2 June 2021

Newsletter Articles

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

Dear Parents, Carers and Community,

Welcome to Week 7. This week our Year 6 students have been on school camp at Magnetic Island. Students and staff had an exceptional 3 days and engaged in activities designed to challenge themselves and put their great leadership skills to the test. Students most enjoyed abseiling, archery and raft building. A shout out to all of our staff and students for a sensational few days!

Facilities Update

Our solar panels are up and running!!!! We had 500 solar panels installed on the roofs of the Multi-Purpose Learning Centre and the TCBC through the Advancing Clean Energy Schools Program. This provides us with an environmentally friendly source of electricity for now and into the future. Day 1 saw us use 52.9% of the school’s energy demand from the solar system. In the coming weeks, our school leadership team will be working closely with the Solar Schools Team to learn more about the Solar Schools online portal, resources, apps and our school’s data and usage.

School Review

Last week our Full School Review Executive Summary was released. The Executive Summary is published on our school website at the link below.

The following affirmations capture our school journey 2017-present:

2. Executive summary

2.1 Key findings

School leaders exemplify a strong moral purpose, and embody the school’s motto ‘Excellence is the Standard’.

The school’s motto permeates a whole-school approach to teaching and learning, setting high expectations and fostering positive and successful partnerships between students, staff, parents and the wider school community. Staff express the belief that students can learn successfully, and are universally committed to providing a caring, inclusive and nurturing educational environment where everyone counts, with measures in place to support and promote student wellbeing. The commitment and dedication of the principal are widely acknowledged by staff, who speak positively regarding the improvements and gains the school has made since its last school review in 2017.

School leaders and staff demonstrate a clear understanding of the importance of positive and caring relationships to successful student learning and wellbeing.

A significant piece of work is the school’s engagement with and embedding of Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) across the school. Staff express the influence and dedication of the principal in their commitment to PBL have greatly enhanced the culture of the school. The school’s mascots of Willow, Olive and Waldo are an integral feature in how the school promotes, recognises and celebrates positive behaviours, and student and school achievements. Parents indicate a culture of trust and optimism has been fostered across the school by leaders. Students articulate they feel supported and cared for by staff members and that positive relationships exist between students and staff.

The principal is driving a clear and focused Explicit Improvement Agenda (EIA).

Staff members recognise every student is a reader and writer – aim for the ‘A’ as being the school’s significant EIA focus. Teachers express a genuine commitment to realising improvements in reading and writing for students and to authentically engage in the work of Student Work at the Table (SWAT) forums. Some teachers articulate they would appreciate greater input into reviewing the effectiveness of SWAT forums to ensure they achieve positive outcomes for teachers in their own professional growth and impact on their daily practice. School leaders acknowledge the need to review the SWAT process at key junctures for improvements in student learning outcomes. A number of teachers express the belief that further time is required to embed this key aspect of the school’s EIA.

Staff are committed to the school and have a high level of professional integrity and respect for school leaders.

Teachers comment positively on the personal and professional support they receive from colleagues. There are high levels of mutual trust and support within teaching teams and a sense of pride in the work they undertake in the school. Some teachers indicate a desire for a broader range of strategies be established to enhance their resilience in the management of change. Some staff express a desire for more collaboration regarding the pace of change and the implementation of new practices. School leaders articulate the need to explore a range of strategies to support the authentic wellbeing of staff as part of the school’s ongoing improvement journey.

School leaders are committed to continuous improvement of effective teaching practices across the school.

Many teachers consider the development, experience and characteristics of the learner, select appropriately from a repertoire of pedagogical approaches, and then tailor the delivery accordingly to ensure all students are engaged in their learning. School leaders actively promote a range of evidence-based teaching strategies and model research processes as they strive for continuous improvement in teaching practices. School leaders acknowledge that a collaborative review of the current pedagogical approaches and practices is timely and necessary given the number of new and beginning teachers at the school and the professional learning that is required to ensure effective approaches are being consistently adopted across all classrooms.

A focus on inclusivity where everyone counts is recognised by staff as a key aspect of the school’s EIA.

The school is currently part of a regional project to promote and embed inclusive practices in schools. The practice of co-teaching sees teachers jointly deliver core instruction in conjunction with specialised instruction, as required, to equitably meet the needs of the diverse range of learners in a single teaching space. Teachers who have engaged authentically in the co-teaching model articulate the positive outcomes that have resulted in meeting the needs of students and their own professional growth. Some teachers articulate they would appreciate time to collaboratively plan with and engage in recognised school forums with their co-teaching partners. School leaders acknowledge the need to further strengthen the capability of all staff to work effectively within a co-teaching model.

The school is deeply embedded in the local community and enjoys high levels of parent and community confidence.

