The West #6 2024
- Principal's Preface
- TA15 Assembly
- In My Pocket Incursion
- Aboriginal Survival Technology Incursion
- Better Beginnings
- Kindy Hospital Incursions
- AC Milan vs AS Roma Raffle Winner!
- Student Leaders' Visit to Parliament House
- Year 6 Parliament House Excursion
- Thank You P&C Day!
- 2024 Cross Country
- Lost Property
- Consent for Third-Party Online Services
- Kiss & Drive Safety
- Better Health Program
Principal's Preface
Inspired by National Reconciliation Week, we have spent the last few weeks reflecting on how we can enhance our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ culture and histories with the aim of strengthening relationships. With this in mind, we have formed a working group to construct a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). Our work will include writing a vision statement for reconciliation and designing clear, authentic actions and aligned goals to develop relationships based on trust, respect and free from racism. Once completed, the RAP will be sent to Reconciliation Australia who will review its vision prior to publication on the ‘Who has a RAP? Map’. Our working group currently comprises of staff members, but we are keen to involve parents, local community members and students. If you feel you have something to offer to this project, please drop me or Sharon Pearson, our group leader, an email. We will be happy to include you in this meaningful work.
Our students acknowledged Reconciliation Week with a visit from Philip Green, self-confessed ‘Wild Man’ and National Geographic photographer, last Friday. With great enthusiasm and passion, he shared his knowledge of traditional technologies used by indigenous peoples and allowed the children to investigate a range of original artefacts to reinforce their learning. The incursion was both interesting and informative, as well as full of humour. It was a great way for our students to reflect on Aboriginal culture. This incursion was fully funded by our P&C and we thank them for enabling our students to take part in this rich experience.
As you know, West Balcatta Primary School was appointed a lead school for the Department of Education’s Quality Teaching Strategy last year. As part of this role, we have been asked to work with ‘partner schools’ on a targeted project to improve teaching and learning at each school. This will involve West Balcatta staff sharing teaching programs and approaches while also inviting other teachers to watch them in action to help them implement good practice in their own classroom. This the perfect opportunity for our talented teachers to share the great work they are doing with their students. We know success breeds success, so validation of their good work will help build confidence and support the increase of their skills. We are looking forward to working with Balingup, Karrinyup and West Leeming Primary Schools over the next few months and will let you know how it goes.
Caroline Booth
TA15 Assembly
Do you need to learn the ways of how to have social and civic responsibility? Well, fear not! TA15’s assembly has done just that! They explored a range of scenarios that taught you just how to respond correctly with social and civic responsibility. With the time travel theme and the song “Time Warp”, TA15’s assembly was a blast! You wouldn’t get this from any other class!
Declan, TA15
In My Pocket Incursion
On Wednesday, both Year 6 classes were privileged to attend an incursion provided by 'We Are Here Foundation' called 'In My Pocket'. The students listened to the true story of Dorrith Oppenheim's life as she escaped Germany, to the United Kingdom, just prior to the start of World War II. Like 10 000 other children, Dorrith was sent away by her parents on the Kindertransport to be cared for by foster parents until the end of the war. Sadly, Dorrith's parents were killed in the war so she remained with her foster parents in Scotland. The story impressed on the students the need for kindness always, even in the worst of times. Students participated in a great art activity, designing and painting their own 'pocket' which was an important symbol in the story. The incursion was run by Jill and Eli Rabinowitz, and thoroughly enjoyed by both classes.
Gail Wimbridge, Year 6 Teacher
Aboriginal Survival Technology Incursion
Last Friday, we had an incursion about how Aboriginal people survived in the olden days. The incursion went great, we learnt lots of things like how the Aboriginal people made fire and medicine. We also learnt about the Aboriginal ways of living including clothing, hunting, tools and weapons. Wildman said when the Aboriginal people were here, whenever they got sick, they would drink cockroach juice for medicine. Although it was gross, we found it fascinating too. It was interesting how the Aboriginal people would wear animal fur to keep warm during the winter. The best part was when the props were handed out in boxes, and we got to touch and see real life bones and skulls. It even had real emu eggs! We also loved looking through this object with a hole to see actual pictures of Aboriginal history.
Year 4 , TA18 Students
Better Beginnings
During Week 7, Kindy children had a visit from Belinda who works for Stirling Libraries. Belinda entertained us all with stories, puppets and songs and told us all about Community Libraries. The children were super excited to hear they could borrow up to 20 books at a time at their local library! Before leaving, Belinda handed every child a bag that contained a book, activity pages and information about community libraries. If you are ever looking for something fun and free to do with your child, a visit to your local library could be a great little outing.
