Newsletter Term 4 Week 5
From the Principal
What an amazing year we have had at Runcorn State School. It has been wonderful to celebrate our learning with you all through our three-way conversations, Facebook and our newsletters. Our staff understand their students and community, and successfully enact the curriculum. Staff at Runcorn are amazing and work extremely hard for your children and our community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful staff for their continual commitment to our Runcorn Community.
Growing as self-managers and collaborators
At this point in the year, as educators, we often reflect on how much our students have grown in the year and what else is important for them to take with them into the next year. Some of the greatest growth we see is as self-managers and collaborators. There are some things that you can do at home as parents that mirror the responsibilities that our students take on at school:
*Prep-Year 2 at home: Putting away their toys after they use them, putting their dirty clothes in the right place, and helping pour pet food/water in the pet bowl. As they master these, they can help with cooking, setting and clearing the table, pulling weeds in the garden, watering flowers, and loading/unloading the dishwasher.
** Notice that their independent responsibilities are for personal items, the more complicated tasks are supported.
*Prep-Year 2 at school: Students are responsible for packing lunchboxes, resources in the classroom and toys at playtime away independently. They receive help with their academic learning tasks that are more complicated.
*Year 3 - 4 at home: This age group can do some of the tasks younger children can do, but more independently. They can be responsible for keeping their rooms clean, help with taking out the rubbish and putting away the groceries.
*Year 3 - 4 at school: Students are responsible for moving between different eating/play areas, they can begin learning an instrument and are responsible for getting themselves to lessons.
*Year 5-6 at home: Begin helping with more household tasks such as washing, drying and folding laundry, vacuuming and mowing the grass. This age group can independently set/clear the table, take the rubbish to the wheelie bin.
*Year 5 - 6 at school: This age group are now the leaders in the school and are responsible for leading different groups of students in either a sport, or a musical group or a class-based group. They also manage their time more independently in the classroom as their tasks become longer and more involved. These students are often involved in extra-curricular activities (eg sport and music) and are responsible for remembering to go to practice.
Classes 2024 - PLEASE NOTE
During Term 4, our teachers develop the new classes for 2024. This process takes a lot of time and consideration. Teachers in each year level develop the new classes. When organising class groupings for the upcoming year our staff commit a lot of time to working out the best combinations. This takes many weeks and many drafts of classes. I believe and trust that our teachers will do the best they can to make sure classes are balanced and have the right combinations for teaching and learning in 2024. Teachers may be changing year levels so please do not put in any requests for specific teachers. We thank you for your support with this process. Next year we are predicting approximately 450 students and 19 class teachers.
Confirming Your Intentions for 2024
Are You Returning for 2024? You have received an email asking for your intentions for 2024. We kindly request your prompt response. If you are planning to transfer, move, or expect to return late due to overseas travel, please let us know as soon as possible. This information is invaluable in helping us make accurate staffing predictions for 2024.
Meg McClure
From the Deputy Principal
2024 Uniform and Stationery List Information
When purchasing new shoes for your children, please be reminded that the School Uniform Policy requires plain black shoes and plain white or black socks with no colours or logoes permitted.
2024 Stationery Lists have been sent home with students. Our current Stationery Pack supplier, School Stuff provide a lay by option to assist with spreading the total cost burden over a number of payments.
Roberta Matlock
From the Head of Department - Inclusion
Just like a snowflake or a fingerprint, every child is unique in their own special way. Every child has a unique way of feeling, thinking, and interacting with others. Some children are shy, while others are outgoing; some are active, while others are quiet; some are nervous, while others are easy-going. It is everyone’s job to encourage them to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their individual qualities and differences.
Celebrating our differences can enable us to open our minds to new ideas and experiences. By being interested and open to the differences between us we can discover new ideas and ways of thinking as well as making new friends and experiencing different opportunities.
“Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing on another’s uniqueness”
– Ola Joseph
Jillian Chittenden
Norman's News
Norman’s News
As the weeks of Term 4 seem to be flying by, I thought you may like to follow in my ‘pawsteps’ and take my “lead” about how I try to balance my mental wellness when life is busy and the demands are high! As we officially enter the “silly season”, these are my top Five Tips for adults and students alike:
- Be Active
I really love a walk and being active, whether it’s chasing a ball in the park, meeting other doggy friends to run around with or just checking out all the latest sniffs. Being out in the fresh air and enjoying nature can really help to lift my mood and the benefits will help long after you’re back inside.
When I am out on walks I really focus on listening to the sounds around me. I know that by taking the time to listen and tune into the birds singing, the wind blowing, the rustle of the trees or the sound of children playing that I give my mind a break from the complexities of the day and am able to re-focus on what is coming next.
