If you have any further questions in relation to school times, dates, policies or other general enquiries please feel free to contact St Aidan’s Primary by phone on (02) 8886 9800 weekdays between 8:15 am and 3:30 pm.
Welcome to St Aidan's Catholic Primary School at Rooty Hill.
On behalf of everyone at St Aidan’s, I extend to you a warm welcome to our community! I hope that this handbook will be of assistance to you, the parents of our children.
Our school is the parish school of St Aidan’s Parish in Rooty Hill. We recognise each child as being unique and formed in the image of God. We are a school community which fosters a friendly, trusting collaboration between school, parish and parents for the ongoing development and benefit of each child.
Our school provides a wonderful learning environment based on diverse learning activities, initiated and facilitated by a team of caring and dedicated education professionals, and supported by parental involvement.
I invite you to continue your fundamental role as first educator of your children. The staff aim to work in partnership with you and encourage you to be an active participant in the school activities.
I pray that God will bless our time together at St Aidan’s. I pray also that it will be a time full of happiness, caring and support for each other as we focus upon the learning and development of your child, in a truly Catholic atmosphere of love and concern for each individual.
We aim to provide a quality education for the 21st Century. New approaches and skills are emerging for lifelong learning and we will ensure that the best possible emphasis is given to improving each child’s learning, so that they are successful learners ready to meet the challenges of the 21st Century.
I wish you and your family a very happy and rewarding association with our St Aidan’s community of learners.
Best wishes for the year ahead.
Marian Bell
Principal
St Aidan's was opened in January 1907.
The school consisted of an old shed and was run by the Sisters of St Joseph who used to travel from St Mary's on foot until a horse and sulky were purchased. The school was taken over by the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary in 1969. The first lay Principal was appointed in 1990.
The name St Aidan was chosen by a group of men and women who were associated with its beginning. They were mostly of Irish descent, so they chose an Irish Saint, St Aidan of Lindisfarne.
Since then St Aidan's has grown into a two-stream school with an enrolment of just over 400 and including thirty nationalities.
Our crest and motto express who we are and what our highest ideals and aspirations are. We believe they communicate simply and clearly, yet deeply, our identity, beliefs and hopes for the future of our school.
Our original cross displays several themes. Its separate pieces in varying sizes and shapes, signify how St Aidan's is made up of individuals and groups of different kinds. God has created each one of us as unique individuals. His plan is for us all to be different, yet united in His Son, Jesus Christ. The saving love of our Lord, which he expressed on the cross, makes us one. Our motto 'Together We Are One' sums up this truth - the Christian community of St Aidan's school is a place where we seek unity through love.
Preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation is conducted through a parish-based program.
Refer to the local Parish Bulletin/website for details, or contact the Parish Office.
Vision Statement
Our vision is for St Aidan's to be a vibrant Catholic learning community working together as one.
Mission Statement
St Aidan's Primary School is a welcoming Catholic community.
We value the unique partnership that exists between family, school and parish.
Working 'together as one' and with the child as our focus, we provide opportunities for individual growth and strive to develop the potential of each, through the provision of a variety of learning and teaching strategies.
We are committed to:
Our motto, 'Together We Are One', sums up this truth - that the Christian community of St Aidan's School is a place where we seek unity through love.
| Principal | Marian Bell |
| Assistant Principal | Christine Leahy |
| Religious Education Coordinator | Miray Khoury |
| Coordinators |
Prue Lance Kelly Upton |
| Sports Coordinator | Alana Harris |
| Secretaries | Blaga Wakeling (Clerical Administrator) |
| Carol Newell | |
| Tricia Zammit | |
| Phone | 8886 9800 |
| Fax | 8886 9899 |
| staidans@parra.catholic.edu.au | |
| Website | staidansrootyhill.catholic.edu.au |
| Parish Priest | Father Alan Layt |
| Mass Times | Saturday 6:00 pm |
| Sunday 7:30 am, 9:00am and 10:30 am |
| Supervision | 8:15 am |
| Morning Bell | 8:40 am |
| Recess | 10:45 – 11:15 am |
| Lunch | 1:15 – 1:55 pm |
| Dismissal | 2:55 pm |
The school will be responsible for the care and safety of children between the hours of 8:15 am and 3:25 pm. Supervision is not available outside of these hours.
No child is permitted to leave the school grounds during the day unless a written request from parents is received.
In the event of a serious accident at school, the following procedures will be taken:
In January 2015 the NSW Government introduced new requirements for families taking extended holidays during school term.
Parents must apply to the school for extended leave and complete an exemption form when the leave is between ten (10) to a hundred (100) days. Forms are then to be returned to the school for approval by the Principal.
The granting of extended leave is at the discretion of the Principal.
