News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:07:31 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 13:32:27 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 16:54:08 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.

SCHOOL OPEN

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 18:07:41 AEDT

Taree Public School will be back in full operation as of Monday 18th November 2019.

SCHOOL OPEN

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 17:45:14 AEDT

Taree Public School will be open for operation Friday 15th November 2019.

Please note: there will be minimal supervision due to staff in fire affected areas.

SCHOOL CLOSED

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 16:56:40 AEDT

Dear Parent or Caregiver

As you are aware, there is currently an emergency situation in our community with bushfires.

To ensure the safety of students and staff, a decision has been made that our school will not be operating Tuesday 12th, Wednesday 13th & Thursday 14th November 2019.

There will be no staff on site. Please ensure that you put supervision arrangements in place for your child.

Our operational status will be reviewed daily and any changes will be communicated to you as soon as possible to minimise impact.

We thank you for all your support and ask that you share this information with anyone affected that you feel may not be accessing social media.

Please refer to our website for up to date information.

Regards,

Karen Clark

Principal

Taree Public School

12th November 2019

SCHOOL CLOSED

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 15:08:22 AEDT

Dear Parent or Caregiver

As you are aware, there is currently an emergency situation in our community with bushfires.

To ensure the safety of students and staff, a decision has been made that our school will not be operating on Tuesday 12 November 2019.

There will be no staff on site tomorrow. Please ensure that you put supervision arrangements in place for your child tomorrow.

Our operational status will be reviewed daily throughout the week and any changes will be communicated to you as soon as possible to minimise impact.

We thank you for all your support and ask that you share this information with anyone affected that you feel may not be accessing social media.

Please refer to our website for up to date information.

Regards

Karen Clark

Principal

Taree Public School

11th November 2019

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:18:10 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.

SCHOOL CLOSED

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 14:59:26 AEDT

Dear Parent or Caregiver

As you are aware, there is currently an emergency situation in our community with bushfires.

To ensure the safety of students and staff, a decision has been made that our school will not be operating on Tuesday 12 November 2019.

There will be no staff on site tomorrow. Please ensure that you put supervision arrangements in place for your child tomorrow.

Our operational status will be reviewed daily throughout the week and any changes will be communicated to you as soon as possible to minimise impact.

We thank you for all your support and ask that you share this information with anyone affected that you feel may not be accessing social media.

Please refer to our school website page for up to date information.

Regards

Karen Clark

Principal

Taree Public School

11th November 2019

Fire Update

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 17:06:32 AEDT

Taree Public School will be open for operation Monday 11th November 2019.

Please Note: There will be limited supervision.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 16:05:29 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

Picasso Cow

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 11:15:01 AEST

Taree Public School students are having an udderly fantastic time learning about the importance of daily dairy intake.

Year 6R is taking part in the Picasso Cow project, an opportunity to learn about the benefits of consuming dairy products from a young age.

The project gives students the chance to show off their artistic and technological talents by decorating a life-sized fibreglass cow.

The students put their creative minds together to brainstorm ideas.

With different colour schemes, designs, nursery rhymes and phrases in mind, the class settled on a final piece that will be brought to life in the coming weeks.

Teacher Melissa Raymond said every student will have a special contribution to the final work.

"They're matched up with things that play to their strengths so they're all involved," Melissa said. "It also gives them ownership."

The class hopes to complete the artwork by week two of next term. It will be unveiled to the rest of the school at a school assembly.

The project aims to give students 'inspired learning through creativity'.

The curriculum units Farm to Plate and Health and Nutrition explores the dairy industry, dietary benefits and consumption.

"This helps them learn about the positive health aspects of dairy products," Melissa said.

"There's lots of angles with this that teaches them life skills.

"They learn about technology, graphs, maths, literacy and other key learning areas.

"It makes learning about dairy fun."

Student Bayley Read was only too happy to show off a graph that depicts how much dairy each students has per day. A key element of the project encourages students to consume between two and four dairy products per day.

Several students will also have the opportunity to become teachers themselves in presenting topics about dairy to kindergarten.

The project complements other health eating initiatives at the school such as their vegetable garden and breakfast group and ties in with Healthy Food Month.

The class will hold a food tasting for the school in the coming weeks.

"They'll sample rainbow food (food of different colours) and dairy products prepared by the class," Melissa explained.

"There will be lots of cooking while the kids wear rainbow coloured clothing."

Melissa said some students at the school don't eat as healthy as they should, so the project allows them to hear from their peers about a good diet.

https://www.manningrivertimes.com.au/story/6356687/budding-artists-learn-about-dairy-at-taree-public/?cs=1467

Editor: Rob Douglas, Manning River Times

Photo: Malakai Cockerill, Biancah Dumas, Valerie Whitaker, Jesse Pratt and Bayley Read begin painting their 'Picasso Cow'. Photo: Scott Calvin.

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:38:47 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 11:25:17 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 11:45:47 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 14:10:51 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 11:40:49 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 12:26:15 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 15:19:52 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 15:12:42 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 15:23:29 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 13:34:17 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 15:03:22 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 16:26:22 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.

Pink Day Morning Tea

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 12:31:47 AEDT

Wednesday 31 October was the day that Taree Public School’s hall transformed into a beautifully decorated function room in various shades of pink.

Then it was filled with cupcakes, cheesecakes, sponge cakes, layered cakes, slices, biscuits, savoury platters, fruit platters and lots other tasty treats, many of them decorated in pink!

Parents, extended family, community members, local agency representatives, friends and staff all enjoyed a cuppa and delicious food for a good cause.

