News

COVID Regulations - Bathurst West Term 1 Week 1

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 12:20:03 AEDT

Get #FirstDay2021 ready for the new school year

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 17:20:20 AEDT

Be prepared for the new school year with our back to school tips and tools.

The start of a new school year can be both an exciting and demanding time for parents and students alike.

Our parents and carers Back to school hub can help you prepare for the year ahead with practical articles, tools, activities, calendars and checklists so you and your child can be ready from day1, term 1.

Find out about our COVID-safe school guidelines, download fun activity sheets to complete with your child, read about our health and wellbeing resources and more.

If your child is starting kindergarten, check out our starting school guide for everything you need to know from enrolment to what to expect throughout your child’s first school year.

Video – #FirstDay2021

Duration – 0:49

Back to School 2021

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 12:02:41 AEDT

Information regarding 2021.

Supporting effective learning at school and home with the 'What Works Best: 2020 update'

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:29:41 AEDT

The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines the eight most effective teaching practices and how these can be supported at home.

Parents and carers can support effective student learning at home through the ‘What Works Best’ resource, now updated for 2020.

The What Works Best resource has been very successful helping teachers bring the best teaching practices into their classrooms. The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines eight evidence-based teaching practices that teachers can use in their classrooms to improve student learning.

You can find out more about these practices, how it’s used in schools, our handy guide for parents and carers and conversation tips to help continue student learning at home when you visit the ‘What Works Best’ parents and carers hub.

Schools Spectacular remixed for television

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 13:34:02 AEDT

Relive memorable acts and performances from the past four years in a special televised Schools Spectacular event.

The annual Schools Spectacular, cancelled this year due to the pandemic, will entertain audiences with a special television broadcast next week.

The Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed will air on Channel 7 on Saturday 5 December at 7pm.

The two-hour broadcast will feature memorable acts and spectacular moments from the past four years.

The show will also feature a surprise digital performance from this year’s graduating Class of 2020 with the Year 12 students sharing their passion and talents while celebrating with NSW Education for one last time.

This technical feat aims to inspire audiences as more than 70 dancers, singers, instrumental musicians and signing performers from across NSW assemble virtually for the performance.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, said this event is an opportunity to revisit memories of past performances and celebrate the talents of students in NSW public schools.

“Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed will be an extraordinary broadcast and a unique opportunity to look back at some of the many achievements of our talented performing arts students and their hard working and committed teachers from the past four years,” he said.

Audiences can also share their own memories and see highlights from past Schools Spectacular performances on the Schools Spectacular Facebook page.

Schools Spectacular Remixed 2020 is produced by the NSW Department of Education and proudly supported by Presenting Partners, Telstra and the NSW Teachers Federation, and Segment Partner, RØDE Microphones.

Celebrate Schools Spectacular 2020 Remixed on Saturday 5 December at 7pm on Channel 7.

Supporting effective learning at school and home with the ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:13:33 AEDT

The ‘What Works Best: 2020 update’ outlines the eight most effective teaching practices and how these can be supported at home.

Parents and carers can support effective student learning at home through the ‘What Works Best’ resource, now updated for 2020.

School Updates App - be prepared for any emergency

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:47:28 AEDT

Receive notifications of school closures. Opt in to receive timely, accurate notifications about the operational status of your chosen NSW public school(s).

The NSW School Updates App was created to help our parents and carers check on the status of their school during last summer’s bushfire season. And it’s been invaluable during COVID when schools were required to close for deep cleaning.

The app is free and available now for iOS and Android users.

Visit NSW School Updates App to download and for more information

Privacy information

The app doesn't store any personal or identifiable information.

Join in the virtual NAIDOC Week celebrations

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 18:33:25 AEDT

Education celebrates NAIDOC Week 2020 (8 – 15 November 2020) with the theme ‘Always Was, Always Will Be’.

It’s a time to reflect and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of the First Nation peoples – recognising them as the traditional owners of the land.

Schools were invited to film and submit videos to celebrate history, culture and achievements of past and present Aboriginal and Torres Strait students.

Secretary, Mark Scott will give an opening address on Monday, 9 November and then Aboriginal students run a Question and Answers session with Mark Scott, Cindy Berwick, President of the NSW AECG; Martin Graham, Deputy Secretary; Michelle Hall, Executive Director, Connecetd Communities and Karen Jones, Executive Director, Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships.

Tuesday will showcase how NSW public schools are embedding Aboriginal cultural practices. Special thanks to; Windale Public School Preschool, Terrigal Public School, Wilcannia Central School and Murrumbidgee Regional High School for participating.

Wednesday will highlight the outstanding achievements of Benson Igua Saulo, In-coming Consul-General to the US based in Houston (2021), as his is interviewed by current students from his former schools, Tamworth High School and Peel High School.

Thursday will see Uncle Michael Jarrett deliver a Gumbaynggirr language lesson.

Friday will close out our virtual celebration with a beautiful virtual choir led by Uncle Archie Roach. Students will join him singing ‘Took the children away’ and ‘Children came back’.

Join the virtual celebration via video streams hosted by Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships , each weekday morning, at 9:30am, during NAIDOC Week 2020.

2021 term dates now available

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:27:37 AEDT

Most students start Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division) in Term 1 2021.

To support a strong start to 2021, school staff will now have two school development days at the beginning of Term 1.

For 2021, students will return to school on Friday 29 January (or Friday 5 February for Western division), unless otherwise notified by the school. School term dates for 2021 are now available.

Western division schools, also known as ‘late start’ schools, are located in the far western region of NSW. Check if your school is a Late start school.

#MathsTrainsBrains for the future

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:15:12 AEDT

Parents and carers can now explore the importance of mathematical skills with the new Everyday Maths experience, featuring activities, resources and explainers targeted to year groups.

The digital launch is part of the NSW Mathematics Strategy 2025, which aims to strengthen mathematics teaching in NSW public schools, promote understanding of the usefulness of mathematics and build positive perceptions of mathematics.

Tune into Education LIVE to find out how high profile Australians like media guru Kellie Hush, former Olympian Steve Solomon and former Masterchef Alice Zaslavsky use maths in their everyday lives.

Video – #MathsTrainsBrains

Duration – 1:00

Have your before and after school care needs changed?

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 10:47:48 AEST

The Department of Education wants to hear from all NSW parents about their specific care needs in light of COVID-19.

The NSW Government is committed to making before and after school care available to families at all NSW public primary schools, but we understand your work arrangements and care needs may have changed due to COVID-19.

To better understand how parents can best be supported to access the before and after school care, the department and Service NSW have developed a short survey.

Have your say:

visit service.nsw.gov.au/basc
email BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Updates to COVID-19 restrictions affecting NSW schools

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 23:01:06 AEST

Latest COVID-19 case locations in NSW

NSW Health has a website to inform you of the actions you should take if you have been in a location where there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 within NSW. Monitor the site and follow the relevant health advice if you have been at any of the locations at the specified dates and times.

Students and staff who have travelled through or visited Victoria

All students and staff who have visited Victoria must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for 14 days.

Except for students and staff who reside in a border town, all students and staff who have visited Victoria in the 14 days before the commencement of school should not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

Students and staff who are unable to return to school due to these self-isolation requirements will be supported to learn and work remotely during the self-isolation period via the online learning hubs until they return to on-campus learning and teaching.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Information for students and staff on new NSW-Victoria border restrictions

The NSW Government has announced further tightening to the restrictions for people travelling across the NSW-Victorian border.

From midnight Tuesday 21 July a border zone, defined along the Murray River, will be established.

Anyone travelling from Victoria to NSW must apply for a new permit through Service NSW.

