News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:13:59 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.

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:46:09 AEDT

Starting school is a big moment in a child’s life. Here’s how to make the most of it.

We can’t wait for you to join us for a great year – the first step towards a lifelong love of learning.

Visit the department’s primary school resources for hints, tips and checklists to make a great start to the new school year, whether your child is starting Kindergarten or Year 6.

You’ll find:

Getting ready for primary school booklet – everything you need to be #Ready2020
Daisy’s First Day – the story of Daisy the koala’s first adventure at Kindergarten
advice from teachers – they’ve been through this before.

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 17:16:26 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 17:29:48 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.

40th Anniversary Fair

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:45:14 AEDT

Thanks to our school's many supporters and our school community, this year's Spring Fair was a huge success.

Staff, students and families mingled during the evening, enjoying the warm atmosphere, games and stalls.

Tournament of Minds Honours Win

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:26:24 AEDT

Congratulations to our Tournament of Minds team gaining Honours at the International Final in Hobart.

Our whole school is delighted by the achievements of the Tournament of Minds team and their teacher, Mrs Jodie Perry.

Visit from NSW Minister for Education

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:33:18 AEDT

It was wonderful to receive a recent visit from the NSW Minister for Education, Ms Sarah Mitchell and our local member, Mr Gurmesh Singh.

Our important guests had a tour of our newly completed upgrades, 40th Anniversary display, some of our classrooms and were happy to meet and congratulate in person, members of our successful TOMs team.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 17:26:40 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Toormi TV - Term 2

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 13:47:51 AEST

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:41:06 AEST

We want to better understand your needs for before and after school care in NSW.

Have your say today on before and after school care.

Fill out the survey by Service NSW to share your specific care needs and to register interest to stay informed of new developments.

Your input will provide insights into where there are gaps in service availability and help us to deliver extra places where they are needed.

You can also contact the team responsible for rolling out the before and after school care commitment at BASCreform@det.nsw.edu.au.

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:27:22 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Get involved at home

Join in at home and read your child a bedtime story. Studies show that reading a bedtime story six days a week can give kids almost a year’s head start when they begin school. Reading has also been shown to develop empathy, promote critical thinking and help children find a sense of self.

Join in from the classroom

Bestselling children’s author and illustrator Matt Stanton will broadcast live to primary school children across the country from the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday 17 September. We invite schools to register for the livestream of this free event.

Stanton’s author talk is among more than 140 events happening across the country involving more than 50 authors.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – #ReadingHour authors talk about their favourite place to read

Duration: 0:38

Looking for a good spot to open a book? We asked authors Benjamin Law, Morris Gleitzman, Jacqueline Harvey and Mick Elliott about their favourite place to read.

Thanking our school's supporters

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 13:46:58 AEDT

Our school greatly appreciates these generous donations toward our 40th Anniversary Spring Fair Raffle:

40^th Anniversary Spring Fair Raffle Prizes

10ft Verao Platinum trampoline

Garmin watch and Legion Fitness gift certificates

Everlast Hyperflex strike bag

Curly Girl Beauty gift basket

Scentsy Diamond Weave Warmer gift pack

Tahwalhi beach shelter plus Kookaburra beach cricket set

Mad Gear Whip Pro scooter

Dolphin Marine Conservation Park family pass

Autobarn Premium Car Care kit – value $130

Gameology pack of 4 games – value $120

Sea Salt Sawtell vouchers – value $117

Sawtell Golf Club game including cart hire – value $114

Coopers voucher – value $100

Precision Helicopters scenic flight voucher

The Big Banana Family Water Park pass

Solitary Islands Surf School - five holiday group lessons

Wahu water fun pack

Sawtell Hotel vouchers – value $60

4 x Toormina Hotel, The Palms Bistro vouchers – value $50 each

2 x Coopers vouchers – value $50 each

2 x Lowes gift cards – value $50 each

2 x Gameology table tennis robots – value $50 each

The Golden Dog Hotel Eat In voucher – value $50

Moonee Tavern Bistro voucher – value $50

Flowers on First Sawtell voucher – value $50

Miss Minnie’s Boutique voucher – value $50

Beaches@Sawtell vouchers – value $50

Woolworths gift card – value $50

Coles gift card – value $50

Screensavers movie vouchers for 2 adults and 3 children

2 x NIKE Backpack with drinkbottle packs

Girls bike with trainer wheels plus fun book pack

Go Vita salt lamp, Chakra candle and organic chocolate

Treeo voucher – value $30

2 x Split Café & Espresso Bar vouchers – value $25

2 x Butchers Boutique vouchers – value $25

2 x Bakers Delight vouchers – value $20

Family dart board and bocce set

Super Mini Games table plus water pistol pack

Sportspower fun gift pack

Blooms gift pack……… and lots more

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:49:19 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.

Tournament of Minds Win

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 10:43:05 AEST

Congratulations to our students who have won their Language Literature discipline at this region's Tournament of Minds challenge.

The team will be travelling to Sydney to compete in the NSW Tournament Final at the University of NSW later this month.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:15:16 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

Change to School Assemblies

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 13:50:30 AEST

From the start of Term 3 our school assemblies will be held every second week.

Our first assembly for the term will be held on Wednesday 31st July at 2.20pm in our school hall.

Athletics Carnival Postponed

Tue, 25 Jun 2019 11:09:27 AEST

Our Athletics Carnival planned for Friday 28th June has been postponed due to wet weather.

An alternative date will be announced soon.

Upcoming Spring Fair

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 14:53:22 AEST

As part of our 40th Anniversary celebrations, our school will be holding a Spring Fair.

Come along and enjoy this wonderful event for the whole school community.

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:43:56 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.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:28:20 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

Toormi TV

Thu, 16 May 2019 13:48:30 AEST

Enjoy our very first Toormi TV newscast - a recap of school events in news format.

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:26:07 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 15:15:29 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 15:29:39 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.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:46:52 AEDT

Now that students are back to school after a break it’s a good time to chat with your child about safe behaviours when you walk or commute to school.

Here are our top tips to help our students make a safe trip:

1. Be alert and aware

Take note of the dangers you come across on your walk and bring them to your child’s attention. Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways. Talk to your child about being alert in a road environment.

2. Hold hands

When on the footpath, at a crossing or in a car park always hold your child's hand. It is advised to do this up to the age of at least 8 years old and closely supervise until at least the age of 10.

3. Choose a safe crossing

Lead by example and choose a safe place to cross the road. Explain why it is the safest place to cross.

4. Set a good example

Your child watches everything you do, so if you cross at the crossing they will too. It is also important to share these messages with other carers who may walk with your child to school.

5. Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time you cross the road

Discuss this important road safety message. STOP! one step back from the kerb. LOOK! continuously both ways. LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK! whether it is safe to cross.

Practise makes perfect

The more supervised practice your child can get the better, so why not make Term 1 the start of a new routine to walk with your child to school more often.

Older children may be ready to make the journey to school independently. Before they take this step, observe if they are road safe and reinforce the road safety messages.

For more information, check out the department’s pedestrian safety advice for students, parents and carers.

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:07:59 AEDT

The first day of Kindergarten and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you make the most of this time and enjoy the experience, we’ve compiled some useful tips and checklists. We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

Our film #FirstDay2019 captures the excitement – and the nerves – of the rite of passage that is the first day of Kindergarten.

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

P&C 2018 Christmas raffle

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 09:53:18 AEDT

Toormina Public School celebrates the year that was!

2018 has been another memorable year for Toormina Public School. We would like to thank our amazing school community for your ongoing support and we are very excited to start celebrating the festive season with our Mega Christmas Raffle. This Raffle will help to raise much needed funds to upgrade our students’ playground.

Mega Christmas Raffle tickets selling fast!

Tickets for our raffle are still available and are $1 each. We have had over $3,500 worth of incredible prizes donated so far, with more being added to our list.

Our friends at Vuly Play have generously donated one of our major prizes - an Ultra Medium Trampoline valued at $699 + delivery. The Ultra trampoline combines all the advanced safety features that Vuly are renowned for. A fully secured enclosure keeps bouncers safe from contact zones, while a high-durability polyethylene net is tested for exceptional performance in high UV and wet weather conditions. A Vuly trampoline will make the perfect early Christmas gift for the whole family!

Other major prizes up for grabs include:

Watsons Leisure Centre Gazebo
Bunnings Ryobi Blower
Big Banana Fun Park Vouchers
Scentsy Hamper
Cinema Vouchers

Keep an eye on the Toormina Public School Facebook page for the full list of prizes.

The raffle will be drawn on Thursday 13^th December. You can purchase tickets by…..

2019 School Leaders

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 10:30:08 AEDT

Our School Captains and Vice Captains for 2019 have been announced.

Congratulations to these students!

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:28:36 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.

Premier highlights the value of public education

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:53:24 AEST

Public education can be the springboard to the top job in New South Wales.

That was the message from the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, as she launched Education Weekcelebrations today at Parramatta and Kiama public schools.

"I know that all schools across the state today are highlighting and celebrating what we all value in public education – where someone like me who couldn't speak a word of English when she started school has somehow ended up being the Premier of NSW," she said.

Ms Berejiklian said she had met many possible future leaders during her visit to Parramatta Public School and "couldn't be prouder, as your Premier, to witness the outstanding achievements of all the students across the state".

The dual school launch, linked via a live simulcast, focused on the theme of Education Week, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, which highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the launch was hosted entirely by primary school students and featured student performances from Eastwood Public School violinist Justine Zhang, Bossley Park High School soloist Ezra Loau and dancers from Hoxton Park Public School.

Year 8 students from Kiama High School – Alira Morgan, Jannali Morgan and Olivia Talbott – opened the celebration with an Acknowledgement of Country performed in language.

Keynote speeches were delivered from Kiama by Terara Public School Year 6 student Lucy Boundy, Molly Chapman, a Year 8 student at Dapto High School, and Nowra East Public School instructional leader Vishanti Govender.

Lucy told the launch that education was about opportunity: "Opportunity to learn, opportunity to improve and opportunity to make a difference."

In detailing her early struggles with learning, Molly said a more hands-on approach to study at her high school had a huge impact on her.

"I learn more effectively by seeing and doing things because it gets in my head more easily and pictures are worth a thousand words. Thanks to school, I'm exceeding in almost everything I touch," she said.

Education Minister Rob Stokes highlighted the "incredible legacy" of public schools on society, a role contemporary education and educators would play in the future.

"We are in a period of vast technological, social and economic change, and with that the role of education becomes more important, even bigger, and the challenge for teachers and students becomes more complex," he said.

"We need to provide training in those skills that recognise the future is uncertain and to train and encourage young people not just to be ready for the change that is coming but to be excited by it."

New uniform policy for NSW public schools

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:54:54 AEST

A new uniform policy has been introduced for NSW public schools, which for the first time include the option for girls to wear shorts and pants.

The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, and the Minister for Education, Rob Stokes, announced the new "clear and concise" policy today at Condell Park Public School in Sydney.

Ms Berejiklian said the "modern makeover" would ensure that uniforms were practical and comfortable for students and affordable for parents.

The new policy says all students should have the opportunity to access the full range of school activities while wearing a school uniform, including physical activities, and girls must have the option to wear shorts and pants.

For more information, read the media release by the Premier and Minister. The new policy and implementation guidelines (PDF 116KB) are available on the department's website.

The Department of Education supports the wearing of school uniform to promote a sense of belonging for students and create a positive identity for the school community.

Each public school decides on its school uniform in formal consultation with students, school staff, parents and the school community.

Parents and citizens meeting

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 11:33:41 AEST

^{At Tuesdays parents meeting there was much discussion about canteen.}

Toormina High School farm visit

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:32:52 AEST

Kindergarten took the opportunity to visit the agricultural plot at our neighbouring high school, Toormina High. Dr Willhoite, the Agricultural teacher (and our Ripley's dad) talked to the children about the plants and animals, as well as safety in a farm environment. The children's favourite animals were the pigs. They were amazed at their size and how the pigs came and snorted at them through the fence.

Father's Day breakfast

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:33:13 AEST

Our school community enjoyed a fantastic morning when our dads, grandfathers, uncles and brothers came and joined us for a Father's Day Breakfast. Many thanks to all the men who came on the day and to those who rearranged their work start times to make their kids and our day!