A note is to be sent to the Principal for leave less than ten (10) days.
Family holidays should be organised during school term time. When children are taken out of school, their learning is severely disrupted.
We love to celebrate birthdays but please send only cupcakes or donuts, enough for each child in the class.
Birthday cakes that require cutting should not be sent, nor should lolly bags. No peanuts/peanut products please.
Bus passes may be ordered through the school office by completing a bus application form.
These are available to all children from Kindergarten to Year 2. Year 3 to Year 6 children are entitled to free travel if they live more than 1.6 kilometres from the school.
If there any concerns or issues, please contact your child’s teacher first then the Leader of Learning of the module. The Assistant Principal and Principal can be contacted if needed after following the appropriate steps. Effective communication is essential to the proper functioning of all aspects of school life.
School Newsletter
The school newsletter is sent home electronically each week via email and the St Aidan's Skoolbag App, and displayed on the school's website. Please ensure you subscribe to our school website in order to received our newsletters and announcements via email.
The newsletter is a valuable source of information about events within our school community and a vital means of communication between school and home. It is important that parents read the newsletter carefully.
Skoolbag Mobile App
Parents are asked to search for and upload the ‘St Aidan’s Skoolbag’ App to your smartphone or portable device, free from the App store.
Subscribe to our website
We also ask that you provide the school office with a current email address for grade notifications, and subscribe to our website for upcoming events and alerts.
Subscribe to our school calendar
Parents are also able to subscribe to our school calendar. If you are using a mobile device, navigate to the 'Calendar of Events' page and use either the 'Subscribe' or 'iCal' options to get the calendar onto your device.
Parents are invited to contribute to the newsletter
If you or someone you know has family, cultural, sporting, or other news or achievements, and you would like us to share and/or celebrate, please forward the details in writing to the school office.
From time to time parents may have concerns they would like to raise with the Principal or other member of St Aidan's staff.
There are appropriate procedures to be followed when raising concerns or complaints. See 'Complaints Handling' on the Policies webpage.
The St Aidan's Religious Education Program is based on the Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese K to 6 Religious Education Syllabus.
The Sacramental Programs are parish-based. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is first received during Year 2. First Communion is received in Year 3 and Confirmation in Year 6. Preparation for these is led by the parish priest and the parish sacramental team outside school time. The curriculum in the classroom at the time supports these programs.
The Key Learning Areas are:
The teaching and learning outcomes are based on the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Syllabus Documents.
The curriculum is delivered in Stages:
For this reason, it is often practical for students to be engaged in learning tasks with students in another class but from within the same stage. This allows for each student’s development to occur at the appropriate pace.
Learning Support (Special Education) Program
All schools in the Parramatta diocese have Learning Support teachers. The allocation of these teachers is based on the size of the school and the needs within each particular school.
The Learning Support teacher works with the whole school community, including parents, to provide consultation, assessment, planning and referral services for students with a variety of learning and special needs.
Learning Support teachers work in a number of different ways such as:
A key part of the education program is to establish an Individual Plan for students. Individual Plans (IPs) are the written outcome of a planning process required for all students with diagnosed disabilities. The plans involve parents/caregivers, teachers, special education teachers and other support personnel, in setting goals for the students for the school year. These goals focus on areas that need development. Individual Plans may focus on curriculum, personal care, safety and health, transition and/or behaviour.
As part of the learning experience, students attend excursions to make their learning richer and more meaningful. Some of these excursions will be out of school or overnight, or may involve speakers and performers coming to the school. Teachers will send home information regarding venue, costing, etc, giving plenty of notice. The school takes care not to overburden parents with cost. However, if there is financial difficulty, please arrange to discuss this with the Principal.
If parents are asked to assist as supervisors on excursions they must have attended a briefing on the mandatory notification procedures for children ‘at risk of harm’ and signed a Prohibited Employment Declaration form. Parents will be notified of the Child Protection briefing date at the beginning of the year.
Recess
For thirty minutes from 10:45 am, children have a short break. During this time, they eat recess, have a drink, go to the toilet and then play. Please give your child only a small amount of food for this time, e.g. fruit or biscuits, and please wrap these separately.
Lunch
At lunchtime – 1:15 pm, children will have ten minutes sitting down time to eat their lunch. A sandwich and a drink are usually sufficient. If a child cannot eat all or part of his/her lunch for any reason, we encourage them to take it home.
Parents are urged not to pack chocolates, sweets or food high in fats or sugar in their children's lunches, as this goes against the school's teaching about healthy eating.
It is important that the teacher is aware of any medical problem which may influence what your child can eat.
Children are not encouraged to share food; however, this practice sometimes occurs. Please ensure that your child realises what food they are allowed to eat.