Victorian residents who have been in one of the restricted areas in Victoria in the last 14 days must not enter NSW.

Attending schools along the border

Current permits will expire at midnight, Tuesday 21 July. We strongly encourage all parents and staff to check they have a permit and if not, apply for one through Service NSW.

Students and staff who reside in Victoria will need to be eligible for a border permit to attend school in person.

Under the new public health order, the border zone has been reduced significantly.

Not all students and staff may be eligible for a border permit under the public health order. If you are not eligible for a border permit you will not be able to cross the border. Students and staff will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

Further information on the new border zone is available from Service NSW.

Border permits can be rescinded at any time if a cluster outbreak in your community occurs. We encourage parents to monitor local circumstances regularly as things may change in the coming days or weeks.

Transport to and from school will run as scheduled. For travel advice to and from school refer to Transport for NSW.

New restrictions affecting boarding schools

Any student returning from Victoria to reside at a boarding school in NSW must now self-isolate for 14 days in a NSW location separate to the boarding school. They must also obtain a negative test swab from day 10 of their isolation before entering school and have written confirmation of the test result and the period spent isolating.

Those who are unable to return to boarding while they are completing the self-isolation period will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

More information

Returning to school in Term 3

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 11:25:27 AEST

Our school will be open to welcome students back to onsite learning from the beginning of Term 3 – Tuesday 21 July 2020.

As you would be aware the border between NSW and Victoria closed as of 12:01am 8 July 2020.

All staff and students returning from Victoria after this time must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days.

All students who have been in Victoria in the last 14 days before the commencement of school must not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Students who are unable to return to school due to the border closures or self-isolation will be supported to learn remotely.

We would like to remind our community the most important action you can take is to practise good hand hygiene and physical distancing. Our school will be vigilant in implementing these requirements to minimise the risk at school.

Curriculum reform focuses on deep learning

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 18:35:27 AEST

Changes to the NSW school curriculum will be the biggest education shake-up in 30 years.

The reforms, announced by the NSW Government on Tuesday, will start rolling out in 2021. All Kindergarten to Year 12 students will learn the new curriculum by 2024.

The changes are in response to the NSW Curriculum Review by Professor Geoff Masters and will ensure every student is prepared and ready for their future.

The reforms are based on:

decluttering the curriculum by reducing unnecessary subjects
a ‘back to basics approach’ that will see a renewed focus on the core subjects of English, maths and science
Year 11 and Year 12 prequalification for university and TAFE courses.

Education Week to celebrate learning together

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 10:13:29 AEST

Education Week 2020 will be held from Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August.

Education Week is our annual week of celebration to highlight the achievements of our students and staff and the role of public schools as the cornerstone of their communities.

This year’s theme is ‘Learning together’ and it reflects the incredible months of 2020 where NSW public school students have continued to learn and achieve, despite natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our schools have experienced significant disruption but our staff – in partnership with parents and carers – have worked tirelessly to ensure that high quality teaching and learning has continued for all students.

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott said the best learning takes place when there is a partnership of students, teachers, parents, carers and the community.

“Our schools and families benefit from strong, respectful relationships where responsibility for student learning is shared,” Mr Scott said.

“As our lives slowly return to normal, it’s time for us to reflect on the achievements and resilience of our entire school community. We look forward to celebrating Education Week with all of you in August.”

Statewide events for Education Week include:

a live stream launch on Monday, 3 August
activities for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day on Tuesday, 4 August
a live streamed student film festival on Wednesday, 5 August.

Schools are invited to share photos, videos and stories of local celebrations on social media using the hashtag #EdWeek20 or send an email to educationweek@det.nsw.edu.au.

Opportunity Class 2021

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 10:38:47 AEST

The Opportunity Class (OC) is a regional class for gifted and talented students in Years 5 and 6, and Bathurst West is the only such class in Bathurst, Orange or Blayney. Students sit a test for entry while in Year 4, with students coming to us from as far away as Molong in past years. The application period opens on Tuesday 9 June and closes on Friday 26 June 2020 for 2021 entry.

Benefits of the Opportunity Class:

· Opportunity Classes benefit gifted and talented children as they have the opportunity to mix with like-minded students

· As the only Opportunity Class in Bathurst, Orange and region, our class ensures that students are not disadvantaged by being in a rural setting and it assists in them being competitive with their city and private school counterparts

· The OC focusses on an enquiry based approach and encourages complex higher-order thinking and open-endedness which as a group, gifted and talented students prefer.

· The OC promotes the opportunity for students to self-pace in a more flexible environment, with more opportunities to seek evaluation from their peers and teachers.

· The OC allows for flexible grouping including opportunities for independent work so that each child is extended.

· The Bathurst West OC is a well-resourced OC program, designed and delivered by expert teachers.

Bathurst West Public School (BWPS) ensures that students will be an integral part of a non-judgmental and trusting school climate where parents are welcomed and encouraged to be part of the learning journey. We have many opportunities for extra-curricular activities, such as choir, band, debating, School Spectacular, sports and much more. At Bathurst West we are well-known in the community as a warm, caring and inclusive school – we have a big heart!

For more information please call us on 02 6331 1142 or visit the following links.

Information about applying for Year 5 entry to an opportunity class in 2021

Intention to apply form

https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-5

Student Drop-off and Collection Information

Fri, 22 May 2020 14:24:07 AEST

Student Drop-off and Collection Information

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

To enable as smooth as possible return to school for students, families and staff, and to keep us all safe and healthy, we ask for your support with changes to the way we drop students at school and collect them at home time.

The new arrangements from Monday 25^th May 2020 will be:

Morning Drop-off:

All gates will be open for students to enter school each morning. This means that they can enter via:

Suttor St
Pacific Way
Gowrie Walk

We ask all parents/carers to say goodbye to their children at the school gates.

The dirt carpark off Suttor St, will also remain open in the morning to vehicles as a “Kiss and Drop” zone only (parking for parents/carers will not be available). Please help us with safety and the flow of traffic by dropping your child near the fence/gate and moving on as quickly as possible.

Afternoon/Home time Collection:

Once again, all gates will be open, so students can leave school via:

Suttor St (dirt carpark and front gate near the bus stop)
Pacific Way
Gowrie Walk

We ask all parents/carers to wait for their children outside the school gates (or in the dirt carpark) and to practice appropriate physical distancing.

The dirt carpark off Suttor St will be closed to vehicles in the afternoon (the same as it has been during the last few months). This allows parents/carers to wait for their children safely off the street and with enough room to practice appropriate physical distancing.

In the afternoons, parking is available in Suttor, Cummings and Cutler Sts, as well as Osborne Avenue for those parents/carers collecting children from the dirt carpark. Those using the Gowrie Walk gate can park in Gowrie Walk or Edgell St, while those using the Pacific Way gate can park in Pacific Way and surrounding streets (please be mindful that parking is limited and quite tight in this area).

As you would understand, with well over 500 students back at school on Monday, our dirt carpark and other accessible gates will not safely cope with the increase in family members waiting to collect children at home time.

To help solve this problem, we have put the following extra measures in place:

K-2 students (not including those in support classes) will now finish classes at 3:00pm each afternoon (15 minutes earlier than usual)
- Those K-2 students being collected by parents will be escorted by staff to the dirt carpark (only) at 3:00pm
- Those K-2 students who walk home independently, catch a bus home, or who attend after school care with Gowrie will remain supervised in class and will be released as usual at 3:15pm
All 3-6 students, including all students K-6 from the Support Unit, will finish classes and be released as usual at 3:15pm

We apologise in advance as we understand that this will be inconvenient for some families, especially those with work commitments or who have children in both K-2 and 3-6. This is not ideal, but as a school, we feel it is a crucial step to ensure the safety of students, their families, and our staff.