Kinder Robot Creations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:45 AEST

Kinder Red recently had a box craft day, with students using their imaginations to create wonderful and clever robots. The robots will live in the classroom, helping students to develop an interesting bank of words that can be used in their writing.

Welcoming Kindergarten 2018

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:44 AEST

2018 Kinder Enrolments (pdf 430 KB)

Prospective families are invited to come along to one of our Kindergarten Information Day sessions on Thursday 7th September. Day session: 9.30am and Evening session: 6.30pm.

Come and find out all you need to know about your child starting school. There will be representatives from Busways, OOSH, School Banking, Aboriginal education, Toormina High School, Lowes (our uniform supplier) as well as our P&C.

A highlight of the day session will be a performance by our current Kindergarten students.

This is an opportunity for you to meet with our Principal and teaching staff to discuss and ask any questions that you may have about your child's transition into Kindergarten next year.

We look forward to meeting seeing you at Big School!

Science Week

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:35 AEST

Students are busy learning science concepts participating in fun experiments throughout the week.

Here are some comments from our Stage 2 students:

Riley 3/4 Purple

Science Week is awesome! I've never made these kinds of things before.

Taj 3/4 Jade

I have liked the experiment with milk the most so far. I liked creating different patterns with the colours in the milk.

Chase 3/4 Purple

The balloon poppers were fun to make and I'm going to try mine at home with lots of different objects.

Cierra 3/4 Purple

The balloon poppers are great because you get to aim popcorn into people's mouths and see if they can catch them.

Paige Hadley Visit

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

Our students recently enjoyed a visit from one of the NSW Premier's Sporting Challenge Ambassador's Paige Hadley. Paige is a State and National Representative Netballer, playing currently with the NSW Swifts and Australian Diamonds.

She is passionate, in her position as Ambassador, to inspire children to live active and healthy lifestyles and was happy to talk to Toormina students about her background, sporting achievements, training and the benefits of working hard towards a goal.

This was a fantastic opportunity for our children to get close to a sporting role model and ask a wide range of questions about her life as a professional athlete.

100 Days of Learning

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:51 AEST

Toormina Public Kindergarten students have been marking off the days and have now reached their 100th day of learning at school.

During a picnic day of celebrations for this milestone students (and their teachers) came to school dressed as 100 year olds, played old-style games, counted objects by 10's up to 100 and made iced biscuits with 100's and 1000's on top.

Clancy commented that "It's hard to eat lunch with my moustache on". Toby said "My grey hair, glasses and braces make me look old. I had fun playing chess and checkers with James." Connor and Lexi thought that their teachers, Mrs Crawford and Miss Kitcher, looked old with their glasses, hair rollers, walking frame and hankies.

Education Week Open Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:13 AEST

Education Week Open Day Program

Wednesday 2nd August

Our School Community is invited to attend our Education Week Open Day celebrations

on our Basketball Court. Please be seated by 9.45am for a 10am start.

Program for Special Assembly:

Acknowledgement of Country - Aboriginal Representatives
School Song
Address by Mr Michael Hepi
Choir Performance
Stage 3 Dance Group
National Anthem

10.30 Assembly Finish - tea and coffee, scones and juice will be served on the staffroom verandah.

10.45 Open Classrooms - parents are invited to visit classrooms.

11.00 Whole school eat Lunch on Basketball Court or picnic on the hill for community members and students. Parents and family members are invited to have lunch with their children. Bring along a picnic blanket and enjoy!

Sandwiches will be available for purchase at our school canteen.

Parent Planning Workshop

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:31 AEST

Our parents/carers are invited to attend one of two School Planning Workshops:

Wednesday 19th July 9.30 to 10.30am

Wednesday 19th July 6.00 to 7.00pm

The workshops will provide our community with the opportunity to actively contribute to the development of a 'shared vision' for our school.

NAIDOC Week Activities

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:25 AEST

We invite our community to join us and students from other Bongil Bongil schools as we celebrate NAIDOC Week 2017.

Monday 26th June

Opening Ceremony starting at 10am.

Tuesday 27th June

Stage 1 Cultural activities 10am to 2pm.

Wednesday 28th June

Stage 2 Cultural activities 10am to 2pm.

Thursday 29th June

Hopscotch Preschool visit 11am to 1.30pm,

Friday 30th June

Closing Ceremony activities 10.30am to 2pm

Stage 3 Cultural activities

BBQ lunch

Stage 3/4 v's teachers and community football gam

5/6 Aqua Science Experiment

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:57 AEST

5/6 Aqua have been investigating the qualities of light.

We have been discussing how light travels, how shadows are formed and how light refracts. During our investigations, we discovered how the Egyptians used sun dials and the position of the sun to tell the time. We constructed a sun dial by using a bucket, metre ruler and masking tape.

We traced and recorded the movement and length that the shadow of the ruler made every half hour.

We concluded that the shadow moved like the hands of a clock and its length grew longer as the day went on.

Big Vegie Crunch

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:05 AEST

Recently Toormina Public girls and boys got their Big Vegetable Crunch on.

Our school crunched so loudly that we beat last year's record by 20 decibels!

Children munched on a large variety of vegetables including carrots, capsicums, cucumbers, celery and even corn cobs.

A huge thank you to Coffs Harbour Woolworths for their generous donation of fruit and vegetables, the Faulkner family for organising a another donation of fruit and veg from Coles and to Mrs Dunning for donating her time to cut all of our vegetables.

Walk to School Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:42 AEST

Despite the rainy weather, we had a good turn out of students and parents for our annual Walk to School Day. Thank you to those families who changed their normal plans to join us. Everyone enjoyed the experience of walking to school as a group and having more students meet up with us along the way.

Welcome to Our New Staff

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:44 AEST

Our school community warmly welcomes our two new members of staff, Mrs Alana Benfield and Mr Craig Simpson. Mrs Benefield is teaching our STEM classes and providing additional support across Years K to 6. Mr Simpson is job sharing with Mrs Thomas on 3/4 Jade.

New Blazers for our School Representatives

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:26 AEST

Our School Leaders are delighted with the delivery of our new Representative Blazers. The blazers, which have been funded by our P&C, will be worn by Toormina students on special occasions when representing our school. These will include formal assemblies, ANZAC marches, debating and chess teams. Many thanks to our hard working P&C members who are dedicated to supporting the learning and leadership opportunities of Toormina Public School students.

School Photo Reminder

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

A reminder for all of our families.

School Photos will be taken this Thursday 23th March.

Please return all photo orders to your child's classroom teacher by Wednesday.

Envelopes for family group photos are available from our office.

Clean Up Australia Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:08 AEST

In support of Clean Up Australia Day, Toormina students did a geat job of cleaning up stray litter around our school playground. Students have a clear understanding of the impact of rubbish on our environment. " The birds might mistake rubbish for food and choke on it" - Pearlene. "If we don't pick up rubbish, it can go into the creek and into our oceans" - Amber. "I like seeing the school looking clean" - Conner.

Kinder Bus Safety

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:18 AEST

Our Kinder students will be learning all about travelling safely on the school bus this Friday.

Kindergarten Students Settling In

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:20 AEST

Our kindergarten students are already out in the playground with their buddies and both they and their families are a welcome addition to our school community.

In Kinder Red and Kinder Blue students are practising writing their names and numbers, listening to and acting out favourite stories and learning our school expectations with Toormi the Tree Frog. Mrs Crawford and Miss Kitcher's students have also conducted their first experiment to show the importance of washing our hands with soap and water.

Next week Kinder students will attend a lesson at the library with Mrs Saunders and a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) lesson with Mrs Barlow.

Best Start Sessions

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:04 AEST

Prior to starting Kindergarten, our new students are spending a 40 minute individual session with our Early Stage One teachers to ensure that they have the best possible start to their school life.

Best Start sessions allow teachers to get to know the individual skills and needs of each student before they become part of a very busy classroom environment. Best Start sessions are being held early this week and Kindergarten students will commence school this Thursday.

Welcome to all our new students and families!

Back to School

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:04 AEST

Toormina students are settling into their new classrooms and enjoying getting back into the routine of school.

P&C Family Christmas Disco

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

- Biggest Christmas Raffle Draw Ever -

To celebrate the end of the school year and the festive season, ALL students and their families are invited to come to our "Family Christmas Disco" on Thursday 8th December from 5:30pm - 7:30pm. Entry is FREE, there will be a B.B.Q sausage sizzle for $2 on the night, drinks and special disco treats will be available from the canteen. There will also be a 'photo booth' ($1 per photo) and even a visit from the big man in the red suit.

So get dressed up in your best Christmas gear, enjoy a sausage and have a festive photo.

The HUGE P&C Christmas raffle will also be drawn on the night with over $5,000 worth of prizes to be won, so GOOD LUCK and we look forward to seeing everyone there!

Please note: The student 'incentive' raffle prizes will be drawn the following day at school at 2:15pm in the Cola. A big thank you to all the students who have worked hard to sell all of their tickets.

New Captains Announced

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:26 AEST

- Our Leaders for 2017 -

The students have voted and a BIG congratulations goes out to our new School Captains for next year.

They are (pictured from left to right) Charlee Gee (Vice Captain), Koa Matete (Captain), Jyelee Milne (Captain) and Tor Boyton (Vice Captain).

Our school is excited to have these students as our school leaders in 2017 and know they will do Toormina Public School very proud.

Presentation Assembly Date Change

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:32 AEST

Our apologies to parents who may have organised time off work to attend this year's Presentation Assembly, we have had to change the date due to circumstances beyond our control.

Our Presentation Assemblies date and times are as follows:

Thursday, December 8th

Years 3 to 6 - 12 noon to 1.45pm

Kinder to Year 2 - 2.15pm to 3pm

New School Bumper Stickers

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:27 AEST

- TOORMI KIDS ARE TERRIFIC -

Thanks to our wonderful P&C Committee, we now have new car bumper stickers for parents to proudly display on their cars when driving around the Coffs Coast.

Stickers can be purchased for $2 each from the front office, so be sure to pick up one next time you come to school.

(School Principal Mr Hepi pictured with one of the new stickers)

Music with Mr Newland

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:23 AEST

- We welcome back a familiar face -

As part of the music program run by Mrs Craddock this term, Years 3-6 students have been learning to play the ukulele. It was a special honour to have Mr Newland visit Stage 2 & 3 classes during music lessons. He even shared some important tips for playing the ukulele, helped the students practice their chords and even played "Don't Worry be Happy".

Many students have picked up the skills very quickly and Mr Newland was impressed with the high level of talent despite only a few lessons.

Congratulations to Calen

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Congratulations to Calen Bilsborough from 5/6 Aqua who recently entered and WON the series "Paint My Coffs".

Calen was asked to paint some prints about what he liked about the Coffs Harbour region, and also provided his input as to a better vision for Coffs Harbour. Artwork created by the children were judged by a panel of artists and Calen won a family pass to Dolphin Marine Magic. Well done to Calen who has made Toormina Public School very proud. You can see his amazing art work on display at Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery until 30th November.

Count Us In

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

- Simultaneous Singalong across Australia -

Toormina Public School was one of 2000 schools across Australia to take part in the countries biggest school initiative - Count Us In.

At the same time, over 500,000 students sang the song "Let it Play", which was written by a group of high school students, under the guidance of ambassador John Foremen. Our school was very fortunate to have N.B.N. News visit during our final practice. NBN News Story 2nd November

P&C Christmas Raffle

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

- Tickets NOW ON SALE -

All children have taken home their books of raffle tickets for this years Mega Christmas Raffle.

This year is the biggest prize pool we have ever had, including 1st prize of 3 x nights accommodation (in a family room) ocean side at "SEABREEZE" hotel, South West Rocks. This includes a $50 voucher to spend in the bistro. Total value is $500.

2nd Prize: Adults night out at TOORMINA HOTEL for up to 4 couples, including food and drinks ($400)

3rd prize: Gorgeous original artwork by local artist Jenny Malloy (valued at $495).

Also on offer meal vouchers, beauty vouchers, family passes to Big Banana and Dolphin Marine Magic, helicopter ride from Precision Helicopters + HEAPS more!

There is also a separate raffle for students who sell their raffle books - with some amazing prizes on offer from A-Mart All Sports, including the 1st prize of a bike & helmet (PICTURED)

Tickets are $1.00 each and the raffle will be drawn on Thursday 8th December. - GOOD LUCK!

