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Parent Prospectus
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
Clyde Fenton Primary
School
Parent Prospectus
2018
Growing and Learning Together
Parent Prospectus
2
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
CLYDE FENTON PRIMARY SCHOOL
Parent Prospectus
PRINCIPAL : Mr Jeff Parker
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL : Ms Donna Capes
POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 421
KATHERINE
N.T. 0851
STREET ADDRESS: Rapide St.
KATHERINE
N.T. 0850
TELEPHONE: (08) 8973 3844
E-MAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: www.clydefentonprimary.nt.edu.au
PRE- SCHOOL: (08) 8973 3855
This booklet has been prepared by our school as an introduction and to provide
information on the operation of Clyde Fenton Primary School.
The School operates under the auspices of the School Council, established under the
Education Act as the governing body of the School.
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Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
Clyde Fenton School enjoys an excellent reputation in the Katherine community
and is proudly named after Dr Clyde Fenton, the Northern Territory’s first flying
doctor, and whose historic airplane can be viewed at the nearby Katherine
Museum.
Clyde Fenton School has a tradition of achievement in academic, performing arts,
cultural and sporting activities. Our continual journey of school improvement
ensures the academic and intellectual rigour of our learning programs maintain
their high standard. We invite parents and carers to participate in our journey of
school improvement through membership of the school council or other voluntary
activities and events.
Our school community’s vision ensures that our teaching and learning programs
respond in innovative ways to the educational needs of all. Our children and their
bright future are the starting point and focus for our learning community - what
they should know, understand, value and be able to achieve as a result of their
learning experiences at Clyde Fenton School.
The teaching and learning programs at Clyde Fenton School are planned to cater
for the individual, their needs, learning styles and interests. Clyde Fenton puts
learning outcomes first and has very high expectations for all students. We see our
role as empowering our students through helping them to gain knowledge -
knowledge of facts, skills, processes and attitudes.
Our school has a clear focus on lifelong learning outcomes for students, which is
underpinned by an environment of positive support based on clear expectations.
The school has a ‘no tolerance’ policy for bullying and harassment. There is an
expectation that all staff and students respect the rights of others at all times. We
encourage everyone’s support in complying with this policy.
It is our belief that parents and carers play a critical part in their child’s education
and we look forward to developing a close partnership between home and school
across your child’s learning journey with us.
Welcome to Clyde Fenton School!
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Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
SCHOOL HOURS
8.15 am 10:15 am Learning Time
10.15 am 10:45 am Recess Break
10:45 am 12.45pm Learning Time
12:45pm 12:55pm Supervised Eating Time
12.55 pm 1.25 pm Lunch Break
1.25 pm 2.45 pm Learning Time
Students are supervised in the yard for 30 minutes before the first bell and at the
bus stop 30 minutes after the last bell. We encourage students to arrive and
depart within these times. The school is unable to accept responsibility for
children in the school grounds outside these times.
TERM DATES 2018
The School is administratively divided into four operational sections:
Preschool Children aged 4 – 5 years
Early Years Transition – Year 2
Primary Years Years 3 – 6
Intensive Learning Unit For new learners of English from the local area.
SCHOOL TIMES & DATES
Semester One
Term 1 Monday 29th of January– Friday 13th of April (Student return on Tuesday the 30th of January)
Term break Monday 16th of April - Friday 20th April
Term 2 Monday 23rd April - Friday 29th June
Semester break Monday 2nd July - Friday 20th July
Semester Two
Term 3 Monday 23rd July - Friday 28th September
(Students return Tuesday the 24th of July)
Term break Monday 1st October - Friday 12th October
Term 4 Monday 15th October - Friday 14th December
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CLYDE FENTON SCHOOL COUNCIL
Clyde Fenton School Council was established in 1984 and is made up of an elected
body of nine parents, two teachers (one of whom may be a Pre-School teacher)
plus the Principal. The Annual General Meeting is held before 15th March each
year. Council meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are
open to all interested persons. Meetings begin at 6.00pm and go until
approximately 8pm. Meetings are held in the Clyde Fenton staffroom.
The Council plays an active role in developing and implementing the School
Strategic Plan. It involves itself through sub-committees including:
School financial management
Grounds
Infrastructure / building
Fundraising activities
Canteen
Out of Hours School Care
The Clyde Fenton community is welcome to have input in the school's direction
through the Council and the sub-groups.
Parents need not be a council member to be involved in various activities.