I also am using my nose all the time. Interestingly, dogs actually have two noses – the one on the end of their muzzle and another one at the roof of their mouth. We use both to size up the world around us; nose down sniffing the grass and ground for info left by my doggy pals or nose up sniffing the air to assess what’s on the wind. You can definitely take a leaf out of my book and breathe in deeply. Flowers, something delicious cooking, washing on the line, a new jar of coffee… all things that bring a smile to the moment.
- Take care of your body
Quite possibly, one of my favourite things in the world is eating! I never let Mrs Schooth forget when my next meal is due or when I’d like a healthy snack! And, as many students have seen when I roll over on to my back, I am also a master at finding the most comfortable spot to catch up on some well-deserved rest.
When life is busy or stressful, it’s easy for us to forget about how important looking after our own body is but it’s essential to do so, in order to support our wellbeing. I am lucky to have “PawsOnly Grooming” to help with this also, and just like me, we all benefit from ensuring we eat well and getting into good habits with periods of relaxation to help us sleep.
I know that dogs need lots of sleep – about 12 to 14 hours a day. We need good quality, uninterrupted sleep, ideally lying flat out with my whole body supported. Likewise, as a human, it’s important to make time for sleep by sticking to a routine that allows plenty of time for shut-eye. You need between 7-9 hours of sleep each night to keep mentally and physically healthy. That means you should make time for your own sleep so simple routines like maintaining a regular bedtime will pay dividends. Also making sure that your bed is snuggly and comfy and that the room is as dark and quiet as possible will help the body relax into sleep.
- Take a break
While I take part in lots of different supporting activities throughout my working day, Mrs Schooth makes sure I also have lots of breaks in between each session. Breaks help me process what I’m doing, recharge my batteries and aid concentration so I’m able to stay alert and do what I’m asked to do for longer. The same goes for humans taking regular breaks through the day definitely helps to ease busy minds.
- Connect to others
I was chosen by Mrs Schooth because I love spending time with people. I am sociable and enjoy and seek out spending time with people. On the days when I don’t come to school or on the weekends when my family is busy outside of the house, feelings of social isolation can play a huge part in my wellbeing; just as there are many people who regularly feel lonely or isolated. If you think someone you know might be feeling lonely or struggling, why not make an extra effort to check in for a chat. It might be just what they need and could help more than you know.
- Learn something new
I love to learn and have continued to learn new skills since coming to Runcorn. This might be something simple liking shaking hands with students on parade, or more complex demands like having to “wait” when I would like to be chasing a ball that I can see students throwing! I have been trained using positive reinforcement methods and, as a result, I really enjoy learning new things. Setting yourself a challenge to learn something new can bring fantastic social and emotional benefits and your new skill can be however big or small you want it to be. You could try out a new hobby, find a new recipe to cook, become a volunteer, start an exercise class or even do further study. See what’s out there!
Until next time, I hope you can find some time for yourself,
Big licks and tail wags,
Norman
From the Head of Department - Curriculum
The Language of Inquiry
As we grow and strength our Inquiry Stance here at Runcorn it is important to acknowledge the importance of language and the power of our words. As we cultivate curiosity and wonder we use language that frames our learning as a question to be answered. This language is used across the school by students and staff alike. It also helps connect previous learning with new discoveries to create a deeper, more authentic understanding of concepts.
Introducing Acting Head of Department
As I head off on Maternity leave at the end of this week, I would like to say thank you to the Runcorn community for your unwavering support and passion for learning. It is such a privilege to work with your children and the amazing staff here. I look forward to seeing you all when I return. I would like to introduce Farah Anderson who will act in my position while I am away.
Keep being curious!
Rachel La Sala
Music Matters
Save the date:
Term 4:
Week 6 Friday November 10- Remembrance Day parade- Senior Choir
Week 8 Tuesday November 21- Music and Academic Awards- Senior Choir, Band, Senior strings
Week 8 Tuesday November 21- Strings family afternoon- Beginner and Junior Strings 3-4pm
Week 9 Wednesday November 29- End of Year Concert
Week 9 Friday December 1- Graduation- Year 6 Strings and selected others
Ensemble and Choir Rehearsals
It’s great to see everyone in attendance at rehearsals this week.
Please make sure you keep attending all rehearsals this term for Band, Strings and Choir as there are a number of performances this term with our final concerts in Week 8.
Practice- Instrumental Music
All students in Instrumental Music need to ensure they are practicing a minimum of 100 minutes per week as this is part of the requirement and is part of assessment this term.
Continuing in IM form and Instrument Hire- Year 3 and 4
Continuing in Instrumental Music forms are were back this Friday 20th October. Please ensure you have returned these so we have accurate numbers for next year.
All school instruments will need be returned by the end of Week 8.
End of Year Concert
Our End of Year Concert is getting closer and closer!! Every year level has been preparing 2 songs to perform at Sunnybank State High School on the evening of November 29th. It will be an exciting way to send out our year and we look forward to seeing everyone there! The P&C will be raffling off hampers and there will be food and drink to purchase.