Then came the excitement of the raffle draw! The children joined everyone in the hall for the draw. The raffle prizes were 28 pink bags filled with all sorts of pink items, generously donated by the Taree Public School staff. Uncle Russell and Aunty Wilma drew the tickets and the winners were:

Jodie Eyres, Blake Turner, Tim Mitchell, Carter Cox, Mrs Murray, Kevin Sellers, Mrs Clapson (won 2), Evie McLeod, Ellalee Muddle, Hogan Family, Kerry Ashby, Talisha Ridgeway, L. Cranston, Hannah Grimley, Karen Clark, P. Tisdell, M. Smith, Gemma Brasher, Sally Murray, Ivy Hickson, Tori Bracher, Maddison Sullivan, Monique Fitzpatrick, Sally Green, T.S Kumar (won 3!),

Loren Wenzel and Amy Robertson won the lucky door prizes.

After the raffle draw, the children participated in pink themed activities. The primary students made dream catchers, did origami, made friendship bracelets and painted pink flamingos.

The infants students made pink necklaces, flowers and pink heart-shaped characters. There were lots of positive comments, happy faces and all of their pink creations looked great!

Our Pink Day Morning Tea and raffle raised $300.05 for Women's Cancer and $305.00 for Manning Valley Can Assist.

This would not have been possible without the generous donations from all of the staff at Taree Public School.

A big thank you must also go to the students who sold raffle tickets and all of the people who supported these worthwhile charities by donating at the door and buying raffle tickets.

Di Murray

Outdoor Classroom Day

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 14:12:36 AEDT

Last Thursday 1st November, Taree Public School students participated in ‘Outdoor Classroom Day’. We joined thousands of children across Australia and took our learning outdoors. Lessons learnt outdoors, whether maths, science or language, often stay with us for life. Being outdoors helps children focus, boosts creativity and imagination, and can simply be more fun.

We took the opportunity to make our beautiful school grounds our classroom. The weather was warm and the children enjoyed every minute that they were outside.

Classes participated in sketching, leaf and bark rubbings, studying flora and fauna, planting, reading, drawing and writing on the concrete, counting and graphing cars and many other activities. It was great to see the children engaged and enjoying themselves.

The idea of a Sensory Garden at the front of the school (near the second entrance) became a reality with all children contributing to making a wind chime, decorating a cup to make a plastic flower, decorating a paddle pop stick to create a wall display and painting a rock for the garden. Rosemary and Lavender have been planted, so it looks and smells great!

A big ‘Thank you’ to the parents, carers, grandparents and community members who came along and joined in the activities. We love having you in the school witnessing the great things that we do!

Di Murray

Science and engineering day

Tue, 29 May 2018 11:59:22 AEST

Students in year 5 and 6 enjoyed a fantastic day at Taree Race Course at the Science and Engineering day.

RAINBOW FOOD TASTING DAY 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:53 AEST

A big thanks to all the classes for participating in the "Rainbow Food Tasting Day" to help promote healthy eating. I would like to make a special thanks to all the students in year 5/6R for the organising, cooking, serving and the cleaning up of the tasting day.

It was a huge success and we look forward to doing it again next year!

OUTDOOR CLASSROOM DAY 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:58 AEST

Taree Public school participated in "Outdoor Classroom Day". We joined more than 150,000 children across Australia and took our learning outdoors. Lessons learnt outdoor, whether maths, science or language, often stay with us for life. Being outdoors helps children focus, boosts creativity and imagination and can simply be more fun.

We took the opportunity to make the beautiful parks and Manning River our classroom. The weather was perfect and it certainly made us realise that we should use these natural environments more often.

Thanks to Bohnock Bait & Tackle & Mrs Clapson for organising the fishing gear and thanks to all of the parents who came along and joined us at our "Outdoor Classroom".

We cant wait to do it next year!

For the full story check out Term 3 Week 10 Newsletter. Also check out our photo in the Gallery.

FATHERS DAY STALL 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:52 AEST

On Thursday and Friday of week 7, students had the opportunity to purchase their dads and grandfathers a fathers day gift.

Gifts ranged in price from $2 - $5.

A big thank you to Ms Hook, Mrs Mitchell, Hannah, Karen B, Kerry Mills, Valerie and Jasmine for all your hard work to make this happen.

Also a big thank you to Kerrie the cleaner for her wonderful donations to the stall.

DR DAVID GILLESPIE VISIT 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:33 AEST

Taree Public school had a special visit from Dr David Gillespie who presented our school leaders with new flags for our school.

We received the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Flags for free.

Thank you Mr Gillespie.

CLASS 1-2H EXCURSION 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:29 AEST

Class 1-2H have been working very hard over the past few weeks!

In science they have been learning about buildings in the community and they went on an excursion to the Taree Police Station.

Constable David Russell walked the children through the station and the children enjoyed this experience.

The students also went past the Church, Court House and Post Office.

EDUCATION WEEK 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:50 AEST

Taree Public School celebrated Education Week on Thursday 3rd August with a special assembly and STEM (Science, technology, Engineering and Maths) activities in the classrooms.

The assembly was held in the new Kindergarten/ Year 1 room, which is a great example of how the school is changing to meet the needs of the future. The size, furniture, technology and resources are the most modern and up to date, and our children love the room!

Our Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 children performed their NAIDOC Rap and our boy's Dance group also performed. Mrs Clark spoke about the theme "I Learn, We Learn" and how Taree Public School is addressing wellbeing, high expectations for all, system wide improvements, personalised learning and creating stronger ties with the community.