P&C Christmas Raffle Prize List

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

- OVER $5,000 worth of prizes to be won -

Tickets are selling very fast for our biggest P&C Christmas raffle yet! Tickets are $1 each and additional books are available from the front office.

Raffle will be drawn on Thursday 8th December. See the wonderful list of prizes on offer Christmas Raffle Prizes (pdf 1179 KB) and GOOD LUCK!

Grandparents Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:16 AEST

Our students are looking forward to warmly welcoming all of our Grandparents for 'Grandparents Day' on Friday 28th October. There will be lots of fun activities at school scheduled from 10.30am - 12.30pm grandparents day (pdf 56 KB) and we look forward to welcoming our students families and communities and celebrating with you.

Thank-you to our P&C Committee who have donated fresh scones to enjoy on the day.

Kindergarten Transition Days

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:21 AEST

- We welcome our new 2017 students -

Our Kindergarten transition days have begun, as we welcomed our new students who will be joining Toormina Public School in 2017.

The children enjoyed learning about their new 'big' school routine and being shown around the classrooms and playground areas.

Staff and current students look forward to giving our new Kindys a big warm welcome when they begin next year.

Big Bike Ride

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:05 AEST

- TIME TO PUMP UP YOUR TYRES -

Our annual BIG BIKE RIDE for Yrs 5 and 6 students is coming up on Thursday 27th October. Children will be riding from school down to the jetty for a BBQ sausage sizzle lunch (thanks to our P&C Committee). Come and be apart of this fun day.

New Playground Art

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:27 AEST

- P&C get busy painting -

A HUGE thank you to our dedicated parents and their children who donated their time during school holidays to come and paint some fantastic new art work around the playground.

A special mention goes one of our new P&C mums (Meg English) who is a talented Illustrator/Designer and came up with the design. We are very grateful.

Keep watching this space, as the beautification of our school will be a constant work in progress!

Flip Out P&C Fundraiser

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:15 AEST

BOUNCING GOOD TIME.....

Don't forget on Friday 21st October our P&C Committee are holding a fun fundraiser at FLIP OUT Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway, South Coffs). Please find attached more details - for catering purposes, please return permission slips to school office BY Wednesday 19th October. We look forward to seeing everyone there for some bouncy fun!

Flip Out permission note (pdf 306 KB)

Stage 1 Public Speaking Competition

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:36 AEST

A big congratulations goes to our Stage 1 students who delighted the school with their speeches this week and a special mention goes to the following children who will be representing TPS at the Bongil Bongil Community of Schools Public Speaking Competition on Tuesday 25th October - We wish them the best of luck!

Early stage 1: Kymani Matete & Nathan Charles

Stage 1: Jordan Gee & Emily Crawford

Congratulations Public Speakers

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Well done to all of our Stage 2 and 3 students who recently presented their public speaking speeches to the school. The quality was over very high standard and a big congratulations to the following students who will be representing Toormina Public School at the Bongil Bongil Public Speaking Competition on Tuesday 25th October. We wish them good luck!

Stage 2

1st: Lachlan Thompson (Topic: Tsunamis)

2nd: Taylah McLeod (Topic: Why pets are important)

Stage 3

1st: Mason Curtis (Topic: Refugees)

2nd: Rebecca Tidey (Topic:Overuse of Technology)

Supporting Stage 2 Sleep Over

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

- Local bakery donates bread -

A big THANK YOU to Jamie from our local 'Bakers Delight' store at Toormina Gardens, who has kindly donated loaves of bread for our Stage 2 Sleep Over breakfast on the last day of term 3. We are very grateful for their generosity, so be sure to shop locally and pick up your tasty baked treats from Bakers Delight.

Canteen Goes Green

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:07 AEST

Last week of term is also 'Green Week' and to celebrate April in our school canteen will be serving up special meal deals on the last day of term (Friday 23rd September). See attached order form below.

Green Week Order Form (pdf 116 KB)

Please note: ALL orders are to be returned to the office by Thursday 22nd September please!

Having Fun in our Nations Capital

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Students from Years 5 and 6 have been enjoying a great week in Canberra on their annual school excursion. In between trying to keep warm, our children have visited many of the local tourist attractions and we look forward to showing more photos from their fun trip when they return.

Tournament of Mind Honours

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:41 AEST

Congratulations to our TOM Team

Our Tournament of Mind team travelled to Port Macquarie recently to present their 10 minute drama performance at the Regional Final. These 7 students have spent the last 6 weeks working on their performance, in response to a challenge set by the competition.

With their families gathered and the four judges watching on, the team made us laugh with their portrayal of a 'low coffee' (rather than a high tea) with some outlandish characters. Furthermore, we were incredibly excited to discover that out of the 12 teams from Coffs to Port Macquarie, Toormina Public School came 2nd and was awarded Tournament Honours! CONGRATULATIONS to all.

Mr Pike & Mrs Craddock would like to congratulate the team on all of their hard work. We'd also like to thank Mr Smith for travelling to Port Macquarie on the day to represent our school as a judge. Appreciation also goes to our parents for their commitment and support during the 6 week competition.

The Big Crunch Challenge

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:39 AEST

State wide challenge a success!

Congratulations to our students and staff who competed in the state wide 'Big Crunch Challenge'. A huge thank you to our parents who ensured their children had some crunchy vegies in their lunchbox.

An additional thank you goes to Woolworths (Toormina Gardens) and Golden Dawn (Coffs Harbour) who donated additional vegetables on the day.

The Bureau of Statistics estimates that just over 5% of children eat the recommended number of vegetable serves per day, as set by the Australian Dietary Guidelines. So lets continue to work together to make eating vegies COOL!

We were also very proud to have the Advocate come to school on the day as well, giving us great promotion in the local paper. Crunchy Vegies (pdf 552 KB) A big thanks goes to Mrs Trist for organising this great school event.

New Promotional Video Goes Viral

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:27 AEST

Our School like you've never seen it before.

This week we launched our fantastic new promotional video, showcasing our school and all the wonderful things it offers. A huge thank you to the boys at "Mile High Aerial Photography" for their awesome camera work and also our very own Community Liaison Officer Vashti Broadbent for writing and doing the voice over. You can also view it on our P&C Facebook page. Be sure to like & share!

Father Day Stall

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:14 AEST

Lots of great Fathers Day Gifts

Our annual P&C Fathers Day stall is happening on Thursday 1st September in the school hall. Lots of $5 presents on offer for all types of dads, so be sure to send money to school with your children on this day please. Wishing all of our school dads a Happy Fathers Day!

Pat the Dog Visits

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:31 AEST

Surprise for our Student Bankers

Commonwealth Bank mascot Pat the Dog delighted our students recently with a surprise visit to school.

There were high fives all round as Pat congratulated our children on their fantastic saving efforts and reminded them that school banking day is every Tuesday, so don't forget to bring in your bank books.

Pat the Dog Visit

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:31 AEST

Surprise for our Student Bankers

Commonwealth Bank mascot 'Pat the Dog' delighted our students recently with a surprise visit to school.

There were high 5's all round as Pat congratulated our children on their saving efforts and reminded them that school banking day is every Tuesday.

Biggest Simultaneous VEGIE CRUNCH

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:05 AEST

Students get set to break record

Toormina Public School will be joining in with schools across NSW to attempt to break the record for the biggest simultaneous "VEGIE CRUNCH", being held at 11am on Thursday 1st September. We ask all parents to please pack fresh vegetables in their childrens lunchbox to bring to school on this day. Thank you! Big Crunch Challenge (docx 196 KB)

News from our OC Class

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:27 AEST

Funky New Learning Space

A lot has been happening in Mr Pikes 5/6 Violet - Latest OC News (pdf 826 KB)

Coffs Cup Early Pick Up

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Reminder to ALL parents!

Please be reminded that the Coffs Cup Day, Thursday 4th August, is a gazetted half day public holiday for Coffs Harbour. This means Toormina Public School will be closed from 12 noon on this day

Children are encouraged to attend school day, however a bell will ring at 11:30am signalling the departure time for students.

PLEASE NOTE: There will be NO BUSES operating at the close of school. If you require further information, please contact the school office.

District Athletics Carnival

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:11 AEST

Congratulations to our students!

Mrs Hardy, Mr Matete and Mrs Greenway had the pleasure recently of taking 52 of our students to the District Athletics Carnival. Once again their behaviour, sportsmanship and attitude were exemplary. All of the teachers were very proud of all the students.

There were a number of students who placed in the top 4 in their events and those students now progress through to the Mid North Coast Athletics Carnival on Friday 12th August at the CEX stadium.

The results were as follows:

Gabe Boota - 3rd Senior 800m, 2nd Senior Long Jump

Mackenzie Cassidy-Stevens - 3rd 8yrs 100m

Alex Cook - 2nd Senior Shot Put, 1st Senior Discus

Jacob Crawley - 2nd Junior 200m, 4th 9yrs 100m

Ella De-Bakker - 3rd Junior Girls High Jump

Bailey Gee - 4th Junior Boys Discus

Charlie Gee - 3rd 11yrs High Jump, 3rd 11yrs Discus

Melanie Gregg - 3rd Senior Girls Discus, 3rd Senior Girls Shot Put, 4th 12 Yrs 100m

Sarah Johnston - 4th Senior Girls Shot Put

Jarred Lynwood - 1st 11yrs Discus, 2nd 11yrs Shot Put

Jylee Milne - 2nd 11yrs 800m

Ieisha Patterson - 2nd 11yrs 200m, 1at 11yrs High Jump, 2nd 11yrs 100m

Nigel Patterson - 4th Junior Boys High Jump, 3rd 10yrs 100m, 1st Junior Boys Shot Put

Lexie Pennington - 4th 8ys 100m

Rebecca Tidey - 2nd Senior 200m

In the relays - our Junior Girls, Senior Girls and Boys ALL placed 3rd in their events.

Jack Rann - 2nd 11yrs Discus, 1st 11yrs 200m, 1st 11yrs Long Jump, 2nd 11yrs 100m, 1st 11yrs Shot Put. In addition Jack was named the 11 Years BOYS CHAMPION! Congratulatons to Jack!

Nut FREE zone

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:28 AEST

An important reminder to all parents!

Toormina Public School is a nut aware environment. So what does this mean for our school? We have a number of students who attend TPS who suffer from a severe anaphylactic reaction to peanuts/tree nuts.These reactions can be serious and life threatening. We ask parents to please not send peanut butter or nutella on your child's sandwiches or pack any form of nut products in their lunchboxes.

This will ensure a safe environment for all of our children. Thank you for your co-operation.

2017 Kindergarten Parent Expo

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:55 AEST

Tuesday 2nd August 2016.

Toormina Public School is now taking enrollments for Kindergarten 2017.

Prospective new parents are invited to attend our 'Kindergarten Parent Expo' on Tuesday 2nd August from 9.00am - 10.30am in the school hall.

Welcome Mr Hepi

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:43 AEST

Staff and Students offer a warm welcome!

We have welcomed our new Principal Mr Hepi, who joins us for the rest of the year filling in for Mr Miles.

Mr Hepi joins us from Bonville Public School and brings with him a wealth of knowledge with over two decades of teaching experience on the Coffs Coast.

Staff and students are both very excited to have Mr Hepi join our Toormina school family - so be sure to say hello and make him feel welcome when you see him around the playground.

School Interviews

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

Our school interviews are commencing now and can be scheduled online. To select a convenient interview time go to the following website link:

School Interviews

Once there you will need to enter this code: 3uebx

When you are in, you will have to enter an email address and your child's details. This is so that you receive a confirmation email.

You then click on your child's teacher's name and choose an available time that is appropriate for you.

If you do not have access to the internet, we will have a kiosk at the school office for students and parents to pop in an make bookings.

If you have any questions please feel free to call our office staff.

Musicale Ready to Wow Audiences

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:23 AEST

Students fine tuning their parts

Teachers and students have been excitedly preparing for the show with lots of dress rehearsals taking place at Toormina High School. A huge thank you to Rebecca Saunders, Kirsty Schweikert and Bec Lawrence for all the hard work and support they have given the students over the past two terms.

