Frequently asked questions
My child is really worried about starting kindergarten. How can I best prepare my child?
Already, children have probably visited a school for orientation with their parents. They should have met with some of the children and teachers they will have.
The best thing that parents can do is to emphasise that the new experience is going to be fun and they will really have a great time. They’ll meet lots of children their own age and have a great experience.
The other thing you should do is to establish good communication with the classroom teachers and alert the classroom teacher to any needs your child may have, any special interest they may have, and any concerns you, as a parent, may have.
What do I need to do if my child is going to be absent from school?
When children miss out on school, they miss out on vital information, their learning routine is broken, they can lose confidence, and they miss out on building up friendships.
If your child must be absent from school for any reason, including arriving late or leaving early, please either tell your child’s teacher or the administrative assistant at the school, or explain the reason by:
- Phone
- SMS or
- written note within seven days
Once children are enrolled parents are legally required to send them to school every day that the school is open for instructions or participation in school activities, such as sports days. A small number of absences may be justified if your child:
- has an unavoidable medical or dental appointment (preferably these should be made after school or during holidays)
- must go to special religious ceremony
- is required to attend a serious and/or urgent family situation (e.g .a funeral)
- is too sick to go to school or has an infectious illness.
Failure to explain an absence within seven days will result in the absence being recorded as an unjustified absence on a student's record. Schools will inform parents if a student is absent from school without explanation.
Do I need to do anything if my child is late for school?
Students who arrive late for school must report to the office for a late note, which is to be handed to the class teacher.
Can I take my child away from school before 3:00 PM?
It is preferable that the school day is uninterrupted, however, if this is unavoidable, parents should call at the office for an early leaver note, which is handed to the class teacher.
If I change my contact details, do I need to inform the school?
It is very important that the school records are kept up to date. Any changes to contact details should be notified to the office.
Does my child have to do homework?
Each school develops its own homework policy after consultation with parents/caregivers and teachers. Your child's teacher has information about the school's policy.
Encouragement and support from parents/ caregivers helps student to have a positive, productive approach to homework.
Could you tell me what a multi-age or composite or stage class is?
A multi-age class is where students are drawn from two or more age levels to form one class. Multi-age classes are a response to a developmental approach to teaching and learning. This developmental approach groups students according to educational, social and developmental needs rather than just one age or year level.
Is it compulsory for my child to wear a uniform?
The department supports the wearing of school uniforms by students. Schools have their own policies on uniforms, developed in consultation with their school community. Schools implement strategies to encourage the wearing of uniforms. Parents/caregivers should contact the school for this information before their child starts or changes schools.
Does my child have to wear a hat?
Nuwarra Public School is a 'sun safe school'. Our policy is “ No school hat, play in the shade “.
Do I have to make school contributions?
Both primary and secondary schools can request contributions to enhance the school's educational and sporting programs. The school contributions are voluntary, and payment is a matter for decision by parents. They help provide additional educational resources for the benefit of students. The principal will ensure that no student or family suffers any discrimination or embarrassment over voluntary school contributions.
How do I arrange for a meeting with my child's class teacher?
If you wish to meet with your child's teacher, you can either send a note to the teacher or call the office to make an appointment.
Can my child buy lunch at school?
Yes, we have a school canteen that operates from Monday to Friday. CANTEEN
What do I do if my child has to take medication while at school?
When a medical practitioner has prescribed medication that must be administered during the school day, parents are responsible for:
- filling out school paperwork at the front office
- medication should have the chemist's supply label
- child’s name, dosage information and times required to be administered must be clearly indicated on the medication
We are not permitted to administer non-prescribed medication.
Does the school provide scripture lessons?
Yes, scripture is offered for many denominations. Scripture is not compulsory. See LEARNING AND SUPPORT THEN RELIGION
When are school staff development days?
Staff development days are held at the beginning of term one, term two, term three and term four. These days enable parents and their whole school staff to participate in targeted activities aimed at the overall development of the school.