Kindy Hospital Incursions
On Tuesday the 28th of May and Friday the 31st of May, the Kindergarten students were lucky enough to participate in an incursion run by the Association for Welfare of Children in Hospital (AWCHWA) as part of a ‘Hospital Familiarisation Program (HFP).’ During this incursion, the students participated in a wide variety of learning experiences that were designed to reduce their anxiety about hospitalisation and medical care by increasing their knowledge of hospital environments as well as medical equipment.
We would like to extend a massive thank you to our wonderful P&C for providing the funds that covered the cost of this incredible incursion as well as the parent helpers for each session.
AC Milan vs AS Roma Raffle Winner!
Hi. I was the lucky winner of the AC Milan vs AS Roma raffle. Being able to witness 7 goals in one game was breathtaking! I was hoping AC Milan would win, but they lost 5-2. Other than that, every moment had my heart pumping. The Bankwest seats I won had an amazing view and they were padded with leather. Watching two giant Italian teams playing each other was definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity.
My favourite player on AC Milan was Theo Hernandez after scoring a volley from outside the box. Throughout the whole game, everyone (including me) was cheering. I was just so happy I got to be at that game. I loved every moment and seeing so many goals is so rare.
The 31st of May was obviously a night to remember! Thank you so much, TheirCare and P&C, for this awesome prize.
Leo, TA13
Student Leaders' Visit to Parliament House
On the 28th of May, all of the parliamentarians and Mrs Tanner went to lunch at Parliament House. We all had an amazing time talking to Mr Michael and eating the delicious food. I had the calamari, chipotle chicken and a seasonal fruit salad with vanilla icecream. We were shown through Parliament House and the Lower House chamber. Even though it was raining we all still had a great time and it’s a fun memory we will all hold on to.
Emmy, Minister for Communications
Last Tuesday, the parliamentarians and I, accompanied by Mrs Tanner, visited Parliament House in Perth. We had the honour of having lunch with David Michael, a member of the Lower House. He led us into the dining hall where we conversed over a generous three course meal. Following the lunch, Mr Michael explained his role and responsibilities. He showed us around the Lower House wing, and pointed out where debates and decisions are made. The experience was enjoyable and highly educational. It made me want to be a part of Parliament!
Jack, Minister of Environment.
On Tuesday of week seven, all the parliamentarians went to Parliament House. While at Parliament House, I learned about the Upper house and Lower House. At Parliament House we got to meet David Michael, a member of parliament. He is a member of the Lower House. Overall, I rate my experience at Parliament House a 10/10.
Valentina, Minister for Health & Wellbeing
On Tuesday the 28th May, the parliamentarians visited Parliament House. We had a tour and lunch with Minister David Michael. It was a memorable experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the three-course meal and we talked about what we do to help our school.
Alexandra, Minister for Sports & Recreation
On the 28th of May the parliamentarians (Harry, Jack, Alexandra, Emmy, Allegra and Valentina) went to parliament house to have a delicious lunch with David Michael and learn about the history of parliament. There was a selective menu with a lot of tempting choices but eventually we all made a decision. We talked with Mr Michael about his job, our brilliant school and our general lives. One thing that Mr Michael mentioned was that one of his favourite foods is a tomato sauce sandwich soaked in water or cordial. I am yet to try this odd combination.
Harry, Minister for Community Services
I went to Parliament House with all the parliamentarians to eat with David Michael on Tuesday in Week 7. I really enjoyed eating the delicious, three course meal with David Michael and the rest of us, including an amazing dining room with an amazing view! First, we had an entree. I had a bowl of Bang Bang chicken which was appetizing! After that, I had my main. That had salmon and a Potato, broccoli salad, and it was mouth-watering. Lastly, we had dessert. I got a fruit salad with ice cream. The fruit was fresh, sweet, and juicy. The ice cream was of course tasty. We all really enjoyed asking questions and learning tips from David and the quick but interesting tour around the second floor. I wish we could do it again.