Mrs Raymond's class designed a nest, a basketball stand and a parachute for an egg. They tested the parachutes in the afternoon - out the window and into the chook enclosed. (Not very thoughtful).

Mrs Clapson's class made a vehicle out of recycled materials. It had to be able to move by wind or some other forces. Tricky!!

Miss Visser's class experimented with bottles of water. They recorded how many times it would land correctly when flipped and if changing the amount of water in it had an effect on the results. Mmm... I wonder!

Mrs Hook's class had to make a house for the Three Little Pigs. They tested the strength of the houses with a big bad wolf hairdryer! How good is that!

Mrs Hauser's class designed a bed for Goldilocks using toothpicks and plasticine. A lot of sweaty brains were in that room!

Check out page 3 of our Term 3, Week 4 newsletter and our photo gallery.

NAIDOC DAY 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:56 AEST

Taree Public School celebrated NAIDOC Day on Friday 30th June.

It was an extremely successful day with lots of games and activities for everyone to get involved.

The ceremony included the raising of the flags and the cutting of the cake by Uncle Russell and our eldest child in the school and our youngest child in the school.

The staff arranged a wonderful lunch for our students and guests including Kangaroo Stew, Curry, Kangaroo Kababs, sausages and Fried Scones.

All the students had a great time and were well behaved on the day.

Thank you to Mitchell's Island Public School and Oxley Island Public School for coming along and joining in with our celebrations.

Please check out of photo gallery for photos.

SCHOOL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:59 AEST

Our school Athletics Carnival was held on Monday 26th June 2017.

All students 8 years and over participated at Taree Rec Grounds. The weather was beautiful and all the events ran smoothly and sportsmanship was seen everywhere! It was wonderful to see everyone who participated trying their best.

Congratulations to Lachlan, Ashton, Pepper, Myarla & Javyne for winning trophies. Good luck to those who have progressed onto Zone level.

Thank you to staff, students and parents who participated and helped out at the carnival.

An extra special thanks to those who helped us ensure we finished all events.

K-2 also had their Athletics Carnival on Monday 26th June. They all participated in running races, skipping races, bean bag balance and balloon races at school. They played games such as Corners and Rob the Nest.

All of the children enjoyed the activities and showed great sportsmanship. The Balloon Partners race was the best. The balloons kept blowing away in the wind and the children had to chase after them.

Check out our photo gallery for photos.

SCIENCE & ENGINEERING CHALLENGE 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:00 AEST

On Tuesday 23rd May, Taree Public Schools year 5 & 6 students participated in a day long Science & Engineering Challenge at Taree Race Course. It was a competition designed to provide year 5 & 6 students with a positive experience of science and engineering.

The class was split up into 8 groups of 2 to 3 students. They competed against 8 other schools. Each group worked on 2 half day activities during the day.

Students were awarded points for each activity and the school with the most cumulative points at the end of the day won. I am so proud as we came third!! Well done year 5 & 6.

DEBATING WORKSHOP 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:31 AEST

Have you ever had to walk into a room full of people that you don't know and present a speech?

That is what four of our students faced last week at the NSW Debating Workshop held at Laurieton Public School.

Amy, Kiarna, Lachlan and Jayden represented our school at the event and they certainly did us proud. Their behaviour on the day was exceptional and the effort they put into each activity was mind boggling. Their ability to take on each task to reach their goal left their supervising teacher in awe as there was only 1 minute preparation time before each child had to stand up and deliver their speech.

Highlights of the day included the positive feedback the children received from the presenters and winning one of the rounds. Congratulations to all four children and I am sure that they could win any arguments put forward to them.

RELAY FOR LIFE 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:59 AEST

On 13th & 14th May Taree Public School staff participated in the Manning Valley Relay for Life. Our team consisted of 10 staff members and we certainly stood out in our "Witches In Britches" theme.

The idea of the relay is that someone from your team is on track walking during the 24 hour relay. We were excited and keen at 10.00am on Saturday, hot and thirsty at 2.00pm on Saturday, hungry and tired at 7.00pm Saturday night, cold and uncomfortable at 3.00am Sunday morning, and totally exhausted by 10.00am on Sunday!!!

It was definitely a big 24 hours for all of us!

We had a great time and enjoyed representing our school at this great community event. All funds raised go to the Cancer Council.

CULTURE & CARING 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:29 AEST

Taree Public School Culture & Caring Program began in week 3.

K-2 are learning about Dreamtime Stories, year 3&4 are learning language and year 5 & 6 boys are participating in Bro Speak and our year 5&6 girls are participating in Sista Speak.

ANZAC DAY CELEBRATIONS 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:24 AEST

Taree Public School commemorated ANZAC Ceremony on the last Thursday of term 1 with an assembly ably led by our senior students. Returned servicemen, Mr Hill and Mr Lawrence were our special guests.

The service included a prayer, an address by Mr Hill and Mr Lawrence, laying of wreaths, the last post, one minute silence, reciting of the Ode, the Reveille and the National Anthem.

Some of our senior students read their poems and our choir sang "I Am Australian" with some very moving solo performances from Myarla, Milly and Ava.

Our special guests also presented our school with a voucher.

On Tuesday 25th April, Taree Public School was well represented at the Taree ANZAC Ceremony. Approximately 20 children, parents and staff marched proudly behind our school banner. It is wonderful to see that our children value this important day.

