News

Presentation Day 2020

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 09:56:42 AEDT

Congratulations to all our students on a fabulous year.

Congratulations Year 12

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 08:19:24 AEDT

Last week our Year 12 students graduated. We wish Jake, Hannah and Andrew all the best for their future adventures.

Art Therapy 2020

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 14:10:57 AEDT

This year students at Five Islands School have participated in weekly Art Sessions with our lovely Trish. Throughout the year we have created some wonderful projects using a range of techniques. This has included stamping using multiple textures, worlking with clay, screen printing and painting.

Music Therapy

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 12:13:26 AEDT

Every Friday, Students at Five Islands School enjoy participating in Music Therapy with Susan.

Music therapy is a research-based practice using music intentionally to support people to improve their health, functioning and wellbeing. Music therapy can focus on many different goals. These include: attention and focus · cognitive skills · support literacy and numeracy · speech and communication skills · physical skills, both fine and gross motor · personal interaction and social skills · self-expression and creativity · relaxation and fun.

School Updates App - be prepared for any emergency

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 13:55:33 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.

Congratulations year 6

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:04:45 AEDT

A special celebration this week for our Year 6 students!!

Congratulations and good luck for High School!!

NAIDOC Week Celebrations 2020

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 15:14:44 AEDT

Always Was, Always Will Be. recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years.

Always Was, Always Will Be. acknowledges that hundreds of Nations and cultures covering this continent. All were managing the land - the biggest estate on earth - to sustainably provide for their future.

NAIDOC 2020 invites all Australians to embrace the true history of this country – a history which dates back thousands of generations.

It’s about seeing, hearing and learning the First Nations’ 65,000+ year history of this country - which is Australian history. We want all Australians to celebrate that we have the oldest continuing cultures on the planet and to recognise that our sovereignty was never ceded.

Always Was, Always Will Be.

Oak Vale Farm Visit Five Islands School

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 13:35:55 AEDT

As a special end of year treat, students enjoyed a visit from Oakvale Farm. Students enjoyed a unique, hands-on educational experience which gave them the opportunity to experience and interact with a range of farm animals.

#MathsTrainsBrains for the future

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:59:00 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

Book Week 2020

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 13:37:21 AEDT

Each year since 1945 the Children's Book Council of Australia has brought children and books together across Australia through Book Week. During this time schools and public libraries spend one glorious week celebrating books and Australian children's authors and illustrators.

This week Five Islands School celebrated book week through a dress up day. Staff and students dressed in their favourite book characters.

Education Week Magpie Class

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 10:04:59 AEST

Learning together

In this year of bushfires, floods and COVID-19, one of the key messages of Education Week is:

Change and resilience

Our teachers and students are lifelong learners, collaborating in a positive learning environment to achieve their best. Learning together makes us strong and creates resilient communities.

Magpie Class always have fun learning together.

#EdWeek20

Education Week Emu Class

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 13:45:30 AEST

Learning together

In this year of bushfires, floods and COVID-19, one of the key messages of Education Week is:Connect better and learn together is:

Connect better and learn together

Our school staff are dedicated professionals who know, value and care for all students.

Emu Class always have fun learning together.

#EdWeek20

Education Week Rosella Class

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 13:35:30 AEST

Learning together

In this year of bushfires, floods and COVID-19, one of the key messages of Education Week is:

Schools are the cornerstone of communities

Parents and carers are our partners in learning. Schools and families benefit from strong, respectful relationships where responsibility for student learning is shared.

Enjoy this video of Rosella Class enjoying learning different skills throughout their week.

#EdWeek20

Education Week Pelican Class

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 14:53:02 AEST

This Education Week, we embrace the whole NSW public education community, highlighting the achievements of local schools and the role of public schools as the cornerstone of their communities.

Enjoy this video of Pelican Class learning together.

#EdWeek20

Education Week Kookaburra Class

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 14:33:23 AEST

In Education Week 2020, the theme of ‘Learning together’ is aimed at capturing the vital role the local public school plays as the cornerstone of the local community where teachers, students, parents, carers and the general community gather to learn.

Enjoy this video of Kookaburra Class learning together.

#EdWeek20

Education Week Lorikeet Class

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 13:27:50 AEST

Education Week is an annual celebration of NSW public education and the achievements of local schools and students.

This year, Education Week will run from Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August 2020 and the theme is 'Learning Together'.

Lorikeet Class love learning together.

#EdWeek20

Updates to COVID-19 restrictions affecting NSW schools

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 23:18:18 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 12:07:41 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.

Education Week to celebrate learning together

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 12:06:14 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.

