News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:06:20 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 13:29:56 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 16:51:25 AEDT

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

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

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

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

Travel health

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

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

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:16:03 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 16:04:01 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 13:38:22 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 11:24:51 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 11:45:16 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 14:10:01 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 11:40:17 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 12:25:52 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 15:18:45 AEST

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

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

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

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:12:07 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

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

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

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

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:22:29 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 13:31:42 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 15:02:33 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

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:25:58 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.

Google CS Educator Award

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:07 AEST

In the lead up to the 2018 Primary STEM Expo, Tahmoor Public School has been awarded one of the first Google Computer Science Educator awards in Australia. The award supports teacher professional development and is provided on a merit basis to schools who have established a relationship with a STEM professional development provider. The joint award between TPS and Dr Marc Noakes from Accent on Achievement contributes to the continued success and development of the Primary STEM Hub initiative.

This year TPS will host more than 70 schools from the NSW Central Coast to Wagga Wagga at the Primary STEM Expo, which is an outreach component of the P-STEM Hub. More than 700 teachers and students will participate in a range of workshops that are being run by 25 partner organisations. We hope that the Expo inspires other schools to adopt a similar approach to teaching and learning Primary STEM.

As part of the award, Dr Noakes has been invited to attend the 2018 Google Computer Science Outreach Partner Summit, which brings together top CS partners across Australia and New Zealand for two days of collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Students perform at Sydney Opera House

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

On Monday 21st of May, 8 students performed together with over 1000 other students as part of the NSW Public Schools Festival of Instrumental Music at the Sydney Opera House.

This annual event is a highlight of our musical calendar and provides a special opportunity for selected students to gain a lifetime experience performing at an iconic venue.

A special thank you to Melissa Reyder, who has tutored the senior recorder ensemble and was able to perform with them last night in front of a sellout audience. Well done everyone.

School Holidays

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our whole school community for their support and friendship during Term 1.

Term 1 has been very busy and our students have quickly settled into outstanding work routines. Thank you to Ms Carman and Ms Lever for coordinating and running our first set of Data Days. These days were immensely successful and provided teachers with invaluable data regarding the learning needs of their students.

Thank you to our dedicated team of Sports coordinators who have successfully coordinated our Swimming and Cross Country carnivals. Next term we will have a strong team of runners representing our school at the Razorback District carnival.

Thank you to our Easter Hat parade coordinators who again exhibited outstanding organisation skills. It was a great day and again, well supported by our school community.

Our preschool transition program has again commenced with our school communicating with all of our local preschools. In March we had our first preschool visit to the school and our Tahmoor Tots program has started. Numbers are filling up very quickly with 2 sessions already full, there are now only limited spaces available for the third and final session.

Have a great and restorative break!

School resumes for Term 2 on Tuesday 1st May for all students K - 6

David Schofield - Principal

2018 Primary STEM Expo

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:07 AEST

Tuesday June 26 from 9:30 am

Planetarium shows, Frog ID, 3D printing, Wind turbine construction, Catapults, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Coding, Robotics, Engineering challenges, Science Experiments

Preschool to High School

Free tickets through Eventbright.

The 2018 Primary STEM Expo is an event of regional significance for students and teachers in preschool, primary school and high school. The Expo aims to engage teachers, students and parents in all aspects of STEM teaching and learning through hands-on workshops, challenges and displays provided by the following partner organisations;

Australian Museum
National Botanic Gardens
National Maritime Museum
University of Adelaide
University of Auckland
Wollongong Science Space
Wooglemai Environmental Education Centre
Macarthur Astronomy Society
Code Camp
Makers Empire
Me3D
WIRES
Refraction Media
Picton High School
CleverPatch
Accent on Achievement
Solar Buddy
Horsley Park Public School
Devika Learning
Rosemeadow Public School
GATEWAYS Gifted and Talented Education
Australian Information Industry Association

There are currently more than 165 teachers and students registered from more than 45 schools ranging between the NSW Central Coast and Wagga Wagga.