Please contact us on 6331 1142 if you have specific questions, issues or concerns about any of the measures in place as outlined in this document.

These arrangements will remain in place until further notice.

Kind regards,

Darren Denmead

Principal

Student Return to School Information

Fri, 22 May 2020 14:16:03 AEST

Student Return to School Information

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Everyone at Bathurst West are very excited that all students will return to fulltime, face-to-face lessons from Monday 25th May 2020 – Week 5, Term 2. We can’t wait to see all of our wonderful students in person!

All school activities and operations will be in line with Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) and NSW Health guidelines as applicable. School students do not need to follow physical distancing guidelines, but should follow good hygiene practices, such as –

· Regularly washing hands

· No sharing drinks or food

· Coughing or sneezing into their elbow, or a tissue which should be discarded immediately.

Accompanying this letter is an important document outlining the Face to Face Learning Guidelines for Families. It includes information about student attendance, hygiene and cleaning measures, reporting and assessment and school activities.

Also accompanying this letter is a plan for how we will manage student drop-off in the morning, and pick-up at home time.

If you have any questions after reading these guidelines and our plan for morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly staff on 6331 1142 or via email at bathurstw-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

I would like to take this opportunity to offer a heartfelt thanks to all of our students and families for their wonderful support and understanding throughout the COVID-19 situation. The commitment and effort from students and parents at home to continue learning was matched by the work and care of our amazing staff to maintain learning and connections. I am extremely proud of everyone, as you proved once again that West is best!

Having said that, I am also acutely aware of the difficulties some families faced during this time and I encourage you to make contact with your classroom teacher, or any of the staff at school via telephone or email (as above), if you need help. Working together, we can make the transition back to school as smooth and positive as possible.

Important Points:

• Buses to and from school will continue as normal;

• The school Canteen will be fully operational (with paid staff only, no volunteers);

• The Uniform shop will re-open from 9:00am to 9:30am each day, with appropriate safety measures in place;

• School assemblies will not be conducted unless there is no other option to deliver critical communications;

• We will encourage everyone to bring their own drink bottle, rather than drink from our bubblers;

• Our Library will re-open for all children in a carefully managed way;

• Semester 1 Student Reports will be adjusted to provide an overview of student performance, and we hope to have these to you by the end of the term;

• All adult, non-essential visitors are to remain off school premises wherever possible;

• In-school activities requiring volunteers (e.g. SRE, reading support, Playgroup, etc.) are still on hold at this stage; and

• Interschool sporting competitions and excursions are also still on hold at this stage.

Thank you all once again for being so supportive and working closely with our school to support the wellbeing of all students. We are all looking forward to seeing our kids back at school next Monday 25th May 2020.

Kind regards,

Darren Denmead

Principal

NSW students return to the classroom full-time

Tue, 19 May 2020 09:36:36 AEST

Students across NSW will be back in the classroom full-time from next Monday, 25 May.

The success of the phased return to face to face teaching has demonstrated the education system and community are ready for school to come back full-time.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell thanked school communities and parents for their patience during this difficult time.

Ms Berejiklian said a return to full-time face to face teaching and learning is crucial for the education progress of every child in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.

“Since starting a managed return to the classroom, we have seen a strong degree of confidence from our school communities in managing COVID-19 and a clear desire for all students to be back at school,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We expect schools to stick with the health advice – increased cleaning, access to hygiene supplies and compliance with hygience practices – and look forward to seeing all students back on campus five days a week.

“The health advice is very clear; a return to full-time face to face teaching is safe.”

Over the last two weeks schools have been working hard to support students practise good hygiene and implement new routines at school, which has been successful giving the community confidence that full-time face to face teaching can resume.

Ms Mitchell said she was eager to see students back in the classroom full-time.

“Our principals, teachers, support staff, parents and carers have gone above and beyond to continue the education of our students while we respond to this pandemic,” Ms Mitchell said.

“My priority is the education of our children. We know that parents across NSW share our desire for students to be back in school, and that is our expectation.

“Schools will need to maintain the measures and precautions they have put in place for the foreseeable future, including no assemblies and excursions.

“Teachers will be focused on identifying where their students are at in their education and we will be supporting them to recognise and assist those students who need additional help.”

Read the department's latest advice for families.

Keeping our school COVIDSafe

Tue, 12 May 2020 15:14:43 AEST

Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community by downloading the app.

Social distancing and washing your hands remain the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The COVIDSafe app, developed by the Australian Government, helps to reduce the spread by allowing health experts to find close contacts faster and more accurately.

The app does not track your location. It uses your phone's Bluetooth to record other users you come into contact with, so if they test positive, NSW Health can let you know.

Find out more:

Students begin return to classrooms

Fri, 08 May 2020 18:00:24 AEST

From Monday 11 May (Week 3) students will begin a phased return to school.

The phased return will maintain distancing in the classroom while supporting students' education and wellbeing.

Most students will continue learning from home and will only attend school 1 day each week.

Our school will continue to provide detailed information about the return to the classroom throughout the rest of Term 2.

Measures to keep schools clean and safe for all students and staff include:

25% more cleaning time focused on high-touch areas
priority deliveries of hygiene supplies including soap and hand sanitiser
local school changes to pick up, drop off, lunch and recess times and processes.

Religion and ethics lessons continue at home

Tue, 05 May 2020 11:19:44 AEST

Students learning from home can continue to access Special religious education (SRE) and Special education in ethics (SEE) classes.

Face-to-face SRE, SEE and Voluntary student activities of a religious nature in schools (VSA) will not be available until schools resume normal operations.

In response to requests from school communities, SRE and SEE approved providers are delivering their authorised curriculum with modifications to allow students to learn from home from the start of Term 2.

The lesson content and the mode of delivery has been reviewed and modified for easy access by students. The approved providers recognise that learning at home will not replicate face-to-face learning at school.

The learning from home SRE and SEE programs are now available:

Tune in at 8.45am to NSW Education LIVE

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:21:26 AEST

To welcome our students back for Term 2, join us at 8.45am from Wednesday 29 April to Friday 8 May for a special live stream.

Musician Guy Sebastian, TV foodies Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and Manu Feildel, Gardening Australia host Costa Georgiadis, Sydney Swans player Ollie Florent, and our very own Eddie Woo, have donated their time to kick start learning from home each morning from 29 April - 8 May.

Tune in each day at 8:45am. We can't wait to see you!

NSW students to transition back to the classroom in Term 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 10:01:00 AEST

NSW school students will gradually transition back to the classroom during Term 2 as the Government continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell outlined the plan for students attending NSW public schools to progressively return to face-to-face learning in week three of Term 2.

Ms Berejiklian said health advice continues to be that schools remain open, and parents, teachers and students can be confident that school is safe place.

“We are grateful to all families who kept their children home from school at the end of Term 1 and to teachers who worked tirelessly to deliver education online,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This allowed us critical time to prepare our schools to develop better online learning options and for considering additional hygiene measures to allow schools to return.

“We know that nothing is more important than a child’s education, and we must begin to return our students to their classrooms in a considered way.

“Under these changes, from week three of Term 2, every student will be attending school for one day a week.

“We will look to increase the number of days students are at school in a staged way and hope to have all children back at school full-time by Term 3.

“I’d like to thank the Catholic and Independent schools for working with the NSW Government at this time, as well as staff, including teachers, principals and cleaners, for working so hard to prepare for a resumption of school.

