Dear Parents/Carers

What a fantastic start to the year. Students have shown incredible resilience over the past week, as they have settled back in to school life. I have been thrilled to see the level of independence of so many of our students as they walk themselves to class, carry their own bags, unpack their belongings and are already feeling comfortable with their morning routine. Each child develops resilience at their own pace and staff work consistently to give students the opportunity to practise these skills.

Important Information to be returned to the school

It is vital that we update student information at the beginning of each year, as there are many changes that occur over the six-week holiday break. It would be greatly appreciated if the following forms can be completed and returned to the school as a matter of urgency, to ensure we have the most up to date information and permissions for your child. Even if you do not have any new information, please check the appropriate box and return the form unchanged.

• Student Information Update form
• Medical Details form
• Psychologist permission form

Individual Education Plan (IEP) Parent Meetings

Each student attending Joondalup Education Support Centre has an IEP, developed by their classroom teacher, that outlines specific learning goals that will be targeted in teaching and learning programs for the semester. These plans are derived from assessment data and observations conducted at the classroom level across a few weeks. We value parent input and as such, prioritise time to meet with parents to discuss these goals identified in your child’s plan. Your classroom teacher will be in contact with you directly to organise a meeting.

COVID Measures and School Impact

Thank you to all families for your flexibility and understanding as we continue to follow the guidelines of the Department of Education. In response to efforts to minimise the impact of a potential future positive case, we have delayed the commencement of all extra-curricular clubs including Garden Club, Craft Club, Sporting Schools, Choir, Breakfast Club, Running Club and STEM Club.

For the foreseeable future, assemblies are also cancelled. This is to reduce the amount of people gathering in one space to limit unnecessary contact. Students will continue to be recognised with honour certificates, read aloud over the PA and awarded at the classroom level. You will receive a photo from your classroom teacher of your child receiving their certificate.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science – Friday 11 February 2022

This special day recognises the role that women and girls play in the fields Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.  There have been many women who have been scientific leaders whose work makes a difference today. 

I would like to recognise the work of Mrs Sandi Bennett, Sustainability teacher, Ms Heidi Brough, STEM teacher and Mrs Nerelle Phillips, Science teacher (Joondalup Primary School) for their leadership and expertise in this space.

All teachers and education assistants play a key role in teaching our children Science, Engineering, Maths and Technology every day through lessons that include experiments, robots, developing computer, numbers, problems solving, and discussions.

Did you know:

• Marie Curie promoted the use of x-ray machines to help injured soldiers
• Dr Dorothy Hodgkin studied insulin
• Mary Anning found the first complete fossil of a dinosaur
• Professor Fiona Wood co-developed spray on skin to help burns victims

End of Day

Families are reminded that at the end of the school day, all children and parents are required to leave the school grounds. Please leave the area to ensure that teachers can continue their work in the classrooms after school hours. Children wishing to play at the end of the day are encouraged to access one of the community playgrounds in the area.

Anna Eason