Please join us in celebrating STEM Education by registering for your free tickets at Eventbright.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:08 AEST

Thank you again to all our families in the Tahmoor School Community. We appreciate everyone who is involved to make our school what it is.

We have had another successful term by celebrating our 100 years of quality education. We hope you all have a fun and safe holiday and you come back for another fantastic term.

School for all students will resume on Monday 9th October 2017.

DONT FORGET SWIMMING SCHEME WILL START MONDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2017.

CENTENARY DINNER / DANCE

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:07 AEST

HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAY

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:08 AEST

Thank you to all our families in the Tahmoor School community. We have had a fantastic term and have achieved many outstanding accomplishments.

Our students continue to make huge strides forward both academically and socially. have a great holiday and we look forward to seeing you back for a productive term 3.

School for all students will resume on Tuesday 18th July 2017.

Merry Christmas

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

Thank you for a wonderful 2016. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everybody a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I appreciate the whole hearted support our community provides on a daily basis to our school.

The Uniform Shop will be open on the following days:

Friday 13th January 2017 - (3.30 - 5.30)
Friday 20th January 2017 - (3.30 - 5.30)
Wednesday 25th January 2017 - (8.30 - 5.30)
Friday 27th January 2017 - (8.30 - 5.30)

School resumes for students 1 - 6 on 30th January 2017

Kindergarten Best Start testing will commence on 30 January and run throughout the work. Parents would have received a letter with a Best Start testing date. If you have not received a testing time and you have a new Kindergarten child starting school, please contact our front office on the 30th January.

David Schofield - principal

School Resumes Term 3 for all students

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

Thank you to our wonderful school community for all your support during Term 2. There have been many outstanding events including the Science Expo, "The Night of Notables", tremendous support for the Parent Teacher Evening just to name a few.

Our literacy and numeracy results are outstanding and have been carefully monitored across the term.

Our Kindergarten Orientation process for Kinders starting in 2017 has started and we have had a tremendous response. This program will continue in Term 3 and 4.

Have a safe holiday and we look forward to seeing you all back in Term 3 where there are many exciting programs planned.

School resumes for all students on Tuesday 19th July .

Wollondilly Primary STEM Expo

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

Tahmoor Public School welcomes all visitors to the Wollondilly Primary STEM Expo on the 23rd of June.

This significant event will involve primary schools and preschool from around the region. The Expo will feature;

a series of hands-on teacher workshops
hands-on student challenge workshops (run by students)
student STEM project poster competition
STEM trade display
Wollongong University's Science Centre Mobile Planetarium

The Expo is the first of its kind in Sydney and is a registered National Science Week Event.

Parents, students and other visitors are welcome to come along and see what's happening throughout the day between 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. Entry is free!

Gymtastics

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:08 AEST

Gymtastics has started again for the children at Tahmoor. They are enjoying professional coaching each fortnight and enjoying learning the PDH/PE curriculum in a fun way!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

I would like to take this opportunity to wish the whole Tahmoor school community a very happy Christmas and a fruitful new year.

School resumes for students in year 1-6 on Thursday 28th January.

Kindergarten students will complete Best Start testing in the first week and all Kindergartens will commence school on Wednesday 3rd February.

Safe and Happy Holiday

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

I would like to take this opportunity to wish our whole school community a safe and happy vacation. We have all worked extremely hard during the term and look forward to recharging the batteries in readiness for an action packed Term 4.

Please note school resumes for both students and staff on Tuesday 6th October 2015.

School Vacation - June 2015.

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

I would like to take this opportunity to wish our whole school community a safe happy holiday. Thank you for your outstanding support of the many school initiatives that have occurred at Tahmoor Public School during Term 2.

I can promise you there are many exciting projects in which our school will embark on in next term. Please rest assured these projects will complement our core business principles of providing quality education in a safe and engaging environment.

We look forward to seeing back in Term 3. Please note students return on Tuesday 14th July.

Regards

David Schofield

Principal Tahmoor Public School

Literacy success at Tahmoor Public School

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:08 AEST

2015 has continued to see a fantastic improvement in Literacy skills across the grades K - 6. The Early Stage One team (Kindergarten) are excelling with all students moving along the Literacy continuum. Kindergarten teachers have embarked on their second year of L3 training and this training is reaping immediate benefits with our Kinders acquiring early success in Literacy and more importantly being fully engaged leaners.