“I’d also like to thank parents for what has been a tough month, often juggling working from home and caring for children. We hope the partial resumption of on campus learning will provide some much needed relief to those families.”

During the first stage of on-campus learning, parents will be encouraged to keep their children home except on their allocated day of face-to-face learning. Initially, about a quarter of a school’s students are expected to be on site at any one time. The specific days students will be required to attend school each week will vary from school to school and will be clearly communicated to parents.

Classes will be split across schools, allowing schools to appropriately social distance students and teachers.

As always, schools will remain open for students who need them and no child will be turned away from school.

Ms Mitchell said careful consideration had been given to support the school community, providing clarity and certainty on the path forward.

“This plan provides a clear path that balances community concerns with a need to deliver continuity of quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Hand sanitiser will be available in all classrooms and provisions are in place for at-risk teachers to work from home. Drop off, pick up, recess and lunchtimes will also be staggered to ensure social distancing.”

In addition to the staged return to school, the NSW Government has committed up to $95.7 million to help keep casual and temporary school staff engaged in active work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our casual and temporary teachers and other non-teaching staff across NSW schools are critical to our education system, and will help ensure the educational outcomes for our students during this staged return,” Ms Mitchell said.

A cross-sector working group of teachers will also be established to report back to the Minister on recent innovations and educational developments assembled during the COVID-19 period that are suitable to support future educational delivery.

“It’s important that we have an inventory of the cutting edge teaching solutions and recognise the best efforts of our amazing NSW teachers during a difficult time,” Ms Mitchell said.

Teachers will have an additional day to prepare for Term 2 on Tuesday 28 April making the first day of term for students Wednesday 29 April.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Keep your family entertained these school holidays

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 17:50:18 AEST

We know it’s been a challenging Term 1. Just as many communities began recovering from fires, droughts and floods, we moved to learning from home to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

The school holidays are coming, which means your family is about to have a lot of free time and nowhere to go.

To support you while looking after children we’ve put together a handy guide of activities to stimulate young minds and keep your family busy and engaged.

Check out our parents and carers toolkit for important self-care tips, free parenting podcasts and apps.

If you need a break, the Service NSW before and after school care finder can help locate vacation care programs near you.

No child will be turned away from school

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:53:50 AEDT

Schools are open and no student will be turned away. Parents have been encouraged to keep their children at home if possible.

Schools will remain open for parents who want their children to attend irrespective of their profession or working arrangements.

The decision to keep schools open has been made based on advice from NSW Health, which has not changed.

The department will provide continuity of learning for all students both on and off campus and the Premier, for practical reasons, has encouraged parents to keep their children at home if they could.

Schools will communicate directly with parents on what learning options are available using their communication methods such as the school website, newsletters, emails and other online tools.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

New COVID-19 restrictions begin as schools move towards online learning

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 17:53:02 AEDT

The NSW Government has taken significant new steps to increase restrictions across the state - triggering the next level of enforcement necessary to fight COVID-19.

Following the decisions made by National Cabinet, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed the shutdown to protect NSW citizens.

"I understand many in the community are worried, and these changes will affect everyday lives, and may be upsetting," Ms Berejiklian said.

"But these decisions will make us all safer, they are taken with the health of all citizens in mind, and they must be taken now.

"If you have the capacity to work from home, you should do so."

In line with health advice, from midday today, the following non-essential activities and businesses will be temporarily shut down:

pubs, registered clubs
gyms, indoor sporting venues
cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs
restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery
religious gatherings, places of worship (excluding small weddings and funerals that comply with the 4m2 rule, which can proceed).

It is important to note essential gatherings at places such as hospitals, workplaces, constructions sites and for public transport are exempt and will continue.

As confirmed last night by the Prime Minister schools will remain open, based on health advice, which has not changed.

But from tomorrow, in NSW, for practical reasons, parents are encouraged to keep their children at home.

"Because nearly 30 per cent of children are already being kept out of school, for practical reasons NSW is encouraging parents to keep their children at home," Ms Berejiklian said.

"This will ensure there is only one unit of work, whether the student is at home or at school.

"No child will be turned away from school."

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Schools to implement distancing measures

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 20:44:35 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education is introducing proactive measures to limit the impact of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in our schools.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the Department of Education, today announced that schools would adopt social distancing measures requiring them to cancel assemblies, excursions, travel, some events and conferences.

Mr Scott said these measures are precautionary and designed to reduce exposure via non-essential gatherings.

"Schools have been a focus of the community and the government as the impacts of coronavirus have developed globally," Mr Scott said.

"From Monday onwards, I expect school assemblies and substantial gatherings to be cancelled, along with all excursions.

"The community expects schools to be as safe as possible. We are implementing these measures to provide peace of mind for students, parents and staff."

"These cancellations also extend to inter-school arts, sports, initiative activities and events.

All major arts, sports and initiative activities and events will temporarily be ceased until further notice. This includes whole-school sporting events and inter-school events involving three or more schools.

"Local inter-school sport and other activities can proceed, but we ask organisers to ensure that as far as possible, reasonable precautions are taken," Mr Scott said.

"I trust our principals and staff to show leadership during this time."

Schools will be provided with more detailed advice and suggestions on how they can adjust their day to day activities with minimal disruption.

The department is continuing to prepare for further closures if necessary with scaling up of technology, additional training of staff and preparation of offsite lessons.

Families and students in self-isolation can find useful information to continue learning from home.

For the latest information, check COVID-19 advice for schools.

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:05:29 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 13:28:06 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

The Uniform Shop Price List & Opening Hours

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 10:20:08 AEDT

Back to School 2020

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 11:13:58 AEDT

School resumes for students in Years 1 to 6 on Wednesday 29th January 2020.

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:49:15 AEDT

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

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

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

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

Travel health

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

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

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:14:31 AEDT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 16:02:54 AEDT

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

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

This year's events will feature:

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

Group bookings

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

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

Tickets for you and your family and friends

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

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:38:03 AEST

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

Have your say today on before and after school care.

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

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

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

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:24:34 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 11:44:53 AEST

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

You and your child can find information on:

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

A toolkit to empower you and your child

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

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

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

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

Keep your child safe and happy online

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

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:09:26 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 11:39:52 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:25:33 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 15:17:56 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 15:11:42 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 15:21:41 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 13:30:10 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 15:01:57 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

New School Shirts

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 15:01:10 AEDT

Exciting news - our new shirts have arrived!!

After more than three years of consultation and planning, including our recent uniform survey, our school will officially adopt this new polo shirt from the beginning of 2019.

Our wonderful P & C has joined forces with the school to keep the cost down and help everyone with their first two (2) shirts. All students enrolled in K-5 in 2018 can buy their first two new shirts at half price, two new shirts for $20.

The first two shirts (and any more you would like to buy at full price) can be purchased at our Logo Launch Party on Friday 30th November from 2pm. They will also be available from the Uniform Shop from Monday 3rd December as a normal stock item.

These new shirts will be compulsory school uniform from 2019, but we understand that some families might want to 'wear out' their current white shirts. That's OK, and no child will be disadvantaged during the uniform changeover.

If you have any questions please contact the P & C or the school office.

Clothing Pool

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 14:41:07 AEDT

Term 4 2019 Opening Hours

Monday to Friday 9-9.30am

January 2019 Opening Hours

Thursday 24th January 2-6pm

Friday 25th January 8 - 3pm

Tuesday 29th January 8-3pm

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:25:40 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.

