News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:55:30 AEDT

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

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

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:06:32 AEDT

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

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

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

You’ll find:

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

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:20:45 AEDT

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

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

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

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

Travel health

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

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

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:47:54 AEDT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 14:15:36 AEDT

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

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

This year's events will feature:

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

Group bookings

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

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

Tickets for you and your family and friends

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

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:34:27 AEST

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

Have your say today on before and after school care.

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

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

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

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:21:12 AEST

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

Get involved at home

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

Join in from the classroom

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

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

Take the Book Swap Challenge

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

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

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

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

Duration: 0:38

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

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:39:53 AEST

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

You and your child can find information on:

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

A toolkit to empower you and your child

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

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

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

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

Keep your child safe and happy online

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

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:02:44 AEST

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

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

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

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:34:57 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:21:47 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:07:41 AEST

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

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

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

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:07:46 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

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

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

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

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:25:23 AEST

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

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

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

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

Children born in Australia

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

Adults born in Australia

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

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

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:16:09 AEDT

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

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

1. Be alert and aware

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

2. Hold hands

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

3. Choose a safe crossing

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

4. Set a good example

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

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

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

Practise makes perfect

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

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

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

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 14:54:41 AEDT

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

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

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Merry Christmas from all at KPS

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 09:16:48 AEDT

All the staff at KPS wish our wonderful community a safe and happy festive season.

We look forward to welcoming you all back in 2019.

First day for students is Wednesday 30 January.

First official day for Kindergarten is Friday 1 February.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Canteen announcement

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 09:16:51 AEDT

Following on from our community consultation early this year the Canteen Sub-Committee has been busy reviewing its operation, and most importantly securing the future of a P&C owned and operated school canteen facility. As you know we undertook a feasibility study and the P&C membership voted to keep the canteen, but under a modified management, leadership and reporting structure. We have spent the last couple of months implementing the P&C memberships approved actions and have successfully completed a restructure and the recruitment of a new position, that of Canteen Manager.

It is a pleasure to announce and welcome Shaye Lucassen as our Canteen Manager, starting January 2019. Shaye joins us bringing with her experience as a chef and retail management; she has a passion for food combined with healthy homemade produce. As a mum, Shaye understands children can be fickle with their eating habits and how important a balanced diet is. She thoroughly enjoys coming up with new and creative ways to make sure kids are presented with a variety of food groups.

We look forward to working with Shaye and bringing you, our school community a healthy, exciting, varied and innovative school canteen menu, whilst upholding the school’s values and P&C’s ethos; and assisting our students in learning necessary healthy life skills.

In closing we would like to express our sincere thanks to Lynne for her 17 years of service, she has provided dedication and commitment to the canteen, the school and the community; and also, to Dani for her work and enthusiasm during the past 2.5 years. We wish them all the very best in their future endeavours.

We will be in touch in the New Year regarding Canteen 2019 and would like to wish you a safe, fun and healthy, festive season and summer break.

Cheers,

Nicole & Victoria

Canteen Sub-Committee

KPS War on waste podcast

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:29:44 AEST

4/5E and 1P have been learning all about podcasts and have created their own podcast series titled - War on Waste!

The students collaboratively researched, planned, edited and recorded the podcasts with some great tips to help save the environment.

Watch this space, new episodes coming out soon!

War on Waste podcast - Episode 1

War on Wast podcast - Episode 2

War on Waste podcast - Episode 3

War on Waste podcast - Episode 4

War on Waste podcast - Episode 5

War on Waste podcast - Episode 6

War on Waste podcast - Episode 7

War on Waste podcast - Episode 8

War on Waste podcast - Episode 9

War on Waste podcast - Episode 10

War on Waste podcast - Episode 11

Kiama Show - invite for entries

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

The Kiama Show is on again in January and in KPS tradition, we encourage students to enter the many 'Junior Pavilion' sections such art, craft, photography, lego and cooking. Creating an entry in one (or more) of these sections is a great opportunity for students to let their deeds shine in their particular area of interest.

Entry is free into all Junior categories.

As part of the Pavilion entries, organisers are also running a ‘Schools Competition’ between the local primary schools. This is for the most entries from an individual school. KPS has historically been one of the schools in our area that always has a go thus the competition receiving many entries - and achieving great results too! We took out first place last year with 109 entries.

Another fun event to get involved in are the billy cart races for Year 5 and Year 6 students. The Kiama Mens’ Shed have shown their support and given their time by building the billy carts. Students can sign up to enter at the Show on the day.

Attached are the 2019 details for the 'Junior Pavilion' sections and Entry Form.

Further information about the upcoming Show can be found on their 2019 Kiama Show website.

Additional Ticket Sales - Stage 1 Production

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

The Stage One end of year production is approaching fast. A special thanks to all the students who contributed artwork. Special congratulations to Henry Baines, Ashton Smith and Nate Talbot whose artwork features on this years poster (below) and program cover.

As of this Friday, 30 November, all families are invited to purchase an additional two tickets if they would like. We remind you that all people attending will require a ticket, even toddlers, due to capacity and safety restrictions in our school hall.

For tickets book here.

Sports Report - Week 7

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:52 AEST

What a fabulous day we had at the Dragon Tag gala day. We took 118 Stage 2 and 3 students to the Kiama Sporting Complex for a day of fun and tag and that is exactly what we did. I have not seen so many smiles on so many faces in a long time! Our kids showed every school value as well as excellent sportsmanship. It was so nice to see all children have a good go, even when they have never played before. This is what gala days are all about!

Thank you to the parents that came and supported the kids and a HUGE thank you to parents who managed and coached teams. Your time is very much appreciated as days like this would not happen without help. Thank you to Mr Ellsmore and Mrs Toohey for your assistance on the day. Lastly, thank you to all the kids! Your behaviour was impeccable and it is always such a great day to learn new things about yourselves and others.

I love the fact that these days like these support kids’ learning and allow other kids with more experience to mentor others. When we all work together, we can let our deeds shine!

Looking forward to seeing what is install for KPS in the sporting department in 2019!

Thanks for a great year everyone J

Yours in Sport

Mrs Payne

Chess Club - what a year

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

The KPS chess teams have had a wonderful year. The chess club re-formed after a few years off and 14 players participated in tournaments.

In the NSW Junior Chess League tournament we entered a “Rookies” team which won their division of the South Coast Championships, whilst our “Championship” team ended up a narrow second to Illaroo Road.

In the Sydney Chess Academy Interschool Tournament, we were one of the only schools in the State to have two teams qualify for the semi-finals.

The team of Harry Hawker, Clancy Sloan, Hilton Brown, Archie Willetts and Charlie Coddington went so well that they made it through to the NSW Finals in Burwood. That was tough......really tough! Up against the best 18 teams in the State the Kiama students battled with great determination. They ended up in 15^th place and the younger members of the team have resolved to practice hard and do it all again next year.

The chess club will continue to meet at lunchtime on Friday’s in the library. All chess players (and future chess players) welcome, but listen for announcements on the day to make sure it’s on.

It has been great to watch the children playing chess this year. They’ve had fun, built up confidence and resilience, and developed a real sense of pride in their school team.

There is one more competition on this Saturday the 24^th of November for any-one keen. It’s being held at Amity College in Shellharbour. The entry form is attached to the back of this newsletter and parents are requested to submit entries directly to the tournament organisers no later than 22 November. This is a non-school individual event, but I am aware that some KPS students will be going.

Good luck and see you at chess club!

Andrew Sloan (Chess Co-ordinator)

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:24:41 AEDT

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

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

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

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Robo League - Space Pigs

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:53 AEST

The KPS Robo League Space Pigs team (Seth Goldstein, Ruby Walker, Tadhg Hudzina, Jack Wolstenholme, Daisy Laird, Charlotte Payne, Ella Koenig, Finn Cunningham, Josie Banta and James Atkinson) competed on Saturday at the FLL Wollongong Regional Tournament held at TIGS. Unfortunately they didn't pick up any awards or receive an invitation to the State tournament, but they did an amazing job on the day representing KPS beautifully. Special mention goes to Charlotte Payne and Finn Cunningham who pumped out some last minute coding mid-tournament, to bump up the teams’ performance in the Robot Game and result in 16^th place out of 30 teams.

The FLL program is so much more than robots and a really great experience. The team needed to place in the top 75% of teams in the Robot Game to qualify to advance to State and only 6 teams would be selected to advance. In 16th place with their highest robot score of the day, they qualified to advance, however other teams were stronger on the day in their Project and Core Values sections (two other elements of the FLL program that decide awards and competition progression). The Wollongong Regional is known to be the toughest in NSW alongside the Sydney Regional, with lots of really good teams in our area, so the team has done amazingly well up against some experienced high school teams also.

KPS will still be represented at State level in a round-about way. Eight KPS students who form an outside of school team coached by Lauren Purcell had the honour of receiving the Judge's Award for best all-rounder across the 3 elements of the FLL program, placed 6th in the Robot Game, and were selected to go on to State. These students are: Banjo, Matilda, Kel and Oliva Povea-Purcell, Tasman Koorey, Kai King, Nicola Porritt, and Harry Stortz. The team from Cringila Public School also received an award and are progressing to State tournament too (which our students can feel proud of as peer mentors, who shared their experience with the Cringila students who are brand new to FLL).