A guide to NSW school students returning to face-to- face learning

Wed, 20 May 2020 14:35:53 AEST

Read the department's latest advice for parents and carers in this guide to NSW school students returning to face-to- face learning.

NSW students return to the classroom full-time

Tue, 19 May 2020 10:59:41 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 hygiene 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 16:39:19 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 19:12:36 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.

Tune in at 8.45am to NSW Education LIVE

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 22:55:07 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!

Video – NSW Education LIVE sneak peek

Duration – 0:30

Check out this special sneak peek of NSW Education LIVE – 8:45am weekdays from 29 April.

Revised Term 2 Timetable for Five Islands School

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 16:02:20 AEST

Please see below for a revised timetable for weeks 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Term 2.

NSW students to transition back to the classroom in Term 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 13:35:13 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 20:27:59 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.

Resources for Students and Parents - Wellbeing and learning

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 11:35:33 AEDT

Below is a link to a resource which outlines things that are going to help during this difficult time. It explains the importance of keeping routines, how to talk about what's happening in the news and the impacts of stress on wellbeing. It also includes a comprehensive list of agencies, websites, phone numbers and apps that can help during these stressful times.

Be kind. Be safe.

Wellbeing Reource for Students and Parents

Learning From Home

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 11:14:08 AEDT

Activities to complete at home

No child will be turned away from school

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 13:27:49 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education's advice regarding schools is very clear. No child in NSW will be turned away from school.

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.

Activities for Home

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 10:22:18 AEDT

Enjoy this list of activities to do at home.

COVID-19 Update

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 13:10:58 AEDT

COVID – 19 Update

Dear Parents and Carers,

We would like to thank all the parents/carers who have chosen to keep their child at home due to the evolving pandemic. All regular school activities have temporarily ceased and teachers are supervising students utilising social distancing measures.

The New South Wales Government and Department of Education are encouraging you to keep your child at home from Tuesday 24 March to contribute to supporting the community response to COVID-19. The school’s doors will remain open for those students whose parents are in the essential services.

Essential services include for example:

Hospitals

Supermarkets

Petrol stations

Pharmacies

Health services

Thank you to our wonderful, dedicated staff who are continuing to work tirelessly in the support of our students whilst juggling their own family concerns.

All families/carers have been provided with education packs which contain suggested activities, websites and worksheets to support your child’s learning.

We will continue to update information as it comes to us from the Department of Education.

Please call the school if you would like anything to be clarified or you need support.

Self- isolate, stay safe and care for those around you,

Darlene Jones | Principal

Five Islands School

24/03/2020

COVID-19 Update

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 10:03:53 AEDT

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

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 17:36:34 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 20:02:01 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.

Kookaburra Class News

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 11:46:36 AEDT

Kookaburra Class love dressing up! We have lots of colourful dressups that make for a wonderful Friday Fun-day!

Rosella Weekly News

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 08:44:53 AEDT

Rosella class have been busy cooking this term. We have made things based around our unit of work, ‘Cat in the Hat’ and enjoy mixing, stirring & taste testing!!

#lovewhereyoulearn #ready2020

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:22:50 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.

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:57:29 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 18:27:24 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.

Lorikeet look at the Gruffalo!

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 09:47:52 AEDT

The Literary focus for term 4 is the GRUFFALO! Students have been busy engaging with the text both interactive and the big book.

We have created lovely artworks that we have hung up around our room too!

Parent Survey 2019

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 08:37:40 AEST

Our school is seeking parents’ perspectives on a range of areas including teaching, learning and communication via the Tell Them Tell Them From Me parent survey.

The data obtained from the survey will be used to improve and guide the future strategic directions of our school, as well as, help to clarify and strengthen the important relationship between our school and the community.

Your responses will be kept anonymous and confidential. When you submit your survey, the responses are recorded on a secure site without personal identifying information.

If you have more than one child at the school and your perceptions differ for each child, you may choose to complete the survey more than once to provide feedback on each child’s experiences.

To access the survey please use the following link:

http://nsw.tellthemfromme.com/fiveislands

Thank you in advance for your time in completing the survey. Your input is valued and greatly appreciated.

Kim Elliott | Assistant Principal

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:04:26 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 2019

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 14:22:33 AEST

This year, the theme for Education Week is Every Student, Every Voice.

We asked our students here at Five Islands School what they value most about school.

Students feedback assists staff when planning goals, developing lessons that are interest based and also future direction.

Enjoy. #EdWeek19

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 12:38:41 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 11:22:02 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.