Education Week Open Day 4th August

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:13 AEST

Bathurst West Public School Family Fun Day will be an amazing experience for both students and family members. What a fabulous opportunity to spend the day with your children joining in activities, being in class watching them learn, listening to speeches, and playing games such as gumboot toss. Please join us for part of the day or all day if you can. The children love having parents and carers in the school seeing what they can do.

2016 School Leaders

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

School Leaders

Our leadership team are a wonderful group of children who are proud and excited by their roles this year. We know Ronan, Josef, Shanese, Michaela, the House Captains and all members of the Student Representaive Council will carry out their duties with dignity, respect and humour. Well done to everyone!

Best Wishes Year Six 2015

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

We wish our Year Six students all the best for High School as they conclude their Primary Schooling with us. A checklist for High School is attached.

OC Information Evening

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

Bathurst West Public School will be hosting an Information Evening for students entering the Opportunity Class in 2016. Please contact the school for further information.

Official Facebook Page

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

Our Bathurst West facebook page has gone live...click the link to visit and like our page.

Read our Social Media Community Guidelines to ensure consistent procedures for community posting.

Bathurst West Public School facebook

Selective High Schools: Year 7 2017 Placement

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

Entry to Year 7 in 2017

Applications open on Monday 13th October 2015 for the Selective High School entry for 2017. Applications close on Monday 16th November 2015.

Applications can only be made online through the Selective High Schools website.

Contact the school if you require further information.

Selective High School Link

Information Package (pdf 842 KB)

Overview (pdf 127 KB)

Kindergarten 2016

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

The Kinder 2016 Flying Start Program

The Flying Start program which transitions our 2016 kindergarten students into school has been very successful.

The Flying Start Fair provided families with a variety of information about school life and ways to assist new students ease into school.

The Flying Start program continues in Term 4. Contact the school office for more information.

Going to a Public School - Starting School Link

School A to Z Information

State Athletics

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

Congratulations to our school District Athletic Representatives.

Bathurst West Public School was proudly represented at the Western Region Athletics Carnival on Friday 28th October 2015 at Barden Park in Dubbo.

Two students, Taleiha and Jack, have been selected as Western Region Representatives to compete at the State Athletics Carnival on the 14th and 15th October 2015 at the Sydney Athletic Centre in Homebush.

Congratulations to all students and best wishes to Taleiha and Jack on your selection.

iOC 2016

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

Bathurst West Public School invites you to attend the

iOC open classroom

Immerse yourself in activities and experience the opportunities

See what the iOC is all about first hand

Talk with staff and students

2014 School Team

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

The attached is the 2014 School Team. Children will be invited to attend early next term.2014 School Team (pdf 23 KB)

ICAS Competitions

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

The school once again will offer our students the opportunity to participate in the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) tests run by the University of New South Wales.

ICAS provides an opportunity for all students in year 3 and above, to gain a measure of their own achievement in an external testing situation. It provides teachers, parents and students with comprehensive reporting of results in the areas of Computer Skills, English, Mathematics, Science, Spelling and Writing.

There is a charge for entering each of the competitions.

This year the competition has also been extended to Year 2 in English and Mathematics.

Please discuss this with your child and next week I will give out further information and permission notes to interested students. These will also be available from the front office or on our website.

Permission notes and payment for all tests must be in by Friday, 5th April 2013.

ICAS Forms (pdf 43 KB)

Band Rehearsals Commenced

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

Band practice commenced last week and was a great start to the program. In the coming weeks students will be invited to audition for places in the band. Mrs. Coleman will provide details for this process shortly.

Grandparents Day Success

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

Bathurst West Public School held the annual Grandparents Day Concert and morning tea this week. Classes presented a variety of performances and the student leaders led the assembly

wonderfully. At the conclusion of the concert the visitors were invited to attend a morning tea with

their grandchildren and also visit classrooms. This is a highlight on the yearly calendar and I would like to thank Mrs. Cummings and Mrs.Coomans for organizing this very important event.

District Swimming Carnival Success

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

Representatives from the school attended the District Swimming Carnival held in Bathurst last Friday. Congratulations to all of the students who participated and well done to the those swimmers who have been selected to attend the Western Region Carnival in Dubbo.

School Band Meeting

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

The School Band is a fantastic program and will continue at Bathurst West this year. The school will be combining with the Bathurst's Mitchell Conservatorium of Music to provide quality instruction for the band. Mrs Hollie Coleman will be leading the program and a meeting will be held at the school next Thursday 7th March in the Hall at 6.45pm. The band will then commence the following week.

Life Education

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

The Life Education Van and Healthy Harold are at the school this week and next. I would like to thank all of the parents/carers for their support of this outstanding program. Students will follow up their visit with discussion and activities in classes.

Student Leadership Induction

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

The School Leaders will be officially inducted into their positions at the assembly this Friday 1st March, 2013. Student Representative Council members, School Leaders and the Sporting House Leaders will be involved in the event. Parents /Carers are most welcome.

~ Swimming Carnival Success ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

Congratulation to the students, staff and volunteers for making the 2013 Swimming Carnival a great success. The day was well managed and the school spirit very high. The
positive reports from staff and the excitement of the students was clear evidence that the day was a great success. The school acknowledges the hard work of Mrs. Wells and Mrs.
Little for organising the event. The District Carnival will be held this Friday 22nd in Bathurst. Good luck to the BWPS Team.

~ Student Leadership Assembly ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

The Student Leadership Team will be officially inducted at a special ceremony on Friday the 1st March at the weekly assembly on Friday. The assembly will commence at 1pm in our school hall.

~ Meet the Teacher Interviews ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

This year we will be offering parents/carers teacher interviews during Term 1. The purpose of the meetings will be to provide an opportunity for teachers to meet parents/carers and to learn as much as we can about your child.

To assist with the interview a Getting to Know Your Child
questionnaire has been sent home this week. This information sheet can be returned to your child's
classroom teacher or please bring it along to the interview.

The P&C will provided an afternoon tea outside the canteen during the interviews. I would encourage all parents/carers to get involved.

Afternoon Pickup

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

Where can I wait to collect my child in the afternoon?

The expectation of an afternoon is that parents/carers are to wait outside the buildings for their child. This time is a very important time of the school day . If you would like to see the classroom teacher please make an appointment through the office to arrange a suitable time to meet.

Parent/Teacher Interviews

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

An opportunity for parents/carers to have an interview with their child's teacher will be provided this term. The date for the interviews will be on Thursday the 28th February. If there is a demand for interviews teachers will also provide opportunities on Wednesday. The P&C will provide an afternoon tea outside the canteen area during the afternoon.

I would encourage all parents/carers to participate in the interview process.

Pacific Way Entry – Trial opening

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

The Pacific Way entrance to the school will be opened next week for a trial period to provide access for those students who live in that area. Gates will be open in the morning and afternoon to enable access. Please note that the gates will be closed during the school day. The area has been cleaned up and students will be advised of the opening times this week.

New Principal Term 2

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

It is with a great deal of sadness that I have to inform the community that I will be leaving Bathurst West at the end of this term. As a result of the merit selection process I have been appointed to Cooerwull PS in Lithgow which will provide me with the opportunity to be closer to my family. A new principal will be appointed to Bathurst West this term and will commence duty at the beginning of Term 2. Bathurst West is a fantastic school and I will work very closely with the new principal to ensure an effective transition plan is put in place.

Opportunity Class- Open Classroom

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

The Opportunity Class will conduct an open classroom on Thursday 1st November 2012, for students and parents commencing in 2013. The open classroom will commence at 10:15am and operate through to 11:15am. If you require any more information please contact the school.

~ Local Student Leaders Visit ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

The school welcomed 70 student leaders this week for a conference . This was a great day where students participated in a variety of activities designed to increase each participants leadership abilities.