Sub-committees seek parent participation from time to time. Generally statistics
have proven that children who have parents or guardians, who have the time and
interest to be involved in their education, are advantaged.
For further information on Council activities, contact the Chairperson or the
Principal through the school office. The School Council constitution is available
from the school office and on the website or any interested parents.
Check the Newsletter or school website for details of meetings and sub group
activities. Parents are more than welcome to be involved in sub-groups even if
they are not on the School Council.
Please come along to School Council meetings - you would be more
than welcome!
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DR. CLYDE FENTON O.B.E.
This school was named to honour a man who was
appointed as Medical Officer at Katherine in 1934.
He was a pioneer of aerial medical work in the
Northern Territory. Dr. Fenton learnt to fly in the
R.A.F. in England and following a refresher course at
Essendon, purchased a second-hand De
Havilland Gypsy Moth for five hundred
pounds and proceeded to the Territory.
For the next six years he provided
medical services over an area of
approximately 8,000,000 square
kilometres in the course of which he flew
over 3,000 hours.
The school is sited on the southern end of
the grass strip which ran parallel to the
river. Only a windsock and a standard
aided his landing and take off. He
improvised flares for night landing in half
petrol drums fitted with handles and filled
with cotton waste soaked in crude oil.
School History
Clyde Fenton School opened in 1977. It is a medium-sized school of approximately
230 preschool and primary school students. The school is located in Katherine
North, on Giles Street. Approximately 70% of students are Indigenous with some
students living at Binjari, Gorge, Rockhole and Kalano communities.
The school is of open-plan design, including a central library, enclosed stage and
undercover area, cooking room, multipurpose hall and extensive grounds and oval.
SCHOOL DEMOGRAPGHICS
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SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
INTRODUCTION
The CFS team believes that education is life preparation. Our philosophy and
aims reflect this belief. In order to achieve these aims there must be common
acceptance of them and a shared responsibility by the whole school community
(children, parents, principal, teachers and friends) for implementing them.
CFS is a community of learners which
provides a climate of encouragement and stimulating, challenging learning
activities
promotes mutual trust and respect through open, honest communication
recognises rights and accepts the responsibilities that go with them
values academic excellence, diversity, cooperation and the development of
social skills.
CFS School Vision:
“CFS believes that every child is entitled to enjoy their childhood. They
should be valued for their individuality, culture and heritage. They should
be encouraged to develop their full potential in a stimulating and caring
environment where high, but realistic, expectations are set for our students.”
PHILOSOPHY
Clyde Fenton School aims to provide an education that includes developing a
commitment to successfully negotiate and develop socially just, ethical and
sustainable futures. This will require a strong sense of self and connection with
the communities to which they belong. CFS is a learning community whose
central core is connectedness and well-being. It provides opportunities and
scope for the development and fulfilment of individual personality and potential,
building resilience and responsibility as civic citizens of the future.
PARENTS
Parents are the primary educators of their children and each child is an
individual. When your child(ren) enter school you, as a parent, are regarded as
an equal partner in promoting the educational progress of your child(ren),
complementing the teaching team. It is important to emphasise that teachers
regard your child(ren) as an individual(s) and are willing to talk to you at any
reasonable time, about any queries you may have.
TEACHERS
Teachers practise under a professional code. They are responsible to the
Principal and ultimately, the community, and as such, are accountable for the
conduct of their teaching practice. We believe that quality teaching will be
reflected in teachers who are knowledgeable about and prepared to draw upon
community resources, and who would be able to work cooperatively with
people and organisations in the community. Because CFS is constructed to open
plan design, this creates a less restrictive environment which promotes greater
self-reliance for the student, and allows teachers greater flexibility to give
guidance and direction.
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INTENSIVE LEARNING UNIT (ILU)
The unit located within CFS provides intensive instruction in English for students who
have minimal or no English language skills. Students from ages 5 - 9 follow the
Intensive program until they are considered ready to participate competently in a
mainstream class situation with support.
Individualised instruction through small class groups enables students to focus
intensively on the language forms, skills and strategies necessary for language
acquisition appropriate to the student's age. They follow the Australian Curriculum
with an emphasis on the "language for learning" involved in each subject.
Objectives of the Intensive Learning Unit
1 To provide a caring, supportive environment where students feel secure,
thereby allowing them to take advantage of learning programs offered.
2 To encourage concepts and language skills already developed.
3 To plan, provide and implement effective learning across all subject areas for
beginning learners of English.