Also, at the end of this week, our Cuberider team will have their experiment launched to space - finally after delays on NASA's end and then following the mid-stratosphere launch abort during the holidays. By next week the students will get their data beamed back to analyse. We are still awaiting a time slot for being able to communicate with the astronauts onboard the ISS, as a result of all of the delays also.

Stage One Production - ticket orders

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Our biennial Stage One Production is a highlight for many of our children, offering them a chance to showcase their abilities on the big stage. This year the students in Stage One classes, including K/1R and 2/3G present an original story, Just Another Extraordinary Year, highlighting the extraordinary learning that has taken place over the year. Our students are working very hard to learn their singing, acting and choreography.

The show is shaping up to be exciting, entertaining and memorable. The production will also include performances of the various dances that Stage One students learnt during their Dance2Bfit program in Term 3.

PERFORMANCE DATES & TIMES

EVENING PERFORMANCE Monday 10 December, 6:30pm

EVENING PERFORMANCE Tuesday 11 December, 6:30pm

MATINEE PERFORMANCE Wednesday 12 December, 12:00pm

Please note that tickets for all performances are only available through TryBooking (see booking link below) and are not available at the school office.

Important information:

All tickets will cost $11.00, inclusive of GST.
Tickets will be available from 9:00am on Monday 12 November.
No tickets will be available at the door.
Ticket sales will be initially limited to 2 per family. If more than 2 tickets are purchased, the booking will be cancelled and money refunded via TryBooking.
Any tickets unsold by Monday 3 December will be released for purchase with a limit of 2 additional tickets per family.
Due to safety restrictions and the capacity of the hall, all attendees will be required to have a ticketed seat.

Tickets will be available for purchase via the below link from 9:00am Monday 12 November.

TryBooking ticket link

Sports Report - Week 4

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:54 AEST

A huge congratulations to the Junior girls who competed at State level last Wednesday and Thursday. Coco Butcher ran 4^th in the 9 Year Girls’ 100m and 9^th in the Junior Girls’ 200m. Ashleigh Ellis who competed in the Junior Girls’ 800m and ran a PB. And lastly, to our very own KPS Fast Four!! The girls ran in the 4 x 100m Junior Relay and ran a 1.00.05, WOW!!! Girls, KPS are very proud of you all!

This term there will be a Dragon Tag Gala Day. Keep your ear out for the time and place of the meeting to grab your permission note with all the information.

This term, Mr Ellsmore and Mrs Payne have started up a lunchtime competition in Tag. Stage 3 are competing on a Tuesday and Stage 2 are on either Thursday or Friday. We are very lucky to have so many Stage 3 volunteers to help out by being a ref, coach or mentor as we could not run the competition without this help, thanks Stage 3!

Yours in Sport

Mrs Payne

Premier's Spelling Bee - State Final success

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:55 AEST

Scarlett started with 50 other participants which slowly dwindled down to 10 students who all made it to level 7. Scarlett who was given the word pomegranate, spelt the word correctly then restarted and spelt it with a double m which was incorrect. The next 6 students were also eliminated leaving 3 to compete in level 8 for the winning place.

Generously, one of the officials commented to Scarlett, that even though she came in a tie at 4^thplace with the other 6 students, because her first spelling of her word was correct Scarlett was the 4^thplace holder.

Scarlett has expressed how much she has enjoyed the experience and looks forward to being able to add more words to her growing list.

Book Fair

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Each year we host a Book Fair to raise funds for our library. It's a great opportunity to purchase some books as gifts for Christmas.

See opening times above.

We grow them big in Kiama

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:55 AEST

We were busy comparing the size of our school grown cauliflower to students heads today, before carrying it up to the canteen for the wonderful volunteers to put into our delicious menu. This rain has certainly made things grow in our school garden.

Kindergarten enjoyed a visit from some Kiama High School students today

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:09:25 AEST

Kindergarten had a special visit from some Kiama High School students today.

The high school students were set the task of writing and illustrating a picture book for a younger audience and they were keen to share their books with our Kindergarten students. The Kindergarten children were really engaged and asked some interesting questions.

It was lovely to see the positive interactions between the older and younger students. The high school students also shared a lovely morning tea with Kindergarten.

Sport Report - Week 10

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:55 AEST

The Touch Football Gala Day was a HUGE success. We took 120 Stage 2 and 3 students down to Gerringong for the day and I have never seen so many smiling faces! At the start of the day a few children seemed nervous, as they have never played Touch Football before but by the second game they were running around, passing the ball and quite a few tries were scored. A massive thank you to the parents who helped transport students to and from the fields, coached and managed teams. We have such a great community to be able to have so many parents lend a hand on days like this. We look forward to our next Gala Day.

On Friday, Year 6 will be heading to the Croome Road Sporting Complex for their last session in Hockey. Make sure students have their permission note handed in (there is no cost involved in this activity). Each child will need a mouthguard for the day.

During lunchtime this term, we have been running a Touch Football competition. Mr Ellsmore and I have taken students over to the Quarry Fields during lunch and the Year 6 boys have refereed and organised the game draw. Next term we will be doing a similar thing but we will be running a separate Stage 2 and Stage 3 comp.

Yesterday, I took two teams of Stage 3 girls to Croome Road Sporting Complex to play their first game of tackle football. What a day we had! There were a few nerves to start the day off, but that soon turned into smiles. Both our teams went extremely well and I was so proud of each and every one of them for stepping outside their comfort zones. Thank you to parents who transported and supported the girls.

Yours in Sport
Mrs Payne

Dangerous Dads - Bookings now open!

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Thank you to the families who attended the information session last night and who have already booked their place!

Bookings now open for all Stage 3 Boys and their father/significant male.

Follow this Trybooking event link to book your place.

KPS looks forward to hosting this amazing initiative - thank you Monty.

3D printing creations for Pilliga PS

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 12:43:06 AEST

Stage 2 have just completed their major work for 3D design enrichment. They were tasked with creating designs we could print and send to Pilliga Public School as a thank you for conferencing with KPS.

Through researching Pilliga, the group found similarities with Kiama, such as their love for sport, their modes of transport and school layout. They also drew comparisons between Pilliga's forest lookout and Kiama's lighthouse as well as Pilliga's rock formations in caves and our blowhole.

Here are some pics of the creations which we intend to send to Pilliga shortly.

Wakakirri Success

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 09:10:28 AEDT

On Wednesday 29 August, our Stage 3 Wakakirri Dance Troupe shone on stage at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre as they presented their story in dance "Unplugged"..

After months of before school rehearsals, the students truly let their deeds shine.

Their efforts paid off as we proudly took away four awards on the night:

- Best Original Story

- Best Public Speaking

- Best Individual Costume Design

- Best Teamwork

Well done to all teachers and students involved in pulling this amazing production together.

Please read this Kiama Independent article and tune in to the official Wakakirri TV Channel for all the national competition updates!

More photos available in our web gallery.

Sports Report - Week 9

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

What a day we had in Canberra for Regional Athletics! KPS you definitely let your deeds shine! After a very foggy start to the day, we had some fabulous results and now have a few KPS kids off to State at Homebush. Our Junior Girls' 100m relay team came 2^nd in the final. Ashleigh Ellis came 3^rd in the Junior Girls' 800m. Coco Butcher came 2^nd in the Junior Girls' 200m and broke a 22 year old record in the 9 years 100m heat! Coco ended up 1^st in this final.

Laura Ellis – 5^th Senior Girls' 800m

Daisy Laird – 5^th 11 years Girls' High Jump

Joshua Bender – 5^th 11 years Boys' Long Jump

Lachie Martin – 16^th 11 years Boys' 100m, 6^th 11 years Boys' 200m

Soraya Philp-Rudd – 5^th 11 years Girls' 200m, 5^th 11 years Girls' Long Jump

Chloe Wallace – 5^th Senior Girls' 200m

Our Stage 3 Touch Football Girls' have were beaten yesterday in a great match. The girls defended brilliantly but were out done by Ulladulla PS to go down 4-2. The girls have done amazingly to get to the 7^th round of the competition and are in the top 32 teams of NSW.

We have our Touch Gala Day in Gerringong tomorrow. Remember to register you kids online and use the team/school code. Check our “We love KPS” Facebook page for details.

Well done to our Year 5 mixed Touch Football team who have taken out the lunchtime Touch comp over the Year 6 boys. We had to play the grand final 3 times to get a result! A huge thank you to Joshua Bender and the Year 6 boys for organising and refereeing. Bring on the Term 4 comp!

On Tuesday, I will be taking Stage 3 girls off to Croome Road for their first go at Rugby League in the Sam Bremner Shield. We wish the girls all the best, let’s go KPS!

Yours in Sport

Mrs Payne

Sports Report Week 8

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:59 AEST

We wish all our Tongarra representatives all the best as they represent KPS and Tongarra in Canberra for the Regional Athletics Carnival this Friday. A special mention to Coco Butcher, who won Junior Girls Age Champion at our District carnival.