The school enjoys the support of an active and well respected Parents and Citizens’ Association (P&C). The P&C manages the school’s Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) program and the school tuckshop that operates five days per week. These two operations generate significant funds that are used to support the school’s key programs and priorities. The P&C makes significant contributions to improve aspects of school life including student access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT), resources to support teaching and learning, student engagement in the Fanfare musical experience and significant facilities and grounds improvements. Members of the P&C express the genuine purpose of their efforts is to support the endeavours of the school and appreciate the authentic and trusting relationship they have with the principal.

The school is proud of its work with children in the early years, their families and the local community.

The school has a well-established Willows Warriors pre-Prep program, conducted one day per week for the majority of the school year. A dedicated early years teacher delivers an engaging program with a focus on Kindergarten and Foundation capabilities, specifically focused on oral language development. Parent engagement is promoted during the program with workshops to build parent knowledge in preparing their child for school. In addition to Willows Warriors, a ‘Peek at Prep’ program enables members of the community to view Prep in action. A member of the Prep teaching team visits 10 feeder early childhood centres and kindergartens to foster a partnership with providers and assist in the smooth transition to school.

I thank each of our students, staff and families for being part of our ongoing school improvement journey and look forward to working with key stakeholders on the key improvement strategies listed below:

2.2 Key improvement strategies

• Sustain a deep focus on the EIA, with collaborative cycles of review to ensure key approaches are producing desired improvements in student learning outcomes.
• Build a collective understanding of authentic wellbeing practices for all staff members and ensure there is a positive relationship between high expectations for school improvement and work/life balance.
• Collaboratively review the school’s agreed pedagogical approaches and practices, providing ongoing professional learning opportunities and experiences to strengthen teaching practice.
• Further strengthen a culture of inclusion, agreed whole-school inclusive practices, and collaborative planning so all teachers make the Australian Curriculum (AC) accessible for all learners.

Kind regards,

Helen McCullough
Principal

GENERAL NEWS

FREE DRESS DAY

To join in the excitement of State of Origin in Townsville, The Willows will be coming to school in Maroon and Blue on game day next week.

The Willows is having a State of Origin day. Do you support the Queensland Maroons or the New South Wales Blues? Come to school in your team colours.

When: Wednesday 9 June
Wear: State of Origin colours
Why: Show your team spirit

All clothes must be appropriate for school and sun safe. No Gold Coin Donation required.

UNDER 8’S DAY

CHECK IN QLD APP

We’re using the new Check In Qld app to help keep you COVID safe the next time you attend an event at our school.

All you need to do is:

• download the app www.covid19.qld.gov.au/check-in-qld
• enter your details once
• open the app when you next visit us

• select ‘Check in Now’ and hover your smartphone over our QR code

Done!

Using this digital check-in means your details are stored securely by the Queensland Government for fast COVID-19 contact tracing if needed. #CheckInQld

WILLOWS WARRIORS

SCHOOL PARKING

We are aware that pick up and drop off times can be difficult due to the size of our school. We are working closely with the Queensland Police and the Townsville City Council in relation to the current parking and pick up issues. To ensure the safety of all who access our school, please note the following:-

• Do not park in no standing zones. Please see the below map
• Please use the pedestrian crossings and encourage your child/children to use the pedestrian crossings as well
• Do not walk through the traffic at the Stop, Drop and Go area
• Staff provide supervision at Stop, Drop and Go until 3:30pm every school day. These staff are responsible for ensuring the safety of your children inside our gates.
• Please be mindful of residential properties that surround our school – please do not park across their driveways
• Do not park on traffic islands or footpaths

Queensland Police have advised that they will be doing regular patrols and issuing infringement notices.

Thank you for your support in this important issue.

GATE SUPERVISION

Gate C (Sandstone Drive) is locked at 3.15pm. Any students remaining at 3.15pm will be escorted to Gate A (Stop, Drop, Go) where supervision is provided until 3.30pm.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Year Level Parades

Prep – Mondays 8.45am in Junior CPA
Year 1 – Mondays 8.45am in Junior CPA
Year 2 – Tuesdays 8.45am in Junior CPA
Year 3 – Tuesdays 2.40pm in Multi-Purpose Learning Centre
Year 4 – Mondays 2.40pm in Main CPA
Year 5 – Mondays 2.40pm in Multi-Purpose Learning Centre
Year 6 – Tuesdays 8.45am in Multi-Purpose Learning Centre

Parents/Guardians are most welcome to attend.

Music News (The Pitch)

Defence News

HELLO ALL DEFENCE FAMILIES

WELCOME to week 7. Got to love this beautiful weather we are having. It is a perfect time to be living in Townsville. There are a few updates not to be missed this week with a SPECIAL INVITATION FOR ALL ADF MEMBERS AND FAMILIES TO ATTEND COWBOYS DEFENCE RESILENCE CARNIVAL AND GAME TICKETS. On Friday 18th June from 3:30pm-5:30pm at Cowboys Training Facility beside Qld Country Bank Stadium. Join Cowboys NRL football team at their training fields for an afternoon of Carnival fun. Tickets are limited so register ASAP on Eventbrite now to avoid disappointment. It’s a great opportunity to meet the players and have fun.

