Principal’s Report

Mrs Driver on leave

As mentioned earlier this Term, Mrs Driver is currently on leave due to being involved in a “hit and run” car accident during Week One. During her absence, Mrs Jane Tuckett will be Acting Principal. Mrs Genevieve Clark is Acting Deputy Principal. The students, staff and wider community wish Mrs Driver a speedy recovery.

Leave of Absence – Mrs. Tuckett

With Mrs. Tuckett on long service leave, I have had the pleasure of stepping into the role of Acting Deputy. It has been a rewarding experience celebrating the students as they receive their positive behaviour wristbands.

We are looking forward to our Prep students embarking on their home reading journey over the next few weeks, with decodable books borrowed from our 'decodable library'. We kindly request that extra care and consideration be taken to look after these valuable resources at home.

The Creative Dance classes held on Tuesdays and Thursdays have been highly engaging, with many students practising their moves during play breaks.

We would like to remind families to promptly vacate the school grounds after collecting their children at the end of the school day. While it is delightful for students to interact with each other, the noise can carry throughout the school, making it challenging for teachers to concentrate on their work and meetings. Please note that the play equipment is strictly off-limits, and students, as well as their siblings, will be asked to move on if found using it.

Timely Reminder: 2025 Enrolments

As we start planning for class placements for 2025, please inform the Junior Campus office if your child will be in Year 1-5 next year and will not be returning to Camp Hill in 2025. If your child will be transitioning to high school, kindly notify their class teacher of the high school they will be attending. Additionally, please ensure that you enrol your child if they will be starting Prep in 2025, as classes are filling up quickly.

Please see below regarding upcoming activities for Term 4.

Business Manager

Reminder - School Opinion Survey

Thank you to all of those who have already completed the Parent/Caregiver Survey. If you have not had a chance to complete the survey yet, please note that the online survey will remain open until Friday, 16 August 2024.

This is your opportunity to provide feedback about what our school does well and how we can improve. To have your say, check your email for an invitation from the Department of Education titled "School Opinion Survey for parents and caregivers, 2024".

Can’t find your invitation? If your family has more than one parent/caregiver, check that they haven’t received the invitation and/or check your junk email folder.

Sounds-Write

At Camp Hill State Infants and Primary School, we teach phonics using a phonics program called Sounds-Write, an evidence-based program developed in the United Kingdom.

Sounds-Write is a very highly structured, multi-sensory, incremental and code-oriented, instructional approach to teaching children to read and spell. The Sounds-Write program is implemented in the classroom and provides very fast and effective teaching for children at all levels.

We are proud to say that most of our Prep-Year 2 teachers are trained in Sounds-Write, along with our Step Up Teachers. We are continuing to train teachers each year.

This program is successful in teaching children to read and spell because it starts with what all children know from a very young age – the sounds of our spoken language. Then, using a very systematic approach, it teaches them how these sounds are coded within our writing system.

Implementation:
Children at our school will be sure to tell you how much they enjoy their Sounds-Write lessons. Its structure and simplicity makes it a program accessible to all learners and helps them to make excellent progress with their reading and spelling.

Sounds-Write promotes the use of multi-sensory engagement with the materials appropriate to the level and abilities of the children being taught. This means, each Sounds-Write lesson, students hear sounds, say sounds and write sounds. Sounds-Write also enables teachers to differentiate the challenges placed before the learner in order to meet their individual needs.

The four key concepts children are taught are:
1. letters are symbols that represent sounds
2. sounds can be spelled using 1, 2, 3 or 4 letters
3. the same sound can be spelled in different ways
4. the same spelling can represent different sounds

The three key skills children need to master reading and spelling are:
1. blending
2. segmenting
3. phoneme manipulation

Children in Prep begin with the Initial Code where they practice all 3 key skills whilst learning the 1:1 sound-spelling correspondences and securing their understanding of key concept 1. This builds up confidence and phonic knowledge in a truly reversible system, enabling them to decode and encode a wide range of words and sentences. At first, children learn to read and write simple one syllable words with a CVC structure (consonant- vowel- consonant). Complexity of word structure systematically builds up so that children apply their code knowledge to multi-syllabic words with up to 6 sounds.