The whole school is dismissed centrally in an orderly manner. The following procedures will be observed at going home time:
Walkers
Walkers are escorted across both crossings, at Adelaide St & Kimberley St. Parents are expected to be available to take their child/children home. Those students who walk home are asked to go straight home.
Cars
Any parents who pick their child up by car are requested by Police to observe the ‘No Stopping' signs. Students remain inside school grounds until parents arrive to collect them.
Buses
Students who catch buses home in the afternoon will be supervised by a teacher until such time as they board the bus. No responsibility for these students is taken once they have done so.
Vans
Students who catch vans home in the afternoon will be supervised by a teacher until such time as they board the van. No responsibility for these students is taken once they have done so.
After School Care
Students who go to After School Care in the afternoon will be supervised by a teacher until such time as they are collected by the After School Care representative. No responsibility for these students is taken once they have left the St Aidan’s premises.
If a parent wishes to have an interview with a teacher about their child, please send a note requesting an appointment or phone the school to make an appointment.
Formal parent/teacher interviews will be held in conjunction with reports during Term Two. As the teacher is responsible for his/her class between the hours of 8:45am and 2:55pm, it is expected they will not be disturbed during these hours.
St Aidan’s is a Catholic school and as such, liturgy forms an integral part of our school life. The students attend Mass regularly. There are also liturgies throughout the year to celebrate important seasons and events. Parents are most welcome to attend these celebrations.
Sacramental programs are parish-based. Parents need to seek information from the Parish Priest.
If clothing is lost, it will be placed in the lost property bin located in the stairwell.
If a child has mislaid an item, please ask them to look in the bin promptly, as all unnamed clothing that is not claimed will be given to the uniform/clothing shop or St Vincent de Paul.
A note should be given to the teacher in the following situations:
Absences
Please state the reason for the absence e.g. sickness, holiday etc. and send a note with your child when he/she return to school.
Absence notes can also be completed & submitted on the school communication app, Skoolbag.
Change of Routine
Parents are encouraged to play an active role in the life of our school. There are many opportunities for parents to assist and we hope you will be keen to offer your help in one or more of the following areas:
Attending school prayer celebrations and liturgies
Assisting with classroom activities (e.g. Sport, Math/Reading groups etc.) when requested by the teacher
School library (e.g. covering books)
Supporting school events such as Athletics Carnivals
School excursions when requested by the teacher
All volunteer workers in schools are required to undergo Child Protection Training module before you can assist in the school. To enable you to assist at St Aidan’s, the modules can be accessed from the Building Child Safe Communities website.
Confidentiality and privacy are important issues for any volunteers working with our students.
The children are in your care for the first 5 years of their life. You then enter St Aidan's, in partnership to continue the child’s learning and growth.
Learning starts with you at home. Try to:
talk to your child about what you are both doing
listen to your child carefully
answer many of the endless questions
read a story every day, maybe at bedtime
borrow children's books and toys from your local library
teach songs, rhymes, jingles, the names of colours and of parts of the body
count things. Does your child know what the number means? Try things like asking your child to set the table and count the plates, etc.
sort and match collections of things like fruit, clothing etc.
ask your child to follow simple instructions such as, "Take off your shoes and put them on the verandah"
take some time to play with your child; find out about their ideas and feelings
the importance of listening to children and making them feel loved cannot be overemphasised
teach them good hygiene and sanitation
teach them "No means No!"
Staff on the School Leadership Team are provided with release from classroom teaching.
The amount of time given varies, with the degree of responsibility, from full-time release to one day per fortnight. All class teachers are entitled to release from face-to-face teaching which is provided on a pro-rata basis.
When teachers are replaced, qualified relief teachers are employed to teach the children.
Where possible, the aim is to provide continuity. Every effort is made for the relief teacher to follow the program of the classroom teacher.
Classroom-based programs and scheduled grade Masses provide a systematic and comprehensive religious education. It fosters an understanding of the teachings of the Gospel, the nature of Christianity and the way Catholics are called to live their lives within the Catholic tradition.
St Aidan’s supports our local Parish as they run the sacramental programs for students preparing for and celebrating the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and Eucharist.
We have many formal and informal processes to keep parents well informed on their child's progress. Formal methods include Half Yearly and Yearly Learning Reports and family conferences. Informal communication can be through comments in books/diaries, parent/teacher meetings, a phone call, awards, and so on. Our teachers are very approachable and available, so please ring if you have a concern so that a mutually convenient time can be organised to meet.
Discussions with your child's teacher
You are most welcome in the school at any time. However, if you wish to speak at length with a teacher it is necessary to phone the school office to arrange an interview time, or send a note to your child's teacher requesting a meeting.
As you can appreciate, classroom teachers are unavailable for interviews during class time. During formal class time the teacher is responsible for his/her class and is committed to providing quality learning. Teachers regularly meet before and after school, so have numerous associated commitments out of their teaching times.