Also thank you to the wonderful parents who volunteered to help with costumes, sets and make-up. This is a great opportunity for our

Cross Country Championships

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:28 AEST

GOOD LUCK Gabe

In the past few weeks a number of our students have competed at Toormina District Cross Country and Mid North Coast Cross Country, both held at Sawtell Reserve. Approximately 65 students competed at District, all displaying outstanding sportsmanship and exemplary behaviour.

From this group 11 students were placed in the Top 10 in their respective age groups and progressed to the Mid North Coast.

Competition was very tough and all of our students deserve credit for their determination.

Gabe Boota placed 6th in the 12/13 Years age group and gained selection into the Mid North Coast team to compete at Murwillumbah on Friday 17th June at the North Coast Championships. Congratulations to Gabe and we wish him the best of luck on the day!

OTITIS MEDIA Awareness Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:29 AEST

Thursday 23rd June

Hearing loss is nothing to sniffle about! FREE ear health checks for children are going to be taking place at Park Beach Plaza on Thursday 23rd June from 10am - 5pm. No appointments required.

PSSA Softball News

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:32 AEST

Top effort by all

Thirteen of our Year 6 boys attended the PSSA softball game against Naranga Public School. The students tried their best but did not progress through to the next round. We were very proud of their efforts and for showing true Toormina spirit of never giving up. They were excellent representatives of our school and community.

AFL Team News

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:00 AEST

Best effort put in by all

Our Toormina AFL team went to Richardson Park recently to compete in a PSSA Gala Day against Sawtell Public School and Coffs Harbour Public School. Due to a clash in dates with a softball PSSA match, we fielded a reasonably unexperienced side with a mixture of boys and girls from Stage 2 and 3.

Unfortunately we came home without a win, however the school was extremely proud of the manner in which the team conducted themselves in difficult conditions. The attitude of each and every player was outstanding as each of them tried to challenge themselves and put in their best effort.

Rotary Club Book Donation

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

A BIG THANK YOU

A huge thank you to Sawtell Rotary Club who have generously donated $328.15 worth of new readers to our school. These readers were chosen to compliment our successful home reading program.

President of the Club, Steve Kelly was available to present the readers to Mr Miles last week.

2017 Kindergarten Expo

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:55 AEST

Tuesday 2nd August 9.30am - 10.30am

The Toormina Public School Community would like to invite all parents of students starting Kindergarten in 2017 to come along to this great day!

kindy expo (pdf 135 KB)

School Banking News

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

$216.78 raised in Term 1

Thanks to the fantastic efforts of our students (and their parents) we have raised $216.78 for our school through school banking commissions in Term 1 2016

Our school receives $5 when a student makes their first ever School Banking deposit and 5% on every deposit made through the school (to a maximum of $10 per individual deposit).

These funds will go towards what our school needs.

Saving regularly is an important habit to get into, whether you're saving a little or a lot. Keep up the great work and remember to bring in your School Banking deposit every Tuesday. Thank you for supporting our school banking program!

NAIDOC Week Celebrations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:25 AEST

Design your own T-Shirt

NAIDOC week activities will be starting at school during the last week of Term 2 and will continue during Week 1 of Term 3.

We have lots of fun things planned for our students to do, including designing their own unique T-Shirt (see details)

Should any parents be available to help out during NAIDOC week celebrations, please contact Mrs Schweikert on 6653 2122.

PBL - Positive Behaviour for Learning

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:32 AEST

Students learn how to resolve a conflict

Our Positive Behaviour for Learning program is proving to be very successful this year at school.

Our students have been learning how to Tell the Person to Stop the Behaviour if someone is annoying them or doing something that they don't like. It is important to be able to be assertive and not aggressive when you have a small problem with a friend.

Children learn how to resolve a conflict or small problem by "I feel" statements when they are feeling upset. This way the other person can see exactly how they are feeling about what they have said or done.

Always remember: Be Safe

Be Responsible

Be Respectful

Be a Learner

Simultaneous Storytime

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:35 AEST

Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator is read at the same time ALL across Australia. Many Toormi classes participated in this annual campaign by listening to this years book: I got this hat by Jol Temple, Kate Temple and illustrated by Jon Foye.

Our kindergarten students shared in the fun by wearing their favourite hats and enjoying a "Mad Hatters Fruit Party", with the children all creating their own hats in art and craft.

Here is what some of the kids had to say about the story:

The book was funny. I liked the pilot the best! (Brock KB)

I liked the pilot hat because it had glasses! (Lily KB)

I liked the special drink bottles (Holly B. KR)

I ate lots of watermelon and grapes (Reshid-Ali KR)

Walk to School Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:42 AEST

Toormina Public School walks the walk

A big thank you to our Principal, teachers and our school families for coming out in droves to support our "National Walk to School Day". We began at Toormina Gardens Shopping Centre and enjoyed a lovely walk to school, picking up many families along with way. It was a huge success this year and we hope to build on our numbers next year.

2016 NAPLAN Tests

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:54 AEST

Our students in Years 3 & 5 have now completed their NAPLAN assessments. Over three days they sat four tests, including Language Conventions, Writing, Reading & Numeracy. These tests are marked centrally and results will normally be returned to school in Term 3. All of our children were treated to a free warm milo & anzac cookies before everyday before they sat their exams.

2016 National Walk to School Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:55 AEST

Friday 20th May is 'National Walk to School Day'. We are asking parents to come and join us and support this event. Our school will be starting a 'walking train' with the starting point being the grassed area opposite Toormina Gardens Shopping Centre (corner of Toormina Road & Bangalee Crescent), continuing along Alleena Drive and Cavanba Road, all the way to school.

If we walk past your place, please come and join in the fun or alternatively meet us with your children at the starting point at 8.30am and be a part of this important and healthy event.

Please note: All children MUST be accompanied by an adult. All parents & care givers are welcome.

"Remember, Active Kids are Healthy Kids"

New Designed Learning Spaces

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:11 AEST

At Toormina Public School we are committed to future-focused teaching and learning. In order to prepare our children for success in the 21st Century we must provide students with learning spaces that support their individual styles and engage them in their learning.

In Term 1, we engaged Occupational Therapist Marg Hopper to conduct an environmental assessment of our classrooms. Marg wrote an extensive report on how teachers can support students sensory needs by making adjustments to our classrooms.

One of her recommendations was to change the old desks in the classrooms to adjustable ones and we are currently trialing a few new desk designs as well as wobble stools and rocker chairs that allow students to move while they learn. Research has shown movement increases circulation of blood to the brain, maintaining optimal calm emotions and alert attention throughout the day.

2016 Musicale

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:54 AEST

With preparations for this exciting event in full swing you may wish to secure your tickets soon so you don't miss out. Our children will be performing as part of Cast One, with children from Boambee PS, Bonville PS and Toormina HS. They will be involved in a full dress rehearsal on Tuesday 14th and Wednesday 15th June. They will then deliver a matinee and evening performance on Monday 20th June and Thursday 23rd June. These performances will start at 11.30am and 6.30pm. Tickets are now on sale from Toormina High School. Ticket prices: Students ($8), Adults ($12), Concession ($10), Family ($35 for 2 adult & 2 children). If you require extra student tickets with the family ticket, cost is $6 a ticket.

Schoolastic Book Fair

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:06 AEST

Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th May (8.30am - 2.15pm) and Thursday 5th May from 8.30am - 9.00am & 11.20am - 12.00pm.

We invite you to visit our Schoolastic Book Fair in the library during these times. A cake stall will also be operating in the library on Tuesday 3rd May. Donations of cakes to be sold would be greatly appreciated. These can be left at the office or in the library on the day. Funds from all purchases go towards new books for our library. Please make plans to visit our Book Fair. Hope to see you there!

Mothers Day Stall

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

Our annual P&C Mothers Day stall is being held on Thursday 5th May at 9.30am in the school hall. This year we have many new and gorgeous gifts, priced at $5, perfect for all mums and grandmothers. Please don't forget to send money to school with your children on this day.

Anzac Day March

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:02 AEST

Our school had a wonderful representation at the recent Anzac Day march in Sawtell. A total of 52 children attended the march from K-6. Each and every student presented themselves in full school uniform and wore them with pride. The four school captains - Mackenzie Davies, Jack Rann, Rebecca Tidey and Lachlan Pennington lead the group proudly supporting our school banner. Afterwards the captains laid our floral tribute in respect of our fallen diggers. A big thank-you to all of our parents for bringing their children along, as well as Mrs Greenway, Mrs Trindall, Mrs Schweikert, Mrs Crawford and Mrs Lawrence for assisting on the day.

Creative Arts Program

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:11 AEST

Drama, Dance & Music! This year, students from Kindergarten to Year 6 will be participating in a creative arts program once a week. This will involve approximately 13 weeks of Drama, 13 weeks of Dance and 13 weeks of music.

K-2 Drama

This term we began with Drama. K-2 student learning has centred on mime. Lessons have included dramatic movement inspired by books and songs. One of our lessons began with a reading of the timeless classic "We're going on a bear hunt". Afterwards students listened and sang the echo to the song adapted by Play-school. Naturally, we had to go on our own bear hunt afterwards. After the removal of over a hundred pairs of shoes and socks (not an easy feat) students splashed their way through cold, deep river, stumbled through the tall, dark forest , wandered through the bubbly snowstorm and tiptoed into the small, dark cave. Luckily he was a friendly bear!

3- 6 Drama

The older students have looked at the use of movement, mime, speech and props and how they help portray a character and tell a story. We will soon look at costumes and improvisation. Building confidence in performing, working well in groups and extending our creativity are three additional intended outcomes of our drama lessons.

One of our lessons began with reading extracts from the excellent book, "The day the Crayons Quit". Students then had to choose to become an inanimate object (ranging from rubbish bins and Playstations to Donald Trumps wig!) Then with a partner, students had to complain about life as a (what ever they were). The imagination, creativity and improvisation skills of our students impressed me greatly. This might even be an activity for the dinner table. What would a sauce bottle or a fork have to complain about?

I am thoroughly enjoy working with all of our K-6 students in my new role this year. I hope they are too.

Danielle Craddock.

Gizmos & Gadgets

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:15 AEST

Our students enjoyed a recent show at school called Gizmos & Gadgets. We had a very good response to this show and children were entertained by a range of robots, learnt all about voice control, gadgets, circuits and how to build a robot using re-cycled materials. The ventriloquist mask was a favourite, enabling the wearer to speak in strange voices.

WIN Tickets To The Circus

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:44 AEST

The Great Moscow Circus is in town this weekend and they have kindly given us 3 x family passes (for 2 adults and 2 children) to give-away (one for each stage). If you would like to be in the draw to win one of these fabulous prizes (valued at $135 each), please sign the note that your child brings home and return to school as soon as possible. Winners will be drawn at morning assembly this Friday the 18th March.

For more details on circus times visit thegreatmoscowcircus.com.au or phone 1300 MOSCOW

The Coffs Coast Schools Challenge

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:40 AEST

The Big Banana Fun Park presents The Coffs Coast Schools Challenge with $10,000 in prizes up for grabs. Simply vote for our school on the Big Banana Facebook page and we could win a big fun day out for up to 300 students, while anyone who votes will go in the draw for a one-year-all-access 'Golden Ticket' to the park. Winners will be drawn on the 1st September, so get voting!

Toormi Mates Mentors

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:40 AEST

Congratulations to our 2016 Toormi Mates Mentors. These students have successfully completed their training and are now out on the playground helping other students solve small problems.

Swimming Photos for Purchase

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:39 AEST

For those families who were at (or were unable to attend) our recent swimming carnival, photos are available for purchase thanks to our P&C Committee. Photos are $1 each (order forms are in the newsletter) and all photos taken can be viewed on the hall window (Cola side). Orders will be filled after 11th March.

Canteen Volunteers Wanted

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:07 AEST

Our school canteen is open four days a week (closed Tuesdays) and is currently needing new volunteers this year. Working in the canteen is fun, a great way to meet the students and involve yourself in the school. So whether you have one day a week free (or even half a day) and would like to be a volunteer, please contact our Canteen Supervisor April Ingram on 6653 2122.

Kindergarten Buddies

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:19 AEST

Kindergarten have now met their Year 6 buddies. We have assigned a buddy to each child and the buddies look forward to showing their new little friend around the playground, teaching and playing new games with their buddy, eating lunch together and just being there if needed. Now each day the buddies can meet up and spend some time together in the morning, lunch or at recess.