Once the Initial Code has been mastered, children continue to practice all 3 key skills whilst learning Extended Code which explores key concepts 2, 3 and 4. Learning of the Extended Code is a lifelong process – we all continue to develop our understanding of this code whenever we encounter new words. Which is why Sounds-Write can be applied across all grades in our school. Whilst learning the Extended Code, children read and write monosyllabic words (one syllable words) and polysyllabic words (multiple syllable words) at an age-appropriate level.

Our P-6 Step Up literacy support focusses on small group support for children who require additional consolidation of the classroom program so that all learners can reach their reading and spelling potential.

The following resources provide additional information for our parents and carers about the Sounds-Write program:
• Sounds-Write – Help your child to read and write with John Walker (Initial Code Unit 1 to Unit 7):
https://www.udemy.com/course/help-your-child-to-read-and-write

• Sounds-Write – Help your child to read and write – part 2 with John Walker (Initial Code Unit 8 to Unit 11):
https://www.udemy.com/course/help-your-child-to-read-and-write-part-2

• Pronunciation of Initial Code sounds:

https://www.bing.com/videos/searchq=sounds+write+pronounciation+video&view=detail&mid=7958CC7B1E5107A3C4D37958CC7B1E5107A3C4D3&FORM=VIRE External link

Nicole Vokes
Head of Department Curriculum

QParents – now available for all year levels

Parents, we hope you are enjoying the access to student information and functionality provided by the QParents app. Thanks especially to the parents who are using the app to record absentee information. If you haven’t already, register using the invitation code that has been emailed to you.

QParents allows parents to connect instantly with our school to access and manage their child’s student information, including:

• Attendance and absence details
• Academic report cards
• Viewing and paying invoices
• Viewing and updating personal student details
• Coming soon - Providing consent for excursions and incursions

PREP and YEAR 2.

PERSISTENCE

Persistence means trying hard to do your best and not giving up when something feels like it is too difficult or boring. Examples of persistent behaviour are continuing to try even when school work is hard, not being distracted by others and checking work when it is finished to make sure that it is correct.

It is about SAYING ‘I CAN DO IT’, GIVING EFFORT, SETTING GOALS AND WORKING TOUGH.

These concepts are re-enforced in Pete Persistence’s song:-
Verse 1
I’m Pete Persistence, I never give up.
I just keep going like a garbage truck.
I’ve got lots of work to do.
It feels really great when I see a job through.
I see a job through.
Chorus
I’m Pete Persistence. I never, ever, ever give up.
I’m Pete Persistence.
I keep going like a garbage truck.
Verse 2
I’m learning how to read and how to write.
I’m even learning how to hold my pencil tight.
I try really hard that’s what I do.
It feels really great when I see a job through.
I see a job through.
Chorus

Pete Persistence and Penny Persistence talk about not procrastinating and not being distracted, as we strive to give it our all.
The children have been learning about what it means when we PROCRASTINATE.
We give it our best shot, try not to be quitters and stay focused on our goals.

Library Matters

Book Week 17th -23rd August

Our annual Book Week character parade for Years P-2 will be held on Wednesday the 21st August. The Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) theme for this year is “Reading is Magic”.

Prep classes – 9:00am- 10:00am
Year 1 classes – 10:00am- 11:00am
Year 2 classes – 2:00- 3:00pm

Parents are welcome to join us in the Multi-purpose hall on Ferguson Rd to view the parades at the above times. Remember social distancing protocols, and please stay home if you are unwell.

All students will parade with their class, then individually walk across our small stage and down the catwalk. Ideally students will know the name of their character and the title of the book they are from. If you have the copy of the book, or can borrow it from the library, it is a great prompt to carry it with them. If you cannot locate a copy of the book, a printed copy of the front cover is allowed for educational purposes. Making a lanyard of book cover to hang around their neck is also helpful when hands are full!

Please feel free to take a photograph of your child in their Book Week costume, but remember to not take or share photos of other students, especially on social media.