EASTER HAT PARADE 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:49 AEST

The last day of term 1 saw our school come to life with colourful hats of all shapes and sizes, made by the children for the annual Easter Hat Parade.

Every child made a hat in call as part of their Creative Arts lessons. They were decorated with glitter, coloured shapes, pom poms, chenille sticks, and of course... eggs, bunnies and chicks.

As well as making the hats, the children also had to write a description of their hat as part of a whole school writing task. One child from ach class read their description out and the writing showed the continued improvement that has ben made. Writing has been a focus at Taree Public School for the last two years and we continue to see improvement in this area.

Many parents, friends and relatives were in attendance and we thank you for giving up your time to come along and support the school.

HARMONY DAY 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:53 AEST

Taree Public School celebrated Harmony Day on Tuesday 21st March 2017.

All the students made such an effort with their performances and really showed us their true talent. The costumes were so colourful and helped demonstrate that Harmony Day celebrates the diverseness of our country.

Staff and students worked so hard to ensure that the day was a success.

The students got to make kites and fly them.

A special thanks to Taree High students. Their dances were not only entertaining but gave the audience a wonderful insight into the significance of culture within the Aboriginal Community.

BOOK GIVING ASSEMBLY T1 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:25 AEST

On Friday 17th March 2017, Taree Public School had our Books in Homes, book giving assembly. As always, the books were exceptional quality, with many familiar titles and authors to choose from. It is always great to see the excitement on the children's faces when they receive their books.

The majority of the cost to provide these books has been funded by Mr Dan Ellis, a private investor, and we are very grateful for his contribution.

Our role model for the assembly was Aunty Pam Saunders. She spoke to the children about learning to read as a child and realising that she could remember the words, like pictures, and that is how she learnt to read.

Thank you to the parents, carers and grandparents who came along to the assembly.

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:29 AEST

Our school did a fantastic job on Clean Up Australia Day and we were able to pick up lots of rubbish and recyclable rubbish.

The presentation that Amy, Kiarna and Lachlan from 5/6R did was fantastic and I hope will help keep our school free of litter.

These three students have also made a video to tell about an initiative to reduce your environmental footprint.

KINDERGARTEN 2017

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:54 AEST

We would like to welcome our 10 new Kindergarten students.

They have all settled in beautifully and are already showing how responsible they can be. They spent their first two weeks singing, playing musical instruments, doing Brain Dance and movement activities to assist their development, listening to stories, producing amazing art work as well as reading and counting.

Mrs Hauser is very impressed with them and she can tell that it is going to be a great year for these students.

BOOKS IN HOMES ASSEMBLY TERM 4

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:27 AEST

Friday 18th November was another fantastic Book Giving Assembly. Our participation in the Books In Homes initiative allows us to provide three quality books, for free, to the children at Taree Public School at this special assembly. The majority of the cost to provide these books is funded by Mr Dan Ellis, and we are extremely grateful for his sponsorship.

The books that the children may choose from are recent publications and include popular authors such as Nick Bland, Emily Rodda, Aaron Blabey and Sally Morgan, series like Ella Diaries, Goosebumps, The Bad Guys, characters such as Pig the Pug, factual texts about Australia's most extreme animals and the Solar System, family and Aboriginal themed books. There are over 40 quality books to choose from and the school receives a copy of each book for the library. What great resources for everyone at our school.

For the full story check out our Term 4 Week 8 Newsletter.

PINK DAY MORNING TEA 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:58 AEST

Friday 21st October was the day Taree Public School saw Pink!!

The hall was transformed into a beautifully decorated function room in various shades of pink, thanks to two of our enthusiastic and creative mums Kerri-Ann & Kerry.

Parents, extended family, community, Mum & Bubs, local agency representatives, our scripture teachers and friends all enjoyed a cuppa and delicious food for a good cause.

During this time the students participated in pink themed activities. Afterward the children joined everyone in the hall for the raffle draw. There were 20 pink buckets filled with all sorts of pink items, generously donated by Taree Public School Staff.

Our Pink Day Morning Tea raised $400.00 for Women's Cancer and the Raffle raised $300.85 for the Manning Valley Can Assist.

For the full story check out our Term 4 week 4 Newsletter and our pictures in our photo gallery.

SOUTHS CARES

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:01 AEST

South's Cares Oral Health Program @ Chatham Public School

Students from years 3 - 6 were lucky enough to be invited to the South's Cares program held at Chatham Public School on Tuesday 29th November.

The students were provided with opportunities to learn about healthy living, dental hygiene and be involved in a range of NRL skills. It was great to meet NRL players and mix with Chatham Primary School students.

RETURNING HOME

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:59 AEST

At the end of Term 3 the "Tournament of the Minds" shield was presented to Taree Public School for being the school that had won the most competitions over a 20 year period, 5 in all.

Tournament of Minds, now an International competition, Is a problem solving programme for teams of students from both Primary and Secondary years. Students are required to solve demanding, open-ended challenges from various disciplines, with Mrs Gail Lay (teacher) and the Taree Public students opting to participate in the Maths Engineering discipline. We hope that in future years our students will again find the level of success that the previous teams did.

It was exciting to see the shield returned to a place of honour, and brought back many fond memories of competition for a number of the teachers, as well as prior students whose children now attend the school.

This was the scenario for our students Milly and Bailey, whose mother and uncle had both competed successfully in the "Tournament of the Minds" when they attended Taree Public School.

TIMBERTOWN EXCURSION 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:03 AEST

On Thursday 22nd September, 37 children and 6 staff went on an exciting day out to Timbertown Heritage Village in Wauchope.