New Faces Welcomed

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:26 AEST

This year we warmly welcome four new faces to our teaching staff. They are: Mrs Hardy - who comes to us with extensive primary school experience and has taught at various public schools across the Coffs Coast. Mrs Hardy joins us for term 1 teaching 3/4 Indigo.

Mrs Lawrence - Joining us from Bellingen Public School (where she taught all grades) is Mrs Lawrence, who has recently returned from Maternity Leave. She will be teaching 4 Jade until Term 3, then working alongside Mrs Glyde when she returns back to school.

Mr Ussher - Currently studying at Southern Cross University, Mrs Ussher joins us for the next few weeks prac teaching in Mrs Schweikerts class (2 Orange). Growing up locally he is looking forward to doing some travelling after uni with the hope of settling back on the Coffs Coast as a full-time teacher.

Ms Waring - Having recently relocated from Cairns where she was a teacher of the deaf, Ms Waring joins Mrs Ward as our new Hearing Support Teacher. She will also be providing support to many schools in the area who have children enrolled with signficant hearing loss.

IGA Community Benefit Scheme

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Russell Andruschak (Store Manager) from Ritchie's IGA presented Mr Miles a cheque recently for the amount of $860.32. Thank you to IGA and to our school community for shopping with them.

Intensive Swimming Program

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:39 AEST

Students enjoyed their 10 day Intensive Swimming Program at Coffs Harbour Pool recently. This very important scheme has been very successful, with all children taking the most of this opportunity to improve their swimming skills and ensure they will be prepared for such a water-filled environment as ours this summer. A big thank-you to Mrs Trist for the incredible amount of effort that has gone into organising this years event.

P&C Mega Christmas Raffle

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

This year our P&C Mega Christmas raffle is bigger and better than ever with $2000 worth of prizes to be won. A huge thank-you goes out to all the businesses who have kindly donated their goods and services. Students Braydon & Aleishya are pictured with one of the prizes, a beautiful original painting (valued at $450) which has been donated by their grandma and local artist Jenny Malloy. The raffle will be drawn at morning assembly on Tuesday 15th December and all winners will be contacted by phone if not present at the time of the draw. Good luck!

Reading Recovery Group

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

This year Mrs Trindall has been working with our children who have been struggling with their reading and writing. The Reading Recovery group is a fast paced program with lessons daily to help students get up to speed. An excellent effort has been put in this year by the children and their parents which has made a noticeable difference.

K-6 Lime Dentist Visit

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Students of K-6 Lime learnt lots of interesting things when Dentist Kate came to class to talk to them about teeth. Each child was given a soft toothbrush and learnt how to brush their teeth round and round in a circle twice a day, how to floss, that milk is good for our teeth and if something is sugary don't eat it!

Opportunity Class Orientation Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:29 AEST

New students of the 2016 O/C class were warmly welcomed with their families to Orientation Day. Teacher Mr Pike gave an overview of the wide variety of additional teaching and learning experiences that children will undertake next year, which can include Tournament of Mind, debating, film making,

public speaking, science workshops, as well as the opportunity for acceleration in English and mathematics and access to a wide range of technologies.

K-Red Getting Calm in Class

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:18 AEST

The students of K-Red are benefiting from the introduction of many new learning strategies this year.

The use of weighted animal toys placed on children's laps helps increase the students' attention as well as acting as a calming tool. Fidget toys have also been found to improve concentration.

A daily visual schedule outlines the daily school routine. Sloped writing boards, pencil grips and regular movement breaks incorporated into the day help to settle wriggly students. Yoga breaks have also been introduced, teaching students how to maintain calm and relaxed feelings in themselves.

The latest in dynamic rocking chairs have been purchased for the classroom. These chairs are great for students who are unable to sit still, making it easier for them to relax and focus on learning activities. Our school P&C Committee have recently donated money for the purchase of sensory ear muffs that will further assist students who find the noisy school environment overwhelming.

This year Kinder Red has greatly benefited from regular visits by Occupational Therapist Marg Hopper, who is implementing different programs and is teaching students all about self regulation.

The school community is already seeing the positive effects that these new strategies are having on our students, both in the classroom and around the playground.

Goodstart Choir Performance

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:16 AEST

Goodstart Pre-School at Toormina recently celebrated their Grandparents Day. Our school choir was invited to come along and perform for the pre-school children and their families. Mr Matete led the choir in performing two new songs, Marvin Gaye and Titanium. It was a relaxed and friendly setting and the audience was very appreciative of our school's delightful performance.

Coming Up - Kindergarten 2016 Expo

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Our School community invites you to our information morning for parents of children starting Kindergarten next year.

School Spelling Bee

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:35 AEST

Stage Two and Three students have recently participated in our 2015 School Spelling Bee competition. It was terrific to see so many students enter.

The winners of Stage Two, Jordan Heward and Nicole Pesimo and Stage Three, Zali Van Stijn and Christopher Edwards will now go on to represent our school at the Mid North Coast Spelling Bee which will be held at Sawtell PS on September 8th.

Congratulations to these students and good luck in the next competition!

Coffs Harbour Half Day Holiday

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Due to the Coffs Harbour Cup there is a half day holiday gazetted for Thursday 6th August.

Our school will be conducting regular classes in the morning until 12.00 noon.

The school will be closed from noon for the remainder of the day.

Bus companies will not be running their regular afternoon services.

Parents will be able to collect their children from 11.30am onwards.

Congratulations to Cooper

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Our school community was excited to learn this week that Cooper Bake-Smith has been selected in the PSSA North Coast Softball team. As a member of the team, Cooper will play in the State PSSA Championships in Curl Curl in the last week of term. Cooper likes to play close to the action, in the crucial positions of catcher or shortstop. This is a wonderful achievement for Cooper and we wish him all the best in Sydney.

Education Week Open Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:12 AEST

Education Week 2015

Open Day

Our Open Day will be held on Wednesday 29th July. We will begin with an assembly at 10.15am in the basketball covered area. We will have a variety of performances from our children in dance, choir and drumming.

Following the assembly, parents and caregivers are invited to visit the classroom to see what has been happening in 2015. Parents and caregivers are welcome to stay on at school and share lunch with their children.

Cross Country Ribbon Award Assembly

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:10 AEST

We will be having an assembly on Monday 11th May at 2.30. Students will receive their ribbon awards from our school cross country event held this week. Parents and family members are invited to attend this special assembly.

Cross Country Postponed

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:10 AEST

Our May 1st school cross country has been postponed due to the weather.

Opportunity Class Applications Open

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:29 AEST

Parents of students seeking a position in next year's Toormina Public School Opportunity Class are now able to submit applications.

Applications are open until 15 May with no late applications being accepted.

You can access the online application process at www.schools.nsw.edu.au/ocplacement.

As part of the process of applying for the Opportunity Class, all students will be required to undertake a Placement Test on Wednesday 22 July 2015.

Please contact our office if you have any questions.

3/4 Indigo's ANZAC Biscuit Making

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:55 AEST

Students in 3/4 Indigo have been learning about the living conditions under which soldiers served at Gallipoli, including their food rations. The students reinforced this learning by making their own ANZAC biscuits. Everyone took turns measuring and mixing ingredients, rolling and baking before getting the opportunity to taste their own version of the biscuit eaten by the ANZACS 100 years ago.

All students agreed that they were very glad that they didn't have to eat them under the same conditions as the Australian soldiers did. Lest we forget.

ANZAC Day Commemmorations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:01 AEST

Toormina Public School students commemmorated the 100th anniversary of ANZAC Day this year with a moving ceremony. In classes where students learned about the importance of remembering the sacrifice of those who currently serve and those who have served our country in the past, each student made a red poppy to present at our school cenotaph. Brenton Knight, from the Coffs Harbour Senior College played the Last Post.

On ANZAC Day over 50 of our students participated in the Sawtell RSL ANZAC Day march.

Swimming Champions

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Swimmers at our school have had a very busy two weeks with three carnivals being held in that short time.

We had 56 children compete at Toormina District Carnival with seven individuals and two relay teams qualifying for Mid North Coast.

Luke Jones, Ruby Ensbey, Gabrielle Nash, Sahra Stevens, Macie Gow, Calen Bilsborough and Inick Bullock-Harding all qualified for Mid North Coast. Our Junior and Senior Girls relay teams also qualified.

At Mid North Coast, Luke Jones placed 4th in the 8 years freestyle and Gabrielle Nash placed 4th in the Senior Girls breaststroke qualifying them both for the North Coast Regional carnival in Lismore.

At the Regional Lismore carnival Luke placed 8th in his event and Gabrielle placed 9th in hers.

This is a great achievement and we congratulate both swimmers. All children displayed great sportsmanship and exemplary behaviour at all levels of competition.

Mrs Pam Greenway

Sports Coordinator

Student Representative Council

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Toormina Public School students have elected their Student Representative Council for this year.

These 18 students, along with the school's Captains, Vice Captains and Aboriginal Representatives, will represent their classes at regular meetings, chaired by the Assistant Principal, Mrs Judy Burns. The Council will work together to make positive suggestions from the student body become reality, build on fundraising ideas and take steps to address any issues of concern to Toormina students.

TPS Swimming Carnival

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:42 AEST

Our recent swimming carnival was a great success due to the fantastic sportsmanship of students and the enthusiastic support of their families. The clouds cleared ensuring that the school community enjoyed a hot and humid day with some terrific swimming seen and a high level of participation from all who attended the event.

Mrs Pam Greenway, Sports Coordinator, was impressed with the determination and competitive spirit shown by students on the day and has announced this year's champions. Congratulations to the following students.

Junior Champions - Lyla Paul and Jack Rann

11 Years Champions - Ruby Ensbey and Callen Bilsborough

Senior Champions - Gabrielle Nash and Willis Meehan

Uniform Shop change

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:42 AEST

Our School Uniform Shop is no longer located in the school canteen and has been relocated next to the hall (on the COLA side). Thank you to the P & C ladies who have worked so hard to improve this service.

The shop is open Tuesday afternoons - 2.45pm to 3.10pm and Friday mornings - 8.45am to 9.10am.

Uniform order forms are available from our front office and can be left with the Mrs Hiddlestone and Mrs Podbury for processing.

Our School Leaders

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

The Toormina Public School community is proud to announce our school leaders for 2015.

The School Captains are Demi Martin and Liam Hand. Vice Captains are Gabrielle Nash and Cooper Bake-Smith. Our Aboriginal Representatives for this year are Triston Gittins and Inick Bullock-Harding.

We are looking forward to facilitating the development of these students' leadership skills and building on their strengths as they carry out their duties this year.

These students are pictured with Mrs Judy Burns, Relieving Principal.

School Banking

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

School Banking will recommence next Tuesday the 3rd of February. Remember to bring in your bank books everyone!

Dymocks Book Vouchers

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:12 AEST

Parents who have not yet used their child's presentation book vouchers from Dymocks are now unable to purchase books from the Park Beach Plaza Store as it has closed. Vouchers may be used to purchase books online but if this is a problem for your family please contact Mrs Burns (Relieving Principal) and Mrs Elizabeth Paff (Student Support Officer) who will be happy to assist.

Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:37 AEST

Many students have enjoyed their first cooking experience in Mrs Healey's Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program classes. Children supplemented vegetables and herbs that they had grown in our school garden with other ingredients to make delicious and healthy pizzas.

It was fantastic to see students tasting foods that they had never eaten before and realising that they taste great!

Many parents came along to be a part of the excitement and were able to enjoy the end product.

Opportunity Class Orientation

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:29 AEST

New students to the OC class and their parents are invited to an Orientation afternoon on Monday 1st December between 2pm and 3.10pm.

This is an opportunity for students to come together as a group and learn about the things that we do in the Opportunity Class. There will be time to meet and talk to some of this year's students and ask them any questions.

There will be a short talk, time allowed for answering any of your questions, with some work samples on display and a tour of the school available.

2015 Student Leaders

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:54 AEST

We welcome our new Captains, Vice Captains and Aboriginal Representatives for 2015.

Year 6 Farewell

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:45 AEST

We are all very excited about the upcoming Year 6 Farewell happening on Monday 15th December at the Sawtell RSL Club. The evening will start at 6pm and finish at 9pm. Parents and students are asked to meet at the Club's entrance, where students will be escorted into the Club by teachers.