The school fee structures are approved by the Board of Directors of the Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese. No fees will be charged for a fourth or subsequent child, enrolled in a Catholic school in the given year. Please note this covers any child you may have enrolled in any Catholic Systemic School (High School or Primary School) in the Parramatta Diocese.
In cases of genuine hardship, please make an appointment to discuss your situation with the School Principal. We do encourage payment plans.
As well as school fees and the school building levy, an additional charge per child will appear on your invoice. This additional money is used to provide the children with extra materials and resources that will enhance their learning. A technology fee applies as we pursue a 21st Century quality education for your child. These fees are also divided into three equal instalments and are payable when school fees are due.
The School Leadership Team is made up of the Principal, Assistant Principal, Religious Education Coordinator and Leaders of Learning.
Members of the Leadership Team play an important part in the leadership of the school. If you wish to speak to the School Principal, Assistant Principal or other Specialist teachers, please phone the school to make an appointment.
Our Christian Values are embodied by our school rules. They promote responsibility, reflection and ownership of behaviour. They serve to make it safer for all who work and learn at St Aidan's. All members of our school community have the:
Right to Learn
Right to Feel Safe
Right to Respect
Due to child protection procedures, any adult remaining on the school site or working with the children on a voluntary basis will be required to sign in at the school office.
They will also be required to wear the appropriate badge and sign out when leaving the school premises. Any queries regarding these procedures can be directed to the Principal or Assistant Principal.
St Aidan’s Primary is a non-smoking zone.
The school is involved in a number of sports: athletics, swimming, basketball, netball and cross country. Students are encouraged to try out for representative sports.
School-based sport occurs weekly for each grade.
Our students are encouraged to do their very best to be wonderful ambassadors for the school. Sportsmanship and leadership are expected from all of our sporting representatives.
The Catholic Education Office allocated a number of Professional Learning days each year for staff. On these days the school staff work together on a selected focus related to Spiritual Enrichment, Curriculum and Professional Learning.
Children are not required to come to school on these days. Dates are advised well in advance in the School Calendar and newsletters.
Classroom Catering opens the school canteen each day, Monday to Friday for recess and lunch.
Online ordering is available and orders are to be placed before 9:00am at www.flexischools.com.au
The menu and price list, as well as Meal Deals, will be sent as part of the newsletter.
Lunch is ordered using the paper bag system with: Child’s name, class, food required, and the amount enclosed. Correct money is appreciated.
Students are not permitted to bring large amounts of money to school.
As well as ordering lunch (paper bag system), students are also permitted to purchase snacks by lining up at the canteen for a limited time at recess/lunch.
For kindergarten, your child will require...
A school bag (label outside school bag with your child's name and a familiar sticker or picture embroidered on or even a key ring which will make recognition easier)
A lunch box, drink bottle and raincoat
All outer clothing which children may be required to remove must be clearly labelled with the child’s name. This will ensure your child does not lose any part of his/her uniform or any costly personal property. Please check labels periodically to ensure the name has not washed off and that in fact it belongs to your child.
A paint shirt
A spare pair of underwear and socks for girls; and underwear, spare shorts and socks for boys (to be kept in their bag in case of accidents)
Please make sure that all your child's clothing, shoes, socks and lunch box etc. are clearly and permanently labelled.
When school has begun
Please send your child on time each day and every day so he / she learns punctuality and consideration for others, since a regular attendance at school is essential for progress.
Let your child talk to you about his / her experiences. It is important that you share in his / her new life.
Be interested in things he /she brings home from school....talk about them, display them, treat them as something special for that is what they are to your child.
Always look in your child's bag for any newsletters or notes.
Your child's greatest asset is... the development of independence.
For Parents of Beginners... What can you do to help?
It is a big change for a five year old to pass from the intimacy of the family circle to school life. Here are some practical ways in which you can help the transition.
Over the months before starting school, try to let your child get used to:
putting on and taking off clothes eg. tucking in shirts, doing up buttons and putting on jumpers
putting on and doing up shoes, particularly laces
eating and drinking without help
using a handkerchief or tissue
It is important that your child knows how to:
open and close lunch boxes and drink bottles
use and flush the toilet and wash their hands unassisted
ask clearly for things. Could a teacher understand your child?
say his / her name and address
recognise name / property
write his / her own name.
recognise their name among others.
Also try to let your child get used to:
playing with groups of children of the same age.
encourage your child to share toys and take turns
staying at friends' or relatives' houses for a few hours without you around
caring for and putting away playthings
helping with small jobs around the house. Most children enjoy doing responsible things to please the family
re-telling the highs and lows of the school day
knowing what to do if parents are late
following simple instructions
Some weeks in advance rehearse with your child, in a spirit of play, the different situations to be met within school life:
opening and closing the school bag
unpacking and eating the school lunch (a sensible amount of food please)
dressing for school and making the journey to and from school
listening to stories, looking at pictures and talking about them
greeting companions by name.