Our Stage One team (Year 1 and 2) are currently receiving their initial stage of L3 training. Our Assistant Principal, Ms Carman, is leading the training of not just our school but also teachers from three other schools.This is very important for our school as all of our teachers K - 2 are receiving systematic and explicit training in L3. Preliminary results arising from our Year 1 and 2 classes are outstanding and I look forward to observing further growth.

Stage 2 and 3 have received intensive training in Focus On Reading and strategies from FoR are used in daily Literacy sessions. All students are cyclically assessed every 5 weeks and mapped against the Literacy continuum. Results have demonstrated outstanding progress in all areas of Literacy.

Rugby League success at Tahmoor

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

The sport of Rugby League is being nurtured and developed at Tahmoor Public School. We have participated in several competitions and see this sport as being a prominent part of our overall Sport and Fitness program. I have outlined some of the competitions we have participated in this year:

On Thursday the 21^st May our school participated in the Razorback Rugby league Gala Day at Kirkham Park, Camden. The weather was bright and sunny and the day turned out to be a great success. We had a under 10's boys team, an under 12's boys team and a senior girls team. For a lot of players this was their first time representing Tahmoor Public School in Rugby League and I'm proud to say all our teams played really well and won most of their matches.

The Junior boys won two games, beating Currans Hill 18-12 and Oakdale 18-12. They narrowly lost their other game against Warragamba 8-10. Overall, they came equal first in their pool but lost out on a points difference of only2! This was the first time most of the boys have represented Tahmoor in Rugby League and I'm proud of all of them.

The senior boys had a fantastic day. They won their first 3 games, beating Oakdale 16-6, St Pauls 10-8 and Warragamba 6-0. They lost their final game 0-10 to Currans Hill but played hard right until the final whistle. They also came equal first in their pool, losing only on point's difference.

Our girls' team had two games; they won their first game against Thirlmere 36-12 and played superbly. Their second game against St Pauls was called off midway due to an injury. Thank you to Mr Jacobs for volunteering to coach the girl's team. In only three weeks of training, the girls have improved enormously.

All the players had a great day, learning new skills and challenging themselves. The behaviour of the player's was fantastic and the spirit with which they played was great to see. The organisers commented on the great manner in which all student's represented our school.

A big thank you to my assistant coach Guy McPherson, for all his hard work and dedication with coaching our teams. Thank you to all the parents who came and supported our school. It makes a big difference to have you all there cheering on our players.

On Thursday 4th June Tahmoor Public School entered 3 teams in the Southern/Wollondilly All Schools carnival.

All teams played superbly with special mention to our Girls team who were undefeated on the day. Our Senior Boys also made the semi finals.

Congratulations to Mr Matthew Smith who coordinated our Rugby League program in 2015.

Science @ Tahmoor Public School

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

This year Tahmoor Public School implemented the National Science Curriculum whereby students from K-6 are engaged in hands-on scientific inquiry on a weekly basis. The science program is lead by mentor Dr Marc Noakes. Dr Noakes has supported the development of a new science scope and sequence as well as a new science program for the school, which is underpinned by a research-based model of inquiry learning. Dr Noakes also coordinates extracurriculuar science initiatives including the weekly STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and maths) Club, preschool Science Experience Visits, Science Focus Day and Science Fair. Staff continue to develop new science units that include hands-on investigations and provide opporunities for students to improve their scienctific literacy by incorporating local events and places as well as everyday applications of science.

This year the 5/6 Opportunity Class and 4/5 Enrichment Class have conducted a collaborative Biodiversity Project. The project aimed to compare bird species in a built environment versus a natural environment. The study area, along the creek behind the school, provided a very unique opportunity to record biodiversity before and after development. A future Opportunity Class project will be to re-survey the site once the development of 'Tahmoor Central' is completed, and compare the data. Similarly to the "Love Your Lagoons" project undertaken last year, the Biodiversity Project will generate a high quality community and primary school science resource. In particular, the project is helping to create up-to-date community science resources in the Wollondilly region as well as to promote the development of a quality science learning community in Tahmoor.

