Hello Fernbrooke Community,

Over the last fortnight, I have continued getting into the classrooms each day. Students are settled and engaged in their learning. Special mention to the students in years 3 and 4 for having me at your assembly last week. Students in this sector showed pride in how they sang the National Anthem and were patient and respectful throughout the assembly. Great job years 3 and 4.

Enrolment numbers

Each year all state schools complete a process known as the ‘Day 8’ student count. On this day we finalise the number of students who have started the school year with us. This student count is essential in assisting the Department of Education with finalising the initial resource allocation for the school year. This year, we have started with 1001 students. As a result of this, we will continue with our current 42 classes. Thank you to those parents who responded to our request to confirm student enrolments. Your assistance was greatly appreciated by the administration team at FSS.  

Attendance

A key component for achieving success at school is attending school every day. Every day on the school calendar matters both in terms of academic achievement and social development. Over the next two weeks, we want to work on ‘Being at school on time for learning’.

Currently, Prep and Year 1 students need to be at school for 8:20am and in class learning by 8:25am. Year 2 to 6 need to be at school ready to enter class at 8:25am and seated and learning for 8:30am.

If your child is experiencing challenges being ready for school or is reluctant in wanting to attend, I ask that you please reach out to your classroom teacher and as staff we will look at how we can support you in this challenge. 

Communication expectations

Fostering a partnership between the school and parent provides students with a strong support network in their education. With the ever-changing workforce and rules associated with employment conditions, it is sometimes challenging to engage in communication in what is deemed a timely manner.

Teachers are required to be focused on teaching and learning at FSS from 8:20am to 2:30pm. I ask that if you would like to have a one-on-one conversation with your child’s teacher, please contact the school office or email the teacher to make an appointment.

Regarding responding to emails, teachers will respond to your emails in work time within a 24-hour window of receiving your email. The exception to this 24-hour window is on weekends, where no teacher will engage in work-related correspondence. If this does not occur, please be mindful that the teacher may not be working that day due to personal reasons. If you have not heard back within 24 hours, please ring the office, and we will support you with your inquiry.

Road Safety around Fernbrooke SS

It has been reported to the school that some reckless driving has been occurring on roads surrounding our facilities. I ask that all members of our school community continue to be vigilant in matters of road safety, abide by the speed limits during school hours and be mindful that we all need to share a space in a safe and thoughtful manner.

Have a great fortnight,

Scott

Principal