~ Assembly News ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

Congratulations to KD for being class of the week . This week's item will be presented by Banksia 3. Community members are most welcome to attend the Assembly at 1pm in the Hall on Friday.

~ Kindergarten Orientation 2013 ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

The "Flying Start" program commenced this week and we welcomed over 50 new students and their families to the school. Vacancies are still available for the second session on Wednesdays and parents/carers can contact the office for further details.

~ P&C Meeting Welcomed New Members ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

It was a pleasure to attend the first day time P&C meeting held at the school last week. New members were welcomed and the meeting was very purposeful and productive. I would encourage the school community to support the P&C and come along to the next meeting. The P&C Executive Team meets with Mr. Snow every Monday morning to ensure that there is clear communication, teamwork and collaboration.

~ Book Week Success ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

The "Book Week" activities provided a wonderful opportunity for all of the school community to come together and celebrate the amazing world of books. The staff, students and preschoolers joined in the fun and the variety of costumes and characters at the assembly were brilliant. It was a great deal of fun and it was very pleasing to welcome so many community members to school throughout the week.The "Book Week" activities provided a wonderful opportunity for all of the school community to come together and celebrate the amazing world of books. The staff, students and preschoolers joined in the fun and the variety of costumes and characters at the assembly were brilliant. It was a great deal of fun and it was very pleasing to welcome so many community members to school throughout the week.

~ PBL Focus ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

Our PBL focus is 'RESPONSIBLE' IN ALL SETTINGS

~ P&C Meet Greet and Mingle ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

~ P&C Meet Greet and Mingle Information Sessions ~

Tuesday 28th February, 2012 from 6pm starting in our school library . Classroom Information sessions will follow during the evening. Come along and meet the staff and other families both old and new to the school. Information sessions for each stage will give you an insight to the year ahead for your child.

We look forward to seeing you there.

~ Attendance ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

Regular attendance at school is very important and arriving at school on time is vital in ensuring success

throughout the day. Throughout 2012 students who attend school regularly will be rewarded with a variety of incentives including morning tea with the principal, certificates and prizes. The responsibility of regular attendance is a partnership between school and home. The school has very clear procedures to ensure that we provide genuine support in this area. Let's work together to ensure that the students attend school regularly.

~ Flying Start Program ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:13 AEST

The Flying Start transition to school program commenced this week and the response has been very pleasing. This will provide our Kindergarten students for 2012 with a wonderful opportunity to get to know the school, staff and routines before they officially start school. This program will take place for five weeks this term and two weeks in Term 4.

~ Opera House Spectacular ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

The school choir performed at the Sydney Opera House this week. The students represented the school with pride, professionalism and sang beautifully. Mrs Low has excelled in preparing the choir for this event and on behalf of the school community I would like to congratulate her for this outstanding work.

~ PACE Program Success ~

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

The NRL PACE program was held at the school this week and the students, parents/carers and visiting NRL players had a great day. Hazem El Masri and Rod Silva spoke to our students about goals and achieving success in life. Students participated in a variety of activities and games to promote community participation and harmony. This innovative program will continue next term with a visit from some of the NRL players of today.

Book Week 2011

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

Book Week – One World, Many Stories

This year's book week falls in Week 6. All children are involved in learning activities around the theme "One World – Many Stories", during their library lessons each week. We are encouraging all children to dress as a book character and join in our Book Parade on Thursday, 25th August starting at 9.30am and invite all family members to come along and join in. There will be prizes for the "Best Dressed" in each Stage, as well as "Best dressed Staff member" and "Best dressed Parent". There will also be 2 competitions running in the library with the winners announced at the Parade. The first is a diorama competition, and the second is a hanging mobile competition – both with a book theme of course! Come along and join in the fun.

Anti-Bullying Policy Review

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

The school is in the process of reviewing the Anti-Bullying Policy. Effective consultation is an important aspect of the review.

The purpose of the review is to ensure that the school's policy is up to date. This is a very important policy and I would like to thank the community for their involvement with the review.

I would like to encourage parents/carers to read the policy and to return the evaluation sheet to the front office with any constructive suggestions or comments regarding the policy.

NAIDOC Community Dinner

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

The inaugural Bathurst West Public School NAIDOC community dinner was held last Thursday night. It was a great success with over 100 people in attendance. This provided a wonderful opportunity for school and community to connect in a very productive and positive way. A big congratulations to Tracy Crawford and the team for organising the event.

Book Week

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

Book Week - One World, Many Stories

This year's book week falls in Week 6. All children are involved in learning activities around the theme "One World – Many Stories", during their library lessons each week. We are encouraging all children to dress as a book character and join in our Book Parade on Thursday, 25^th August and invite all family members to come along and join in. There will be prizes for the "Best Dressed" in each Stage, as well as "Best dressed Staff member" and "Best dressed Parent". There will also be 2 competitions running in the library with the winners announced at the Parade. The first is a diorama competition, and the second is a hanging mobile competition – both with a book theme of course! Come along and join in the fun.

Education Week

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:13 AEST

This week is Education Week and it provides a wonderful opportunity for the school to showcase the fantastic work, great classrooms and the pride that we have for Bathurst West Public School. As Principal of this great school I am immensely proud of the commitment that the staff display every day to ensure the success and positive engagement of their students.

The school offers a range of innovative and exciting programs that ensure that students needs are met in a variety of areas. We are also very fortunate that the P&C, Canteen Committee and Community Groups continue to support the school through their hard work and commitment to providing quality resources to the school.

I would like to thank all the parents/carers who visited the school this week and spent some time celebrating the achievements of the school.

The journey through school is a partnership between parents/carers, teachers and students. At Bathurst West Public School we are genuinely committed to this important relationship.

2012 Kindergarten

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:09 AEST

ENROLLING NOW ‘Flying Start' Kindergarten Transition Program

Our Kindergarten Transition Program will be starting this Term 3. This year our program will be held on Wednesdays for 7 weeks. You have a choice of 2 session times - 9.15am to 10.30am, or 11.30am to 12.45pm.The program will commence in Term 3 on 24 August and finish in Term 4 on 19 October. Applications are now open for this years program. Please collect an application form from the Front Office and return it by Friday, 5 August. If you have any questions, please contact Sarah-Jane Beuzeville, Community Liaison Officer on 6331 1142.

Coles Sports Program

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

The Kindergarten children have been having a lot of fun playing with their new ball kit.

Annual CWA Competition Success

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

Congratulations to the following students who won awards in the CWA Competition. The country of study this year was

Layla , Timothy , Jesina , Liam , Maddison , Jack , Kayless , Jessica , Savannah , Felicity , Maeve , Hannah , Declan , Elspeth , David , Bobbi , Adam , Tisha , William , Grace , Nikolaos , Sophie

NAIDOC WEEK CELEBRATIONS

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

The school recognized and celebrated NAIDOC week with a variety of educational, fun and motivating activities. We started the week with a well attended assembly in the hall with a wonderful guest speaker Ms. Lisa Crawford who gave a talk to the community about the significance and history of NAIDOC and how we can all work together to bring about positive change.

CWA PUBLIC SPEAKING

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:13 AEST

A big congratulations to our school representatives who spoke at the annual CWA Public Speaking Competition.

Year 3 ~ David ‘My Dad Knows Best'

Year 4 ~ Jack ‘Camping'

Year 5 ~ Bobbi ‘The Day My Teacher Overslept'

Year 6 ~ Budjarn ‘It's Good To Be Different'

Well done to all our school representatives who all spoke well on the day. A special congratulations to David who was Highly Commended and to Budjarn who was the overall winner of the Year 6 section. Budjarn will now be representing the Bathurst Region at Parkes in the Regional Speak Off in a few weeks. What a fabulous opportunity and outstanding success.