The students got to visit many interesting places around the mini town including the Blacksmiths, the Saw Mill, the Gaol, the School and the old toy shop.

They attended the Bullock demonstration, found some specks of gold whilst gold panning, rode on a horse & cart and a steam train.

For the full story check out our Term 4 Week 2 newsletter,

also check out the photos in our photo gallery.

BOOK-E-MON GO!

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:24 AEST

Our celebration of Book Week this year certainly was unique and fun! Our 'Bookemon Go' required all classes to call into six different businesses and collect a clue, which would enable them to find one of the Children's Book Council's Shortlisted Books. Tiny photocopies of the book's covers had been hidden in Queen Elizabeth and Fotheringham Parks by the teachers.

The children had a great time walking along the street, dressed as book characters, searching shop windows for the sign to let them know that one of their clues was inside, then going in and asking 'Do you have a clue for us?'.

Congratulations to our students for their fantastic behaviour and being great representatives of Taree Public School. Many thanks must also go to our local business's that participated and to our enthusiastic teachers and aides who dressed as Snow White, dwarfs, minions and pirates.

For the full story check out our Term 3, Week 7 newsletter.

Also check out our photos in the gallery!

EDUCATION WEEK CELEBRATION 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:51 AEST

Taree Public School celebrated Education Week on Thursday 4th August.

Thank you to all our parents, grandparents, carers, community members and special guest Joedie Lawler for coming to our special Education Week Assembly.

This years theme was "Shared Stories, Better Learning, Stronger Communities". The classrooms were a buzz of excitement with community members reading their stories from the "Our Words, Our Stories" project.

SYDNEY EXCURSION

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:01 AEST

Fifteen Taree Public School children and five adults including teachers, left Taree on Thursday 7th July 2016 (first week of the school holidays) bound for Sydney. The purpose was to attend NCIE NAIDOC Family Fun and Sports Day and Barangaroo's NAIDOC activities.

It was a very busy few days with plenty of places to visit and lots of things to do.

They visited Newcastle University for lunch and a tour on our way to Sydney, once they got to Sydney the travelled over the Sydney Harbour Bridge checking out all the sites like the Opera House. They stopped at Barangaroo Reserve and were lucky enough to visit the Barangaroo Offices and went up to level 21 providing an amazing view.

They stayed at the Hyde Park Barracks and slept in hammocks and got to look through the museum.

On Friday they were presented with a "Ticket of Leave" so they headed off to the city and visited the Opera House and then to NCIE NAIDOC Family Fun and Sports Day.

Afterwards they headed to Chowder Bay at Mosman where they enjoyed an early meal and some warm showers ready to go to the football at Pirtek Stadium to watch the Rooster v Eels.

Saturday morning saw them all up at 7am ready for a day at Barangaroo's NAIDOC activities before heading home at 2pm all tired and exhausted from a very busy 3 days.

Full the full story check out our Term 3 Week 2 newsletter - definitely worth the read!!

NAIDOC CELEBRATIONS 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:56 AEST

On Friday 1st July, Taree Public School students, staff and community celebrated NAIDOC at Saltwater.

The day began with Uncle Russell performing "Welcome to Country" in Gathang. Our activities for the day all had a focus on learning about, and the appreciation of Aboriginal culture.

The children were led on a bushwalk with Uncle Russell, went on a treasure hunt and painted a boomerang or map of Australia.

They also played Traditional Indigenous Games such as Weme, Koolchee Koolchee, Gorri, Tambil Tambil and Turi Turi..

The children all participated in a performance as a culmination to our Culture and Caring Program.

For the full story, check out our Term 3 Week 2 newsletter and our photo gallery.

THE BIG WALK

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:02 AEST

On Thursday 16th June, Kindergarten went on their yarn-galin-djukal (big walk) around Taree looking at significant Aboriginal sites as part of reconciliation Week.

We visited Uncle Russell's art shop, the big goanna, and said our names on Ngarralinyi radio.

Aunty Karen read us "Bilinga and the Fig Tree" under the big fig tree on the river bank.

It was a lovely day out!

BOOK GIVING ASSEMBLY T2 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:26 AEST

Taree Public School is fortunate to be part of the Books in Homes program. As of this term, we have a new sponsor, a businessman who also happily sponsors some other schools. His sponsorship means that all of our students receive THREE FREE BOOKS three times a year! The books are always quality texts that cater for a range of levels, interests and cultures.

Our Term 2 Book Giving Assembly was slightly more low key than our previous assemblies. We did not have a role model as a guest, (this is usually organised by the Books In Homes people), so we organised our own. Our dedicated Scripture teachers, Mrs Mills and Mrs Death, were delighted to hand out the books to all of our children.

Its is always great to see the excitement on the faces of the children as they open their bag and see the books that they have chosen.

SOCCER GALA DAY

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:00 AEST

On Friday 10th June Taree Public School competed in the Wingham Soccer Gala Day.

Fun was had by all with our team playing 4 games over the day without any subs. Although they did not come away with a win, Taree Public kept the pressure on and displayed great sportsmanship.

Well done TPS!

SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING CHALLENGE

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:00 AEST

On Friday 6th May 2016, year 5 & 6 students attended the Science and Engineering Challenge at the Taree Race Course.

The Science and Engineering Challenge is an outreach program aimed at changing student's perceptions of science and engineering. The students experienced an aspect of science and engineering which they would not usually see in their school environment.

All students had a great time and enjoyed the experience.