We look forward to an exciting and rewarding time together while your child is a student at St Aidan’s.
It is a wonderful school community and thank you for choosing to join us.
In NSW, school attendance is compulsory for children over the age of six years until the minimum school leaving age of 17 years. Children must be punctual to school class.
See the 'Compulsory School Attendance' brochure on the 'Notes and Forms' webpage for more information.
The school uniform can be purchased at the Lowes Mt Druitt store. The only items available from St Aidan's School are:
Please see the 'Uniform' page on our school website for more information in regards to the uniform and grooming requirements.
Whilst it is not the aim of St Aidan’s to totally deny our children access to fashion, it is required that the emphasis be on cleanliness and tidiness. For this reason, it is expected that:
St Aidan's has a number of school-based policies and procedures that govern various aspects of our School life including:
These provide the framework within which we operate.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Diocese also provides advice and recommendations on educational and administrative policies and priorities, and monitors policy implementation.
If you wish to view any of our policies you can visit the school website or contact the school by phone on 9625 3181 weekdays between 8:30am and 4:00pm.
In the interest of safety and for the protection of the children parents are expected to adhere to the following procedures:
A number of options are available to persons with complaints
Deal with the situation personally
In less serious matters in which there is no risk of harm to any person, it may be preferable to discuss the issue of concern with the relevant person to endeavour to reach an amicable resolution.
Contact the school
A person may feel unable to approach the relevant person directly or not be satisfied with their response. The matter may be more serious in that the complainant believes a person is at risk of harm. In such circumstances, a person may wish to contact the school. An inquiry at the school reception may be the first point of contact for people with complaints. The office staff will take the complaint and refer it to the person designated to deal with the nature of the complaint. This person may be a Coordinator, the Assistant Principal or Principal.
Contact Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
There may be occasions when a person wishes to take their concern directly to the Catholic Education Office. It may be they are not satisfied with the school’s response or other legitimate reasons for not approaching the school directly, such as a conflict of interest.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese has a community liaison line for taking general inquiries or concerns. The CEO Officer will take the complaint and refer it to the relevant CEO personnel. In some instances, the CSPD Officer may advise that the complaint is more appropriately dealt with at the school level. In general, the CSPD Officer will refer the complaint to the Director of System Performance for the school involved.
For matters concerning CSPD staff, in the first instance the complaint would be taken to the person’s immediate supervisor. If the complainant is not satisfied, they may address their concern to the Director of the relevant department.
Intake process
All school and Catholic Education Office personnel who are responsible for taking enquiries / complaints will complete a signed and dated ‘Intake Form’.
Record the complaint / enquiry by clearly recording the following information:
Addressing complaints
No further action will be taken when the complainant is satisfied with the explanation given at the time of making the complaint or enquiry except when the complaint refers to matters that must be investigated under Child Protection legislation.
Complaints assessed as relevant to a particular school or CEO procedure will be handled in accordance with the relevant procedure, for example, student management procedures, child protection procedures, Maintaining Right Relations procedures, employee disciplinary procedures.
Complaints that do not relate to a particular school or CEO, procedure will be addressed as follows:
Appeal
A person who is not satisfied that the matter has been resolved appropriately, may choose to appeal to the Principal of the school if the Principal has not been involved in investigating or examining the complaint, or is not the person named as the source of the grievance.
Alternatively, an appeal may be made to the Director of System Performance of the relevant school who may be contacted at the Catholic Education Office - phone (02) 9840 5600.
For Catholic Education Office matters an appeal may be made to the Director of the relevant department.
In the final instance, an appeal may be made to the Executive Director of Schools.
The Overseas Students Ombudsman
If you wish to lodge an external appeal or complain about the decision, you can contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman. The Overseas Students Ombudsman offers a free and independent service for overseas students who have a complaint or want to lodge an external appeal about a decision made by their private education or training provider. See the Overseas Students Ombudsman website www.oso.gov.au for more information.
The staff and parents of St Aidan’s Primary believe that homework is necessary to develop good study habits and to consolidate work taught during the day. It is agreed that homework needs to be a positive experience for each child and will be appropriate for the child’s individual needs.
Homework is to be given each night from Monday through Thursday and will consist of reading, writing and numeracy. There will be no contracts.
Teachers may wish to use a specific book for homework or continue the reading, writing and numeracy in the regular books used in class. Parents are asked to view and sign homework each night.
The following timeframe and procedures are to be followed by each teacher.