Allegra, Minister for Culture & the Arts
Year 6 Parliament House Excursion
On the 10th of June 2024, the year 6 students went on an excursion to the parliament house in the city. We got to experience sitting inside of the legislative assembly and the legislative council, we even got to have our own debate, why students should have 3 hours of school, and we enjoyed making suggestions of how to make this debate more sensible, and even the pros and cons of how this would impact students. We got to sit in the chairs of the different roles of people in parliament, this includes the premier, the speaker, the ministers, and a lot more. We had a guide to take us around the house of parliament, after leaving the building we got taken to a classroom-like area to learn about the three levels of parliament and the constitution. We did a number of activities in a group and at the end of our session we did a team quiz which we really enjoyed. Overall, the year 6 students, TA14 and TA15, students really enjoyed this excursion, and we thank the house of parliament for welcoming us.
Eve, TA15
Thank You P&C Day!
P&C Day WA 2024 was celebrated on Friday 24 May. Falling within National Volunteers Week, this event gives schools and education stakeholders the opportunity to celebrate P&C members and volunteers.
P&C Day WA was started by the Western Australian Council of State School Organisations (WACSSO) in 2019 as a day for school communities to give thanks to their P&C for all their hard work and contributions. The day was celebrated by schools, parliament members, and other education stakeholders throughout Western Australia, with a range of different events being held to show appreciation for P&C members.
P&C Day is not just another date on the calendar but a symbol of gratitude and reflection for the tireless dedication of the parents who work behind the scenes devoting their time, energy and resources to help our school thrive. At West Balcatta, we are grateful for the work our P&C does to organise community events and to fundraise for resources and experiences for our students.
2024 Cross Country
On Tuesday 21st May and Friday 24th May all students from years 3-6 competed over various distances in the Annual Faction Cross Country event. The warm weather provided students with great running conditions. All students who competed tried their best and should be proud of what they have achieved. Each student who finished in the top 5 earnt a spot in the Interschool Cross Country team with the 6th placed student acting as the emergency reserve. The results have been outlined in the table below.
The Interschool Cross Country will be held on Tuesday 23rd July 2024 Week 2 Term 3 at Charles Veryard Reserve North Perth. Students are encouraged to train at the school oval during Running Club on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. 8:15am – 8:30am in preparation for the Interschool Cross Country Race and School Faction Athletics Carnival next term.
Geoff Dwyer, Physical Education Specialist
Lost Property
Dear Parents & Students,
Could you please check lost property this week? We have lots of goggles, bathers, clothes and other things. Lost Property will be cleaned out in Week 10. Thank you.
From the Lost Property Managers
Consent for Third-Party Online Services
We are currently seeking your consent to access online third-party services for your children. Services, such as Mathletics, IXL and Cord.org, require student accounts to be set up and some personal information is required – usually names and email addresses. The survey recently sent to via Connect, allows you to find out more about the services used at school and opt out of individual services if you prefer.
Thank you to parents who have already completed the survey and given consent. If you haven’t, please access the survey via the link below so that we can ensure you child has access to these learning tools.
If you have questions about the services used with your children, please have a chat with your child’s teacher. They can let you know what they use and the personal information used to set up an account.
Thank you for your support.
Kiss & Drive Safety
Please use patience and care when accessing the Kiss and Drives at school, particularly on Cedric Street. We have had a number of complaints from local residents. More importantly, risky behaviour endangers our students. As their safety is our priority, we ask that you consider the following:
- When the Kiss and Drive is full, please do not double park and wait for a bay to become free as this causes a traffic jam that often results in dangerous behaviour. For example, drivers who are not waiting for a child, pull out and drive along the wrong side of the road often at speed.
- Please do not perform U-turns once you have collected your child. Drive further along Cedric Street to turn where it is quieter and safer or use the roundabout.
- When the Kiss and Drive is full, continue driving around the block and re-enter the Kiss and Drive a few minutes later. By this point, bays are usually free.
- Alternatively, collect your children 5-10 minutes after school finishes. The Kiss and Drive is quieter at this time. A member of staff will be there to supervise children.
- The other option is to park further away from school. On Hodgkiss Drive there are many roadside parking spots. Park here and ask your child to meet you on the oval. There are also parking spots available further along Cedric Street. Many parents use these and walk to school to meet their children.
Thank you for your understanding on this matter.
Better Health Program
A 10-week free healthy lifestyle program for children 6-12 years who are above a healthy weight.
Better Health Programs focus on healthy eating, physical activity, sleep and screen time for children in their primary years. Children receive free resources and families are support by a dietitian/nutritionist each week.
Resources are designed by our Better Health Company qualified health professionals, and include recipe books, water bottles, sports equipment and more!
If you need guidance around creating healthy habits then this is for you.
Online places are available as soon as you register! Local venues including BOUNCE Trampoline Parks.