CULTURE & CARING PROGRAM

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:30 AEST

This term, all our students will be participating in our "Culture and Caring Program" on Friday afternoons. It is a ten week, stage developed program full of activities.

The activities aim to build knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture and to form links with the local Aboriginal community; and improve social skills and provide strategies for positive outlook and wellbeing.

Year 5 & 6 will participate in Bro-Speak and Li'l Sista-speak.

Year 3 & 4 students will learn some Gathang language and participate in Mindfulness activities.

Kinder, year 1 & 2 will be learning social skills, some Aboriginal songs and listening to local Aboriginal stories.

ZONE CROSS COUNTRY

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:04 AEST

On Friday 6th May 2016, we had some students from Taree Public School travel to Wingham Sports Complex to participate in the Zone Cross Country.

All the children did an amazing job and tried their very best and made Taree Public School extremely proud!

Well Done!

MAKING GUNYAS

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:55 AEST

Class 3-6 Burrang have been busy in HSIE making Gunyas with Uncle Russell.

Gunyas are Traditional Aboriginal housing.

They used natural materials from our Bush Tucker garden.

NETBALL

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:57 AEST

Taree Public School girls netball team competed at the NSW Netball Cup on Thursday 31st March at Taree Rec. Grounds.

The girls played extremely well against 5 locals schools winning 2 games,

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:29 AEST

A BIG thank you to all the teachers and students at Taree Public for making "Clean up Australia Day"

at our school a success.

WELCOME KINDERGARTEN 2016

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:03 AEST

Taree Public School's 13 new kindergarten students have had a great start to the year and are enjoying getting to know the teachers and other students. Their entry into school has been extremely settled with the majority of children having participated in the extended transition program at the end of 2015. They are already hard at work in the classroom learning and settling into routines.

2016 SCHOOL LEADERS

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:20 AEST

2016 School Leaders

From Left - Hannah Cutrale (C), Serge Morcome (VC), Courtney Matheson-Towers (VC), Lamar Dumas (C)

BOOKS IN HOMES BOOK GIVING ASSEMBLY

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:28 AEST

On Friday 20th November 2015, Taree Public School had our second Book Giving Assembly. Our participation in the Books in Homes initiative allows us to provide up to three quality books, for free, to the children at our school at a special assembly.

The majority of the cost to provide these books is funded by the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, and we are extremely grateful for their sponsorship. Their representative, Mrs Vanessa Byma, was a special guest at our assembly and presented certificates and books to the children.

The books that the children have to choose from are recent publications and include popular authors such as Nick Bland, Aaron Blabey and Sally Morgan. Series like 360 Black Ops, EJ12 Girl Hero and Ricky Ricotta's Mighty Robot, characters such as Pig the pug, factual texts about sharks and spiders and conservation, family Aboriginal themed books. There are 40 books to choose from and the school receives a copy of each book for the library. What great resources for everyone at our school!

Reading certificates were awarded to Megan Baxter, Valerie Whitaker, Lachlan Noble and Kayla Hills. Certificates were also awarded for participation in the Role Model competition. Thank you to all the children from Year 2 to Year 6 that entered and to Ms Hooke for organising the entries.

Thank you to the parents, carers and grandparents who came along to the assembly on Friday. It was an extremely hot day, so thanks for leaving the comfort of your home to be present at our special assembly. We do enjoy your company!

TAREE PUBLIC SCHOOL 150th ANNIVERSARY 2015

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:01 AEST

Friday 6th November was a special day at Taree Public School - our Sesquicentenary Celebrations began at 10am with a special assembly. Our special guests were Mr Peter Sheargold, Mr Stephen Bromhead MP, Mr Paul Hogan, Aunty Wilma and Aunty Isabel. Many former pupils and staff were also in attendance.

The assembly began with a 'Welcome to Country' performed by Aunty Wilma, flowed by a cleansing dance performed by the senior boys, assisted by Uncle Russell Saunders.

After a speech from Mr Bromhead the senior students performed the old School Song, followed by the school Pledge both of which are performed at all our school assemblies. We believe there was an earlier school song but we were unable to find a copy.

Following a speech by Mr Sheargold the Infants classes performed folk dances from the past - The Shoemakers Dance from 1913; The Farmer in the Dell from 1940's and Bluebird Bluebird in and out the Windows from the 1950's.

Following a speech from Mrs Clark, our Executive Principal, the Sesquicentenary Plaque was presented to the school, and a plaque honouring the service of Aunty Faith Saunders to Taree Public was presented to Uncle Russell Saunders by Geoff Dumas. Aunty Faith was the very first AEA (Aboriginal Education Assistant) at Taree Public School. She was a very well respected and inspirational gentle lady who supported all students. She paved the way for those who came after, in the role of Aboriginal Educators and acted as a role model for generations.

The culmination of the assembly was a performance by the senior ACMF music group. The signing group was followed by drumming which was a fitting conclusion to the formal part of our assembly.

Finally the Sesquicentenary Cake was cut by our former librarian Leila Brown from many, many years ago and our youngest student Milly Read.

After the assembly, visitors toured our newly renovated school and visited the displays before having lunch.

ABORIGINAL EDUCATION AWARDS 2015

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:21 AEST

On Friday 6th November Mrs Raymond, Janara Simon, Tiara Cochrane Paulson, Caleb Byers & Serge Morcome attended the 2015 Aboriginal Education Awards in Port Macquarie.

Well Done to all 4 of our students on receiving their awards for Participation and Encouragement in Education.