Our Stage 3 Touch Football girls have advanced on to the next round, beating Minnamurra 1-0. The girls now will now travel to Ulladulla to play their next match on Tuesday 18 September - good luck.

The next Gala Day is fast approaching. Mr Ellsmore has had an amazing response and we are taking about 120 children to Gerringong to compete in Touch Football.

Congratulations to Josh Bender who received a sporting medal at assembly this week. We only receive one medal each year to hand out to worthy recipients. Not only has Josh represented KPS, Tongarra and South Coast in various sporting activities, he has organised a lunchtime touch competition. Josh came to see me about a touch comp for the kids and asked if I would help. We organised competition days and supervision at the Quarry Fields. He organised team sign ups, got the draw together, organised referees and even prizes for the winning team. Well done Josh, you deserve this recognition. Bring on the next comp in Term 4!

Lastly, I have recently heard of a few Kiama Power kids trialling for the Sydney Swans Academy. I have just found out that our very own Lachie Martin competed! Lachie was one of about 220 kids who trialled from Illawarra, Sydney and Newcastle regions. Only 24 children are accepted into this Academy and we have found out Lachie was one! Congratulations Lachie, we are all proud of you!

Yours in Sport

Mrs Payne

Premier's Spelling Bee success!

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:14:58 AEST

Well done Scarlett Hill for winning the Regional Spelling Bee. Scarlett travelled down to North Nowra Public School on Monday with a number of KPS students to take on the region’s best spellers. She edged out over 30 finalists to take out the competition. She now progresses to the ABC Centre in Sydney to contest the State Final on 2 November.

We wish her the best of luck.

Sports Report - Week 7

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Congratulations to all our Tongarra ribbons recipients and we wish all our KPS competitors the very best of luck as they represent KPS and Tongarra in Canberra for the Regional Athletics Carnival next Friday.

Our Stage 3 Touch Girls’ will play tomorrow at the Kiama Leisure Centre Fields. They will play the winner out of Mount Terry or Minnamurra Public School. Good luck girls.

Unfortunately, the Stage 3 Girls’ Sam Bremner Shield was postponed yesterday but a new date has been set to Tuesday 25 September. This gala day will still take place at Croome Road, Albion Park.

A huge thankyou to Miss Graham for taking 30 Stage 2 students to a Netball Gala Day held at the Kiama Netball Courts. From all reports, the kids had a blast and were all very tired after a long day filled with netball.

We have entered several teams into the Touch Football Gala Day in Gerringong in Week 9. This is a great opportunity for all students to learn more about Touch Football and to participate in team sports.

Lastly, congratulations to Abbey Holland for competing with the South Coast Touch side last week in Cronulla. Abbey and the South Coast team came 6th overall.

Yours in Sport

Mrs Payne

Innovative Schools 2018 announced

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

For the second year running, Kiama Public School has just been named in the 2018 'The Educator' Innovative Schools report, being recognised among the 'Top 40' most innovative schools, K-12 across all sectors in Australia.

View the website featuring all the Innovative Schools.

View a PDF copy of the full report.

We are so proud. KPS shining bright again!

Calling all Grandparents and Grandfriends

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Following the success of our last get together, the P&C invite all Grandparents and Grandfriends in our local community to this relaxed gathering of open discussion.

As a school we value your ideas and input - we hope you can make it.

We also extend an invitation to our upcoming Grandfriends' Day event too! (More information on this will be made available during the discussion and will be promoted via our website and newsletter soon).

Sports Report - Week 5

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Congratulations to our Stage 3 Girls' Touch football team. They beat Cambewarra Public School 6-1. The girls will now move forward to the 5th round of the PSSA competition. Information on their next games will be shared as soon as we know.

Tongarra ribbons will be handed out at our next 3-6 assembly on Tuesday 28 August. Our assembly will commence at 2:00pm.

Yours in Sport,
Mrs Payne

Sports Report - Week 4

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

A huge congratulations to all our District Athletes!! They all gave their best and it was a pleasant surprise when a teacher from another school commented on the great sportsmanship KPS kids displayed. A very proud moment!

We had so many great results from District. The top two competitors continue on to the Regional Carnival except in the 800m race. Our 4 x 100m relay teams all made it through to the finals and our Junior girls came first and are continuing on to Regional at Canberra. Other KPS athletes that have qualified for Regional are:

Ashleigh Ellis – High Jump, Relay

Daisy Laird – High Jump

Coco Butcher – 100m sprint, Long Jump, 200m, Relay

Soraya Philp-Rudd – Long Jump, 200m

Chloe Wallace – 200m

Charlotte Rogers – Shot Put

Emmasyn Kona – 100m, Relay

Madison Edwards – Relay

Joshua Bender – Long Jump

Lachlan Martin – 100m, 200m

We are still waiting to see which students have qualified for the 800m race but we were very competitive on the day with Ashleigh Ellis taking out first place in the Junior girls, Laura Ellis (1^st) and Chloe Wallace (2^nd) in the Senior girls, Jackson Farland (2^nd) in the 11 year boys and Liam Wonson (2^nd) in the Senior boys. Fingers crossed for these competitors.

Our Boys' Soccer team played Nowra on Monday and they played brilliantly. The fulltime score was 1-1 and the boys ended by going down 4-1 in extra time. Well done boys, we are all proud of how far you have gone!

Our Stage 3 Girls' Touch team will play another round in the PSSA competition. They will play at the Quarry fields at 10:00am of Friday 17August. We wish you all the very best girls!

Yours in sport,

Mrs Payne

Jump Rope for Heart launches at KPS!

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

Jump Rope for Heart kicks off this term at KPS!

Jump Rope for Heart is a fantastic physical activity and fundraising program that has been run by the Heart Foundation for 35 years. It’s a great way for your child to keep fit and learn new skills, but it also helps raise funds for vital heart research and education programs.

Since Jump Rope for Heart started in 1983, schools like ours have raised more than $75 million for the Heart Foundation’s lifesaving work.

It’s important you register your child online, so they can receive the full benefits of the program and participate in online fundraising.

Students will be skipping at school this term as part of the PDHPE curriculum. During this time students can collect sponsorships and record them on a paper sponsorship form, or share their online fundraising page with family and friends to help raise money for this great cause. Extra paper sponsorship forms can be found at the front office.

We will hold our school 'Jump Off Day' in Week 10 of Term . This will mark the end of the program and is a chance for everyone to come together to skip and show off their newly learned skills. This will also be the date money needs to be returned to the front office.

Thank you for supporting the Jump Rope for Heart program!

Literary Lunch

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 09:17:02 AEDT

A group of eight students were very fortunate to attend the 2018 Literary Lunch at Fairy Meadow on Wednesday 8 August.

Each school had an opportunity to chat with guest authors and illustrators and participate in some creative activities.

We were privileged to welcome Peter Macinnis to our table, who impressed us with his wealth of knowledge in the area of science.

The students walked away feeling both inspired and with some autographs! We returned with lots of new books signed by the authors for our Library too.

Thank you Mrs Etherton for making this opportunity possible.

Sports Report - Week 3

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:15:01 AEST

Over the last two days, our athletics team have competed well in very trying conditions at the District Athletics Carnival. Apparently it was up to 90km winds on Tuesday while the kids were competing, talk about RESILIENCE!!! Once I have received the final results, I will announce in the newsletter. District ribbons will be handed out soon, so keep your eye on our newsletter for a date.

A huge congratulations to our Stage 3 Girls’ Touch Football team. They beat Nowra Public School 4-2 in a great game. Our team was very lucky to have a large number of fellow students from school cheering them on. The girls now move into the next round of the competition.

Good luck to our Stage 3 Boys’ Soccer team who will play their next knockout round against Nowra on Monday 13 August, if successful they will play a second match that day. The boys will be playing at Kiama Quarry fields. Go team KPS!!

Yours in sports,

Mrs Payne

Open Day this Friday

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:04:14 AEDT

On Friday 10 August, Kiama Public School will open its gates to the community from 11:15am to celebrate NSW Education Week.

Our Open Day will begin by showcasing our school Band and Choir performing by the lawn over a picnic lunch between 11:15am and 11:55am.

From 12:00pm onwards we open our classrooms for community visitors:

Stage 2 (Year 3 and 4) classrooms (including 2/3G and 4/5E) are open 12:00-12:20pm.
Stage 3 (Years 5 and 6) classrooms are open 12:20-12:40pm.
Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) classrooms are open 12.40-1:00pm.
Early Stage One (Kindergarten) classrooms (including K/1R) are open 1:00-1:20pm.

We also invite parents and our community to view our art display and technology exhibit in the Library, to stroll through our Garden, and to visit our newly revamped STEM room to see some of the exciting initiatives we are currently embarking on at KPS.

Our Open Day will end after our recess at 1.45pm where students will return to normal classes for the remainder of the afternoon.

We look forward to welcoming our community and celebrating all that is Public Education at Kiama Public School.