6 To sensitise general classroom teachers to the learners' needs.
7 To develop and maintain a program of integration within the school at which
the unit is based.
8 To encourage by this program, positive cross-cultural attitudes throughout the
total school and parent community.
9 To give students access by this program of integration to English speaking peers
in all school activities.
10 To ensure access for students to all services provided by the Department of
Education in the areas of health, guidance and special services as required.
INTENSIVE LEARNING UNIT
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SCHOOL CONTRIBUTIONS
Clyde Fenton School Council realise that families have many financial commitments
and Clyde Fenton keeps all requested School Contributions as reasonable as
possible. The school contribution covers school related costs that are not covered
by government funding. This year the school contribution covers a bus levy for
local excursions and a library / ICT / Sports resources levy .
First child $80.00
Second child $70.00
Third or more $60.00 each child
This equates roughly to $20 per term and can be paid in instalments.
Swimming Fees
Swimming fees are $100 per student and must be paid before they can participate
in the swimming program. This is an external fee charged by the YMCA.
BACK TO SCHOOL VOUCHERS
The Northern Territory Government
provide a $150 Back to School voucher for all
students in the NT. The vouchers are sent
to the school at the beginning of the year and
must be used during Term 1.
We recommend:
$50 Book pack - covers all books and stationary used in class
$20 Visiting artists levy
$80 - can be used for uniforms, swimming, camps, Year 6 shirts
FINANCIAL MATTERS
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ATTENDANCE
ATTENDANCE
If students are not at school they are not able to learn. We work closely with
students and families to ensure regular and timely attendance at school and will
publish weekly attendance rates following up with individual students and their
families as required.
Having noted the above, we of course fully understand there are special
occasions when students are late for school or not able to attend at all. Please
contact the front office and advise us on these occasions so we can offer any
support required and be welcoming to students who are late for legitimate
reasons.
ATTENDANCE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Clyde Fenton has implemented an attendance
incentive program.
Every day students will receive one “Clyde Fenton
Dollar” for wearing correct uniform, and one dollar
for attending school on time, meaning they can earn
a maximum of $2 per day.
Please note: no actual money is given.
The “Clyde Fenton Dollars” will accumulate in
students’ individual accounts and can be used at
school to purchase a variety of items on Fridays.
The attendance incentive program has been introduced to reward all students for wearing a CFS
school shirt and attending school consistently.
Many students choose to use their CFS Dollars to
‘Buy A Day’ with a staff member of their choice on a
Friday afternoon, or to choose the song for the
week to be played over the PA system.
In addition to this at the end of each term all
students who have attended school 90% or more of
the time will be invited to attend a special fun
activity.
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CURRICULUM
The Australian Curriculum is followed for all programming, assessing and
reporting of student progress in all areas of learning.
CFS, like all schools has a School Strategic Plan that is updated every 4 years
based on a rigorous self review process. Within the School Strategic Plan are the
CFS Whole School Approaches to Literacy and Numeracy. See CFS School
Strategic Plan 2014—2017 (which is available on our website ) for further details.
ENGLISH (AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM)
Through the English learning area, learners develop knowledge, skills and
understandings about the English language and literacy by studying and employing
a range of spoken, written, visual and multimedia texts. This area plays a vital
role in developing learners' literacy, enhancing their learning in all curriculum
areas and providing them with communication skills and critical understandings
of the language they need to participate in society.
MATHEMATICS (AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM)
The Mathematics learning area allows learners to develop numeracy skills and
understandings that they can apply to many areas of life. Learners will develop
sound strategies for investigating and problem solving as well as positive attitudes
about their capacity to effectively use mathematics knowledge in many life
situations.
SCIENCE (AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM)
The Science learning area is designed to develop scientific literacy. The teaching
of science combines the development of concepts and the acquisition of facts.
Learners need opportunities to experience genuine scientific investigations and
the time to rework their ideas and develop rigorous conceptual understandings.
At CFS strong emphasis is given to practical science activities, e.g. participation in
Science Days, Science excursions and competitions.
CFS also have their own garden where students are involved in preparing the
beds for planting, tending the produce and they celebrate their efforts through
our cooking program in our special purpose built home economics facility.