Parents are very welcome to join the celebration at 8.30pm for the final dances, photographs and viewing of the Year 6 DVD.

Learn to Swim Program

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

Our students are currently enjoying the Learn to Swim Program.

This is an intensive program which develops water confidence and provides students with basic skills in water safety and survival. The program is conducted over ten days with each daily lesson being 45mins.

Students leave on the bus at 9am and return to school at 11.00am.

Parents, we would appreciate your help by ensuring that students are at school early enabling them to catch the bus at 9am.

Thank you.

2015 Kindergarten Orientation

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:54 AEST

Our next year's kindergarten students have been visiting our school and learning about life in 'big school'. The children have been enjoying the learning activities and making new friends while getting to know their teachers.

Parents please note that Steps Vision will be conducting free screening at school from 9.30am on the final visit, 14th November. If your child has not had their vision tested please see the teachers for a permission form. Hearing tests are also recommended, if you feel your child may have issues. Please see teachers if you need more information.

Some useful websites for your interest -

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Toormina-Public-School-PC-Association/572107552881812

which is coordinated by our school's P&C and will keep you updated on current events at school.

http://www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au/ which has fantastic information from the Department of Education about how to help with homework, literacy and numeracy, student wellbeing, technology, healthy foods and lots more.

Kids in the Gardens

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:18 AEST

Recently, 20 students from our Stage 3 went to the Botanic Gardens to learn about local Aboriginal history and culture. The day was instigated by Coffs Harbour City Council in partnership with local schools and included bush tucker walks, art gallery visit, appreciation of Tony Hart's artwork and a cultural performance by David Carriage. Our school's drumming group performance was the highlight of a great day.

Crazy Hair Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:10 AEST

The whole school community has joined in to raise funds to purchase special resources for our Learning Support Team with a mufti and crazy hair day. The Learning Support Team looks out for students who need a little extra assistance and these resources will directly benefit Toormina Public students.

Toormina Public School is Waterwise

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:41 AEST

The Waterwise Schools Program is an innovative educational program available to primary schools on the North Coast of NSW.

The program takes a whole school approach to looking at issues of water conservation and water in the local environment. The Waterwise program was presented to our school by specialist water educators working for Cascade Environmental Education Centre.

There are six steps we had to follow to become a Waterwise School.

Firstly a Waterwise educator came to the school to run lessons for students from Kindergarten to Year 6, then classroom teachers did follow up work in class to ensure that the school is following and promoting Waterwise practices. At Toormina we have committed to keep the program ongoing by promoting Waterwise principles within our school community. Then we held a whole school accreditation assembly to share our learning and promote Waterwise practices. This assembly was attended by the Mayor of Coffs Harbour, Councillor Denise Knight and a representative of the Environmental Education Centre, Ryan Minchinon. Students made a short movie to highlight their understanding about water. Finally, we agreed to celebrate National Water Week every year.

Students have enjoyed being a part of this hands on learning and are now more aware about where water comes from and how important it is to save this precious resource.

Mrs Harmonie Ricketts

Ritchies Community Benefits Drum Purchase

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

Our school has once again benefited greatly from Ritchies Community Benefit Card Program with a donation of over $800.

Shoppers at Ritchies, who have nominated Toormina Public School, have enabled us, with this donation,

to purchase 5 new drums. Our drumming group, led by Mrs Schweikert, is made up of 21 enthusiastic students who have the opportunity to perform for the school community and also at out of school events.

Since 2006, Toormina Public School has received over $30,000 through this generous campaign.

Thank you to Ritchies Supermarket and to the many shoppers who have nominated our school to benefit from their shopping at this local store.

Nathaniel and Cooper Looking Forward to Competitions

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:25 AEST

Nathaniel and Cooper are two of our 5/6C students who are looking forward to future competitions.

Nathaniel

I recently won the Regional Spelling Bee at Sawtell Public School and later this month, I will be going to Sydney to compete in the State Spelling Bee. My winning word was symmetry. Each competitor is given a list with hundeds of difficult words that you are allowed to learn but during the competition they can also give you some words that you have never heard of or are not on the list. When it is my turn and I am on the stage, it can be extremely nerve wracking. I'm looking forward to going to Sydney and hopefully, I'll win.

Cooper

In September, I went down to Sydney to try out for the Under 14's Dingo World Series. The Dingo World Series is a baseball competition and teams from around the world are coming to the Gold Coast in January to play for a week. I will be in the Northern NSW team. I started playing baseball three years ago and I like it because I have met good friends. Baseball is an exciting game.

Garden Mural

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:15 AEST

At the end of Term 3, children from Kindergarten to Year 6 had fun working as a team alongside Mrs Trist to create and paint a mural that enhances and promotes our "Toormi Garden". The mural is a bright backdrop to our quickly expanding garden.

See our photo album for more pictures.

2014 School Spring Fair

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:54 AEST

Our whole school community is looking forward to our 2014 School Spring Fair.

The school grounds will come alive on Thursday 18th September between 3.30pm and 5.30pm with a jumping/castle, giant waterslide, petting zoo, pony rides, a display and demonstration from NSW Fire & Rescue.

Come and join the official launch of our school's Stephanie Alexander kitchen garden project. Families will have the chance to see the healthy and delicious produce that our students have been busy growing and to buy plants produced in our school garden.

There will be a sausage sizzle, mini pancakes, milkshakes, fairy floss, slushies as well as tea and coffee available.

Most excitingly, our children have been busy organising class stalls with white elephant, face and nail painting, lucky dips, loom bands, a cake wheel, art exhibitions, lucky bottles, mini golf, the soapy sponge throw and the much anticipated ghost house all featuring at the fair.

Come and join the fun!

EFTPOS Facilities Now Available

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:13 AEST

We are pleased to announce that our school office now has EFTPOS facilities to provide parents/carers with the option of making any payments (over $5) via debit cards, Mastercard and Visa.

We will include a payment/return slip on all of our permission notes. To pay by EFTPOS just complete your card details for ease of payment. All payment slips will be destroyed after processing and a receipt will be returned home with your child.

Enrolment for Kindergarten 2015

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:13 AEST

Our school is currently accepting enrolments for next year's Kindergarten children.

Kindergarten orientation programs are commencing this term, so if you are intending on enrolling your child at our school please contact our office as soon as possible.

Once your child is enrolled with us, we can make sure that you have all the information that you will need and also that your child can benefit from orientation sessions that will familiarise them with life at 'big school'.

Bus Return delayed

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:07 AEST

The bus is on its way back from Sydney and was expected to return to school tonight at 9:30pm, however it is running a bit late. New expected arrival time is 10:15pm!! Please inform any other parents or refer to Toormina Public School P&C Association Facebook page. Thanks

Stage 3 Canberra trip- Update

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:36 AEST

Our students and teachers arrived safely in Canberra On Tuesday morning after a long bus trip. They had a quick breakfast and headed out sight seeing. Theyvisted the National Sound and Film archive and Museum of Australian Democracy. After lunch they visited the National Capital Exhibition and Royal Australian Mint. They happily settled into Greenhills for the night after an exhausting day, students and staff were early to bed!

Wednesdays adventures include a trip to the Australian Institute of Sport, Parliament house, National Gallery, War memorial and after dinner a night trip to the Black Mountain Tower.

Sports News

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:36 AEST

Congratulations to Shavannah Boota who has continued to excel on the sporting field in representation of our school. Shavannah has recently been selected in the North Coast PSSA Girls Touch Team which will be contesting the NSWPSSA Touch Championships in Wagga. Her selection continues a memorable year in which she has achieved at a very high level across many different sports.

Thomas Henderson is another of our students who has represented our school in sport, recently at the NSW North Coast PSSA Cross Country Championships. Thomas is a very talented runner and we congratulate him on his acheivement, receiving a medal for his well deserved third placement.

23 of our students will be representing our school in the Mid North Coast PSSA Athletics Carnival at the Coffs Harbour International Stadium. We wish all of these students all the very best for their individual and team events.

Congratulations also to Cooper Bake-Smith who has recently competed with his baseball team in Wollongong at the 2014 Country Baseball Championships. Although Cooper's team played extremely well, they didn't make it to the finals. Cooper however, came home with the Under 12 Most Valuable Player for the Championships. A great effort Cooper, well done!

Education Week

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:13 AEST

Our Education Week assembly was held in brilliant sunshine with a terrific roll up of families coming along to enjoy the performances of our students. As always, the children showcased their performance skills with great enthusiasm and delight. The assembly was run, most capably by our School Captains and the morning was enjoyed by the whole school community.

Kindergarten 2015

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:19 AEST

Our office is now taking enrolements for Kindergarten next year.

All parents/carers who intend to enrole their children are advised to visit or contact our office now to commence the enrolment process.

Further information regarding our orientation programs will be posted here shortly.

Uniform Shop

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:42 AEST

Our uniform shop is open each Friday afternoon in the canteen from 2.45pm to 3.10pm.

Any orders outside of the uniform shop's opening times can be placed, with payment, at our front office.

Orders will be available for collection within 24 hours.

Credit card payments can now be taken.

School Captains

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

Congratulations to our School Captains, Shavannah Boota and Byron Walker, both Aboriginal students who have been elected by their peers to act as student leaders. Shavannah and Byron said that they feel privileged to hold these responsible positions and that they are proud to represent their school where Aboriginal culture is important.

5/6C Theme Parks

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:57 AEST

Students in 5/6C have been learning about electrical circuits and have been busy experimenting with motors, buzzers, light bulbs and switches. At the conclusion of this unit of work, students demonstrated their knowledge by working in teams to create a theme park entrance.

Farewell Ms Hook and Mrs Collins

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:13 AEST

We recently farewelled two of our wonderful staff.

Students made an arched walkway through which Ms Hook and Mrs Collins walked, followed by three huge cheers to send the much-loved Teacher and Student Learning Support Officer on their way.

Best wishes to you both from the Toormina Public School community as you join your new schools.

1MC Pirate Party

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:53 AEST

Aaargh, me hearties!

1MC students recently celebrated the climax of their work on Pirates by celebrating with a Pirate Party.

Mrs Moore, Mrs Crawford and students all dressed up for the occasion and played "Pin the Pirate hat on the Skeleton" and ate gold chocolate coins. The children enjoyed playing with their handmade treasure chests and took part in a Treasure Hunt which sent the scurvey crew running in all directions!

Aaargh, a pirates life is so much fun ...but now the class has turned back into landlubbers again!

1MC News

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:52 AEST

Arr, me hearties!

1MC have been reading books about pirates and for homework the students made a treasure box. Then they were asked to put something special inside their treasure chest, and write six describing words about their treasure. We all had to try and guess what was inside!

Treasure comes in different shapes and sizes. We've had jewels, teddy bears, toys, photos of special family members, chocolate coins and even a trophy.

Intensive Swimming Program

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Our Intensive Swimming Program is beginning for Year 2, Year 3 and Year 4 students on Monday 25th November and will run for ten school days, ending on Friday 6th December. This program caters for non-swimmers as well as swimmers with limited swimming skills.

Students will be leaving school at 9.15 am, so students can wear their swimmers to school underneath their uniform. Pack a towel, brush, goggles, underpants and a plastic bag for wet items.

Parents please apply sunscreen to your child before they leave for school.

To celebrate the end of this fun Program, students may bring a small amount of money (no more than $2) to spend at the pool shop on Friday 6th December.

2013 Presentation Assembly

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:54 AEST

Our 2013 Presentation Assemblies will be held on Wednesday 11th December in the school hall.

The first Assembly, for Kindergarten to Year 2 students will begin at 9.45 am and end at approximately 10.30 am.

This will be followed by our Year 3 to Year 6 Assembly beginning at 11.15 am and finishing at 1.00 pm.

All parents and family members of Award Winners are invited to attend these Presentation Assemblies and each student who is winning an award will receive a letter to notify parents/carers.

North Coast PSSA Athletics

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:28 AEST

Congratulations to Shavannah, Sianna, Riley, Jada, Luke and Bailey who represented our school at the recent North Coast PSSA Athletics carnival in Lismore. All of these students performed remarkably well at the carnival.

Shavannah had a very successful day, finishing third in the senior girls long jump and fourth in the 12/13 Years Girls 200m.