Education Week Opening Ceremony

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:31:00 AEST

On Monday 6 August our school was extremely privileged to have been selected from over 2000 schools statewide, to host the launch of NSW Education Week 2018.

The school hall was transformed into what looked like a television studio, where talented singers, musicians, dancers and speakers addressed all those who tuned in via a simultaneous broadcast with co-hosts Parramatta Public School, live streamed to YouTube.

Two of our Captains, Lexi and Chloe took centre stage, doing a tremendous job compering the event. This was done with confidence, fine-tuned precision and their usual smile as they 'let their deeds shine'.

Our SRC members also played an important role, welcoming several dignitaries to this special event, with poise and pride. These included some well know faces to KPS such as former Principals Michael Honeywood and Jenny Maude and local Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward to name just a few.

You can still access the coverage via YouTube.

Or read an article published in our local newspaper.

It was certainly an event that we are very proud to have been a part of and one we will hold in our memories for a long time to come.

Congratulations to all involved.

NSW Junior Chess League

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 15:15:01 AEST

On Monday 6 August, two Kiama chess teams travelled to Nowra to compete in the South Coast heats of the NSW Junior Chess League schools competition. Our teams played with great determination, concentration and with respect for our opponents. They represented the school with distinction.

In the Rookies Grade, the team of Charlie Coddington, Gus Fjellstad, Ava Sloan and Zevvy Evans took out the first place trophy! They competed very well against 12 other schools and overcame last years champions Gerringong in a very tense final.

In the Championship Grade, we were represented by Harry Hawker, Clancy Sloan, Hilton Brown and Archie Willetts and we ended up collecting the second place trophy. This was a wonderful effort because we have a young team and very nearly defeated Illaroo Road A, who have been the champions for the past 5 years. We will keep practicing!

Congratulations to both teams.

(Report provided by Andrew Sloan - volunteer Parent Chess Manager)

More new classrooms, Preschool places and teachers in $17.3 billion education budget

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:51:54 AEST

NSW Budget 2018 features historic firsts for education, including record funding to expand the number of new and upgraded schools, unprecedented investment to air condition more classrooms and universal pre-school for three year olds.

Above: Artist impression of the new Alexandria Park Community School. Credit: Design | TKD Architects, Visualisation | Narrative.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, Education Minister Rob Stokes and Early Childhood Minister Sarah Mitchell outlined a range of new initiatives funded by the $17.3 billion education budget in 2018-19.

The Government will be investing $6 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 170 new and upgraded schools, including planning for more than 20 new projects.

"We are proud to be making this unprecedented investment into the future of our children," Mr Perrottet said.

"This year's NSW Budget takes our already record school building program to another level – a massive 170 schools new and upgraded schools over the next four years.

"That brings our total schools building program to 230 new and upgraded schools since 2011."

"The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government's strong financial management has allowed us to invest so heavily in our schools and education system."

Mr Stokes said communities right across NSW will benefit from this record investment into education.

"NSW is experiencing an increase in school enrolments and we have in place an unprecedented program of investment in new and upgraded schools to meet this demand," Mr Stokes said.

A staged investment of $500 million is being allocated to provide cooling for schools, while improving the indoor environmental quality, through the installation of smart and sustainable air conditioning systems powered by solar energy.

In another landmark initiative, NSW will become the first Australian state to provide universal access to community preschool for three years old under a $197.8 million program.

"Because of this historic investment, average daily fees will decrease significantly and the savings will go directly back into the pockets of hard working families," Mrs Mitchell said.

This brings total spending on early childhood education to $474.3 million in 2018-19.

Other education investment in the 2018-19 NSW Budget includes:

$160 million to be spent in 2018-19 to continue its blitz on planned school maintenance, part of a record $747 million investment over four years;
$71.8 million to implement the Literacy and Numeracy Strategy in NSW schools;
$50 million in additional flexible funding will be provided to government schools to implement the School Leadership Strategy - freeing up principals and school leaders from administrative work;
$3 million for the first comprehensive review of the entire school curriculum since 1989;
$2.8 million to encourage the preservation and study of Aboriginal languages;
$30 million to continue to deliver greater access to green space and sports facilities in public school playgrounds through the Share Our Space program, and;
Funding for around 900 extra full-time equivalent teaching positions in NSW government schools.

The NSW Government will also invest $1.3 billion on non-government schools, an increase of 7.5 per cent on 2017-18. This includes a $32 million increase in the Building Grants Assistance Scheme over four years for capital works projects to support enrolment growth in non-government schools.

The record $17.3 billion investment in education allocates $15.7 billion for recurrent expenses and $1.6 billion for capital investment in 2018-19.

Gamechanger challenge finalists announced

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:50:19 AEST

The 16 teams selected to compete in the inaugural Game changer challenge in Education Week have been announced.

Superfast scooters to transport students between classes, time travel excursions to key moments in history, sustainable schools that are self-sufficient in power, water and food and real-time brain scans to track student learning and wellbeing.

These are just some of the futuristic visions that helped propel 16 NSW school teams into the finals of the Game Changer Challenge which will be held in Sydney during Education Week from August 6-10.

The inaugural Game Changer Challenge aimed to showcase the theme of this year's Education Week, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, with students and teachers working together to co-design the school of the future.

The finalists – eight teams each from NSW public primary and secondary schools – were selected from more than 99 entries, who each submitted a 60-second video outlining their vision for a school of the future.

Armidale High School teacher librarian Jessica Brennan helped coordinate a joint entry with Duval High School as the two schools will amalgamate into one campus from next year.

To select their entry, the schools ran their own competition with six teams of students from both high schools collaborating on their visions.

The winning entry was selected by the school community after they were presented during a film night that included popcorn and lolly bars.

"We are so thankful we got involved," Ms Brennan said. "This has been project-based learning at its most authentic."

The combined Armidale-Duval High team will join the other 15 finalists for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop in Sydney.

The workshop includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It will also include a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of industry professionals in fields as diverse as technology, creative design and foreign affairs to design the school of the future.

The challenge winner will be selected after a Shark Tank-style pitch to industry and education experts, including Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott.

The finalists in the primary section are:

Lidcombe Public School
Ingleburn Public School
Oakhill Drive Public School
Cherrybrook Public School
Cudgegong Valley Public School
Alstonville Public School
Thirroul Public School
Menindee Central School

In the secondary section finalists are:

Chatswood High School
Lurnea High School
Beverly Hills Girls High School
Armidale High School
Hurlstone Agricultural High School
Campbelltown Performing Arts High School
Gloucester High School
Carenne School SSP

Chess success again

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:54:32 AEST

Photo above: The 12 wonderful players who competed in the Moss Vale heat of the Sydney Chess Academy Interschool competition.

What an exciting time we had at the Moss Vale heat of the Sydney Chess Academy interschool competition on Thursday. The big news is that we now have two (yes two!) teams qualify for the regional semi-finals. Ava Sloan, Zevvy Evans, Charlie Coddington and Gustav Fjellstad's scores were counted for the school as they took out the second place trophy for Kiama Public School.

They will now join Harry Hawker, Clancy Sloan, Archie Willetts and Hilton Brown who qualified at the last interschool competition in Wollongong (and who's scores couldn't be used this time). Lewis Hatswell and Seth Goldstein will also be on the way to the finals as each team will have 5 players, and these two have played very well in both competitions. The location and date of the semi-final hasn't been announced yet.

In the individual competition, Clancy Sloan played exceptionally well and took home the second place trophy. Congratulations to all our players. You have represented the school with great distinction.

Photo below: Archie Willetts collects the second place trophy on behalf of Kiama Public.

Photo below: Clancy Sloan receives the second placed individual trophy from the Principal of Moss Vale High School.

Sports report - Week 9

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:12:40 AEST

On Friday 22 June, 2018, Kiama Public School held its Annual Athletics Carnival. As a welcomed change from the previous days, the sun shone beautifully and the winter winds were nowhere to be felt. We were greeted with a warm and sunny winter's day.

All students K-6 attended over the course of the day and participated in a range of events. I would like to begin by thanking all of the staff, community and volunteers who assisted on events, in the canteen, or simply by cheering our students along. We had the pleasure this year of having a fabulous PA at our recording tent, Isla, she was so helpful and always offering her help and keeping Mrs Faulks and myself on track, thankyou Isla!

The event had a wonderful feel, and as always, there were some excellent individual and team performances as well as impeccable behaviour from all.

Congratulations to our champion house DUNSTAN. Our Age Champions positions were all hotly contested. Congratulations to Corey Klusenberg, Chloe Wallace, Jackson Farland, Evie Vaseo, Kolby Guevara and Ashleigh Ellis who are our Age Champions for 2018 and will be presented with their ribbons at next week's assembly.

Below is a list of students (KPS ATHLETICS DISTRICT TEAM) who will be invited to join the KPS team at the Tongarra District Athletics Carnival. This will occur over two days on Tuesday 7 and Wednesday 8 August (Week 3, Term 3) at Croome Road Oval, Albion Park. All information will be forwarded home as soon as it becomes available.

