Term 3 Issue 1
Principal's Report
Hi all,
We have had a few incidences of missed communications with teachers and parents so have reviewed our processes and implemented changes that will avoid this situation occurring in the future. If you are needing to contact your child's teacher please email the burbridge@education.wa.edu.au with subject line being child's and teacher's name. This mailbox is monitored and your messages will be passed onto the relevant staff. For urgent matters, please contact the front office on 9345 6700.
LATE ARRIVALS and ABSENCES
Classes start at 8.45am. It is preferred that students arrive as close to this time as possible to reduce interruptions to classes and teaching programs. Students are not to be onsite before 8:30am. If your child arrives after 9am, please take them to the front office to sign them in.
If your child is going to be absent, please use the absentee tab on the Schoolzine app or text the MGM Outreach number on 0488 911 892. Remember to let us know your child's name and reason for absence.
Joanne Gordon - Principal
Meet our Deputy Principal
Burbridge has appointed a second Deputy Principal for a 12-month tenure to support our Quality Teaching and Learning strategy.
Hello!
My name is 'Anna Ward (just like in Frozen!), Mrs Ward to our students, and I am the new Deputy at Burbridge School. I have worked in education for over 10 years, mostly in Ed Support settings. I have recently moved back to Perth after living and working rurally for the last year in a school of 9 students. I have loved my first week at Burbridge School and have especially enjoyed meeting all our wonderful young people. I look forward to seeing what we can achieve during our time together! Please feel free to come and find me, I would love to meet you!
Therapy Provision @ School
Due to increasing demand for therapy services to occur at school during instructional time we have conducted an audit of service provision and locations. This has resulted in the need to review our current therapy service agreements and arrangements. Burbridge School has limited spaces that are used by the whole school and some of these areas are being over utilised by 1:1 therapy, which directly impacts the accessibility of curriculum for classes in being able to access these areas.
Going forward we will be endorsing our strong preference for in-school therapy to be conducted within the context of timetabled key learning activities and in a manner that does not adversely impact the orderly running of classrooms and the school. We are also implementing refinements to our therapy booking and contact system. All communication regarding therapy service provision should be directed to the Burbridge School Therapy email Burbridge.therapy@education.wa.edu.au
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Our guiding principles for in-school therapy provision at Burbridge School are to ensure:
• A collaborative approach between teachers, therapists, families and carers when in the best interest of students to help maximise educational outcomes,
• In-school therapy aligns with school planning, teaching and reporting cycles.
• In-school therapy is a partnership based on sound communication and professional respect.
• In-school therapy is designed and delivered to optimise student outcomes and engagement.
• Student safety, learning and social development are paramount considerations at all times.
Further information regarding therapy service provision in-school will be forthcoming.
Running Challenge
This term some of our wonderful staff and students are participating in the Minister for Education's Running Challenge. We are very excited to see lots of feet, and wheels, moving as we track our progress for the Minister. We might even be lucky enough to win some prizes!
Areas G & H Team HP
This term, students from Areas G and H have had the unique opportunity to attend Team HP, a special post-schooling program designed to support senior students in their transition from schooling into adulthood. Team HP not only a day of engaging activities but also a valuable experience aimed at helping our students explore post-schooling options and build positive relationships with peers and professionals. The day kicked off with the lively morning circle songs, a cherished tradition that set a spirited tone for the day's activities. As the morning progressed, students delved into a diverse range of activities that included arts and crafts, sensory exploration, and baking. Each of these activities was designed to be both enjoyable and enriching, providing students with a platform to express their creativity, develop practical skills, and engage their senses in meaningful ways. The arts and crafts session were a particular highlight. Armed with paints, brushes, and a variety of crafting materials, students unleashed their creativity, producing colourful and imaginative artworks. From vibrant paintings to intricate collages, the students' projects were a testament to their artistic talents and unique perspectives. This hands-on activity not only allowed students to explore their creative abilities but also helped in refining fine motor skills and enhancing patience and concentration. One of the most impactful aspects of the day was the opportunity for students to engage with Team HP staff and other young adults attending the program. This interaction allowed students to form positive professional relationships and engage with individuals who have navigated similar transitions. Overall, Team HP provided a multifaceted experience that combined fun, creativity, and professional development. The diverse range of activities offered students an opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build meaningful connections. The positive atmosphere, enthusiastic participation, and excellent sportsmanship throughout the day were a testament to the success of the event, and instrumental in helping students envision their own futures and understand the possibilities available to them beyond school. As we reflect on our time at Team HP, we are reminded of the importance of providing students with opportunities to explore, connect, and prepare for their future. Team HP is an invaluable resource in this regard, offering support and guidance as students transition into adulthood. We are proud of the accomplishments and growth demonstrated by our students from Areas G and H and look forward to continuing to support them in their journey toward a successful future.
Kellie Ord - Area G Teacher
TEAM HP
Story Dogs
This term Areas A, B, D and J have been lucky enough to enjoy fortnightly visits from Story Dogs! The students have enjoyed listening to and engaging with the story Old McDonald Heard a Fart! We have had many smiles and giggles at the ridiculous sounds that our four-legged friend Mwokozi has introduced us to.
Big thank you to Teoni for her amazing story sharing skills - we can't wait to enjoy more cuddles next week!
'Anna Ward - Deputy Principal
Literacy with Mwokozi
Tree Planting Day
Our students have many skills and the list is ever-growing with 'gardener' now on the resume. In Week 3 the students celebrated Tree Planting Day by planting some native Australian plants around our senior playground. It was wonderful to see the students engage with new smells and textures during this exciting activity. With all this rain, we're sure to see some beautiful new scenery in no time. Well done, everyone!
'Anna Ward - Deputy Principal
Great day to garden
Burbridge School Board AGM
Call for nominations for the School Board. We have four vacancies available on the School Board. This means that there are opportunities for parents and community members within our school community to join our school board. The positions available are for a two or three-year tenure.
As you are aware, we are an Independent Public School (IPS). As an IPS we are required to have a School Board. School Board members have the opportunity to influence the direction of our school in ways that best meet the needs of our students and their families. The board is also involved in school review and some school policy development.
We are looking for parents who can commit to these roles and who are motivated to work alongside other parents, staff and community members to create the best possible learning experiences for our students. The School Board meets in week 5 each term on a Friday morning 9.00am to 10.00am, and the AGM is in week 8 of term 3.
The AGM is on Friday 6th September 2024, at 9.00 am. Positions will be voted on and announced at the AGM. All are invited and welcome to attend. If you would like to be involved in shaping our school for your child’s future, we encourage you to nominate yourself on the attached form and return it to our Principal Joanne Gordon by Monday 2nd September 2024 via your child’s communication book or in person to the reception at Burbridge School or via email joanne.gordon@education.wa.edu.au
We need the support of our families to function as an effective Independent Public School (IPS) and we highly value your perspectives and contribution.
Mrs Diana Atkinson
School Board Chairperson