Excursion

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:13 AEDT

During Term 2, Kindergarten students were learning about farm animals and the products we recieve from animals. The four Kindergarten classes travelled to Calmsley Hill Farm and had a fantastic time. They patted animals, milked cows, rode on a tractor and watched a sheep dog demonstration. The farmer demonstated how to crack a whip and shear a sheep.The students were also lucky enough to visit the Australian animal section. The excursion was a valuable experience and allowed students to see all of the things they had been learning about in class throughout the term.

Parents & Carers graduate

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:16 AEDT

15 members of our school community; including parents and grandparents successfully completed a TAFE computer course. The course was run by TAFE outreach in our school computer room over 8 weeks. All parents recieved their certificates and can now go on to further study at TAFE.

Choir Visits Local Retirement Village

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

On Wednesday 30^th November, students from the school choir walked to the nearby Chester Hill Retirement Village to perform for the residents. The students had a wonderful time performing and the elderly residents were excited to hear the students sing. The students performed a variety of songs they had learned this year.

Year 6 face their fears

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:23 AEDT

As part of their transition to high school activities, Year 6 students attended the indoor rock climbing centre in Villawood recently. Students learned how to use the equipment safely and were shown how best to climb. The students participated in a number of climbs at varying levels of difficulty. They were encouraged to overcome their fears and try new things. They demonstrated persistence and problem solving skills. Everyone rose to the challenge and had a fantastic time.

Steven Herrick visits Chester Hill

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

Steven Herrick is an Australian author who writes poetry and verse-novels for children, young adults, and adults. He has written over eighteen poetry books and won many awards for his work.

Steven Herrick has performed his poetry in schools and at festivals all over the country and overseas. Last week we were lucky enough to have him perform at Chester Hill. Students from years 3 to 6 watched as he performed poems from many of his books.

The students thouroughly enjoyed the performance and were kept laughing throughout. They were excited that he was able to make up some poems about students from our school on the day.

School Readiness Program

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:19 AEDT

Do you have a child starting kindergarten in 2013?

Enrol your child in our school readiness program in 2012 to ensure they get the best start possible at big school!

See the flyer below for more information.

School Readiness Program (pdf, 542 KB)

Parent Programs Term 4

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

Join us at the many programs for parents and carers at our school in Term 4!

Parent Programs (pdf, 2264 KB)

Seniors go to camp!

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:20 AEDT

Senior students have recently returned from a three day excursion to Bathurst and Dubbo. They have been learning about the Australian gold rush and visited many places that expanded their understanding. Students visited Historic Hartley Village, Old Dubbo Gaol and the Bathurst Goldfields, where they panned for gold and learned all about life on the goldfields. As well as this, they visited the Western Plains Zoo and stayed at the Sheep and Cattle Drome, where they learned about life on a farm. The students and teachers had a fantastic time and everyone learned a lot.

You can see more pictures from camp by visiting our photo album.

Tournament Team Receives Honours

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:22 AEDT

This year Chester Hill Public School had two teams entered in the annual Tournament of Minds competition. The students spent six weeks preparing for the challenge and weren't allowed to have any assistance from teachers. The language and literature group chose to create a movie trailer and the applied technology team created a short stop motion movie. These were presented to judges and an audience at the University of Western Sydney, where students also had to present a ten minute live presentation. The language and literature team was awarded Tournament Honours for their efforts in creating a trailer for the movie ‘Matilda'. They were commended for their skills, team work and entertaining presentation.

Athletics Fun!

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:10 AEDT

Students from Kindergarten to Year 6 travelled to Bankstown Memorial Oval to compete in our Athletics Carnival. Students competed in a variety of events including the traditional field events shot put and discus as well as a Chester Hill favourite 'thong throwing'.

Students had a fantastic day and earned points for their team by competing in events and supporting their house. Congratulations go to Macarthur, who won the day receiving 860 points. They were followed by Sturt on 828, Farrer on 784 and Hume with 708.

We would like to thank the parents and family members who helped out on the day and cheered their children along.

You can see more pictures from the day in our photo album.

Sculptures on the hill

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:19 AEDT

Students, teachers and families celebrated Education Week from August 1-5. A variety of activities were held during the week including open classrooms, a parent morning tea, sausage sizzle lunch, an assembly and a sculpture display.