Hospitality Program 2019

Thu, 30 May 2019 14:16:55 AEST

Rosella Class enjoy community access and engaging in our hospitality program. They do a fantastic job!

Lorikeet Class

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:04:16 AEDT

Lorikeets are Loving their Literacy sessions throughout this term. Here is a short video of students enjoying Going on a Bear Hunt

Lorikeet Class Activities Term 2

Wed, 15 May 2019 13:49:41 AEST

Our Lorikeets have been busy 'Going on a Bear Hunt' this term creating beautiful art works, cooking 'thick oozy mud' and completing literacy activities. The book is our focus for Term 2 and the students enjoy completing tasks each day!

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:34:10 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 15:13:34 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 14:27:34 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.

Kookaburra Class

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 12:59:04 AEST

Lorikeet Class Activities

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 08:58:27 AEDT

Drumming Well-being program

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 14:57:57 AEDT

Each Friday our students eagerly participate in drumming sessions with Aaron Hood. Aaron is an experienced Music Teacher who providesthe students with a variety of musical opportunities. Students use a variety of percussion instruments duringthis lesson including "bucket drums", guitars, rhythm sticks, triangles and maraca's. The benefits of actively listening to and participating in music making include providing relief from anxiety or stress and improvementof mood. Our drumming sessions are a great way tohelp enhance the wellbeing of all students at FiveIslands School.

Meet Sam - our PBL mascot!

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 12:41:46 AEDT

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) is a whole school program that actively promotes positive behaviour. It enables students to develop a clear understanding of required expectations, become responsible for their own behaviour and work together to create a positive, productive and harmonious learning community.

Sam is designed to strengthen school spirit and encourage students to engage in the school expectations of :

We are safe

We care

We learn

Yoga

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 14:07:14 AEDT

Art Work Display

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 14:17:01 AEDT

2019 school budget allocations

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 09:29:46 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.

Yoga

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:03:53 AEDT

Students enjoy going to their weekly yoga lessons.

Year 12 fundraiser

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:03:52 AEDT

Students in Oxley Class have been busy potting succulents to sell to our school community. Money riased will go to our Year 12 leavers gift.

School leavers expo

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 13:19:26 AEST

School leavers expo is coming up in June and July. Please see the University of Newcastle's flyer (PDF 356KB) for further information.

Variety donation

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 13:39:11 AEST

A huge thanks to Variety for their generous donation to our school.

Easter raffle

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 13:39:36 AEST

Our parents and citizens (P&C) association need your help!

Our Easter Hat Parade is on the 29th March 2018 and our P&C are looking for Easter egg donations for our Easter Raffle. If you can help, please bring in donations to the school office. Thank you!

Safety around schools

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 13:36:52 AEST

Lake Macquarie City Council have published a short article on safety around schools. Please read our article (PDF 376KB) about road rules in school zones.

Year 6 Graduation

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:04:13 AEST

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Congratulations to our Year 6 students 2017. We enjoyed a progression lunch, catered by Oxley class. Thank you to families who came and helped us celebrate this special milestone!!

P&C Meeting Postponed

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:04:09 AEST

Attention:

Term 3, week 6 P&C Meeting has been postponed until Thursday 31st August at 9am. Looking forward to seeing you then.

Super Hero Day

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:04:10 AEST

Super Hero Day

On 28th Staff and Students acknowledged SUPER HERO WEEK to support Bear Cottage. Bear Cottage has been a home away from home for a number of students from Five Islands School, where support and respite is provided to families. All donations raised went to support the wonderful work that Bear Cottage does.

Point Woolly Challenge Day - POSTPONED

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:04:09 AEST

POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Point Woolly Challenge Day

Point Woolly Challenge Day is a challenge day for young people with special needs to try new or challenging activities with a view to engage more in the outdoors in the future! Please see note attached for more information.

Flyer (pdf 553 KB)

Reconciliation Week Assembly

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:04:11 AEST

Reconciliation Assembly

On Friday 2nd June Five Islands School held an assembly for National Reconciliation Week.

National Reconciliation Week (NWR) runs annually from 27^th May – 3rd June. These dates mark two milestones in Australia's reconciliation journey: The 1967 referendum and the historic Mabo decision, respectively. In 2017, we reflect on two significant anniversaries in Australia's reconciliation journey – 50 years since the 1967 referendum and 25 years since the historic Mabo decision. As we commemorate these significant milestones, we ask all Australians to be a part of the next big steps in our nation's reconciliation journey.

A huge thankyou to Tyreece who performed a special Aboriginal dance during our assembly!

Easter Hat Parade

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 20:04:07 AEST