Riley Walker also put in a great performance, finishing third in his event, the 9 Years Boys 100m.

Shavannah and Riley will now go on to represent our school and the North Coast at NSW State PSSA Championships in Sydney later this year.

We are very proud of the achievements of all these students. Well done!

Tournament of Minds

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:41 AEST

Term three means Tournament of Minds time!

This year fourteen clever and creative students were selected from Years 4-6 and placed into two teams. Both teams have worked extremely hard for the past six weeks on their long-term challenge solution which involved staying back at school two afternoons a week, resulting in an extra 18 hours of school time.

Over this time teachers witnessed great teamwork, creative brainstorming, exciting scriptwriting, props and backdrops created and a lot of laughs from all

students involved. Many students commented that they enjoyed working in a group with a variety of people. Hannah said, "the best part of TOM was making friends with people that I never thought that I would."

On Sunday, both teams performed their 10 minute skits to two Tournament of Minds judges, who reported back that both teams had done very well. Mrs Black, Ms Hook and Mrs Craddock were very proud of all the students particularly for their teamwork, great behaviour and the way in which they represented our school.

Darlene said that "...Tournament of Minds was the best experience I have had in Years 4,5 and 6. You have so much fun. Rigby added that "...I would do TOM again because it is the most fun that I have had all year!"

Father's Day Breakfast

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:14 AEST

It was great to see so many Dads and other family members come to school at such an early hour to enjoy our Father's Day Breakfast. Organised by our P&C, close to 200 tasty bacon and egg rolls, juices, tea and coffee's were served to our school community in a relaxed and friendly setting.

After breakfast, Dad's and family members had the opportunity to visit classrooms and students were able to take advantage of the Father's Day stall to buy a precious gift for their Dad's as well as many grandfathers.

A huge thank you to all our helpers on the day and to our school community for its fantastic support of this annual event.

Lake Ainsworth Camp

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:21 AEST

Stage 3 students have returned from camp with many happy stories of their time away. Apart from some early insomnia on the first night, the behaviour of the children was fantastic. Each child took full advantage of the wide range of activities that were offered over the four days.

Lake Ainsworth - Friday

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

The happy campers managed to get away 15 minutes early today. This means that their expected time of arrival is now 4.15pm.

This site will be updated if there are any further changes to this time of arrival.

Lake Ainsworth - Thursday

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

Activities today have included sailing, which became quite interesting when the winds changed direction completely! Apparently there were some bike riders who took a wrong turn. The kayaking group were fortunate enough to have a whale watching adventure also. The sun is shining and it is a beautiful day.

Lake Ainsworth - Wednesday

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

Our Stage 3 campers have been busy with archery and canoeing activities at Lake Ainsworth. Today's activities include a cookout, ropes and sailing.

The food is great and everyone is having a wonderful time.

Lake Ainsworth - Tuesday

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

83 of our Stage 3 students arrived safely at Lake Ainsworth shortly before 11am this morning. The 'happy campers' are now enjoying lunch and will begin their first activities this afternoon. Mrs Greenway has reported that the sun is shining in Lennox Head and the kids are very excited to be at camp.

More news tomorrow.

Lake Ainsworth Departure

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:21 AEST

Stage 3 Lake Ainsworth campers need to be at school at 6.30am on Tuesday 13th August to prepare for their departure at 7am.

Their bus is expected to return to school at 4.30pm on Friday 16th August. If there is any change to this expected arrival time on Friday, our school website and mobile websites will be updated to inform you.

Music a Viva Visiting Performance

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:23 AEST

Makukuhan was able to bring Indonesian music to life from the fast beat of the Kendang to the loud vibrations of the Gong, which the musicians were quite skilled and experienced at. It was a fun and exciting performance that entertained its audience greatly. We would rate it 10 out of 10.

Johan and Brent 5/6M

Kindergarten's 100th Day at School

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:20 AEST

Kindergarten recently celebrated their 100th day at school.

Each day since starting kindergarten, KH students have added a paddlepop stick to a bucket and then counted consecutively how many days they have been at school. Ms Hook says that this activity has ensured that many of her students can already count independently to 100 and that this process has had them all eagerly looking forward to their 100th day.

To mark the occasion KH celebrated with a party which included many activities and games that allowed students to use their counting to 100 skills. There was party food (including hundreds and thousands), stacking towers out of 100 drinking cups and foam blocks and making 100 out of groups of pasta, paperclips and corn kernals. Students also created an artwork of themselves at age 100.

5/6G Volcano Making

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:58 AEST

5/6G Students have been enjoying creating volcanoes and observing as a mixture of baking soda and vinegar transforms brings about a real eruption.

NAIDOC Celebrations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:23 AEST

We enjoyed some very extensive celebrations for NAIDOC Week 2013.

Our week started with an address by David Prosser on the significance of the Yirrkala Bark Petition. The Yawarr Ngujawiny Dance Group then performed for the school. This was followed by a performance by our own Aboriginal dance group to Yothu Yindi's Djapana.

Later in the week, students had the opportunity to spend time with Linda Whitton, Juliette Boota and Marg Anthony, learning how to mix and cook their own Johnny Cakes over the fire. Students decorated their own calico libary bags using designs originating from Aboriginal culture and enjoyed making beaded jewellery.

It was terrific for some classes to enjoy a visit from Shavannah Boota who told the story of her Grandfather's brother, the first Aboriginal man to represent Australia at the Olympics in Boxing.

This was a great week with the whole school community coming together to support the many organised activities to celebrate this week which is greatly looked forward to each year.

Preparations for NAIDOC Week

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:32 AEST

Our Aboriginal students are excitedly preparing for this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations by participating in Aboriginal dance lessons with one of our parents, Sarah Lugnan and the Yawarr Ngujawiny Dance Group. The students are enjoying learning traditonal cultural movements appropriate to males and females.

Courtney and Kulaia both like dancing to Yothu Yindi's Djapana and love the movements of picking berries and flicking off ceremonial paint. Gabe and Riley say that they "...like learning about our Culture. We like the animal moves - the emu, kangaroo, bird and fish and especially the spirit."

The students will be performing Djapana at our NAIDOC Week opening ceremony, commencing at 9.30am on Monday 24th June.

Netball News

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:26 AEST

Our school team competed in the Netball knockout competition recently. The girls played very well on the day winning two out of their four games. Well done, girls!

P & C Bunnings BBQ Fundraiser

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:30 AEST

The P & C Bunnings BBQ was very well supported by both parents and teaching staff. Although the weather was slightly dismal, there were plenty of customers, a happy atmosphere and the money raised for our school on the day was very pleasing.

Weather Watch

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:43 AEST

Parents, please check local road closures and possible localised flooding.

Students may be collected early from the school office early if needed.

Kindergarten's Vegie Patch

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:20 AEST

Kindergarten students are busy growing zucchini, celery, broccoli, capsicum, strawberries and cherry tomatoes in the school's vegie patch. Scraps from fruit breaks and crunch n' sip are being fed to our worms and the castings used to fertilise the garden.

Student Leadership Conference

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:37 AEST

Our Captains and Vice Captains have become inspired to be even better leaders after attending the recent GRIP Student Leadership Conference at the Coffs Harbour Racecourse. Through visual presentations, interactive activities, discussions and leadership games, the students were entertained as they were encouraged to develop increased levels of responsibility and a commitment to integrity within their roles here at school. Ashton, Keely, Blake and Braiden were all excited to have had the opportunity to attend the conference with Braiden reporting that the conference has taught them "...to really think about other people and to do things that you see need doing, before you are asked to by a teacher." Keely says that "...everyone is a leader in their own way and the conference taught us more ways to be better leaders."

Student Representative Council Elected

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:37 AEST

Toormina Public School students have elected their Student Representative Council for 2013. These twenty-four students (two from each class) will represent their class at fortnightly meetings, chaired by teachers, Mrs Burns and Mrs Glyde. The council will work together to make positive suggestions from the student body become reality, build on fundraising ideas and take steps to address any issues of concern to Toormina students. A special assembly was held recently where the Student Representatives received their badges in front of their family and the rest of the school community.

Book Fair Celebrations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:06 AEST

Our school celebrated the start of our Book Week Fair with a "dress up as your favourite book character" day. The whole school community embraced the theme with a wide variety of costumes including witches, fairies, pirates, Cat in the Hats and characters from Harry Potter. A cake stall was held in the school library, raising approximately $170 which will be used to buy library resources. Parents and students enjoyed browsing among the books and comparing their book and cake purchases with other Book Fair shoppers.

Opportunity Class Applications Now Open

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:28 AEST

Students in Year 4 are invited to apply for a postition in the 2014 Opportunity Class. The Year 5/6 OC Class, taught by Mrs Danielle Craddock, provides intellectual stimulation and a rich educational environment for higher performing students.

The curriculum is taught at a level and pace that is more fitting the ability of our brighter students and allows for a variety of additional teaching and learning experiences.

Applications are available at any Public School office. They can also be accessed online from the following website: http://www.shsocplacement.org.au/registration/ or by searching Opportunity Class online.

Applications close on Friday 17th May.

Students from all over the region are invited to apply. If you know of anyone who might be interested please encourage them to contact Mrs Craddock with any queries.

Our New Principal, Peter Miles

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:29 AEST

Greetings! My name is Peter Miles and I have been appointed to Toormina Public as Principal, replacing Ms Norman, who has retired.

I am very excited to be given this opportunity and am looking forward to working closely with the children, staff and parents in continuing to make Toormina Public School a successful, vibrant school.

ANZAC Day Commemoration

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:01 AEST

Toormina Public School staff and students paid our respects to the fallen at our recent ANZAC Day Commemoration. Our student leaders commenced the ceremony with the Acknowledgement of Country and led students through the Last Post and the reading of the Ode followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Student representatives from each class respectfully laid sprigs of rosemary at an area set aside as the school's cenotaph in memory of those who have served our country.

During the holidays, 53 students took part in the ANZAC Day march at Sawtell accompanied by Mrs Martyn and Mrs Greenway. School Captains, Ashton Rose and Blake Milne, laid a wreath at the cenotaph while a number of students sang in the combined Bongil Bongil School's Choir during the formal ceremony at Lyle Rose Park.

African Drum Making/Playing Workshop

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:00 AEST

68 Students from the Bongil Bongil group of schools are looking forward to participating in the Djembe (African drum) making and playing workshop to be held by teacher and performing artist, Chinta Reiss, at our school.

Coordinated by Toormina Public School teacher, Ms Hook, the workshop will be held over two days on 27th and 28th March. Day one will involve students from each school making a Djembe drum for their school. Day two will see students learning the art of playing the Djembe drum and will culminate in a performance in front of their parents and the Toormina Public School Community.

Students will use the skills learnt from this workshop when they perform later in the year as part of the Bongil Bongil Musicale.

Bongil Bongil Musicale Production

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:05 AEST

Plans are well under way and rehearsals have started for the Bongil Bongil Musicale scheduled to be held at Toormina High School in June. Teachers drawn from schools in the Bongil Bongil area (Toormina High, William Bayldon, Crossmaglen, Bonville, Sawtell and Toormina Public) have been meeting regularly to develop and support this exciting production.

Five of our students, Tori, Hannah, Lara, Matt and Danielle, are so excited to have been selected for leading positions in the production. The students spend Wednesday afternoons in rehearsal at Toormina High where they enjoy mixing with and getting to know students of all ages from different schools.

The production has two casts, allowing as many students as possible to experience the thrill of performing on stage.

Chill Out Room

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:08 AEST

Our Chill Out Room is open on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday for lunchtime play with toys and activities in a peaceful and friendly environment.

Drumming and Recorder Groups

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:12 AEST

Our drumming and recorder groups are busy learning and pracising their new skills. Thanks to Mrs Bennett, one of our fantastic parent helpers, for coordinating the recorder group while Ms Hook is enjoying sharing her skills with this years' drumming group.

Bus Safety Education

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:07 AEST

Our Kindergarten students recently participated in an NRMA and Sawtell Coaches bus safety program. The students learnt how to travel safely to and from school on the bus and then enjoyed a short bus ride to put their new skills into practise.