In Library we discuss how choosing a favourite book comes first, then the character, then the costume. There are many characters that do not need intricate costumes. This is not a competition! There are no prizes! Every child is a winner celebrating their love of books. Pop into the Junior Library before school with your children for a look at our collection of great ideas for characters.

The reading, discussing and selecting a character should be an enjoyable experience. Plan a time to pull out all those old books and re-visit some family favourites. Every book has a character. Finding an outfit should not cost lots of money, or take too long! We know how busy families are!

This year Primary students will have a Book Character free dress on the same day, with the theme Reading is magic! No gold coin required.

Some ideas to get you thinking and prompt discussion…. Fairy tale and nursery rhyme characters; simple chapter books eg Sporty Kids, Too Cool, Billie B Brown, Hey Jack, Tiny Timmy, Ella and Olivia, Zac Power, Ninja Kid; non-fiction books; classics like Peter Pan, Madeline, Tikki Tikki Tembo; picture books; … The only essential is that your child knows the story and is familiar with the character and the book. Remember, the Junior Library is full of great ideas and open Tuesday to Friday from 8:30am.

The CBCA Book Awards will be announced on Friday 19th August. Which books will win the Gold and Silver medals this year??

The 2024 Premier’s Reading Challenge also closes on 23rd August. If your child has read and recorded their books, please return the form this week so it can be submitted to the Premier for a certificate. Students can login to the Library page and look up their loans since May 5 to enter. Forms can be downloaded from Premier’s Reading Challenge website if yours has gone astray!

Father’s Day Stall Co-Ordinator Volunteer Needed 

Can you help be our Father’s Day Stall Co-Ordinator?

Each year, this is one of our wonderful shopping days where our students can come and independently buy for that special person in their life. It is a fund-raising opportunity for our Aerobics & Dance group, and we are looking for someone who take on this role for the next 2-3 years.

All systems are in place, and you will be taught by the best, (Kerri) how it works seamlessly. This year, everything is already ordered and being prepared, so this is a perfect time to step in and see how it works.

Maybe have a friend join you and you can do it together.

It is a very rewarding volunteer role and other than the 3 days of having fun with the students in their shopping time, it can work around your time availability.

Reminder of P&C Date Savers for Term 3

Wednesday 14th August – EKKA Holiday
Tuesday 20th August – August P&C Meeting
Tuesday 27th – Thursday 29th August – Father’s Day Stalls

A massive THANK YOU to Lisa and all our volunteers who helped while I was away!

It was a much needed break and I appreciate all the help that was given.

Volunteers are still needed for the rest of the term, so jump online now and hopefully you can find time in your schedule to help with ours.

https://volunteersignup.org/444JA

Sharyn – Tuckshop Convenor
Tel: 07 3900 9429 Email: tuckshop@camphillpandc.com.au

Our P&C works very hard to support our families during their time in our school community, including supplying uniform products at the best price for the best quality.

We continually review suppliers and products offered and plan and order far in advance to keep prices as competitive as possible whilst maintaining quality.

Whenever possible we support local businesses with local production and many items are made in Brisbane.

Our largest supplier has not passed on their rising costs for many recent years, however from the start of Term 4 some items will include price increases.
We are also very lucky to have great systems in place to allow our families the option to buy and sell quality second hand uniform items through the uniform shop.

As always, please email any questions you may have and I will do my best to help.

www.schoolshoponline.net.au/camphillipss

NORMAL UNIFORM SHOP TRADING HOURS

Tuesday and Thursday:  8:15 – 9:30 am
(under D Block, Senior Campus)

Kerri Rook - Uniform Shop Convenor
Tel: 07 3900 9328
Email: uniforms@camphillpandc.com.au 

OSHC families please be aware that the September Vacation Care program and booking forms will be released Monday the 19th of August 2024. Please ensure to check your emails on this day.

Thanks from your team at OSHC

Updating Student Information

During the school year, there can be occasions when it is important that we make immediate contact with parents. We are unable to do this if our information is not current. Please help us to provide care and consideration for your child by updating your family records whenever a change occurs.