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CURRICULUM
HISTORY (AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM)
History is a disciplined process of inquiry into the past that develops students'
curiosity and imagination. Awareness of history is an essential characteristic of
any society, and historical knowledge is fundamental to understanding
ourselves and others. It promotes the understanding of societies, events,
movements and developments that have shaped humanity from earliest times. It
helps students appreciate how the world and its people have changed, as well as
the significant continuities that exist to the present day.
The study of history is based on evidence derived from remains of the past. It is
interpretative by nature, promotes debate and encourages thinking about human
values, including present and future challenges. The process of historical inquiry
develops transferable skills, such as the ability to ask relevant questions; critically
analyse and interpret sources; consider context; respect and explain different
perspectives; develop and substantiate interpretations, and communicate
effectively.
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION (AUSTRALIAN
CURRICULUM)
The Health and Physical Education learning area focuses on the multi dimensions
of health and how these influence the development of the
individual. There are a number of sensitive issues within
this learning area where the partnership between school
and home is particularly important. Care needs to be
taken to ensure all community groups’ customs and
practices are considered and classroom programs
modified accordingly.
A Perceptual Motor Program is part of the overall Transition classroom program.
It runs for four days a week and involves a sequential range of developmental
activities both physical and cognitive which link directly to the development of
skills for classroom learning.
CFS offers a swimming programme in Term 1 with a culminating community
swimming carnival and an athletics program in
Term 2 with a culminating
community athletics carnival.
THE ARTS (AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM)
The Arts learning area recognises Dance, Drama,
Media, Music, Visual Arts and combinations of
these art forms.
Providing integrated experiences within the arts and with other learning areas
optimises learning across the curriculum and teachers are encouraged to
capitalise on the potential of the arts to enrich and celebrate
all learning.
We also encourage students to enter the various art and craft
competitions within the Katherine Show in July.
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CURRICULUM
LEARNING TECHNOLOGY/
COMPUTERS
Learning Technology involves the application of
all that we know about human learning to
develop strategies (pedagogy) and use tools
(computers) to enhance learning.
All classes have computers and an interactive whiteboard. All of the student
computers have access to the Internet and each student in years 3 to 6 may have
a school email account.
The school follows the Northern Territory Department of Education principles,
policy and procedures for the use of computer facilities. Although students are
supervised when using computers they must also take responsibility for their
own actions. To ensure you and your child/ren understand what is expected, we
ask you to read, sign, and return the Acceptable Use Policy. Please read it
carefully before verifying that you understand your child's responsibilities. If you
are unsure about any points, contact the School before signing the policy.
Teachers will ensure that students understand their responsibilities before using
the computer facilities.
Cyber bullying through emails and mobile phone use has been identified as a
major problem with young people—be aware of these issues and your child’s use
of technology. A good resource to find out more information about the issues
related to cyber bullying is ‘Cyber Smart Kids’ which can be found at
http://www.cybersmartkids.com.au/index.htm. The site is published by The
Australian Communications and Media Authority. We will also continue our
focus on Cybersafety at school in 2018 which is aimed at educating children and
parents about the dangers of internet usage.
CFS also has a bank of Netbooks and iPads which students access through
classes. We look forward to seeing some very innovative e-learning through the
use of these devices this year.
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ASSESSMENT & REPORTING
ASSESSMENT
Assessment focuses on the evidence of
students learning through data collection and
interpretation. Feedback to parents regarding
their child's progress and potential occurs
formally three times per year at CFS.
Students in Years 3 and 5 will also participate
in NAPLAN in May each year. These incorporate the national benchmarks for
numeracy and literacy. At the end of the school year parents of children in Years
3 and 5 receive a written report informing them of their child's performance in
relation to national benchmarks.
REPORTING TO PARENTS
As part of our professional obligation as educators we need to inform parents
about the progress of their child. The main purpose of reporting is to define,
acknowledge and support student learning. Reporting is the process of communicating information obtained from monitoring
learner progress and making judgments.
1. Written Reports
Two formal written reports are provided to CFS parents per year in June and
December.
In addition at the end of Term 1 an Interim Progress Report will be sent home
advising you how your child has settled in for the new school year.
2. Information Nights
It is usual for CFS to hold an Information Night in Term One. This night is called
'Meet the Teacher' and as the name implies, allows parents to meet their child's
teacher and find out class expectations and procedures. This is usually on the
same night/evening as the School Council Annual General Meeting.
3. Parent / Teacher Conferences
At the end of Term 1 and Term 3 CFS conducts Parent-Teacher
Interviews.