Kindergarten and Year One: 20 minutes each night
Year Two: 25 minutes each night
Years Three and Four: 30-40 minutes each night
Years Five and Six: 40-50 minutes each night
In order to ensure cohesion throughout the school, homework is to be set as follows.
Kindergarten
Term 1:
practise sight words 5 minutes. Reading 10 minutes. Practise numeracy goal
Terms 2-4:
introduction of writing
continue with reading and numeracy as for term 1
Years One to Six
Reading
Sight words for vulnerable students
Writing
Numeracy
It is expected that writing and numeracy will be a continuation of the work being done in class.
Numeracy may also include practise of the students’ goals and number facts for quick recall. E.g. days of the week, months of the year, measurement facts etc
This style of homework should eliminate the need for worksheets, thus save on paper and copying costs.
Holiday Homework
Some families need to take their vacations during school time. The school policy for such times is that no set homework will be given. We make the following suggestions:
The school authority and individual teachers owe the pupils a duty of care.
When medication is required by a student, the following procedure takes place.
Storing the medication
Medication, along with the parent note is to be taken to the office by the parent or student, where it will be stored in a locked cupboard or in the sickbay refrigerator.
Administering the medication
The secretaries will be responsible for giving the medication.At the appropriate time, the secretaries will send for the student and/or the teacher sends the student to the office.
The secretaries check the identity of the student against the photo on the child’s record.
After the medication has been administered, two secretaries sign the medical book in the office.
Parental consent
Parents must rquest the administration of medication in writing. There are forms available from the school office or on the school website.
The following must be provided in writing:
The medication is sent to school in the original packaging, in a re-sealable plastic bag with the child's name and class on the bag. If needed, please supply a spoon or measuring cup with the medication.
Students with ongoing medical conditions
Written information from the prescribing doctor is required with the following information:
Any change to this medication needs to be in writing by the prescribing doctor.
Students with asthma
Every student with asthma needs to have the following information supplied in writing by their parents in consultation with the student’s doctor:
The following is to be supplied in writing by the student’s doctor:
It is preferable that parents come to school to administer asthma medication to their child.
However, if this is not possible, the student will administer their asthma medication in the sickbay and will be supervised by first aid officers.
The school First Aid kit for asthma contains:
Students with anaphylactic reactions
These students need to supply an action plan from their doctor. This would include the Epipen/medication.
A student with a conditioning requiring attention or emergency treatment
The student’s photo is displayed on the staffroom noticeboard and in Sick Bay.
The following details are attached to the photo:
Infectious disease
For the protection of other children in the school, the following period of exclusion must be observed:
| Infectious Disease | Exclusion Periods |
| Chicken Pox | Exclude until fully recovered.Minimum exclusion for five days after the first spots appear. |
| Conjunctivitis | Until all discharge has ceased. |
| German Measles | Exclude until fully recovered.Minimum exclusion for four days from appearance of the rash. |
| Head Lice | Exclude while treatment is carried out and all eggs removed. |
| Infectious Hepatitis | Exclude until medical practitioner certifies recovery. |
| Measles | Exclude for at least four days from appearance. |
| Meningococcal | Exclude until well with Doctor’s certificate. |
| Mumps | Exclude until fully recovered.Minimum exclusion for at least nine days after the swelling occurs. |
| Streptococcal Infection | Exclude until fully recovered. |
| Whooping Cough | Exclude until the first five days of special antibiotic have been taken. |
| Ringworm |
Exclude until appropriate treatment has begun. The school may ask for a Medical Certificate. |
| Scabies | Exclude until proper treatment has begun. The school may ask for a Medical Certificate. |
| Glandular Fever | Exclude until a Medical Certificate is produced. |
Introduction
Pastoral care at St Aidan’s Primary School is the responsibility of all staff, and is based on our Mission Statement and our School motto, ‘Together we are one.
St Aidan’s is a welcoming Catholic community. We have a history of inclusive education, welcoming individuals and groups of students who are marginalised. Our policy promotes a climate of respect and justice for all, by nurturing the self-worth and dignity of each individual. We are committed to and responsible for living out the Gospel Values of justice, respect, dignity, and tolerance within the network of relationships which make up our school community.
We value our School / Parish partnership which contributes to the total care of students, families and staff.
Student Management
Student Management is one aspect of the total care of every person in our school and is based on our belief in the Gospel Values, and our understanding that all human behaviour is purposeful, as we attempt to satisfy one or more of our needs.
Our policy is also based on the principles of procedural fairness. Procedural fairness is a basic right of all when dealing with authorities. Procedural fairness refers to what are sometimes described as the ‘hearing rule’ and the ‘right to an unbiased decision.