Science is fun at Tahmoor Public School, ask any of our engaged students.

Music Comes Alive at Tahmoor Public School

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

This year a K-2 recorder group was initiated to augment the band program. Students are learning to play tunes as well as to read music. The group performed at the Easter Hat Parade and will present more songs at assemblies throughout the year. Students in the recorder group will be able to progress to other Woodwind instruments as part of the school band program.

The school band continues to grow and develop with more students involved than ever this year. At the beginning of term 2 the band was invited to play the National Anthem at the Taara Gardens RSL Retirement Village ANZAC ceremony at Thirlmere. From term 3, the band will play the National Anthem at all K-6 assemblies and special occasions. Students are currently working on pieces that they will present at the Wollondilly Music Festival in August, which will include a combined band presentation with Thirlmere Public School band. Later in the year the band will participate in a tour in Wollongong, where they will perform for other public schools. The band will also feature in "Light Up Tahmoor".

Many students in the band program also undertake small group tuition on their respective instruments. Tuition aims to develop technical instrumental skills as well as music reading ability. Year 6 students in the tuition program are invited into respective high school bands and generally experience greater academic achievement, which is a benefit related to the development of musical ability.

Welcome to an exciting 2015 school year.

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

Welcome to our many new students and families who will be participating in an engaging year of teaching and learning. Also, welcome back to our existing families who I look forward to working with during the course of this new school year.

Our school will again provide outstanding Literacy and Numeracy programs which will escalate the impetus for all of our students to realise their full learning potential.

Innovative programs occurring at Tahmoor Public School during 2015 include:

L3 Kindergarten - Literacy
L3 Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) - Literacy
L2 - Literacy
Reading Recovery Support - Year 1.
TEN (Targeting Early Numeracy) - Classes K - 2
TOWN (Taking Off With Numeracy) - Classes 3 - 6
Aboriginal Literacy and Numeracy coach - ( K - 6)
School Band
K - 2 School Recorder group

In 2014 our school demonstrated outstanding growth in both Literacy and Numeracy and we anticipate further pleasing growth will occur in 2015,.

Every student in the school is tracked on a Data Wall where their progress is monitored every five weeks. This ensures that all students are exposed to a relevant curriculum which is both relevant, challenging and engaging.

Enjoy the school year with us here at Tahmoor Public School!

Sustainable Schools Expo

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

On Wednesday 10th September Tahmoor Public School participated in the 2014 Macarthur Sustainable Schools Expo at Belgenny Farm.

Mr Booth and Mr Jacobs and a group of our students presented our virtual wetland, the end result of the "Love Your Lagoons" project that was undertaken in conjunction with the University of Western Sydney.

Our students led a water testing workshop which tested wateom local waterways and sea water from Wollongong. Tests conducted included pH,, water hardness and TDS (Total Dissolved Solids).

Our students led other schools, both primary and secondary, through a process of scientific enquiry culminating in the collection of data and the plotting of data.

Our students were exemplary and received outstanding feedback from both other schools and the University of Western Sydney.

Love your lagoons

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:08 AEST

Paul Nunnari Wheelchair push

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

Our school will be participating in the Annual Wheelchair push led by our local silver medal Paralympian, Paul Nunnari on Friday 5th September 2014 in support of the 24 Fight against Cancer Macarthur.

Monies raised through this initiative will be used to support the Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centre, the Paediatric Ambulatory Care Unit, the Oncology Ward and the Palliative Care Unit at Camden and Camden Hospitals.

Paul is keen to participate in the Golden Lap of Coins promotion that aims to collect enough funds that if laid end to end "as coins', would make a lap of the Campbelltown Athletics Stadium.

As part of the Wheelchair push Paul will stop at school at approximately 10.40am.

The Tahmoor school community have been invited to make a gold coin donation in support of this worthy cause.

Donations can be be brought to the front office prior to the day or donations may be made on the day. Please help support this worthy cause.