Ribbons for the Athletics Carnival will be handed out next week (week 10) during our 3-6 assembly, Tuesday 3 July from 2:00pm. These will be presented to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each event (refer KPS CARNIVAL RESULTS below). Any Year 2 students (age 8) due to receive a ribbon will receive there's at the K-2 assembly Friday 6 July.

Yours in Sport,

Mrs Payne

KPS CARNIVAL RESULTS (pdf 181 KB)

KPS ATHLETICS DISTRICT TEAM (pdf 166 KB)

Parent survey - Canteen

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:10:00 AEST

We are currently evaluating the school Canteen.

We want to make future decisions regarding our school Canteen based on information and feedback from our school community.

We would like to hear what you, the Parents/Carers think. Your response is confidential.

We ask you complete the survey by Wednesday 4 July.

The survey is available via direct link here: Survey online link

Or you can download and print a hard copy (or collect one from the Front Office).

Parent Survey hard copy (pdf 59 KB)

*Please return hard copies to the Survey drop box at the Front Office.

Remember to provide your email address and child's class details for a chance to win a

$5.00 Canteen voucher.

Thank you for taking the time to complete this Survey - your feedback is appreciated.

*We have a separate Student Survey to gauge their feedback - this will be conducted at school.

It is our intention to survey as many students as possible however, if we don't get to your child and you would like to have their feedback count. Please email the office and we will provide the student link.

Thank you.

Stage 2 steps back in time to the kitchen of 1788

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:13:27 AEST

*See photo gallery for all the fabulous cooking pics!

3/4T and 4QH Report

This week Stage 2 students all cooked damper to experience what it was like to cook and eat at around the time of the First Fleet.

Students mixed their own individual damper and are going to cook and then eat them with butter and Golden Syrup.

When they have finished their damper they are going to write a procedure about how to make Damper.

Perhaps they will remember the recipe and make it at home soon. Be warned though................there is more flour around the damper than in the damper!

3DT and 3PH Report

3DT and 3PH had a fun morning making an Aussie Damper like the pioneers of Australia. Only we had the convenience of an oven and electricity instead of an ‘open fire'.

After it was cooked we enjoyed eating it with butter and Golden Syrup.

2/3G and 4/5E will have their turn at cooking up a storm soon.

Canteen promo - Bring your own cup hot chocolate

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:06:29 AEST

What's nicer on a cold, rainy day?

Tomorrow our Canteen will be serving Hot Chocolate to students (at room temperature) at $1.00 per cup.

This will be served at lunch time after eating.

In an effort to be environmentally friendly, we ask that students bring their own reusable and unbreakable cup.

Thursday 28 June - $1.00

School calender updates - Term 3, Week 2

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:10:40 AEST

*PLEASE NOTE - KT item is Friday 24 August (not 25 August), apologies.

3D printing takes off

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 11:22:43 AEST

We thank Mr Kirk for his vision and for creating an exciting new 3D printing learning lab. Students have marvelled over the printer's capabilities and have challenged themselves in the process.

Be sure to read Ella's report on how she met Mr Corbyn's challenge in designing and printing a new ground peg for our school banner.

New playground launch

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 11:14:51 AEST

Recently we opened our new EcoVenture playground. This exciting new play area was fully funded by our P&C through various fund raising events.

We also thank our local Mens Shed for their work with the timber seating and steps.

KPS Welcome Cringlia Public School

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:08:44 AEST

On Monday our KPS robotics teams were delighted to have the robotics team from Cringila Public school at our school for a combined robotics day.

We all participated in several Core Values activities in the morning. Core Values are very important in First Lego League, and they emphasise aspects like team work, persistence in all areas of our work and being gracious professionals to other teams.

It was wonderful to have the opportunity to share our passion for STEM with students from another school and learn from each other in our unique ways of tackling coding challenges. We had a great time showing our school to the students of Cringila, and working as buddies to program our robots and we look forward to having two more visits with them later on in the year.

Some highlights of the day were introducing students from Cringila to our animals, learning to use sensors to make our programming more accurate, and enjoying delicious cupcakes iced in the school colours of KPS and Cringila Public School.

We would like to thank Lauren and Mrs Payne for organising the day, which will help us be successful as a team this season in First Lego League.

By Matilda 5P

Interrelate 2018 - Wednesday 25 July

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:07:49 AEST

Interrelate - Term 3 Week 1 (Wed 25 July)

Do you have a child in Stage 2 or 3?

We have invited 'Interrelate' to KPS to conduct two informative and helpful sexual education sessions in Term 3.

Session 1: Where did I come from? (Years 3-6)

Session 2: Preparing for Puberty (Years 5 & 6)

*Years 3-4 can attend at Parent's discretion.

See full outline of sessions below.

Parents/Carers are to attend with their children. These programs are beneficial to the whole family.

Book by filling out the BOOKING FORM (pdf 432 KB) as soon as possible so we can confirm numbers.

(Booking form also available via eNews, Newsletter and at the Front Office). Payment to be made with return of the note.

Session 1: Where did I come from? (Years 3-6) Time: 6:00 - 7:00pm

Audience: Year 3 and 4 students and their parents/carers

Sessions: 1 x 60-minute session

Program focus:

Discuss the male and female reproductive systems, foetal development and the birth process
Personal safety and protective behaviours

Note: Older students are encouraged to attend if they have not previously seen this program.

Session 2: Preparing For Puberty Time: 7:15 - 8:15pm

Audience: Year 5 and 6 students and their parents/carers *Years 3-4 can attend at Parent's discretion.

Sessions: 1 x 60-minute session

Program focus:

Discuss the physical changes of puberty, emphasising that it can be different for everyone
Develop students' understanding of periods and sperm production, as well as the physical, emotional, social and intellectual changes associated with puberty for both boys and girls
Enhance awareness of children's personal safety and protective behaviours

Sports report - Week 8

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:12:11 AEST

I'd like to start off with a great example of sportsmanship. Lachie ran in the 800m trial at school, he was out in front for the first lap but unfortunately, he couldn't finish the race due to asthma. When Lachie had to stop, Harvey stopped to help him. This meant that Harvey also did not finish the race. Harvey stayed with Lachie until he was ok and walked back to school with him. It was a very kind and selfless gesture on his part and a truly great example of sportsmanship.

Good luck to our Boys' Soccer team who are competing against Gerringong on Thursday as well as our Boys' and Girls' Touch teams. Please make sure your child has their note to Mr English (Soccer) and Mr Ellsmore and Mrs Mellor (Touch).

Athletics Carnival

We all need to keep our fingers crossed for great weather this Friday! The Years 3-6 schedule is below and the times are only a rough estimate. Regular Lunch orders though our school Canteen are available on the day. Please note that the Junior categories include 8, 9 and 10 year olds.

Weather - Please keep an eye on our school eNews app, school website and 'We love Kiama Public School' Facebook page for cancellations regarding our school Athletics Carnival. The grounds are currently closed but hopefully will be open for Friday.

K-2 will be leaving school at 10:00am and are aiming to arrive at the Quarry fields for 10.20am to start their Athletics activities - see K-2 Carnival information below for further details.

Yours in Sports,

Mrs Payne

K-2 Carnival Information

This Friday 22 June, K-2 will be participating in the KPS morning Athletics Carnival. We are expected to arrive at the fields at approximately 10:20am. Parents/ caregivers are invited to attend all activities.

Ages races will occur at 10:30am followed by a lunch break and then students will participate in a range of rotating fun games and activities!

Students are to bring their lunch, recess, hat, water bottle, jumper and a towel or blanket to sit on. Please make sure all belongings are labelled particularly hats as students will be taking them off during their age races.

Lunch orders are available on the day through our school Canteen as per usual and snacks can be purchased from the canteen located at the fields during lunch.

Please ensure your child is wearing covered shoes and comfortable clothing.

It is encouraged to support their sport house by wearing house colours!

Thank you.

Healthy & waste free lunch boxes

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:07:09 AEST

Two of our Kinder students who clearly have well-balanced and waste-free lunches!

Learning Lunchboxes

Please find below some helpful tiips on providing healthy lunchboxes for your child 4-18 years.

Information taken directly from https://www.learningpotential.gov.au/learning-lunchboxes

A nutritious and balanced diet is important to your child's growth, development and learning. The food that goes in a lunchbox can make up to a third of your child's daily nutrient intake – and eating healthy food will help your child to concentrate during the day at school. Here are some tips so you can make sure your child is getting a healthy learning lunch every day!

1. Lunchbox balance

Try to include something from all five food groups in your child's lunchbox – fruit, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy. Try to make sure your child gets the right portions of each food group in their lunchbox too, for example, a banana (1 serve of fruit), a sandwich (2 serves of grains) with chicken (1 serve of protein) and salad (1 serve of vegetables), and yoghurt (1 serve of dairy). If your child is particularly active or a little bit older, you may also like to include one extra snack. Children often like ‘finger' foods, so try chopping up some veggie sticks (such as carrot, cucumber and snow peas) as a snack for another serve of vegetables!