The hearing rule includes the right of the person against whom an allegation is made to:
(Registration Systems & Member Non-government schools NSW manual, Dec 2006, p.51)
Our practices and procedures contribute to creating an environment where each person feels valued and respected, and develops a sense of self-worth and achievement. These include positive strategies to ensure that all forms of discrimination, harassment, bullying or racism are considered to be unacceptable in our school because such attitudes do not support our belief in the dignity of each person.
Values and Attitudes
Values and Attitudes are important components of the school approach to Pastoral Care and are embedded in the content of learning & teaching.
Child Protection
Child Protection procedures and practices are followed in accordance with Catholic Education Office policies and give clear directions on the role and responsibilities of staff, volunteers and visitors to our school.
Programs to Cater for Specific Individual Needs
Learning Support programs are available for students with specific learning difficulties.
Kindergarten Orientation / Transition
Sessions designed to inform families and identify students who may require specific assistance in settling into their first year at school.
Counselling
Counselling is available to students each Tuesday. This is provided by CEO Parramatta. Referrals by staff or parents must be discussed with the Principal.
New Arrivals Program
Students who have been resident in Australia for less than twelve months and who are from a non-English speaking background are able to receive additional support in literacy. The Principal will apply to CEO Parramatta for this support.
Year Six Transition to High School
This is a program to assist Year Six students as they transfer from Primary to Secondary school
Student Management
In the first instance, student management issues are the responsibility of the classroom teacher or the teacher on playground duty. At the beginning of the year, teachers establish clear expectations, display them in the classroom and refer to them regularly. Having established these expectations, students are made aware that there are consequences if the expectations are not met.
Theft
All incidents of theft are to be reported directly to the Principal or their delegate.
Suspension and Exclusion of Students
Suspension means that a student’s right to attend school has been withdrawn for a period of time. Suspension is not an end in itself but it allows a period of time when the school, parents and the student involved can work together to resolve the problem or behaviour that has led to the suspension.
The Principal is the only person with the authority to suspend a student. Discussion will take place between the relevant member of staff and the student before suspension is initiated. The Principal will immediately inform the parents of the decision and will also inform the Director of System Performance who represents the Executive Director of Schools, Diocese of Parramatta.
In certain cases, the decision may be made to have a period of ‘in-school suspension’ where the student will attend school, but will be supervised by a member of the leadership team instead of being in class. The student will be readmitted to the school after the period of suspension.
Exclusion
Exclusion is the total withdrawal of a student’s right to attend school. It involves the termination of the contract entered into by the school and the parents at the time of enrolment. Exclusion must be preceded by suspension.
The Director of System Performance and the Parish Priest must be involved in an appropriate manner regarding the issue involving the possible exclusion of a student.
The final decision regarding exclusion of a student is made by the Executive Director of Schools, Diocese of Parramatta. The Principal must inform the Parish Priest and the parents of the student, before the decision of the Executive Director of Schools is put into effect.
Matters involving Students and Illegal Substances
Such cases will be addressed as part of the school’s normal student management procedures and pastoral care of students. In the case of a serious event involving possible legal action, the school’s first responsibility is the safety and welfare of students.
St Aidan’s school provides age-appropriate preventative education relating to substance abuse, through the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education curriculum and where appropriate, through Pastoral Care and Religious Education. The Parramatta Catholic Education Office policy and procedures are followed in detail as required.
Anti-Racism
St Aidan’s school Mission Statement reflects our approach to racism in all its forms:
We are committed to:
Racism in any form has no place at St Aidan’s. Procedures which promote anti-racism are included in the following:
Anti-bullying
St Aidan’s school Mission Statement and the Pastoral Care and Student Management Policy underpin our whole-school commitment to providing a ‘bully-free’ environment. Staff and students are aware that bullying behaviour is never acceptable. Incidences of bullying behaviour are dealt with through the normal steps of our Student Management Policy.
The school climate fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment through:
The contact details for the School Liaison Police Officer and/or Police Youth Liaison Officer from Mt Druitt can be obtained from the school office.
Rationale/ Preamble/Belief Statement
At St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School we believe that a road safety policy provides a framework of common understanding for students, staff, parents/carers and the community who interact with the school to provide a safe environment.
It will ensure the health, safety and welfare of our students who use the services and facilities of this school. This will be achieved by assessing the risks in the road environment around our school, developing practical school management procedures and ensuring that curriculum that pertains to all road safety issues is taught to our students.
Environmental Statement
St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School is bordered by three streets, Adelaide Street, Kimberley Street and Rooty Hill Road North, which are speed zoned to 40km per hour during the hours of 8.00am - 9:30am and 2:30pm - 4:00pm. Outside these hours all suburban streets are 50km per hour.
Restricted parking is available in both Adelaide & Kimberley Streets.