Science Fun Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

Next Tuesday 26th August 2014 our school will be coordinating a Science Fun Day. Each Stage will conduct a series of Hands-on Inquiry based science activities, also there will be a Science Expo at lunchtime in the school Hall.

Parents and carers are invited to attend this exciting day. Times for each Stage vary, please note the following times:

Kindergarten : 10.00am - 10.40am and 11.30am - 12.30pm

Years 1 and 2 : 11.20am - 1.20pm

Years 3 and 4 : 10.00am - 10.40am and 11.20am - 1.20pm

Years 5 and 6 : 10.00am - 10.40am and 11.30am - 12.30pm

The day will finish with a Milk Carton Cart Derby for all classes after recess. (2.20pm - 2.50pm)

P&C MEETINGS

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

The next P&C Meeting will be held on the Wednesday 13th June 9am in the Schools Resource Centre, all welcome to join.

SCHOOL TIME CHANGE-12th March 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

School will be changing to the following times:

8.50am – Start of school

2.50pm – End of the school day

This will create many advantages for our students, most notably, the end of bus lines at the end of the day where our students have to wait on occasion up to 40 minutes for their bus to arrive.

There have also been safety concerns, from both parents and staff, with our students boarding buses which at times appear to be overcrowded.

The other issue is the late start. Both parents and staff have overwhelmingly indicated to me that they would prefer an earlier start coupled with an early finish.

The P & C were also very supportive of this concept and agreed it would benefit the majority of families in our school area.

Picton buses have also been very supportive with these changes and have indicated that new timetables will be distributed shortly. The date the 12^th March, when the new school times will commence, was jointly discussed with Picton buses and our school.

We understand there will be initial teething problems, however, the benefits overall for our school far outweigh any disadvantages.

Our students will share brand new buses and as we are one of the first schools to be picked up, all of our students will be able to access a seat.

Picton bus lines are changing their general running times and this information will be available shortly.

Thank you for your understanding and support with this important decision however, like all decisions made at Tahmoor Public School, the welfare of our students will always come first.

Public Speaking Champions!

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

Congratulations to Jennifer Barnott-Clement and Ellen Hawkins who competed against students from eight other schools to win this highly prestigious competition. A wonderful effort and this is an achievement that not brings great pride to each girl's family but to the whole Tahmoor school community as well. Congratulation Jennifer and Ellen!

Well done Stage 2

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

Congratulations to our Stage 2 children who attended Morisett this week. You were absolutely beautiful and the staff at the centre complimented the school many times on your behaviour, enthusiasm and willingness to have a go!!!

Our thanks to the teachers who attended: Mrs Newhouse, Mrs Statham, Mr Miller and Mr Harris. We thank you for your gift of time and allowing the children to attend.

We hope to be back here in 2012!

We will be adding some photos of the camp once they become available.

New Vision Statement

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

Vision Statement

Tahmoor Public School is a place of learning that values and develops the unique talents and academic potential of each child. We are a school with a shared vision, a strong sense of community and collaboratively developed goals. School community relationships are based on mutual respect, clear lines of communication and a whole school commitment to developing a passion for learning and enjoyment of the learning process for all students. Each child is encouraged to respect and care for the environment and live a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Our goal is academic excellence within a nurturing, supportive environment for students, staff and parents. Success for all students is an expectation and individual differences are not only accepted but celebrated. Students are challenged by purposeful learning programs that extend and enrich their potential. Each child is encouraged to pursue their interests and explore a variety of ways of learning.

Students take responsibility for their own learning. They develop thinking skills which they apply confidently in both academic work and everyday life. 'Quality not quantity' defines our belief in a streamlined curriculum. Staff strengths are utilised and creative teaching strategies employed to facilitate learning.

Our discipline policy is clearly defined and is based on dealing with issues immediately and with fairness. Parents work with the staff to promote a coherent policy of student self-discipline between home and school. A strong merit system, based on positive reinforcement, fosters appropriate behaviour and enhances self-esteem for all students.

Staff and parent roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, understood and shared fairly across the school community. Role statements are negotiated and communicated effectively. Parents are partners with the school and enrich student learning through sharing their professional and personal skills.