• If there is a change in your emergency contact phone number, email, or other emergency contact persons details.
• If you change your address.
• If any significant changes occur with regard to your child/children's health or medical details e.g. Health Plan or medication.
• If there are any changes regarding custody or access to your child/children.
• If you feel we should know of any other changes which relate to your child.

Reporting Absent Student

It is important that you contact the school before 9.00am if your child is absent for any reason.

Options:

• Qparent app
• Or send an email to admin@camphillipss.eq.edu.au and include your child’s classroom teacher.

Band News

New timetables for Band lessons and rehearsals were sent to all families last week. Mr Alan Spence will be conducting Beginner Band on Monday from 2:35 until 3:35 pm from this week. We are grateful for the flexibility of Mr Spence and all Year Four families in accommodating this change. Being part of a performance ensemble is a vital part of learning an instrument at school, and this new timetable allows our beginner band members to continue the great work begun in Term 2.

The Senior Concert Band will continue to rehearse with Mr Griffin on Wednesday mornings in the Senior Music Room.

Recorder Band

The children who are part of the recorder band need to remember to bring their recorders and music folders to rehearsal in the Senior Music Room during second break on Mondays. There are some children who are regular attendees and some who are 'occasional visitors'. Regular attendance and regular practice is essential for improvement as we prepare for our end of year music evening.

Celebration of Music

Each year our wonderful Camp Hill musicians celebrate their learning by performing for their families and friends at our Celebration of Music evening. In previous years this has taken place in September, however this year our Celebration of Music evening is on Wednesday, 6th November. This evening will take place in our school hall and all children who are members of a choir or instrumental group, such as strings, band, guitar, ukulele and recorder, will be performing.

Special Feature

Here is another wonderful piece by GOSTI featuring Mr Griffin. If you enjoyed “Between Here and There” you will undoubtedly enjoy “Nezno”. https://youtu.be/hb3P8T-7kho

September School Holidays Tennis Coaching Clinics

MONDAY 16TH, TUESDAY 17TH, WEDNESDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER 2024

Enrolments are now open for the upcoming School Holiday Tennis Clinics as well as special discounted holiday private coaching sessions. Positions are available for all school students between the ages of 4-15 years but please note timings will differ depending upon your child's age and experience.

Holiday clinics are being held at Coorparoo, Holland Park and Camp Hill State Schools - Children from all schools are invited to attend any clinic.

For further details or to enrol, please click this link - https://tennisforkids.com.au/holiday-programs/programs/

CLINIC 1 (MORNING) - RECOMMENDED FOR RED BALL CHILDREN 4-7 YEARS OF AGE
Red Ball students will be at Coorparoo State School from 8.15-10.45am (2½ hours)

CLINIC 2 (MORNING) - RECOMMENDED FOR ORANGE BALL CHILDREN 7-10 YEARS OF AGE
Orange Ball students will be at Holland Park State School from 8.00-11.00am (3 hours)

We have staggered the drop off and pick up times for Clinic 1 and Clinic 2 so parents can comfortably drop siblings to both venues as they are less than a 5 minute drive from each other.

CLINIC 3 (AFTERNOON) - RECOMMENDED FOR RED BALL CHILDREN 4-7 YEARS OF AGE
Red Ball students will be at Camp Hill State School from 2.00-5.00pm (3 hours)

CLINIC 4 (AFTERNOON) - RECOMMENDED FOR ORANGE BALL CHILDREN 7-10 YEARS OF AGE
Orange Ball students will be at Camp Hill State School from 2.00-5.00pm (3 hours)

CLINIC 5 (AFTERNOON) - RECOMMENDED FOR GREEN BALL CHILDREN 9-12 YEARS OF AGE
Green Ball students will be at Coorparoo State School from 2.00-5.00pm (3 hours)

CLINIC 6 (AFTERNOON) - RECOMMENDED FOR YELLOW BALL CHILDREN 12-15 YEARS OF AGE
Yellow Ball students will be at Coorparoo State School from 2.00-5.00pm (3 hours)