Another Congratulations to Mrs Raymond & Mrs Karen Clark for receiving awards for Service to Education.

2015 EVENTS SO FAR - VIDEO

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:20 AEST

Check out what the kids at Taree Public School have been up to so far in 2015!

150th ANNIVERSARY OPEN DAY - 6th NOVEMBER

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:19 AEST

The Taree Public School will be having a celebration of our 150th year anniversary on Friday 6th November 2015.

This is a significant achievement and to celebrate we are holding an open day to display the history of our school and the changes that have occurred.

The open day will commence at 10am on Friday 6th November. There will be a special assembly, open classrooms and viewing of historical displays. All parents, past students and staff and community members are invited to attend our celebrations.

Historical displays will also be open for view from 10am - 2pm on Saturday 7th November.

K/1 TRANSPORT EXCURSION

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:54 AEST

This term K/1 students have been busy learning all about different modes of land, sea and air transport. We have also learnt all about how to keep safe around bikes, roads, train tracks and boats. This week we finished our unit on transport by going for a walk around the community and looking for different modes of transport that we had learnt about this term. The students had lots of fun "transport spotting" and ticking off things they had seen crossing the Martin Bridge and along the main st. After a hard mornings work we finished our excursion with lunch and some play at the park. What a great day!

Check out some of the pictures from our day out in the gallery!

EDUCATION WEEK 2015

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:49 AEST

What a wonderful showcase of strengths and talents of the students of Taree Public School! Thank you to all the parents, family and community members who attended to make the day so special. The children have made many comments about how pleased they were to show off the work they have been doing in class. It was so lovely to see those who attended spend some time talking to the children whose family were unable to attend. Thank you.

The whole school assembly was the perfect opportunity to see first hand the many talented students - from th eleaders who conducted the assembly, Tiara who invited Mr Russell to speak, and how could we forget the solo performances of Imran, the choir and the band! It was all show stopping and foot stomping. Mrs Buckley's PowerPoint presentation certainly gave us an indication of how busy and diverse Taree Public School life is.

An extra special thanks goes to our two guest speakers, Mr Ian Davey and Uncle Russell Saunders. Both gave wonderful insights into how school has changed but the core values of respect, responsibility and pride have remained the same. Their message was alos very strong; that school provides a positive learning place; anything is possible so long as you try and each and everyon person is a hero.

The staff and children would also like to thank Matt Zarb, our fabulous music tutor for the time and dedication he put into making sure the musical items were of such a high standard.

The weather could not have been better to join family and friends for the sausage sizzle that followed the assembly. Many students and parents enjoyed the games that Uncle Russell made available during the break - they certainly reminded the more elderly visitors recall their school days.

The theme of Education Week - "Local Heroes" was summed up in the assembly with awards presented to a group of special students. These awards were chosen not by the teacher but by the children's peers.

Check out our Education Day pictures in the photo gallery.

NATIONAL LITERACY & NUMERACY WEEK

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:27 AEST

Taree Public school held their Book Character Parade & Book Fair on Wednesday 2nd September 2015. The students and teachers looked fantastic on the day dressed up as their favourite book charatecter.

Our Book Fair was also a success with lots of students purchasing some great books and stationery.

Students also participated in a number of Numeracy & Literacy activities followed by a picnic lunch.

Check out all of the photos in the gallery!

HUNTER REGIONAL ATHLETICS 2015

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:54 AEST

Congratulations to our 5 students (pictured below) who represented our school & Zone on Friday 28th August 2015 at the Hunter Regional Athletics Carnival.

They have trained really hard and it paid off!

The relay team worked well together as a team and placed 3rd overall. Braye ran in the 100m and placed 4th in his heat.

It was a great experience for all the students to travel to Newcastle and certainly an eye opener to see such a professional complex and number of competitors.

NAIDOC CELEBRATIONS 2015

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:56 AEST

On Friday 26th June Taree Public School students, staff and community celebrated NAIDOC at Saltwater Reserve. Despite the rain during the night, and the worry that it may rain during the day, the weather was perfect.

The day began with Aunty Wilma performing 'Welcome to Country' in Gathang. The children love to hear her speak in language and were keen to learn some Gathang words during the day.

Uncle Russell played the digeridoo and spoke to the children about the significance of Saltwater to the Biripi people. This was very relevent as the theme for NAIDOC 2015 is 'We all Stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate', which highlights Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' strong spiritual and cultural connection to land and sea.

Our activities for the day were a mix of education, creative and environmental, all with focus on learning about, and appreciation of, Aboriginal Culture. The children played 'Birrguu Matya" (Buch Game) they solved problems with 'feeding the mob' and 'crossing the river', they painted boomerangs, made necklaces and bracelets and learnt colour words in Gathang. Uncle Russell led them on a bushwalk and told them stories about when he was a child. He taught them about Aboriginal art and everybody got to draw in the sand.

It was a great way to finish the term and cant wait to do it all again next year!

Di Murray

BOOKS IN HOMES SPECIAL ASSEMBLY

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:29 AEST

On Friday 19th June, taree Public School had our very first Book Giving Assembly as part of the 'Books in Homes' program. Each child recieved three quality books, for free, thanks to our sponsors The Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.

Our special guests at the assembly were Mr Jason Bourke, CEO of The Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, Vanessa and Craig representing the Taree branch of The Newcastle Permanent Building Society, and Mr Stephen Michael King who is an author and illustartor of many children's books.