Looking forward to seeing everyone next week.
Ms Mariel Hopper (mxhop2@eq.edu.au)
Health Happenings
Our assembly awards focus this fortnight are the Persistence Key and the Researcher Learning Asset.
Persistence at Runcorn State School looks like:
- Students trying their best when completing challenging tasks
- Students finishing their work on time
- Students avoiding distractions when completing learning activities
Effective Researchers at Runcorn State School are:
- Curious
- Courageous
- Resourceful
At the beginning of Week 5, two tickets from each year level were randomly selected. Our Principal, Mrs McClure, celebrated with those students at a special afternoon tea. The next afternoon tea with Mrs McClure will be held at the end of Week 10.
Sheridan Stirling
Sports News
Please find our term 4 swimming timetable below.
All students must bring the following items:
- A swimming cap (preferably not blue in colour)
- A one-piece swim suit or shorts and a long sleeve sun safe shirt (not singlet)
- A towel
- Thongs or sandals for walking to and from the pool
- SPF 30+ broad spectum sunscreen
- swimming goggles are optional
- Students with open or infected sores or abrasions are not able to swim in the pool. Bandaids and dressings can't be worn in the pool.
- Jewelry is not permitted including any earings
Luke Brady
Bandana Day
A BIG thank you to all of our families at Runcorn State School who purchased a bandana for Bandana Day. The Student Council sold them all and we have raised $1500 for Canteen which is amazing! Here are some happy students who were snapped buying their bandanas during the week!
Environment Club News
The Environment Club has continued paper and cardboard recycling. This has been happening on a Thursday or Friday. So far, the collection has been going well with most classes remembering to only put paper and cardboard in these bins. Just a reminder that tissues must not be placed in the Recycling Bins.
We have now re-established the Heritage Garden beds by planting tomato and lettuce seedlings kindly donated by Bunnings, Underwood. The 5/6M and Prep C students lovingly planted these seedlings during Buddies and will work together to water and tend to them. Hopefully, we will start supplying salad for the Tuckshop. Lettuce and tomato are the most frequently used items in the Tuckshop.
Ever heard of GREENWASHING?
Be Inquirers and investigate this concept with your class or families. Another space where we need to be THINKERS!!
Looking forward to working alongside everyone to make a difference to the thinking around the Environment and Sustainability within Runcorn State School.
The Environment Club
Mrs McNamara and Mrs Anglim
jmcna155@eq.edu.au sangl1@eq.edu.au
From the Administration Office
Parent reminder: Check and make sure that we have your most current and correct email address on file. This will ensure that you receive your child’s report card at the end of the term. Contact the front office to make any changes.
Students leaving at the end of 2023:
Planning is well on the way for establishing class placements for the 2024 school year. To ensure that we allocate placements as equitably as possible, we kindly request your assistance in informing us of your intentions regarding your child's enrolment status for next year.
If you are definitely leaving Runcorn State School at the end of the 2023 school year, can you please email office@runcornss.eq.edu.au with the following details:
Name of Student:
Current Class:
Name of school your child will be attending in 2024:
If you are unsure about your plans for next year, please let us know your current status, and you can update us as soon as you make a decision.
Student Resource Scheme (SRS) 2024
The school will be submitting its report on the 2023 SRS at next Monday’s P&C meeting.
Our final P&C meeting for the year will be held in the library on Monday 13th November at the 6.30pm.
At this meeting the Student Resource Scheme(SRS) for 2024 will be discussed. All parents and carers are welcome to attend.
First Aid Processes
If children are injured or become ill at school they will receive treatment within the classroom or in the Health Room. Parents/Carers will be contacted if necessary. Please note that staff must give Parents and Carers a courtesy contact home for all head related injuries (no matter how minor).
When a student is considered too unwell to remain at school, parents will be contacted to collect in a timely manner. If a student's condition deteriorates while waiting to be collected an ambulance may be called if deemed necessary.
If a student presents to the health room with a suspected allergic reaction, parents/carers will be contacted. As per Education Queensland policy, if a student requires an EpiPen to be administered parents will be notified. An ambulance must be called and student will be transported to hospital for further treatment. Children with known allergies will have their own school based EpiPen. We also hold a school EpiPen for any unforseen emergencies.
Medication must be prescribed by a doctor or dentist and may only be administered to students by school staff. The medication must be taken to the school office in its prescription container and administered according to the doctor’s instructions.
Non prescribed oral medication such as Panadol and cough mixtures can only be administered by school staff with a pharmacy label and medical aurthorisation. Education Queensland prohibits students from carrying their own medication to school and requires Parents/Carers to deliver the prescribed medication to the office and collect after school or before weekends as needed. A school register of all medicines administered is kept.