2. Get them involved

Encourage your child to get involved in packing their lunchbox – older children may be able to prepare their lunch themselves, and younger children can help with simple tasks like making sandwiches or cutting fruit. Ask your child what their favourite lunchbox food options are, and try to include these more often. They may tell you that their friends get chocolate, chips and lollies for lunch – and they want them too! Talk to your child about how eating healthy foods can help them to grow, develop and learn, and that they will have more energy when they eat well. Let them know that ‘sometimes' food like chips and lollies are ok for special occasions, but it can make you unhealthy to have them every day.

3. Healthy swaps

Try to avoid packaged foods like muesli bars and chips – these are high in sugar, fat and salt, so are best saved for special occasions. Swap ‘sometimes' foods for a healthy alternative – instead of muesli bars or dried fruit snacks, try to pack fresh fruit (it has less sugar and more fibre). Instead of processed meats such as ham and salami, try to include lean protein, like tuna, chicken or eggs. Instead of chips, try packing some crackers and dip or plain popcorn. Try swapping sweet treats like biscuits and cakes for fruit yoghurt or wholemeal muffins. Instead of white bread, try to include a wholegrain or high fibre alternatives– there are lots of different options available such as fortified white, high fibre, multigrain or wholemeal.

4. Water works!

Water is the best drink to give your child to keep them going throughout the day. Fruit juices, fizzy drinks and cordial are normally high in sugar, so are also best saved for special occasions.

5. Mix it up

Variety is important – if you give your child the same thing in their lunchbox every day, they'll likely get sick of it before too long! So try to mix it up a bit – perhaps one day they could have leftover noodles or spaghetti instead of a sandwich, or they might prefer some fresh berries instead of an apple.

Multicultural perspectives public speaking competition

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:09:29 AEST

Last week students from Stage 2 and 3 represented their classes in the respective Stage 2 and 3 Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Stage Competition.

The quality of the speeches was outstanding!

From this amazing group of Kiama students, two were chosen from each Stage to go on and represent KPS at the local final held at Jamberoo Public School:

Stage 3 - Charlotte Facer (winner) and Scarlett Hill (highly commended)

Stage 2 - Malika Clarke (winner) and Talina Mion (highly commended)

Our students competed exceptionally well at the local school final, with Scarlett Hill in Year 6 and Talina Mion in Year 4 both awarded 'Highly Commended'.

Congratulations to all the students from KPS who attended.

We are all so proud of you!

Sports report - Week 7

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:11:40 AEST

Congratulations to our top 3 placegetters in our District Cross Country Carnival.

We all need to keep our fingers crossed for great weather next Friday! We will be running our Athletics Carnival on Friday 22 June 2018 (week 8) at the Quarry Fields.

The 3-6 schedule is below and the times are only a rough estimate. Lunch orders are available on the day but please mark on the order that your child is at the Athletics Carnival. Please note that the Junior categories includes 8, 9 and 10 year olds.

K-2 will be leaving school at 10:00am on and are aiming to arrive at the Quarry fields at 10:20am to start their Athletics activities.

Yours in sports,

Mrs Payne

Sports report - Week 6

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:11:10 AEST

Well done to all our runners who competed in the Regional Cross Country on Friday. Our kids ran well and achieved some great results on a particularly hard course. We were lucky enough to have a little bit of sunshine to break through the icy cold winds. The behaviour of our kids was fabulous and they definitely let their deeds shine!

Good Luck to Harry Hawker, who is off to compete with the South Coast hockey team in western Sydney over 3 days. The South Coast team will compete against 12 other teams from across NSW.

A reminder that we have our Athletics Carnival fast approaching (Friday 22 June) and we have started qualifiers for these events. We look forward to a fun day and fingers crossed we have the weather on our side.

Yours in sports,

Mrs Payne

Sports report - Week 5

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:21:37 AEST

A huge congratulations to Abbey Holland, who has made the South Coast representative touch football team this year. Well done to Liam Wonson, Koffi Brookfield and Evie Vaseo for representing our school and the Tongarra District on the day.

On the 28 May, both the Boys' and Girls' soccer teams travelled to Gerringong to verse Gerringong Public School in the PSSA State Knockout Competition. The boys had a fantastic game, with Spencer Bailey scoring three goals and Harvey Webster scoring one in the closing stages of the game. The final score was 4-0 and the boys now progress to Round Three of the competition. The girls showed courageous efforts and displayed a great level of defence and team work for the entire game. They were unfortunate to go down 3-0. Well done girls on a fantastic effort and representing your school with pride. We wish the Boys' team the best of luck in Round Three! A huge thankyou to Mr English and Miss Kelly for coaching our teams.

A reminder that we have 11 students participating in the Regional Cross Country this Friday 1 June at Willandra. All students will need to have their signed note with them on the day and a Tongarra shirt. The Tongarra shirts are available to purchase from Mrs Payne in her classroom or this Friday at the Carnival.

In out of school sports news, Jack Nunn has qualified to participate in the NSW State title race being held at Port Macquarie during the June long weekend. Jack will be competing in the 7-9 years 65cc race.If Jack finishes within the first six positions at the NSW State Title race, he will be representing New South Wales at the Australian National Titles Race in Tasmania. Well done Jack and we wish you all the very best of luck.

Yours in sports,

Mrs Payne

Thank you Kiama Council

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:22:03 AEST

This week we received great news that our school has been announced as a recipient of the Kiama Municipal Council Community Garden Grants Scheme.

This Grant will allow us to continue investing in our garden, and begin funding the initial stages of a boardwalk through our rainforest adjacent to our nature playground.

I thank our local Council, and the members of our staff and community who came together to provide this amazing opportunity for our school.

Kieren Corbyn

Relieving Principal

Sports report - Week 3

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:21:10 AEST

We were lucky enough to have the sunny weather continue last week for our netball girls and the 75 children that headed off to the Rugby League Gala day. All our teams played well and again the behaviour of our children was fabulous. It was great to see the sportsmanship that our KPS kids showed throughout the entire day.

An extra special thankyou to all the parents that got our children there and took on the responsibility of a team. Mrs Faulks enjoyed looking after our League Tag girls while Mr English helped our Stage 2 boys come equal second in their pool. A huge thankyou to Matt O'Brien who coordinated the whole day and ensured it all ran smoothly and the kids had a fantastic day.

Yours in sports,

Mrs Payne

Sports report - Week 2

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:20:42 AEST

Congratulations to all district cross country runners. Not only did we have amazing weather to host the Tongarra district but fabulous results from our school. Congratulations to the following:

8/9 year races

Max Laird 2^nd

Archie Shelley 7^th

Josie Cunningham 5^th

10 year races

Max Allen 4^th

Aiden Gibson 8^th

Ashleigh Ellis 1^st

11 year races

Ella Koenig 4^th

Jackson Farland 2^nd

Joshua Bender 3^rd

Finn Cunningham 6^th

Zane Finley 8^th

12/13 year races

Liam Wonson 4^th

Joel Mion 8^th

Laura Ellis 1^st

Chloe Wallace 2^nd

Amber Kondrackas 4^th

It was a great day and the behaviour from our kids was impeccable. We have 11 students heading off to the Regional Cross Country in June. Please see me if you need to buy a Tongarra shirt for $30.

Fingers crossed for the sunny weather to continue for the Stage 3 girls heading off to Shoalhaven Netball gala day on today and for the Stage 2 and 3 boys and girls heading to Croome Road for League and League Tag tomorrow. Good luck to our netballers and footballers. Congratulations to Jackson Farland, Rico Ross, Sam Brown and Carter Allen on making it to the next level in the Rugby Union trials.

Yours in sports,

Mrs Payne

Book sale - 10c each!

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:19:16 AEST

Want to get your hands on some books that are no longer required by our Library?

Old home readers, and various library books will be available for sale to students THIS THURSDAY & FRIDAY.

JUST 10 CENTS EACH!!

Sale will take place at lunchtime (after eating) in the Library on both Thursday and Friday this week.

Students - bring your money and a carry bag :o)

All proceeds will go to a charity selected by our SRC.

Sport report - Week 1

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:20:09 AEST

Congratulations DUNSTAN on winning the School Cross Country Carnival!!

Our records show this is the first sports Carnival they have one in over 5 years.

Welcome to our new Sports Coordinators who are relieving Mr Corbyn. We are sure that Mrs Payne and Miss Graham will do a wonderful job. We will have a detailed report next week from the District Cross Country. KPS are hosting this year's Tongarra District event, therefore it will be held at our local Leisure Centre Fields.

REMINDERS:

School Cross County ribbons will be distributed at next Tuesday's assembly at 2:00pm prior to 6CA's class item.

Notes are due back for the Rugby League Gala day to be held on Thursday 10 May and the Netball Schools Cup Gala Day to be held on Wednesday 9 May.

Chess Tournament success

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:53:30 AEST

The KPS Chess Club had a great day on Wednesday at the Academy of Chess Tournament at Edmund Rice College. The school was represented by 17 wonderful players who played with great sportsmanship and skill in each of their 7 games.