NATIONAL SORRY DAY

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

A snapshot from our Schools Sorry Day Assembly to acknowledge National Sorry Day which is recognised as a National Day of Commemoration and Remembrance.

A day to honour the Stolen Generations and all that they have endured and all that has been lost through the removal of generations of Aboriginal .

The theme for this year's National Sorry Day was, "SORRY. Still Living On Borrowed Time!".

SRC Disco

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

When - 2nd June

Where - School Hall

Cost - $4

which includes a mini hot dog and a popper

Times:

K-2 ~ 5-6pm

3-6 ~ 6.15 - 7.30pm

DO YOU LIKE YOUR VEGETABLES!!!

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:13 AEST

Then Bathurst West needs you!!

Our School is again a member of the McCain School Veggie Patches Program. By buying McCain frozen vegetables and Purely Potato, and bringing the empty packets to School, you help our School to gain points. The School can then redeem the points for a range of supplies needed for the veggie patch that has been started near the Wattle Playground COLA.We currently have 200 points. For 200 points we could buy one bag of either water saving mulch, or organic soil or fertilizer. Please bring any empty McCain frozen vegetables and Purely Potato packs to Miss Thompson in Banksia 4 and help our veggie patch to thrive.

Thanks for your support

New Principal Visits

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

Mr Mark Snow came to our school today and visited all of our classrooms. He was very impressed with the manners and respect shown by all students as he walked around. We all know how terrific the BWPS children are and we are extremely proud to be able to introduce him to our fantastic students and staff. He is very excited about starting as Principal here next Monday 30th May.

National Sorry Day

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

Today children from K - 6 in our school acknowledged "National Sorry Day." Thank you to Tracy Crawford for her organization of this significant assembly. We had special guests share their stories with us and what this special occasion meant to them.

Yrs 3-6 Choir

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

We would like to thank the children in our 3-6 choir for their commitment in learning the songs for this year. My accompanist Jill Groves and myself are so pleased with the quality and blend of voices this year we are considering entering the Bathurst and Orange Eisteddfods. We are also considering the Welsh section in the Orange Eisteddfod.

Other events for this year include singing for Education Week, a nursing home concert and we would like to visit the hospital and perform.

I have made the difficult decision of who will be in our Opera House group. Children will receive a note today. There is a slim possibility of a couple more spots. I am negotiating this and will let those children and parents now if there are more placements. All successful applicants should come and get their repertoire book from me if they haven't already.

Meg Low

Choir Co-ordinator

Netball is back...

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

This week our first netball team for many years joined the PSSA competition. They lost by only one point! What a success for this group of girls in their first competitive game ever. Thanks to all staff, parents and children who helped to ignite the interest in this sport within our school. We now look forward to continuing on with this fabulous opportunity!

Our football team also played this week. The children involved had a great day. Our school is proud of our sport's achievements and the positive way in which our team members represented our school.

Opportunity Class Open Hour

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

Opportunity Class for Gifted and Talented Children

Come and find out how the needs of a gifted and talented child can best be catered for in an Opportunity Class.

Our School is holding an Open Classroom for the Bathurst District Opportunity Class on Tuesday 17th May between 10.00am and 11.00am.

All interested parents and children from the Bathurst District are invited to chat with the children and teacher in this year's class.

For further information please pick up a brochure at the Front Office.

Bathurst Playmates Playgroup

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

What a great program this is for our pre school children within our local area. Different activities are introduced each week to help enhance the skills of those who attend. All are welcome to attend in the school hall on Wednesdays from 9.30-11.30am. Come along and meet more friends in a friendly and supportive environment.

ACTIVE AFTER SCHOOL COMMUNITY

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

ACTIVE AFTER SCHOOL COMMUNITY PROGRAM

After the popularity of the Active After School Community Program this year we are hoping to run the program again next year. In order to do this we will need more community coaches. Nina Nyitrai, the regional coordinator for Active After School Communities is running a training course for community coaches. This course is on Thursday 25th November at the Bathurst PCYC. This is currently just a proposed date depending on interest. It will run from 9.00-4.30 and is free. If you are interested please contact Nina on 6372 8910 or 0437700368.

SCHOOL MEMORIES FOR SALE

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

It's that time of the year when we publish the School Magazine "Wide Horizons".

The "Wide Horizons" showcases what our School and our students have been participating in this year.

This year due to price constraints, there will just be 50 copies of "Wide Horizons" for sale

and it will be on a "first in" basis.

The price of "Wide Horizons" is still only $25 as the P & C Association are subsidising the cost.

This year you also have the opportunity to pay by instalments if needed.

"Wide Horizons" will be available for collection at the beginning of Term 1, 2011.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

NEW HOURS FOR THE CLOTHING POOL

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

The clothing pool will now be open on the following mornings:

Monday - 9.20-10.00am

Tuesday - 9.00-9.30am

Friday - 9.00-9.30am

If you would like to volunteer your time for 30minutes once a week, please leave a

message for the P&C at the Front Office or email bwps.pc@gmail.com

OC Class Open Morning

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

We have had the Open Day for those children who have gained placement in the Opportunity Class in our school.

It was a pleasure to welcome the new students and their parents. Mrs Low and her class created a wonderful DVD for the new students with the assistance of the children in her current class. This was a first class piece of work and one that the new students were very appreciative of.

Congratulation Marcus , Mika , Alexa and Tiarna on their successful application to this class.

Healthy Harold is on his way!!!

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

Healthy Harold is on his way. Please look for notes , maybe in the bottom of your child's bag, about this great program.

Or visit the websites below for further information on the programs available:

Life Education

Healthy Harold

Cultural Centre opening

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

On Tuesday 19th October, 18 of our Aboriginal children attended the Cultural Gathering and opening of the Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Dubbo. The Governor, Marie Bashir visited the new education centre which aims to improve indigenous learning and understanding. A great day was head by those who attended as ambassadors of our school.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

K-2 Swimming Scheme

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

Swimming school is currently being organised and Mrs Cummings is preparing a note to be sent to all K-2 children confirming their application. This follows from the expression of interest note which were returned to the school recently.

Reading for the Future Workshops

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

Reading for the Future Parent Workshops

"Belonging, Being & Becoming"

Following our successful program in Terms 1 and 2, we will be running this course again for parents. This is your

opportunity to learn more about ways that reading and writing are taught in your child's class.

The course will be held on a Tuesday evening starting on 26th October. It will commence at 6.30pm, finishing at

approximately 8.00pm and will run for five weeks.

The program will cover: Early child development and learning, the Reading to Learn Program which is used in all

classes, how you as a parent can support your child in reading and writing, and using the Library.

Everyone is invited to attend. A minimum of 5 people are needed to run the evening course.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Coles Sports For Schools

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

Bathurst West Public School will be participating in the "Coles Sports For Schools" promotion. Please keep any vouchers Coles Supermarket gives you and hand them in to the Front Office.

Further information will be in the newsletter next week.

LEARN TO SWIM PROGRAM

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

During NOVEMBER we will be offering a Learn to Swim Program for children in K-2. This program will be available to children irrespective of their swimming ability and confidence. Year 2 have the opportunity to attend lessons organised for this term, as well as, the lessons arranged for November if so desired. The approximate cost of the 8 lessons for K-2 children in November will be $70. Information regarding the November K-2 Swimming Lessons will be issued in the first week of Term 4.