A strong school leadership team co-ordinates clearly defined and explicitly documented systems and structures which facilitate a shared understanding of Tahmoor Public School's policies, procedures and routines for all staff, students and parents. Staff are empowered to take on leadership roles in their areas of expertise.

21^st century learning extends staff and student expertise in computer technology, School structures and resources support optimum access for students and staff to technology at all times. The Tahmoor Public School Website is an evolving link between the school and the wider community. It also promotes the school, sharing our vision and achievements.

Mathletics Launch

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:08 AEST

Dear Parent,

Your child's class is now using Mathletics— Australia's most used educational website. Mathletics is the next generation in learning, as it helps students enjoy Maths and achieve great results.

About Mathletics:

Mathletics is a web-based learning program which integrates home and school learning via the internet. Mathletics covers all years of schooling and is currently used in over 1800 Australian schools. Over 100,000 students access Mathletics every day. Your child has 24 hour access to Mathletics by using a unique user name and password. We recommend that you spend time looking at the program so that you can gain the greatest understanding of how Mathletics will benefit your child.

Benefits of Mathletics:

students compete live against students from around the world in mental arithmetic
revise for exams, cover gaps in learning, extend bright students
step by step animated support for every concept maths concept
learn anytime, anywhere
comprehensive reports for parents every 7 days by email

To view Mathletics:

Visit www.mathletics.com.au

Ensure pop-ups are enabled

Select sign-in and enter your child's details

Notes and Text Book Reminder

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

A number of families seen to have forgotten the following notes/money that is now requires. We ask that this be finalised as soon as possible.

Below is a list of information that we require asap.

• Handwriting Text payment Years 1-6 $11-00

• Blue Media Note:. This gives the school permission to publish names in the Newsletter, the school website (including photos), access to school internet and even to have names published underneath next weeks school photos.

• Purple Connected Classroom permission note

• Late Oz Opera money

• Library Bag (for book protection and borrowing)

Presentation Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:10 AEST

A reminder that our presentation day is Tuesday 8th December.

The K-2 Presentation Assembly commences at 10 am.

The 3-6 Presentation Assembly commences at 12.30pm

Both assemblies will be held under the COLA

Opportunity Class Orientation

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

Our orientation afternoon is planned for Monday 30^th November at 1.20pm.

The current OC class and their teacher, Mrs Batros, will be presenting items and plays that show the range of activities the class has undertaken during the year. There will also be opportunities for questions and a tour of the school. At the conclusion of the day, afternoon tea will be served.

We look forward to meeting you and your parents, We anticipate that this opportunity will provide you with an understanding of our OC class and what you could expect as an OC student at Tahmoor Public School.

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the school.

Wakakirri/Zone Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

Dear Parents

Please find attched a pdf version of the note regarding children involved in the Zone Athletics and Wakakirri.

PDFWakka/Zone Athletics(PDF 104Kb)

Performing Arts Festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

PDFPerforming Arts Festival(PDF 67Kb)

This year we have two groups performing in the Wollondilly Performing Arts Festival at Picton High

School. These groups are Kindergarten, and representatives for Wakakirri.

Your child has been invited to participate in one of these groups and we'd like you to read the

following information carefully then complete the permission notes and return them to Miss Gibson

(for Wakakirri) or Mrs Grant and Mrs Galettis, or Mrs Booth (for Kindergarten).

The deadline for permission notes is Wednesday 26th August.

Your child must have the special "Authority to Publish" permission note completed. Every year the

Festival is photographed and recorded by the Picton High School Technical Team. If this form is not

signed your child is unable to participate.

There is no cost for bus fare for either the rehearsal or matinee trips as the cost of the ticket

entry will meet these.

All performances will be in the Picton High School hall.

Trivia Night

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

PDFTrivia Night(PDF 140Kb)

The trivia night will be held at Bargo Sports Club

On Friday 28^th of August 2009

The ticket price is $20pp this will include a Light Supper

To make the cost a little easier you may choose to pay the tickets off. To Book your table or seat please pay a $10 pp non refundable deposit. All money must be paid in full by the Monday 17^th of August 2009.