'Sculptures on the hill' came about from the Education week theme 'creating the future'. Each class created a sculpture or collection of sculptures using a variety of recycled materials. Some classes created artworks related to topics they are learning about in class, while others let their creativity run wild.

The sculptures were displayed throughout the school and the exhibition was enjoyed by parents, students and teachers alike. Each classes' sculpture was different and very creative. Photographers from both the Canterbury Bankstown Express and the Torch newspaper came to photograph the displays.

soft drink bottle bumble bee by 2AH

penguins on an iceberg by SPA

milk bottle pigs by MEL

More images of the sculptures can be seen in our photo album.

School Holiday Activities

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

Wondering where to take the kids these school holidays but don't want to pay too much?

Click on the link below and find out about all the great activities for children and young people.

All the activities are held in the local Bankstown area. There is something for everyone!

July School Holidays 2011 (doc, 63 KB)

School Fete Success!

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

Chester Hill Public School's first fete in over 10 years was a great success!

Sunday the 1st of May marked our first fete in many years. Students and their families came to enjoy the many rides, food stalls and student performances on the day. The students had a great day with their friends and parents had the opportunity to meet and socialise.

We would like to thank the P&C and all of the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the day such a great success. We look forward to seeing the fete grow into an annual event.

You can see more pictures from the day in our fete photo album.

Parent Programs Brochure

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

Enjoy reading our Parent Programs Brochure for Term 2.

Please click on the link below to view

Parent Programs Term 2 (pdf, 763 KB)

Senior's visit Darling Harbour

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:20 AEDT

On Tuesday 29 March, our Senior students travelled to Darling Harbour to IMAX theatre and Sydney Wildlife World. The excursion complimented their learning about Antarctica and study of living things.

The students were amazed by the size of the IMAX theatre as they watched a documentary which took them on an adventure to Antarctica.

After the movie, students had a picnic lunch in the park and enjoyed the view of Darling Harbour.

Students then toured Wildlife World. They saw many animal and insect displays including giant snails and cockroaches, snakes, birds and a variety of native Australian animals. Many were impressed by the butterfly room and were excited to have butterflies land in them.

The students had a great day out and found the experience to be valuable in their learning.

ANZAC Day

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:10 AEDT

Students from Chester Hill Public School took part in our annual ANZAC commemoration on the last day of Term 1. We invited some special guests from the Chester Hill RSL to take part in the service. The prefects ran the assembly and many students laid flowers.

Following the service, the prefects had morning tea with our special guests and asked them lots of interesting questions about their wartime experiences.

Antarctic Explorer Visits

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:10 AEDT

Our Senior students were lucky enough to have a visit from polar explorer Matt McFayden earlier this week.

Matt McFayden has visited the Arctic three times and was the youngest Australian to walk to the North Pole. He has visited Antarctica twice.

Our Year 5 and 6 students have been learning about Antarctica this term. Matt spoke to our students about his experiences on the icy continent and the treacherous journey involved in getting there.

He engaged students with stories about the animals he encountered, showed photos and video footage of his expeditions and allowed some students to model his polar clothing.

Our students has a wonderful time and found the experience to be very valuable.

NAPLAN

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is an annual assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. It has been an annual event for schools since 2008.

On Tuesday 10, Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 May, students will undertake the 2011 NAPLAN tests.

NAPLAN is made up of tests in the four domains of Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy.

NAPLAN assesses skills in literacy and numeracy that are developed over time, through the school curriculum. NAPLAN is not a pass or fail type test, but rather shows how individual students are progressing in numeracy and literacy skills against national standards for all Australia children.

All students are encouraged to participate in the tests. Students with disability may qualify for special provisions that reflect the support normally provided to them in the classroom.

An individual student NAPLAN report will be issued by the school later this year. Parents can use this information to monitor how their child is progressing and to identify any areas of concern. Parents may also wish to use their child's results to discuss progress with teachers.

More information is available at www.naplan.edu.au

parent information brochure (pdf, 246 KB)

Harmony Day

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:12 AEDT

Students at Chester Hill Public School celebrated Harmony Day on Monday 21 March.