All DEFENCE PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS ARE INVITED to join me on Monday 14th June from 8:30-10:30am in L Pod for BIGGEST MORNING TEA. Come along and have a cuppa and chat with friends. All donations on the day will go to the Cancer Council.

As from the 1st July DCO offices will have a name change to DMFS (Defence Members and Family Support Branch). Nothing changes and they will still be operating in the same premises. Larissa Ostermann has also been announced at the new DFA National Delegate for Nth Qld.

REMEMBER OPEN ARMS is available to YOU and your family - Veterans and Families Counselling provides 24 hr support and confidential counselling, group programs and suicide prevention training. Former and current serving ADF personal and their families can use the service. Call 1800 011 046 for more information.

Geckos Family Centre at Lavarack Barracks is a tri-service facility providing services, support and activities to enhance family resilience in the North Queensland Defence Community. Geckos offers a range of formal and informal activities catering to Defence members, partners and families such as playgroups, parent groups, boot camps, yoga, and sewing group. Check out their Facebook page to keep up to date with the activities and events held throughout the year.

Defence Social Workers are available for you to access at DCO office. Appointment required.

Please remember to sign up to the mailing list for what’s happening for defence families at dco.townsville@defence.gov.au or to register collect a sheet from me.

EVENTS TO REMEMBER

Friday 4th June Under 8’s Day here at school from 1:55pm-2:45pm. Come along and say Hi.

Monday 14th June - Defence/Biggest Morning Tea from 8:30-10:30am in L Pod for all Defence Parents and Caregivers. Donations are welcome on the day. Please contact me to register for the event. See you there.

Friday 18th June for Cowboys Defence Resilience Carnival and Game Tickets from 3:30-5:30pm at Cowboys Training Facility beside Qld Country Bank Stadium. Limited tickets are available so register now at Eventbrite.

TO BE UP TO DATE WITH WHATS ON IN TOWNSVILLE CHECK

Follow on Facebook or call 07 4411 7031.

DON’T FORGET to Register for DCO mailing list NOW at dco.townsville@defence.gov.au

Defence Family Helpline 24/7 1800 624 608

Open Arms call 1800 011 046

Mates4Mates – Email: townsville@mates4mates.org or call the Townsville FRC on 4771 9600

DFA (Defence Families of Australia) nth.qld@dfa.org.au

Geckos Family Centre-Nth Qld Lavarack Barracks Contact for enquiries on 4411 7031

Kookaburra Kids Tvl-Louisa Calvert 1300 566 525/0410 896 923

Defence Holidays NQ 07 4725 3842 at Lavarack Barracks opp Gym admin@defenceholidaysnq.com.au

My hours are Monday to Friday 8:00am-3:30pm, phone me anytime for a chat on 4799 1333 ext 323, or e-mail me cwhee36@eq.edu.au.

School is full of learning and FUN for all students when they stay positive. They also develop RESILIENCE SKILLS AND FRIENDSHIPS.

Correna Wheeler
Defence School Mentor

YOU WON’T KNOW WHAT YOU CAN DO UNTIL YOU TRY!!

Community Events & Notices

GIRL GUIDES

PARENTLINE - CYBERSAFETY

TROPIC CHOPPER TOUR

LITTLE LIFESAVERS

THE SMITH FAMILY – SAVER PLUS

Ease the pressure of school camp costs with Saver Plus and get $500 in matched savings to help out.

What is SaverPlus?

Saver Plus is a free ten month savings program that provides financial education and matches your savings up to $500 for educational expenses.

Can you join?

To be eligible to join Saver Plus you must:

• be 18 years or over;
• be a parent or guardian of a student attending school, or be attending vocational education yourself;
• have a current Health Care card or Pensioner Concession card;
• be receiving a Centrelink benefit, allowance or payment;
• have some form of regular income from work (you or your partner) OR receive child support;
• not have completed SaverPlus before.

Who do I contact to join?

Debbie Mitchell
Townsville Saver Plus Coordinator
Phone 0418 201 533

Email debra.mitchell@thesmithfamily.com.au

Find out more information at the link below

POSITION VACANT – TEMPORARY CASUAL CLEANER

20 hours per week until June 2021 with the possibility of extension

10am to 2pm Monday to Friday

Working with Children Blue Card essential and must be obtained prior to commencement.

Prospective employees must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or hold a permanent residence visa.

To apply, contact Barbara Anderson – Email: bsm@thewillowsss.eq.edu.au Phone : (07) 4799 1333

C & K KIRWAN