Wakkakirri

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

The countdown continues for Wakkakirri. Just a reminder that all sales for tickets to Wakkakirri closed on Thursday 2nd July.

All tickets must now be purchased directly through Ticketek.

We thank our parents for supporting this school initiative and for supporting their children on the night.

Wakkakirri

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:11 AEST

The momentum of our Wakkakirri journey continues.

Practices are being held every Friday, tickets are now for sale and most of the costumes are near completion.

GALA DAY CANCELLED

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:07 AEST

Unfortunately due to the poor weather the Gala day planned for 19th June at Tahmoor Oval has been cancelled. Children are to come to school as normal. More information will be known later today as to weather it will be rescheduled.

Our apologies for the inconevience but the oval is far too wet for the day to proceed.

New Sports Uniforms Have Arrived

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:09 AEST

The second delivery of our new sports uniform has arrived.

Notes were sent out to all families who have pre ordered these uniforms. Children attending the Gala Day will need to be wearing this new uniform.

We have received many compliments about this wonderful uniform. Our children wear them with pride and a huge smile too!!

Doing Things Together Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:07 AEST

Our DTT Day was a tremendous success with all children celebrating Education Week using the 3 C's.... courtesy, consideration and cooperation.

Our many thanks go to the families who joined us on the day and to our wonderful children for enjoying themselves so much.

2009 School Photos

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 22:24:07 AEST

Copies of all School Leader, TASSPA, Whole School, School Parliament photos are now available for purchase by contacting Mrs Langford in the front office. We ask that all orders are lodged by the end of Week 8 Term 2.

News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Staying healthy into the new school year

Travel health

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Group bookings

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Have your say on before and after school care

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Get involved at home

Join in from the classroom

Take the Book Swap Challenge

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

How to be smart and safe on social media

A toolkit to empower you and your child

Keep your child safe and happy online

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

Children born in Australia

Adults born in Australia

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

1. Be alert and aware

2. Hold hands

3. Choose a safe crossing

4. Set a good example

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

Practise makes perfect

Back to school

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

2019 school budget allocations

Google CS Educator Award

Students perform at Sydney Opera House

School Holidays

2018 Primary STEM Expo

Tuesday June 26 from 9:30 am

Planetarium shows, Frog ID, 3D printing, Wind turbine construction, Catapults, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Coding, Robotics, Engineering challenges, Science Experiments

Preschool to High School

Free tickets through Eventbright.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY

CENTENARY DINNER / DANCE

HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAY

Merry Christmas

School Resumes Term 3 for all students

Wollondilly Primary STEM Expo

Gymtastics

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish the whole Tahmoor school community a very happy Christmas and a fruitful new year.

School resumes for students in year 1-6 on Thursday 28th January.Kindergarten students will complete Best Start testing in the first week and all Kindergartens will commence school on Wednesday 3rd February.

Safe and Happy Holiday

School Vacation - June 2015.

Literacy success at Tahmoor Public School

Rugby League success at Tahmoor

Science @ Tahmoor Public School

Music Comes Alive at Tahmoor Public School

Welcome to an exciting 2015 school year.

Sustainable Schools Expo

Love your lagoons

Paul Nunnari Wheelchair push

Science Fun Day

P&C MEETINGS

SCHOOL TIME CHANGE-12th March 2012

Public Speaking Champions!

Well done Stage 2

Congratulations to our Stage 2 children who attended Morisett this week. You were absolutely beautiful and the staff at the centre complimented the school many times on your behaviour, enthusiasm and willingness to have a go!!!

Our thanks to the teachers who attended: Mrs Newhouse, Mrs Statham, Mr Miller and Mr Harris. We thank you for your gift of time and allowing the children to attend.

We hope to be back here in 2012!

We will be adding some photos of the camp once they become available.

New Vision Statement

Vision Statement

School resumes for students in year 1-6 on Thursday 28th January.

Kindergarten students will complete Best Start testing in the first week and all Kindergartens will commence school on Wednesday 3rd February.