Harmony celebrates Australia's cultural diversity and gives people the opportunity to celebrate what makes each Australian unique and share what we have in common.

The continuing message for Harmony Day in 2011 is that Everyone Belongs, which means all Australians are a welcome part of our country, regardless of their background.

Students wore orange clothing and decorated coloured people to represent their cultural background. The whole school came out under the COLA and made a beautiful rainbow together. Parents went to their child's class to see what their children have been learning about Harmony Day. They then shared in a multicultural morning tea.

The local newspaper ‘The Torch' came to see our celebrations.

Clean Up Australia Day

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

Chester Hill Public School participated in Clean Up Australia Day on Friday 4 March. We put on our gloves and cleaned the playgrounds to make sure our school looks beautiful.

Mentoring Program

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:14 AEDT

Community Mentoring Program will begin on Tuesday the 22nd of March.

Thank you to all who have enrolled in the program, the school has been overwhelmed by the response from the community.

It is great to have recieved applications from a range of applicants of differents backgrounds, genders and age groups.

TAFE will run the mentoring course begining on 22/03/2011.

It will run each Tuesday of the school term for 7 weeks, from 9.15am-12.15pm.

Once all applicants complete the course, they will be linked with a mentee.

Goodluck to all!

NAPLAN ASSESSMENT INFO SESSIONS

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

The NAPLAN Assessment for students in years 3 & 5 will be coming up in May 2011.

Information sessions about the NAPLAN Assessment for parents/carers will be held during our parent groups on the following times and dates:

Vietnamese Parent's Morning Tea: 22/03/2011 9-10am (run in the Vietnamese language)

Diverse Parent's Group: 24/03/2011 2-3pm

Arabic Parent's Group: 07/04/2011 2-3pm (run in the Arabic language)

It is important that you attend one of these sessions. The information presented will assist you in preparing your child for the NAPLAN Assessment and will inform you about the assessment. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions.

Hope to see you there!

Chester Hill is in the news

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

Our community mentoring program made the front page of the Torch newspaper this week.

Last year a small group of parents and community members were trained as mentors for our community mentoring program. Mentors work one on one with a Senior student to develop their strengths, abilities and interests. Students develop their confidence which helps to make their transition to high school less traumatic. Mentors have found the experience very rewarding and students enjoy having someone to talk to about issues in their lives.

How can you help?

The school is recruiting community members to take part in the mentoring program. Volunteers are trained through TAFE and gain a certificate of qualification. If you are interested in training to become a mentor, please contact the school on 9644 1286.

Read the article from the Torch

Chester Hill turns maroon

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

Students at Chester Hill Public School wore maroon on Thursday 17 February in support of Queensland flood victims.

Students and staff participated in a maroon mufti day and made a gold coin donation to help fellow students in Queensland. $490 was raised, with the funds being given to the Queensland education department to distribute to flood-affected public schools.

Interactive Whiteboards

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:13 AEDT

During the summer holidays, interactive whiteboards were installed in our new classrooms so that each mainstream classroom now has access to an interactive whiteboard in their classroom.

They are a valuable educational tool and help students to engage in their learning. Students love using the technology and touching the board during lesson time.

Community Mentoring Program

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:11 AEDT

Become a student Mentor

Starting March 2011

Do you want to make a difference to a student's life, and enhance your skills and experience at the same time? If so, then mentoring is for you!

NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED!

ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY!

Call Lina on 96441286 for more info!

or click on the flyer below

Mentoring Flyer (pdf, 275 KB)

News story

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:15 AEDT

Welcome back to school!

To all the Chester Hill Public School Community, welcome back!

As the summer holidays have come to an end, we all hope you had a safe and enjoyable break!

We look forward to a great year ahead for all the Chester Hill PS Community!

"Tie your shoes, pack a good lunch, and remember, we are all in this together"

Senior fundraising success!

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:20 AEDT

Senior students recently held their annual Carnival Day to raise funds for our school. They worked hard to organise their activities and everyone had a fantastic day.

Maths Competition

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:14 AEDT

This year 55 students participated in the University Mathematics Competition. Thirteen students received a credit and five students attained a distinction. Well done to all students who participated.