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HOMEWORK & HOME READING
HOMEWORK
Clyde Fenton School encourages children to develop regular study habits
through homework. It also provides an opportunity for students to practise
work covered in class. Homework requirements can be negotiated with teachers
at the beginning of the year.
HOME READING
What is it? Why do Schools do it?
Home reading is a program that is designed to encourage children to read at
home and to promote reading as an enjoyable activity. Reading for pleasure as
well as practise improves student learning outcomes.
How does it help parents?
A home program can provide a communication link between you and your
school. You can see how your child is progressing with reading or if they are
having any difficulties.
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BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT
Clyde Fenton School manages behaviour positively and in line with the NT DET
Safe Schools Code of Conduct. School and classroom rules are based on the
right of the teacher to teach, the right of the students to learn, the right of
everyone to be treated with respect no matter how they present. These rights
carry with them responsibilities, which at their most basic, are:
to respect self
to respect others
to respect property
The CFS Way
The CFS Way is a whole school positive
behaviour program that aims at enhancing
students skills, knowledge and capacity to
become more respectful,
responsible, caring and
compassionate students while doing
their best and having a fair go.
Lunchtime Reflection—Think Tank Room
CFS has a lunchtime reflection room called ‘Think Tank’ where students will
reflect upon choices they have made with a member of the Leadership Team. If
appropriate a restorative e-conference will be held between students and
facilitated by a member of the Leadership Team.
Behaviours that warrant a Think Tank include:
continuous disruptive or off task behaviours
defiance
behaviour where the teacher has already implemented a reminder and a
warning.
The Think Tank focuses on repeated behaviour with upgraded action which will
involve contact with the parents when the student attends the Think Tank three times in a term. The focus of the Think Tank is on quiet discussion and the
development of strategies to modify inappropriate behaviour.
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BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT
Classroom Recognition
Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their work and actions.
Teachers may reinforce and acknowledge good behaviour through classroom
positive consequences such as:
Special privileges – free-choice activities, monitors, stars of the week
Participation in special class activities
Notes to parents
CFS Way Raffle
Classroom celebrations of learning eg. sharing work at assembly or with
the Principal / Assistant Principal.
Displaying work on notice boards, in the library or in the front office
Merit System
The CFS Way merit award forms the basis of our system of acknowledging
good behaviour and celebrating successes. Teachers will let students know what
they are being giving merits for at any given time e.g. “Today I am giving merits to
everyone who remembers to put their hand up to speak.”
10 merits = 1 Honour Award
10 Honour Awards = 1 Honour Distinction
10 Honour Distinctions = 1 Honour Supreme
Honour Awards, Distinctions and Supremes are
announced in the school newsletter and are given out at
assemblies. Parents are encouraged to come to the
assembly to also acknowledge their child’s efforts.
Thumbs Up for Students
Clyde Fenton School recognises children who display kindness and
thoughtfulness to others. If a teacher sees an act of kindness outside during
recess or lunch, or at the bus lines during the afternoon, the child will receive a
“Thumbs Up” award.
Thumbs Up for Staff and Parents
We also offer a similar recognition system for staff Parents or students can
nominate a staff member in appreciation of something
they have done.
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BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT
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BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT
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SCHOOL ORGANISATION
ABSENCES
Parents are asked to notify the school either by phone, email, sms, app or note
whenever their child is absent. The front office team will be contacting parents after
9am each day to follow up on unnotified absences.
AMBULANCE COVER
The School Council subscribes to St. John Ambulance. In case of an accident
occurring at school or on an excursion all students are fully covered for ambulance
costs.
APP
Clyde Fenton School has a school App available free through smart phone stores.
ASSEMBLIES
A Whole School Assembly is held every second Friday morning at 8:30am. Early Years Assemblies are at 8:30am and Primary Years Assemblies at 9:30am on
the alternate Fridays. Details are advertised in our newsletter and on our website
each week.
BICYCLES
To keep bicycles secure please provide your children with a locking device.
It is expected that children will not ride bicycles around the grounds or in the
covered area. Bicycles may be ridden up the provided bike paths to the racks.
Helmets must be worn at all times.
BUSES
CFS has an air conditioned Coaster bus and a 14 seater
mini-bus, which can be used for class excursions.
A bus service to and from school is provided by the NT
Government through Travel North. All students are
expected to wear a seatbelt when travelling to and from
school on the town bus service. Information from the Department of Lands and
Planning website on the Bus Code of Conduct for students travelling to and from
school.
http://www.transport.nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/7151/
CodeofConductSchool.pdf
DVD Cameras are in use on all the bus services to and from school and footage can
be viewed by school staff upon request.