School Photographs

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

Don't forget school photos on 8th September. Children have been asked to wear summer uniform as most children in our school have this. Of course, if it is cold, children may wear tracksuits and jumpers to ensure they stay warm. Parents have asked for consistency in uniform in photos and this is the purpose of wearing the summer uniform on the day. The eisteddfod is also on the same day for the choir and the recorder groups. Children will be wearing their summer uniform for this performance.

Positive Behaviour for Learning

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

Many of our children have been receiving stars for behaving in a RESPECTUL, RESPONSIBLE AND SAFE manner. This is part of our new initiative POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR FOR LEARNING.

This program involves all children being explicitly taught how to behave when in school, and targets particular areas of the school that may need improvement. We are currently teaching children how to act responsibly, respectfully and safely in the corridor.

Opera House Performance

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:15 AEST

Our Opera House choir will be up bright and early

tomorrow, as they head to Sydney for their choral

performance. This is such a special event and one the children will treasure always.

Winter Wonderland Fete

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

Although cold and windy, our Winter Wonderland fete was a great success. We had many stall holders and a great variety of activities on offer.

A very sincere thank you is extended to all members of the P&C, especially Kristy Donlan, our volunteers, parents, students and staff who assisted on the day.

It was really a great revival of a tradition that has not been in our school for at least 10 years. I am looking forward to next year and particularly watching this activity continue to grow!

Positive Parenting Program

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

FREE!! Triple P Seminar - The Power of Positive Parenting

· The School will be holding a free Triple P Seminar at the School over the coming few weeks.

· Triple P stands for Positive Parenting Program and is for parents of children from birth to 12 years.

· Triple P helps you understand how your family works so you can use the things you already think, feel, say and do

in new ways.

· Triple P can help you encourage the behaviour you like in your children, deal with problem behaviour, become confident

as a parent, be realistic about parenting, and how to take care of yourself.

· There will be three 90 minute seminars, each held on a different week.

· The first seminar is "The Power of Positive Parenting" and will be held on Thursday, 29 July at 9.30am. Morning tea will

be provided

· The second seminar is "Raising Confident, Competent Children" and will be held on Thursday, 5 August (time to

be advised)

· The third is "Raising Resilient Children" and will be held on Thursday, 12 August (time to be advised).

For further information including a brochure about the program, please contact Sarah-Jane Beuzeville on 6331 1142, or pick up a brochure at the Front Office.

If you cannot attend on this date, but would be happy to attend at a different time/day, please also fill out the form below.

Thank you. Sarah-Jane Beuzeville, Community Liaison Officer

- BOOKFAIR -

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

- BOOKFAIR -

During Book Week -

23rd to 27th August, 2010

Students and their families will have the

opportunity to buy a book and donate it to our school library

When - 8.45 - 9.45 and

3.00 - 3.30

Mon.23rd to Fri.27th August

Where - School Hall

Labels will be placed into books in recognition of your family donation

Please continue to support the School Book Club as not only does your child receive books of their own but our Library receives reward points to assist in providing more resources for our Library

Active After School Program

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:11 AEST

We will be implementing Active After school care this term and next. We were successful in our application for this program, and it will be organised by Miss Renneberg, Deb Colless and Caroline Dingemans. It will operate on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3.30—5.00 and the children will be involved in sport and fun activities.

The Circus visits Bathurst West

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

Everyone was excited for the circus was in town. Performers were entertaining in the school hall on Friday 23rd July, 2010. The audience enjoyed the acts and cheered throughout the performance.

CWA Competition Success

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

Congratulations to - Layla , Aliya, Tim, Shanese, Harland, Tiarni, Daniel, Maeve, David, Tahlia, Jadzia, Sophia, Emma and Ashlin.

These children have been awarded a place in the CWA - Country of Study Competition. This year the country chosen was Scotland.

The children were invited to attend an award presentation on Friday 18th June, 2010. WELL DONE

Reading for the Future Workshop

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

CONGRATULATIONS to our ‘READING FOR THE FUTURE' participants who completed their six week course, these mums learnt about reading and writing as we teach it today and how to best support their child/ren at home. WELL DONE!!!!

School Vegetable Garden

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

Vegetable garden

We were recently given a grant from Council to buy a tumble compost bin to reduce our food waste and to start a vegetable garden. Plans for this are underway. Very timely for us, McCain have announced a school competition whereby they give us "points" to spend on gardening equipment for every barcode we collect from their frozen vegetable packs. We ask you to spread the news around family, friends and neighbours and bring your barcodes to Mrs Little or Mrs Carr. We will keep you informed as to how we are going and what we are buying. Now, how about a nice bowl of peas!!!

School Hen House

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:16 AEST

It's official—our chicken coop is open.

It was with much excitement that we cut the ribbon on our new chicken coop. Marcus, Nic, Isaac and Phil have done a wonderful job in building this structure for the chicks we have incubated in Boronia and Wattle. Their next big plan is the veggie garden and the compost heap.

See the gallery for all the pictures.

Choir Opera House Performance

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:12 AEST

Opera House Choir 2010

TICKET SALES—Monday 26th July

If you plan on getting tickets you will need to

purchase these on Monday 26th July

In previous years they have sold out very quickly.

Details you will need to purchase tickets for the Opera House Concert in August

· Waratah Concert on Friday 27th August

· Tickets only available from the Opera House Box Office

· Adults $30.00, Concession/Students $25.00

How to book

· Online - www.sydneyoperahouse.com or

· Telephone - 02 9250 7777 orr

· In person: Main Box Office, Sydney Opera House 9.00am -8.30pm

A fee of $8.50 per transaction is charged for all bookings.

WINTER WONDERLAND FETE

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

Bathurst West Public School - WINTER WONDERLAND FETE

21st August - 10am-1pm

If you are interested in having a market stall or helping out on the day please

contact Kristy - 6334 2559 or via bwps.pc@gmail.com.au

Stage 3 Parent Morning Tea

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

Morning Tea for Year 5 and Year 6 Families (Stage 3)

'Belonging, Being & Becoming'

The school year is flying by and Term 1 has been and gone. We are going to hold another morning tea for the Year 5 and Year 6 families on Wednesday, 9 June at 9.30am in the School Staffroom.

Parents, grandparents and carers are welcome to attend.

Come in and have a chat to the other parents, as well as our Principal, Toni MacDonald and the Community Liaison Officer, Sarah-Jane Beuzeville.

Please let us know if you are coming by Monday 7 June. We are looking forward to seeing you again.

3-6 Athletics Carnival

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:10 AEST

It was very noisy on our oval, as children in Years 3-6 participated enthusiastically in our annual Athletics Carnival.

We won – what a great surprise!!

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:17 AEST

This week Mrs MacDonald had a surprise phone call from an ex-student informing her that we had won a $7000interactive whiteboard.

Corey Butler, who attended school here in 1985/86, currently works in advertising in Sydney. He entered a competition run by SPC fruit and Goulbourn Fruit. He had to nominate a school to receive the prize if he won. He did win, and he told me that he nominated Bathurst West because of the great education he received and the fond memories he has of our school.

The whiteboard will now go into Mrs Little's classroom and will provide a wonderful addition to the already great learning environment in Waratah 1.

Kinder Open Day

Thu, 24 May 2018 21:01:14 AEST

Kindergarten Open Day Tuesday 8th June

On Tuesday we had our open day for kinder children and parents for 2011. It was a pleasure to meet our new children and have our Stage 2 students give them a tour of the school and the Kinder classrooms.

Application forms for our Flying Start program are available from the administration office, as are enrolment forms.

Kindergarten Open Day 2011 (pdf, 64 KB)