The traffic along Rooty Hill Road North is particularly high between 8:00am - 8:45am, the start of school, and 2:30pm - 3:00pm, the end of school. During these times there is a high volume of pedestrian activity around the school.
The crossings on Adelaide and Kimberley Street are not manned from 8:00am – 8.45am. A teacher will accompany students crossing outside of these times for activities, such as sport.
The two school crossings in Adelaide and Kimberley Streets are unmanned until the end of school when a staff member walks and guides the students across the road.
Aims
At St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School we aim to provide a quality road safety education program (K-6) that develops attitudes, behaviours and values promoting responsible road use.
At St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School we aim to have procedures and practices in place that maximise the safety of students when they arrive at school and when they leave school.
Curriculum Statement
At St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School our staff develop and implement effective, sequential road safety education programs using the Safe Living outcomes & indicators from the PDHPE syllabus. Our programs make use of the online Roads and Maritime Services resources and address the following road safety issues for our students:
School management procedures
At St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School the staff will maximise the safety of students by setting a good example.
Safety of students as they travel to and from school each day is important. It is expected that parents/ carers, grandparents and family members will support the school through role modelling safe road use behaviours.
These include:
There are several points of entry into St Aidan’s Catholic Primary School.
For the school site there are:
Parents/carers, family members and students are expected to use the available pedestrian facilities around the school to cross the road. These include the pedestrian crossings on Adelaide and Kimberley Streets.
Where there are no pedestrian crossing facilities are available parents/carers, family members and students should Stop, Look, Listen, Think before crossing the road and cross in an area away from parked cars and especially buses. Walk quickly and directly across the road.
Buses
Students who catch a bus home assemble outside the meeting room and wait to be accompanied by a teacher to the bus stop where the students are supervised until they are boarded on the bus.
Bicycles
Any child riding a bicycle is not permitted to ride the bicycle inside the fenced school yard, across the crossing or along the footpath immediately surrounding the crossing.
Vans
Students commuting from school via vans are requested to line up in van lines at the Rooty Hill Road North gate and will be supervised by a teacher. Van drivers are to park and collect the students from the gate.
Walkers
Students are supervised as they walk to Kimberley Park. There are two crossings at which the students cross, the first at Adelaide Street and the second at Kimberley Street. Teacher’s supervise the students crossing the road. Once at Kimberley Park the students meet their parents and go home. Any student whose parent hasn’t arrived will be taken back to school and wait with the parent waiters.
Parent Waiters
Parent waiters are admitted to the school via the lower Adelaide Street entrance in the afternoon and via the middle Adelaide Street gate in the morning. Parents are expected to remain seated in the parent waiting area in the morning if they wish to observe the morning assembly. In the afternoon parents are to remain in the designated parent area until the dismissal bell rings.
After School Care
After school care students are to proceed to the Rooty Hill Road North entrance with the van students and are supervised by the teacher on duty until collected by after school care staff.
Arrival and Departure by Car
For those parents/carers, and family members that need to drive their students to school, there are car parking spaces available on Kimberley Street and surrounding streets. Park correctly and walk with your child to the school gate.
There are ‘No Stopping’ signs either side of the two pedestrian crossings and bus zones. Drivers are expected to abide by these parking regulations.
Restricted parking signs are in place around the school site to increase students’s safety. Drivers must abide by these parking regulations.
If you need to enter the school for extended periods please park on Kimberley Street.
The school is located in a 40km school zone where a 40 km speed limit applies for the hours of 8.00-9.30am and 2.30-4.00pm on school days. The speed limit is lowered to 40km during these hours to increase the safety of the students arriving and departing the school. Drivers must abide by these speed regulations.
Wet weather days are particularly hazardous for students as traffic increases, visibility of students is decreased and slippery roads make driving conditions more difficult. Reduce speed, park correctly and walk with your child from the school gate to your vehicle. Students under 10 years should be supervised in the traffic environment and those 8 years and younger should always hold an adults hand.
Excursions
Buses used for excursions pick up students from these bus zones. Students assemble inside the fenced area of the school until rolls are marked and teachers lead the students along the footpath to the waiting buses. On returning to school in school hours, students exit the buses in the bus zone and walk along the footpath into the school yard and assemble inside the gates.
Members of the community at St Aidan’s Primary School will be informed via newsletters, handbooks, orientation activities, and parent take-home notes of the importance of:
Discretionary basis
The Principal has the right of discretion to make provision for departure from the policy or the application of the policy in the event of unforeseen and exceptional circumstances.
(This policy was prepared by: school staff, students, parent/carer representatives and the Diocesan Road Safety Education Adviser)
You can contact St Aidan’s Primary Rooty Hill, by email or phone (02) 8886 9800 weekdays between 8:30 am and 3:30 pm.