Mr King spoke to the assembly about how he remembered that his parents always read great books to him when he was a child. And then..... he read his new book 'My Dad is a Giraffe'. This book had not been seen by anyone else as it was just being published. We were the first children in the world to see this book and hear the story! How Exciting! But thats not all! Then, he drew a picture from the book! His drawing skills are amazing and everyone was mesmerised as they watched him draw two circles and then turn them into a Giraffe. There was total silence in the hall the entire time and everyone watched in awe as the marks that he put on the page were transformed into an illustration of the characters from the book. WOW! The finished piece will be framed and hung in the school.

Mr Bourke spoke about the importance of reading and he encouraged the children to take the books home and add them to, or start, their personal library. The books were then handed out by Mr Bourke, vanessa and Craig. There was alot of excitment. It has been six weeks since the children chose their books and to actually finally recieve them was a bit like christmas! All of the children picked their favourite book and held it up for everyone to see. There were big smiles all around!

Congratulations to our leaders who ran the assembly in a very professional and polished manner, to Serge Morcome, who performed the Acknowledgement of Country for the first time and did a fantastic job, and to all of our students, who displayed the best manners that I have ever seen. Well Done!

Our next Books in Homes order and assembly will be in Term Four.

Di Murray

RECONCILIATION DAY

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:59 AEST

On Tuesday 2nd June Taree Public School celebrated Reconciliation Day, commencing in the hall with a welcome from Aunty Wilma Morcome followed by a presentation by Dr Norling. Students then enjoyed completing several art and craft activities provided by child and family services providers Mission Australia, Taree & District Child Care Services, United Care Burnside, Manning Support Services, FACS, Catholic Care and Newcastle University Go 4 Fun team. A delicious BBQ lunch was enjoyed by all with the day finishing with novelty games and races run by the Go 4 Fun team.

Personalised Learning Plans

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:58 AEST

There's nothing like an informal barbecue to bring a school community together and embed an educational message at the same time.

That's what the new Executive Principal of Taree Public School did to quickly establish her local knowledge bank.

Executive Principal Karen Clark said she was keen to implement policies that would address the unique educational needs of her students but needed to get to know the community since many of her staff were also new appointees.

She organised an introduction barbecue and invited the local community for a meet and greet.

"The idea was to meet informally as most of the staff were new," Mrs Clark said. "It was a chance to introduce our staff to the community and for us to meet the families.

"We had a fantastic turnout with a lot of families, and members of the community there."

Mrs Clark was able to use the opportunity to reinforce the message that a Personalised Learning Plan (PLP) would greatly improve the students' learning experience.

"The barbecue enabled us to arrange for all students to have a PLP session with their parents and our staff. This was really important as it's something I wanted to do for each student and being a Connected Communities school it was essential that we did so," she said.

"Having the community all there at the barbecue, our local Elders, scripture teachers, AECG [Aboriginal Education Consultative Group] local branch president Jaycent Davis, community organisations, parents, Allison Alliston [Executive Principal] from the high school, meant we were able to get the message across that a PLP was important and the educational needs of the students are best met when everyone works together."

PLP sessions were held at the school and also at the students' homes, which Mrs Clark said were very rewarding.

"The home visits enabled us to find out a lot of information about the students that we would not have learnt otherwise and that will help us provide better learning plans for them.

"The staff know where we want the school to go. It's a shared vision, from attendance to health, cultural recognition, and academic achievement in all areas. Getting the community on board further strengthens our efforts in the classroom."

News story

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:58 AEST

On Monday 21st June we were lucky enough to have a visit from 'Snake Tails'

Rhain and Luke were two brave students who received a 'kiss' from a blue tounge lizard,

while Taylah had to pretend she was a tree when the water dragon wanted to investigate her!

Other students were also able to pat the 'pet' python snake.

Mens Business

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:55 AEST

Every Wednesday selected boys participate in a full days activities with local Aboriginal Elders and community members. They use this time to connect across generations through activities such as fishing which enables them to talk about mens issues as well.

Exciting programs at TTPS

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:52 AEST

Staff at Taree Public School have been busy organising some new exciting programs for students to be involved in.

The girls at Taree Public have selected some activities that they wish to be involved in such as;

hair and nail care instructed with a qualified hairdresser.
cooking using fresh ingredients.
child care in association with Girrawong Preschool.

A new music program will start shortly as part of the Taree Learning Community of Schools band.

Some of our students have been selected to take part in the Norta Norta tutoring program, which will help them with their reading and maths skills.

Upon completion of our connected classroom, students will have access to more information and can utilise the expertise of others outside of our school.

Welcome Mrs Ford

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:48:04 AEST

The Taree Public School wishes to welcome Mrs Vana Ford as the new principal. We hope that Mrs Ford enjoys working with the staff and children and that we look forward to the many exciting ideas that Mrs Ford has for our school.

News story

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:57 AEST

News story

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:57 AEST

News story

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:57 AEST

New Staff Member

The staff and students would like to welcome Mrs Louise Donnelly as the schools new Assistant Principal. Mrs Donnelly has come from Pacific Palms Public School.

Goodbye to Mrs Lawton

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:53 AEST

Student and Staff would like to wish you well.

Mrs Mellen is leaving

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:56 AEST

Students and Staff would like to wish Mrs Mellen well in her move to Brisbane. Good luck with the babysitting and we would welcome you back at our school anytime.

Retirement of Mrs McMahon

Thu, 31 May 2018 07:47:59 AEST

The Staff and Students would like to wish Mrs Bev McMahon a very happy retirement. Thank you for your years of dedication to the education of students attending Taree Public School over the past 10 years.