KPS collected a Trophy, coming third in the Primary Schools division. Our team scored 18.5 points and ended only 1 point behind the team that took out the competition. Great results came from Clancy Sloan (5 wins from 7 games and an individual trophy for 5^th place overall), Harry Hawker (4.5), Hilton Brown (4.5) and Archie Willetts (also 4.5 points).

Many other players in the team scored 3.5 or 4 points out of a possible 7, so it was a very strong team effort. The students are keen for the next events which will include the NSW Junior Chess League South Coast tournament (date to be advised) and another whole day Interschool Chess Challenge on Thursday 28 June. Well done to the whole team and congratulations on a great result!

Andrew Sloan

Supervising Parent/Manager

Happy holidays

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:23:34 AEST

Sports report - Week 11

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:22:35 AEST

Congratulations to Ryan Park from Year 5 who competed at the NSW Judo Championship on the 7-8 April. Ryan came third in the State for his weight category which is a tremendous achievement. Ryan will be trying out for the NSW Judo Squad in May with the hopes of representing NSW at the Australian Championships in Queensland in June. Congratulations and good luck Ryan!

Last Friday we ran our school Cross Country Carnival with students from Year 2 to Year 6 competing in the event. It was fantastic to see so many families at the event supporting our students. The course provides good variety for the runners due to the long flats and short but steep hilly sections. Students were well prepared for this year's Carnival due to several weeks of practise in the lead up. This year Kiama has the advantage at the District Carnival as we will be hosting the event. Below is a list of the top 8 finishers in each event who will represent our school at the District Carnival on Monday Week 2, Term 2. Ribbons for the top three finishers in each age group of our school Carnival and announcement of the winning House will be presented at the 3-6 assembly in Week 2 next term.

TOP 8 PLACE GETTERS (pdf 104 KB)

Sports report - Week 10

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:23:04 AEST

Congratulations to Macauley Petterson for successful selection in the Southern Illawarra Zone 11s Rugby League team. Congratulations also to Lachlan Martin and Harry Hawker for their successful selection into the South Coast teams for AFL and Hockey respectively.

We also wish our Senior Boys' relay team who proceed to the NSW PSSA Swimming Carnival next week to represent KPS, Tongarra and the South Coast the best of luck. We look forward to hearing about their experience.

Best of luck also to our school netball team who today challenge Minnamurra in the NSW State Knockout.

At the end of this week we will turn our energies to our school Cross Country Carnival, which always promises to be an entertaining and tightly contested event. Please see Mr Ellsmore's entry in this week's Newsletter for more information, but we look forward to seeing you there.

Yours in sports,

Mr Corbyn

Happy Easter and safe holidays!

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:30:43 AEST

Wishing our families a safe and wonderful Easter break!

See you all back next week on Tuesday 3 March.

Reminders for next week:

Monday - StEPS vision testing from 9:30am (for Kinder students who have booked).

Wednesday - Netball knockout 1:00pm (go girls!)

Friday - 12:00pm Cross Country Carnival (Years 2-6)

Sports report - Week 9

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:34:00 AEST

I would like to congratulate a number of students for their selection into various team sports over the past week. Well done to Lachlan Martin who was successful in making the South Coast Regional AFL side. Congratulations also to Liam Wonson, Abbey Holland, Koffi Brookfield and Evie Vaseo for making the Tongarra District Touch sides, to Alexia McEvoy for her selection into the Tongarra District Netball Team and Harry Hawker who was successful in his trial for the South Coast Hockey team.

All students have been practising their cross country skills in anticipation for our School Cross Country events. The Primary competitive Carnival will be held at the Leisure Centre on Friday Week 10, with a backup Thursday Week 11. All students in Years 2-6 will participate in this event. The District event is being hosted by our school this year, and as such, will be held at the Leisure Centre on Monday Week 2 Term 2, with a backup date on Friday in the same week.

Unfortunately last week, the League Legends Gala day was cancelled for the fourth consecutive date carried over from 2017. A new date has been set for Thursday Week 2 Term 2, so fingers crossed it's fifth time lucky for the organisers and competitors!

Yours in sports,

Mr Corbyn

Sports report - Week 8

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:33:35 AEST

What a busy few weeks it has been for sport! I would like to start by recognising all students who participated in last week's Regional Swimming Carnival at Dapto. We had 12 students attend which is a very strong contingent. Big congratulations to our Senior Boys' relay team who finished second in the South Coast region. This means they progress to the NSW State Carnival to not only represent the South Coast, but also KPS. We wish them the best of luck and look forward to hearing of their experience. The team consists of Joel Mion, Nic Fuller, Harry Britten and Joshua Bender.

Congratulations also to Spencer Bailey for his recent selection into the Southern Illawarra Zone Soccer squad, to Harry Hawker for his selection into the combined Illawarra Zone Hockey squad, and to Jackson Farland, Joshua Bender, Liam Wonson, and Macauley Petterson for their selection into their respective age Southern Illawarra Zone Rugby League teams.

At a school level, this week we finish up AFL for another year. It has been a great program once again with overall skill development and enjoyment at its cause. We also have the NRL League Legends' Gala Day coming up this week (update: due to weather, this has now been postponed to Thursday 10 May), and a number of Netball games.

As a school we now turn our focus to conditioning in anticipation of the school Cross Country Carnival to be held at the Leisure Centre on Friday Week 10.

Yours in Sport,

Kieren Corbyn.

National day of action against bullying and violence

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:31:20 AEST

On Friday 16 March, several of our staff members participated in a fundraising initiative with One Fitness 24/7 & The Sebel Harbourside, Kiama

Early in the day, the Captains visited the local gym and as part of the media and awareness talks. Several of our staff then took turns later in the day as part of their 12 hour Treadmill Marathon. We thoroughly enjoyed the run!

Thank you to those families and colleagues who donated money to the cause - your kindness and contribution has helped raise important funds for HEADSPACE (The National Youth Mental Health Foundation).

Let's hope that this creates greater awareness and support towards Suicide Prevention amongst our youth.

National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) online testing

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:33:10 AEST

As Mr Honeywood reported earlier this year, KPS has been selected to participate in the first year of online testing for NAPLAN. There are many advantages to this process, and once again we are proud to be at the forefront of technological innovation. A quick Google search will provide a wealth of information on the test and its processes, plus an extensive FAQs section. Tailored testing is superior in many ways to traditional pen and paper.

Our Year 3's will still be completing their writing paper in hard format, but all other tests will be completed online in our Library. The real NAPLAN dates are in Weeks 2 and 3, Term 2 (15 May - 25 May), but next week we are taking part in a Coordinated Practice Test. As its name suggests, it is not a real assessment and data is not being used for assessment of students. The purpose of the coordinated practice is to make sure we have all the correct processes in place to support the testing here at KPS.

Each student in Years 3 and 5 will be logging onto the NAPLAN platform next week on either Tuesday or Wednesday in the Library to complete a 45 minute 'OMNIBUS' test which has small components of each test paper except Writing over 45 minutes. This process will be excellent preparation for the real exams. If possible, we ask students to bring along their own personal headphones to plug into the computer on their allocated testing days.

As always, we place no additional stress on students and treat it just as we would any other day at school when NAPLAN is occurring. We don't make a big deal of it at school, and encourage the same from home.

If you have any questions surrounding NAPLAN, jump online and check in with Google, beyond that please feel free to contact the school to field any further concerns.

Kieren Corbyn

Sports report - Week 6

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:32:34 AEST

Sport continues to keep us all very busy at KPS! Mrs Payne reports that the morning NRL sessions have been a big success. We have also held a number of in school trials and Mrs Blanch, Mr Boyd, Mr English and Miss Kelly all report good attendance, resilience and sportsmanship at our in school trials. The weather has made things a little difficult of late, but we soldier on. We are currently in the process of selecting our school touch, netball, cricket and soccer teams. Mr English and Miss Kelly recently posted the successful students from their soccer trials on the school notice board, so I encourage all students to check this.

Congratulations to Spencer Bailey who was successful in making the Tongarra District Soccer Team. Congratulations to Nate Graham, Macauley Petterson, and Lachlan Martin who were successful in making the Tongarra District basketball side. Congratulations also to Lachlan Martin, Jackson Stewart and Max Shelley who were selected in the Southern Illawarra Zone AFL side. Kiama continues to have strong representation in PSSA selection processes.

Next Wednesday 14 March, we wish all students the best of luck who are attending the South Coast Regional Swimming Carnival. Despite us being lucky enough to have the carnival hosted locally in Dapto, students attending, stretch from Canberra, to Goulburn, to Stanwell Park. We have 12 KPS students in a district team of 45 from 11 schools, which is a very strong contingent. We are proud of our swimmers' efforts this year and wish them well on Friday. We look forward to a report. Swimmers must wear a Tongarra Cap on Friday. They will be available for purchase for $5 from the Tongarra PSSA tent on the day.

Yours in Sport,

Mr Corbyn

A very big thank you

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:32:07 AEST

How wonderful - a special day to say 'thank you' for all that you do!

KPS would like to extend thanks to all our amazing, dedicated and passionate P&C Executive and members (both past and present), for the extraordinary work you have done and keep on doing to not only make our school a better place but to keep growing from strength to strength.