Contacts for the above service: Travel North (08) 8971 9999
BIRTHDAY CAKES
At school we promote healthy eating in our canteen and with the children’s packed
lunches. As part of this, birthday cakes are not allowed at school for class. We
recommend celebrating by singing, sharing news and possibly a party game.
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CANTEEN / LUNCHES
The school canteen provides lunches including many tasty, nutritious
options at reasonable prices through a classroom ordering system. Orders should
be clearly written on lunch bags or on an envelope with the child's name, class,
food required and amount of money enclosed. Please encourage your child to
prepare their lunch order at home. All families who receive family payments
through Centrelink are able to access Centrepay. Students who are on Centrepay
also need to order their lunches in the classroom. For more information please
discuss with the office staff.
An updated canteen list will be mailed home at the beginning of the year and will
also be available on our school website. We encourage healthy eating for break
times and our canteen follows the NTG Healthy Eating Guidelines for Schools.
Like many in our community we are concerned about our environment and we are
trying to reduce the amount of rubbish that has to be disposed of by the school.
We ask that parents assist in achieving this aim by packaging their children's lunches in reusable and recyclable materials as often as possible. We
hope that, by working together on this matter, both parents and the school will
contribute to the reduction of waste and the environmental education of students.
DOGS / ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS
Roaming dogs do cause problems and are not tolerated in the grounds. If a dog
appears, the Dog Catcher is notified and it is taken to the Council Pound.
Cost for retrieval from the pound is presently approximately $80.00. DET Policy
states that prior approval must be sought to bring any animals onto school
grounds.
ENROLMENTS
Enrolment forms are completed at the front office and placement discussed with
the Principal or Assistant Principal before children start school. Immunisation
records and Birth Certificates are necessary and proof of age for Early Childhood
including Preschool enrolment.
If your circumstances or personal details change please advise the
school as soon as possible so our records can be updated. Accidents do happen
from time to time and parents need to be able to be contacted ASAP.
TRANSITION FROM PRESCHOOL
Students turning 5 between 1 July and 30 June enter Transition at the beginning of
the next school year. Children who are not yet deemed ready to move from
Preschool may remain there for a further period after consultation with the
teacher, parent and Senior staff. Prior to coming to Primary School, students will
have had the opportunity to visit their new class and teacher.
SCHOOL ORGANISATION
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SCHOOL ORGANISATION
HATS
The School Council supports a Sun Safe policy and consequently has decided to
make the wearing of wide brimmed hats outside compulsory. Students without
wide brimmed hats will be asked to move to the undercover area or the library.
ILLNESS
We have First Aid trained officers on staff in the office area who attend to sick
or injured children when reported. Serious incidents warrant immediate parent
notification.
If a child becomes too ill to remain in the classroom they will be taken to the
office. The parent will be contacted by the School Assistant on duty and asked to
collect the sick child. Consequently it is imperative that emergency contact
numbers are up to date.
IMMUNISATION
Immunisation details must be presented on enrolment. All children who are not
immunised against a particular communicable disease or who have incomplete
documentation of immunisation status may be excluded from school under
Northern Territory Notifiable Disease Act 1985. This exclusion period can
vary between 1 to 4 weeks.
INFECTIOUS ILLNESSES
From time to time illnesses do sweep through a school, often severely affecting
the attendance of both teachers and children. In order to minimise this, the
Department has advised the following exclusions for common illnesses :
Chicken Pox Excluded for 7 days after illness starts or until healed
Conjunctivitis Excluded until discharge from eyes ceases Giardia Excluded until treatment and diarrhoea have ceased
Hepatitis Excluded until medical certificate is produced
Measles Excluded for 4 days or until medical certificate is produced.
Non-immunised contacts are to be excluded for 14 days from first
day of appearance of rash.
Mumps Excluded for 9 days or until swelling goes down
Pediculosis Excluded until day after appropriate treatment has commenced
(nits) Infestation of hair with head lice or nits is common in Katherine
school children. Parents please check regularly and treat if
necessary.
Ringworm Exclude until healed unless covered
Scabies Exclude until completion of first treatment (24 hours). Treatment
to be repeated after one week .