Premier's Reading Challenge

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:17 AEDT

The Premier's Reading Challenge encourages students to improve their reading skills and develop a love of reading. This year 333 students participated in the reading challenge. Nineteen students received a gold certificate for having completed the challende for four consecutive years.

School Readiness Group

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

Do you know of a child who is starting kindergarten in 2012?

Would you like to ensure that you and your child experience a smoother transition into school?

Enrol now in the newly established SCHOOL READINESS PROGRAM at Chester Hill Public School.

Space are limited, and 1st preference will be given to children starting kindergarten at Chester Hill PS in 2012.

CALL US ON 9644 1286 OR EMAIL: lina.mourad5@det.nsw.edu.au TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST!

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROGRAM, PLEASE CLICK ON THE LINK PROVIDEDSCHOOL READINESS PROGRAM FLYER (pdf, 802 KB)

Parents Graduate

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:17 AEDT

A group of parents have been participating in an English course in the Community Room, which was run by TAFE NSW. After eight weeks of study they received their certificates. Well done to all those who completed the course.

Stewart House Mufti Day

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

Last month our Prefects held a mufti day.

Students were asked to bring in pre-loved and no longer wanted items of clothing for Stewart House.

Thanks everyone for your support!

SOCCER STAR

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:20 AEDT

Page has been selected to play in the regional soccer team at the State Championships this week.

Congratulations Page! We wish you luck.

School Ambassador

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:18 AEDT

Talis has been selected as our School Ambassador.

As our Ambassador, Talis will have opportunities to develop his leadership skills, to interact with students from other schools in the region, and most importantly, to act as an ambassador for public education for our school and at regional events and special functions throughout the year.

Talis has a fantastic reputation as a kind and caring student who takes pride in all that he does.

Talis is a positive role model to all students at Chester Hill Public School and we congratulate him on his appointment as our school's Ambassador.

FOOTSTEPS

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:12 AEDT

Throughout this term we have been participating in the FOOTSTEPS program. At footsteps, the students have been learning a variety of dances. With improved dance skills comes an increased level of confidence and social skills. This Thursday our FOOTSTEPS instructor Ashton will return for a few more dances at the FOOTSTES DISCO.

GO AYATULLAH GO!

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:12 AEDT

This weekend, 28-30th August, Ayatullah will be attending the National Cross Country Carnival in Nowra.

Good luck Ayatullah!

SPORTY FEVER

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:20 AEDT

On Tuesday, 30^th June, the prefects orgainsed a Sporty Fever Mufti Day. Students came

dressed as their favourite sportsperson, in their sports gear or in their team colours.

The day was a roaring success.

We raised $515.40. The money raised will be spent on the purchase of games and equipment that students can borrow to use at lunchtime.

Well done students of C.H.P.S.

Reported by Nicholas and Adam on behalf of the prefects.

State Cross Country

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:21 AEDT

STATE CROSS COUNTRY

On Friday, 31st July, Rhiannon and Ayatullah will compete in the State Cross Country Carnival at Eastern Creek Raceway.

We wish them luck and and good speed!

Refugee Week

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:17 AEDT

On Thursday June 11, our class MSP went to Bankstown Council to see artworks that we created for

Refugee Week. Whilst at Bankstown Council, we also saw other schools perform. We looked at other

peoples' artworks too.

For our artworks we used paint, water colour pencils and felt pen. We got our ideas from looking at

pictures of refugees on the internet and reading about children who are refugees. We had a quarter of a picture each, that we had to enlarge. We put all our pictures together to make a big picture. There were 8 groups of about 4 children.

Today was fun. We really enjoyed the performances that we got to watch and we got to see other

artworks from refugee families in Bankstown.

Regional Cross Country

Sat, 24 Mar 2018 15:55:17 AEDT

On the 11th June, some Chester Hill students represented Bankstown District at the Regional Cross Country. There were approximately 100 runners in each race. They achieved the following results.

Jessica finished 52nd

Tiarna finished 32nd

Tanesha finished 30th

Dieme finished 15th

In such difficult conditions, these positions are very impressive. Well done!

But wait...there's more! Two of our students are going to the State Cross Country Carnival. Congratulations to both Ayatullah, who came first in the 11 year boys, and Rhiannon who came second in the 11 year girls. We wish them luck and lots of speed.