Fund raising, Quad beautifying, new playground building, event throwing, resource buying, Canteen running, financial support providing, idea giving and listening, clothing pool and special day stall running, visiting educational performance organising, time giving... the list goes on...

AND ON!!!

To all our volunteers,

Sports report - Week 5

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:29:57 AEST

We have had yet another busy week of sport at Kiama PS, but I am very proud to announce the strong successes of our school team at the recent Tongarra Swimming Carnival. It is the strongest team performance I can recall in my time at KPS in swimming. To begin with, we won the overall team score. This makes Kiama PS the district swimming champions for 2018! We drew in first place on 112 points with Oak Flats PS. This year we also had two of our four relay teams finish first and progress to Regionals in the Senior Boys and Junior Girls' teams. Our remaining two relay teams in the Junior Boys and Senior Girls also placed, both finishing third. Overall we also had many strong individual results, and we have twelve students progressing to the Regional Carnival to represent the Tongarra District and KPS on Wednesday 14 March, at Dapto Olympic Pool.

Congratulations Joel Mion, Monique Brown, Zane Ward, Breanna Webster, Max Laird, Onika Green, Nic Fuller, Ashleigh Ellis, Sienna Smith, Malika Clarke, Harry Britten and Josh Bender who qualified for Regionals.

Generally, the first two placegetters in each of the timed finals proceed to Regionals, with the exception of the individual medley events, where only the 9 fastest across the region seed into the event. Please find attached below, a full list of individual results from the District Carnival. Ribbons will be handed out at the Week 6 primary assembly from 2pm on Wednesday 7 March (date change due to School Photo Day). Many thanks to Miss Graham and all community and parent volunteers who combined to make the day a big success for Kiama PS.

In other sporting news, soccer, netball and touch trials are all occurring over the coming week for both our school teams in the State Knockout and for the opportunity to proceed to District trial for our strongest competitors. Our first State Knockout match in cricket will occur on March 9 (weather permitting) against Gerringong PS. Best of luck to all teams and triallers.

Yours in sports,

Mr Corbyn

District Swimming Results (pdf 129 KB)

Sports report - Week 4

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:29:27 AEST

Sport is now in full swing for 2018. On Monday afternoon the Tongarra AFL trials were held. Congratulations to Jackson Stewart, Jed Lawrence, Luke Cockroft and Max Shelley who will now progress to the Southern Illawarra Zone Trials in Nowra on Wednesday. Well done also to all students who trialled for the Tongarra Cricket squads. Unfortunately none of our students were selected, but the convener was very impressed with the overall standard. In the coming weeks we have district basketball, netball and soccer trials occurring, so students need to make sure they are listening during assemblies and messages to receive the correct information regarding trial times. The NSW state knockout begins soon, which will also provide many opportunities in sport for children to be selected in school squads. NSW Rugby League are also organising a before school program for KPS students to keep an eye out for, and the Rugby Legends Gala Day will also be coming up in the next few months.

On Friday our district swimming team will be competing at the Tongarra Annual Swimming Carnival at Albion Park. Information has been sent home to the team. Please organise transport and return all permission slips, including the permission to publish forms as soon as possible. Ribbons from our school carnival will be handed out the day before this event on Thursday. Parents are welcome to attend this ceremony from 2pm in the school hall.

This week we cemented the date for our school Cross Country Carnival. It will occur on Friday April 6, with a back up on Thursday April 12. This year KPS is reponsible for hosting the Tongarra Cross Country Carnival as well. The dates for this event are tentatively set at Monday May 7, with a backup on Friday May 11. Both events will be held at the Kiama Leisure Centre Fields.

Yours in Sport,

Mr Corbyn

Sports report - Week 3

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:25:53 AEST

PSSA Representative Trials

During Term 1, senior students in Years 5 and 6 are invited to trial for Tongarra Representative Sports teams. Students in Year 4 who are playing their particular sport outside of school may also be considered. These teams exist in AFL, Basketball, Cricket, Hockey, Touch, Soccer, League, Union, Netball, Softball, Golf and Tennis. We generally hold an in school trial in order to select our school representatives to attend the Tongarra District Trial. If students want to be considered for this process, it is essential that they reply to the email sent to them by Mr Corbyn during Week 1. Any questions regarding PSSA sport can be directed through Mr Corbyn or Mr Ellsmore.

Swimming Carnival

On Friday February 9, Kiama Public School held its annual swimming carnival. Over 200 primary students attended the Leisure Centre to compete in an event and earn points for their houses. As always, the emphasis for the day was on participating in physical activity, having fun, and having a go. It was wonderful to see the pool so full of energetic students displaying our values and giving their best. There were some outstanding performances on the day. I would like to thank all staff for their efforts, and I would also like to extend a very big thank you to the parents and members of the community who volunteered their time on the day to assist with timing lanes, judging places, marshalling children and generally helping out. The day had a wonderful community feel and was enjoyable for all. Owing to a visiting performance, our assembly to present ribbons has been moved from Tuesday Week 4, to Thursday Week 4 (22/2) at 2pm and parents are welcome to attend.

The results (see attachment below), as always were interesting this year with many students sharing a time in the winning circle. We will be taking a team of 43 students to the Tongarra District Event on Friday 23 February, at Albion Park Pool. More information will come home with children soon. Generally, the first two placegetters in the timed finals qualify, with three progressing in the 50m freestyle events. It is important to note qualifications for the individual medley and 100m freestyle events depend on times across the district, and this information will only become available in the days leading up to the event.

Congratulations to our champion house Kendall. As is often the case, it is the participation that gets the winning team across the line. This year Kendall and Bass scored the same competition points, but it was the participation that secured the win. It is a wonderful testament to our school philosophies of having a go and being resilient. Congratulations also to our age champions Joel Mion, Charlotte Facer, Jake Farnworth, Airlie Green, Archie Shelley and Malika Clarke. Please see later in the newsletter for a full list of results and the pending district team.

Yours in Sports,

Mr Corbyn.

Swimming Carnival Results (pdf 307 KB)

Sports report - Week 1

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:24:49 AEST

Sports Report Week One

Welcome back to Term 1. It is without doubt our busiest for Sport. In Term 1 we have our swimming and cross country carnivals, and their subsequent district and regional events not too far afterwards. We also start PSSA representative trials, and we are involved in a number of competitions involving our school teams across many sports. It is important that all students are actively listening at school assemblies and checking notice boards and newsletters, as it remains their responsibility to ensure they attend appropriate trials etc.

PSSA Representative Trials

ANNUAL SWIMMING CARNIVAL – Friday 9 February 2018

Our annual swimming carnival will be held on Friday 9 February at the Kiama Leisure Centre. All students in Years 3 – 6 are invited and encouraged to participate. Year Two students can only participate if they turn 8 this year. We recommend that participating Year 2 students should also be particularly competitive swimmers or involved in a training squad. This is because the majority of events for junior swimmers combine the 8, 9 and 10 year olds into one division. The only age specific race is the 50m Freestyle.

All races are timed finals. This will bring us into line with District, Regional and State carnivals.

We are asking for all interested children to nominate their races on the permission/entry form sent home during Week 1 and we ask parents to check their child's nomination to ensure that he or she can swim the distance and the event they have nominated. Parents please sign and return the entry with $4.00 to cover entry and cleaning fee by Wednesday 1 February. (The Leisure Centre does not reduce its costs to its members for swimming carnivals.)

Our carnival will be starting at 9:45am and parents are welcome to attend from this time. Participants will be walked from school to the Leisure Centre by teachers. Students will need to bring swimmers, towel, goggles, lunch etc. Our school canteen will be operating and lunches will be delivered to the pool. Please mark ‘Swimming Carnival' on your lunch bag. Canteen facilities are also available to the children at the Leisure Centre for drinks and snacks. Supervision will be provided at school for non-competing students. Due to NSWDEC strict guidelines there will be no free swim.

Students are encouraged to dress in their house colours: Flinders-Red, Bass-Green, Dunstan-Yellow, Kendall-Blue.

Unless signed out by a parent or guardian, all children will return to school with staff to take regular avenues home.

Timetable: Many parents request a timetable of events. It is not possible for us to do this, but we can provide the run order. We have over 35 events with up to 5 heats in each, and the number of heats changes each year, thus affecting timing. In 2017, we had a lunch break at approximately 12.20pm, which signified the start of the freestyle events, and is about half way through the event schedule.

CARNIVAL RUN ORDER (pdf 55 KB)

Yours in Sport,

Kieren Corbyn (Sports Coordinator)

Merry Christmas from all at Kiama Public School

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 13:24:21 AEST

Thank you for a wonderful 2017.

We wish all KPS families an enjoyable and safe festive season.

We look forward to a fantastic 2018!

First day back for students (Years 1-6) is Tuesday 30 January, 2018.

*Students, please go to your classroom from last year to start the morning please.

*Kindergarten students will be attending their Best Start assessment Tuesday/Wednesday (refer your appointment time) and will start school on Thursday 1 February.