Parent Prospectus
23
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
SCHOOL ORGANISATION
MEDICATION
Should your child require medication for a medical condition to be administered
in school time by a school staff member a Health Action Plan or Permission to
Administer Medication form must be completed by the parent / guardian and
doctor and returned to the Front Office before medication can be administered:
Student Asthma record
Epi Pen / Epi Pen Information Sheet
Seizure Management Plan
Relevant forms are available from the Front Office. School staff may not
administer medication without the above forms being completed. Most
medications can be given at home before or after school.
You will be contacted for verbal permission if your child is unwell and has requested Children’s Panadol.
Children who are obviously ill should not be sent to school.
MOBILE PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
We understand that some parents like their children to have electronic devices
for security reasons. At school we do not allow their use during school hours.
Students are advised that if they bring an electronic device onto the school
grounds during the school day, and they must hand the device in at the office
before school and collect it at the end of the school day. The school does not accept any responsibility for damage, theft or loss of
mobile phones or other electronic devices.
MONEY AND VALUABLES
The school cannot accept responsibility for items brought to school. Any money
brought for a specific purpose should be given to a teacher as soon as possible.
PARENT VOLUNTEERS
Parent volunteers are always most appreciated within the school and we do
make you feel welcome. Tasks such as listening to reading, covering and
repairing books, typing children's stories, assisting with the making of resources,
or assisting with excursions are always appreciated. It is DET policy that
anyone working in our school has had a police clearance, to ensure the safety of
all children. Anyone working with children must hold a current Working with
Children (Ochre) Card - please contact the front office if you are interested in
more information.
We have a ‘Parents in Classrooms Policy’ that is available on our
website which we encourage parents wanting to spend time at school to
familiarise themselves with.
Parent Prospectus
24
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
SCHOOL ORGANISATION
PHOTOGRAPHS
School photographs are arranged each year. Watch the "CFS Weekly" for
further details.
ROAD CROSSINGS
A road crossing is provided on Rapide Street. This crossing operates for
children coming to and going home from school. The crossings are signified
by flags, but it must be pointed out that they are operational as school
crossings ONLY while the flags are displayed. The flags are displayed half an
hour before and after school. There exists a 40kmph speed limit in the school
zone each week day during school terms - from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.
SPORT
CFS is a member of the Katherine Region inter-school sports program. Our
Primary Years students have the opportunity to play against other local
schools on Friday afternoons.
A variety of sport is played during the year and students are encouraged to
participate in these. We emphasize taking part, good sportsmanship, skills
development and personal achievement.
The school also runs its own intra-school sports and physical education
program and all students are expected to participate in this. Again, the
emphasis in this program is the development of personal skills and
participation.
We hold an annual swimming and athletics carnival and
classes often organise inter-class competitions in different
sports.
At the discretion of teachers, sports gear is available during
recess and lunchtime for students to use co-ordinated by the Year 6
students. No equipment should be taken home.
CFS has 4 house teams. They are :
PELICAN Orange
BROLGA Yellow
KINGFISHER Blue
JABIRU Green
House point tallies are
conducted every Thurs-
day. Point are awarded
for wearing house shirts
on Thursdays.
Parent Prospectus
25
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
SCHOOL ORGANISATION
STUDENT LEADERSHIP GROUP (SLG)
The CFS Student Leadership Group is made up of 22 students from Years 5 and
6 who are elected to any of the following positions:
School Captain
Vice School Captain
House Captain
Vice House Captain
Energy Captain
ICT Captain
The students participate in a leadership training program and get involved in
various portfolios around the school.
USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES
The building and grounds are often used by community groups. If you wish to
use either building or grounds please contact the Business Manager. Depending upon the group and its requirements, a charge and sometimes a deposit may be
payable.
YARD DUTY
All teachers are involved in yard duty, supervising students immediately before
and after school and both inside and outside the school buildings during recess
and lunch times. Students have a ten minute quiet eating time at the
commencement of lunch period which is supervised by class teachers. Students
are encouraged to keep the yard and buildings in a tidy condition and to move
around the school responsibly and with regard for others. If children remain
inside they must sit quietly reading, drawing or playing a library game. Teachers
on yard duty wear a bright orange vest so they can be easily identified by
students.
Parent Prospectus
26
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
PARENT/SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
REPORTING TO PARENTS
Parents are reminded that they are able to make an appointment at any time to
discuss their child's progress. Formal parent/teacher interviews will occur at the
end of Term 1 and Term 3. These times have been nominated as it allows for
follow-up work to occur. Written reports are sent home at the end of Terms 2
and 4.