Incursion/Excursion/Camp Payments
Runcorn State School is now a cashless school. Thank you for continuing to pay for your children's incursions/excursions/camp payments via our preferred methods:- BPoint and EFTPOS. If you require any assistance paying via BPoint, please contact the school office. Unfortunately we are unable to accept payments over the phone.
DID YOU KNOW?..... that using BPoint is a convenient and secure way to pay for your child's school invoices. BPoint is a user-friendly online payment platform that enables you to pay your school invoices quickly and easily, without having to worry about sending cash or cheques through the mail or visiting the school in person. It can also be done by phoning the school on 3323 8777, choosing Option 2 which will redirect you to the BPoint payment platform.
By using BPoint, you can make payments from the comfort of your home or office at any time, day or night. You can also track your payment history and receive email receipts for each transaction, making it easier to keep track of your expenses.
BPoint offers a secure and reliable payment system, ensuring that your personal and financial information is protected. It also helps reduce administrative costs for the school, which ultimately benefits the entire school community.
We strongly recommend giving BPoint a try for your next school invoice payment. It's an efficient and hassle-free way to pay your school fees.
We have also included some easy to follow instructions. If you still require further assistance with the process please contact our friendly Admin team!
Newsletters
Don't forget that you can always collect a hard copy of the current newsletter from the office. You can also view/download it from our website: https://runcornss.schoolzineplus.com/enews?nid=23 You can also download the Schoolzine App from your App Store. Once downloaded, search for Runcorn State School and use password 4109, when prompted. Happy reading.
P&C News
EVENTS
Mango Fundraiser
Thank you to all those who ordered Mangoes through our Fundraiser! We will be in touch closer to the delivery date, expected in late November.
November P&C Meeting
The final P&C meeting of the year is being held in Week 7 on Monday, 13th November at 6:30pm in the Resource Centre/Library. This is a great opportunity to find out what is happening at the school, including planning for our community events and fundraising, as well as the best avenue to raise any suggestions. We look forward to seeing you all there.
Volunteers needed for Events!
We are looking for volunteers to help at the End of Year Concert (Wednesday 29th November evening), as well as helping to pack the End of Year Raffle Baskets prior to this event. Further details to following the coming weeks. If you are interested and able to volunteer, please contact rsspcevents@outlook.com
TUCKSHOP
Contact: tuckshop@runcornss.eq.edu.au
Operating Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (8:30am - 1:45pm)
How to order from the Tuckshop:
- Register with Flexischools (see graphic below)
- All orders must be placed online via Flexischools
The Tuckshop also offers over-the-counter purchases Wednesday to Friday where students can bring cash to purchase ice blocks, drinks, and slushies.
Birthday Orders
Don’t forget that Cupcakes and Ice Block Buckets are available to order via Flexischools. Get in early and secure your order so you don’t miss out (Please note that cupcakes are only available Wednesday to Friday). All birthday orders must be placed at least two days prior.
Volunteers Needed in the Tuckshop!
You can help in one or more of the following ways:
- Putting labels on bags
- Filling drink orders
- Preparing food
- Baking
- Washing up
- Placing orders into bags, and allocating to class tuckshop delivery boxes
- Volunteer under the guidance of the Tuckshop Convenor (Wednesdays to Fridays from 8:30am) - no experience is necessary
- All volunteers who work a two-hour shift receive a complimentary lunch from the menu
- An excellent way to help out in your community by providing an important service to students and staff
How to sign up to volunteer with one of the two options:
Click this SignUp online link: https://signup.com/go/iBhmPbC. Review the options listed and choose the spot(s) you like. (you will NOT need to register an account or keep a password on SignUp. SignUp does not share your email address with anyone)
OR
Email tuckshop@runcornss.eq.edu.au if you prefer not to use your email address on SignUp so that we can manually add you to your preferred shift/s.
UNIFORM AND STATIONERY SHOP
Contact: rssuniform@outlook.com
Operating Hours: Monday (2:45pm–3:15pm) & Tuesday (8:15am–8:45am)
Booklists
The 2024 booklists have been sent home. The uniform shop has a small amount of stationery for sale.
Uniforms for Pre-Preps
The Uniform Shop will be opening on Thursday 9th November at 8:30am-9:30am for the Prep 2024 students to trial and purchase their uniforms prior to the Pre-Prep Session. The Uniform Shop will also be open on the Orientation Day (Thursday 16th November) from 8:30am to 11:30am. Volunteers are urgently needed for these days to happen – please contact Zoee at rssuniform@outlook.com
Volunteers Needed in the Uniform Shop!
You can help in one or more of the following ways:
- Making sales
- Cash handling (not necessarily expected)
- Assisting families to select and/or try on appropriate sizes
- Retrieving stock from the shelvesD
Community News