CFS WEEKLY (NEWSLETTER)
Each Tuesday the CFS Weekly is sent home with the eldest in the family. This is an
important form of communication as it is the avenue for all information re school,
Preschool and classroom activities. If you would like a link emailed each week
please make contact with the front office, providing your email address.
([email protected]) The newsletter is also posted on our website and
app each Tuesday afternoon for easy access.
EXCURSIONS
Most classes have excursions throughout the school year as part of their learning program. Consent forms with details and costs are sent home prior to the
excursions and it is hoped that all children will participate. Parental help on most
of these excursions is also appreciated. Footwear is compulsory and a uniform
T-shirt is to be worn. The school bus may be used for excursions, depending on
class numbers.
CONSENT FORMS
These are always taken on excursions out of the school and provide necessary
information and contacts in the event of an accident or emergency. Please ensure
they are filled out correctly and returned to the school when requested.
FUNDRAISING
Fundraising activities are usually conducted by the School Council or Preschool
Subcommittee and they are outlined in the CFS Weekly. Your support with these
events is appreciated.
VISITING SCHOOL
You are welcome to visit the school at any time. If you are visiting during school
hours please sign in and out at the Front Office. If you wish to talk to your child's
teacher please make an appointment outside of teaching times.
COLLECTING STUDENTS FROM CLASS
If collecting your child from a classroom at the end of the day, please respect the
fact that students are a part of a learning environment until the bell rings. Parents
clustering in the room or corridor can be distracting.
Should you have a strong concern about any matter, please contact the Principal
who will arrange an interview with the teacher.
Parent Prospectus
27
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
LIBRARY
The library is open from 8.15am - 2.45pm. All material is available for loan except
Reference items. Students are welcome to change their books as often as they
wish. Children must have a plastic bag or a library bag, 40cm by 30cm, to borrow
books. This policy is flexible depending on the reliability of students and research
work being done in the classroom.
Overdue/Lost Book Procedure
1 Books overdue: student cannot borrow until overdue items are
returned. Student is asked to search for missing item.
2 End of term / year: a letter is sent to parents including replacement cost for
lost item.
3 If found, replacement cost is refunded.
CHILDREN'S DENTAL SERVICE
Oral Health Services –NT provides free dental services to eligible children from
infancy to the completion of senior school. Services can be accessed through
School Dental Clinics and Community Dental Clinics.
The Staff
Services to children are generally provided by Dental Therapists and Oral Health
Therapists, who are health professionals that are specially educated and trained to
provide oral health services to children.
Where Services are available?
Katherine has three clinics located at Clyde Fenton, MacFarlane and the Katherine
Dental Clinic. These clinics offer services including dental examinations, treatment
services and oral health advice.
All children attending dental appointments will be required to be accompanied by a
parent or carer. Being present during your child's appointment helps you to
understand what treatment is required and how to keep your child's mouth and
teeth healthy.
LIBRARY
OTHER SERVICES
STUDENT BORROWING
Trans—Year 2 1 BOOK 1 WEEK
Year 3—Year 6 2 BOOKS 1 WEEK
Parent Prospectus
28
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
SCHOOL UNIFORM
CLYDE FENTON SCHOOL – COMPULSORY UNIFORM POLICY
In accordance with the stipulation of the Department of Education (DoE)
all Northern Territory schools are required to adopt a compulsory school
uniform policy.
The compulsory school uniform at Clyde Fenton School includes:
School Polo Shirt
Wide brimmed hat
Closed in shoes
Shorts/skirts must be black or blue in colour. The office will
offer a variety of shorts for families to purchase.
Revealing or tight fitting shorts/skirts will not be tolerated and the student
will be loaned some alternative clothes from the office in the case of this
event.
Shoes
It is Clyde Fenton school policy that all students must wear closed-in shoes
to school. If students do not wear shoes to school they will be reminded
of the rules and asked to bring shoes the next day. Students who do not
wear closed in shoes to school will be unable to participate in excursions.
Hats
The wearing of wide brimmed hats outdoors is compulsory. Children will
not be allowed to play in the sun if they do not have a hat. School hats can
be purchased at the school office.
Parent Prospectus
29
Clyde
Fenton
Primary
School
SCHOOL UNIFORM
Clyde Fenton School Hat
Clyde Fenton’s School Uniform
Polo Shirts
$25
Hats $15
School Shorts
$15