Stage 3 Team Building Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:36 AEST

Stage 3 students recently participated in a Team Building Day with the aim of encouraging new friendships and allowing students to get to know each other and their teachers better. The day started with ten pin bowling. Students participated in teams and displayed a great level of sportsmanship. Teachers joined in the fun and provided extra entertainment for students when Mrs Paff managed to send her ball into the neighbouring lane!

Students later travelled to the Jetty Foreshores where a sausage sizzle lunch was provided, thanks to our wonderful P&C mums. A rotation of team building activities including three-legged races, relays, strategy and running games as well as inflatable raft events finished off a fantastic day.

South Sydney Rabbitohs Training Session

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:36 AEST

54 excited students went to Pacific Bay Resort this week, where they were trained in football skills by members of the South Sydney Rabbitohs and their coaching team. Trinity in Yr 6 said that it was great to meet famous players like Sam Burgess and Greg Englis, "...who were really friendly and helpful." Ashton, also in Yr 6, loved being coached in skills like tackling and passing and Jordan, in Yr 3, loved having the opportunity to ask favourite players for their autographs.

Look in the photo albums to see more photos of the day.

Back to School

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:03 AEST

Toormina Public School students are excited to be back at school. Our Kindergarten students are busy learning their new school routines while forming new friendships.

Mini Fete

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

It was great to see so many parents and members of our community attend our very successful fete recently. A great day was had by all with face painting, sponge throwing, hair spraying and book stalls among many exciting activities.

Count Us In

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:09 AEST

Kindergarten to Year 6 students joined students from Toormina High School, Sawtell and Crossmaglen Public Schools to participate in the Count Us In National singing event held at Toormina High School recently. Our school's dance group performed in front of the enthusiastic crowd before all students joined in song, singing 'Different People'.

Aboriginal Family Wellbeing Program

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:59 AEST

Aboriginal students from ages 5 to 8 years are taking part in the All Children Being Safe Program run by Rachel and Pam Morris. This Cultural program runs for 8 weeks and through the use of local native animals teaches students non-threatening ways to ensure that they are safe in their community. Each session runs for one hour per week and introduces Kangaroo (the listener and watcher), Echidna (the protector), Kookaburra (the communicator), Koala (the thinker) and King Parrot (who brings everyone together). Our students are enjoying this opportunity to learn about the behaviour of native animals while building their assertiveness, self esteem, communication skills and resilience.

Big Bike Ride

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:04 AEST

Seventy-five Year 5 and 6 students, accompanied by 20 staff and parents, took part in this terrific annual excursion. The bike ride is an event senior students look forward to each year. Through the bike ride, students learn the importance of safe riding and skill development, bike maintenance and the importance of following road rules and riding etiquette. Fitness levels are also developed as the children extend themselves during the lengthy ride along the Link Road, up around the eastern side of Beacon Hill and down to the Jetty Foreshores.

The local police assisted us by providing safe passage for the large group of riders across Sawtell Road and Hogbin Drive. The large numbers of parents and family who joined us on the day and the P & C parents who cooked up a sausage sizzle to sustain students on the trip home made the day a huge success!

Artworks entered into UNESAP Competition

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:03 AEST

Bairan's (3/4S) and Natasha's (5/6C) beautiful artworks, created during Mrs Healey's art extension workshop were recently submitted for entry into the University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize Competition. The purpose of this competition is to encourage talented young artists in regional NSW.

Congratulations to both students on having your work selected for entry and well done to Natasha who was chosen as a finalist receiving a Cerfificate of Distinction.

Tournament of Minds

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:41 AEST

Our school community is thrilled with the performances of its two Tournament of Minds teams who recently travelled to Westport High School in Port Macquarie. Competing against students from all over the Mid North Coast Region in this problem solving dramatic challenge, the students' creativity, hard work and committment paid off with the Social Science team achieving the highest score in their group and winning first place. Facilitator and mentor, Mrs Danielle Craddock, said that "both teams produced outstanding dramatic performances and received very positive feedback from the judges". The winning team will now travel to Sydney to compete at a State level.

Toormina Public School Mobile Friendly Website

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:36 AEST

Our new mobile friendly website can be accessed by clicking on the link below.

TPS QR Code (pdf 273 KB)

Operation Art 2012

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:28 AEST

Congratulations to Stage 3 students, Max and Kiarna, whose artworks are to be included in the prestigious Operation Art 2012 Exhibition. They have been selected to attend the official opening of the exhibition in Sydney in September. These two talented young artists, as well as others from Stage 2 and 3, were selected to participate in a collage workshop developed and run by Mrs Healey earlier this year.

Mrs Healey expressed delight in the high standard of all of the work produced during the workshop and said that it made the selection of just two works very difficult. "Max and Kiarna's collages showed outstanding creativity and were skilfully executed."

Hot Dog Day at school

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Students enjoyed a wonderful lunch thanks to our Canteen Coordinator, Penny and her wonderful parent helpers on Hot Dog Day. Lunches included hot dogs, flavoured milk or juice and hand-made icecream sundays. Students sharing their lunch together in the playground thought that their lunch "... was just so yummy!" and "...wonderful!"

A huge thank you to Penny and her parent and family volunteers Jody, Toni, Angela, Ashley, Amanda, Kerrie and Tanya for such a fantastic and fun lunch.

Chook Olympics

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:08 AEST

Students cheer their team mates on at the Chook Olympics.

Their was much excitement when 80 students from classes 2/3T, 3/4S and 4J recently celebrated the opening of the 2012 Toormina Public School "Chook Olympics". The Olympics is made up of ten individual and team events adapted from the original ancient games of Greece including shotchook (shotput), chookalin (javelin), chuck the chook (high jump), chook relays, rob the nest and the chook slip and slide (marathon). Teachers and students are all enjoying the Games, which will continue throughout the term.

View more Chook Olympics photos in our photo album.

Public Holiday 2 August

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

Amended school arrangements Thursday 2 August half day public holiday. Please click on the attached file.Public Holiday (doc 184 KB)

NAIDOC Week Celebrations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:25 AEST

At the end of Term 2 our school community eagerly celebrated NAIDOC Week 2012, with a focus on the Spirit of the Tent Embassy, 40 years on. Our staff and students always look forward to these festivities and the success of the week was due to the input, ideas and support put forward by our Aboriginal Community and particularly members of our Yarn Up group who joined us for activities and classroom visits throughout the week.

Our eye-catching chalk mural was coordinated by one of our fathers, Dale Elliot, who mentored a group of our Aboriginal students by encouraging them to put forward and express their own ideas and stories in this artform. Dale also kindly displayed some of his beautifully decorated didges in our office area and played the didge at our Opening Ceremony. Another of our fathers, Christian Lugnan, presented the Welcome to Country at our Opening Ceremony and spoke about the importance of the Tent Embassy. In their classrooms, our students also learnt much about the establishment of, and the significance of, this powerful symbol of unity for Aboriginal people.

Students in our Opportunity Class, 5/6C, were fortunate to have Jayden's father, Rob Waters, visit and happily answer any questions that the students put forward regarding Aboriginal Culture.

Linda Whitton, who has many children attending our school, visited classrooms showing a DVD and speaking about the footage of her great-grandfather carving a canoe out of a tree which still stands today at Toomelah in Northern NSW. Mark Heward also visited his children's classrooms to read and discuss a book about the Rainbow Serpent. As always, we were joined by many families who turned up to help out with Thursday's sausage sizzle. Thank you to all those who helped out during the week!

The highlight of our celebrations was definitely Monday's visit by the Gomeroi Dance Company and their performance at our Opening Ceremony. The dancer's were joined by their nephew Jayden, our School Captain, and both staff and students loved seeing this student learning and performing ancient dances passed down from his traditional people.

Welcome to New Staff

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:43 AEST

Our School Community warmly welcomes two new members to our learning community.

Mel Scott, an Aboriginal Student Learning Support Officer, will be working closely with our 14 Aboriginal students in Kindergarten under the Wambinya Early Years Program. This Program runs until the end of Term 1 next year and will ensure that these students receive long term benefits from extra tutoring in vocabulary, comprehension and writing well into Year One.

John Smith has been appointed to our school under the Every Child Every School State Government Initiative. As Support Teacher Learning (STLA), John will be working closely with our students who have specific learning needs, as well as continuing the work of Lisa Duiguid, who has recently transferred to another school.

Both Mel and John are enjoying getting to know our students and are more than happy to stop and chat to parents about their work, so feel free to stop them in the playground and say hello.

Natasha's Artwork Exhibited

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:25 AEST

Natasha Newman, from our Opportunity Class 5/6C, has had her crayon drawing selected as one of forty-nine from over 460 artworks to be displayed in the Department of Education and Communities offices in Sydney. Natasha's bright and colourful depiction of Coffs Harbour's jetty and harbour will soon be enjoyed by the many visitors to these offices.

The 'Primary Colours' exhibition was instigated by the NSW Primary Principal's Association, inviting NSW primary students to produce an artwork especially for senior members of staff. Each staff member selected a topic from which students could choose using paint, crayon, pencil or pastels.

Those artworks not selected for exhibit were auctioned with more than $4000 raised for the Department's charity, Stewart House.

Dance Group Success at Eisteddfod

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:10 AEST

Our school's Dance Troupe, made up of 26 girls from Years 5 and 6 were recently awarded First Place at the Coffs Harbour and District Eisteddfod. Mrs Rebecca Saunders, who choreographs and coordinates the Troupe's performances was delighted with this wonderful result. The group was then honoured with an invitation to perform at the Eisteddfod's Ruby Anniversary Gala Concert to much aclaim. Well done girls for such a great effort!

School Banking

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

Our wonderful school banking coordinators Steph, Deb, Travis and Lorrinda are back each Tuesday morning to organise our student banking. Just a small amount of money brought to school each week will encourage Toormina students to get into the habit of saving their money. Parent information packs are being sent home with students explaining our School Banking Program.

School banking accounts can now be opened at any Commonwealth Bank Branch. You no longer need to complete application forms and return them to school. Just go into any branch and ask to open a Youthsaver account for school banking. Remember to take in identification for you and your child (birth certificate), you will receive a Dollarmites wallet and deposit book and students will be ready to start banking the very next day. Current Commonwealth customers using Netbank can also open their child's account online.

School banking includes an exciting rewards program designed to encourage regular saving habits. Every time a child makes a deposit at school they receive a silver Dollarmite token. Once ten tokens are saved they can be redeemed for a Dollarmites reward item. Rewards include Dollarmite money boxes, lunch boxes, drink bottles, wallets, watches, handballs, booklights, flashdrives and pen pods.

School banking also assists our school. Toormina Public School will receive $5 when students make their first deposit at school and a commission on every deposit made through the banking program.

School Captains

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

Congratulations to our School Captains for 2012.

Captains Jayden and Kiarna and Vice Captains Liam and Tori were elected into this leadership role by their school peers. These students who are members of our Student Council, are kept busy running weekly and special assemblies. They watch over the rest of the school population and are available to help other students. All four students are happily involved in many of our school activities including sport, dance, drama, debating and choir. Our school community is looking forward to watching as these students develop their leadership skills while carrying out their duties this year.

Welcome Kindergarten

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:43 AEST

Our kindergarten children are all settling in well to "big school" and looking great in their school uniform. They are enjoying meeting up with some old friends from pre-school and making new ones as well. Students have already had library, computer and music lessons and are becoming experts on the school play equipment.

See photo albums for more pictures.

Swimming Carnival

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Our 2012 Swimming Champions

A terrific day was had by all at our Annual School Swimming Carnival. Students participated in all events with great enthusiasm and outstanding sportsmanship. A huge thank you to all the parents who assisted with timekeeping duties on the day. Your effort is greatly appreciated.

Congratulations to our 2012 swimming champions:

Junior - Gabi Nash and Brodie Elkins-Baker

11 Years - Shaylee Holmes and Grant Weeks/Brent Fairbairn

Senior - Georgia Ensbey/Catarina Gordon and Liam Taylor

When the Swimming Champions were announced, Mr Newland also made special mention of Branden Gregg, House Captain of Coobah, for his fantastic contribution to the carnival. Branden entered every possible event and participated with great sportsmanship.

Our Sports Coordinator, Mrs Greenway, was thrilled to have our student's behaviour complimented by the Olympic Pool's Proprietor. Well done everyone!

Night of the Notables

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:28 AEST

The much anticipated Night of the Notables was held recently. This was the conclusion to a four week unit of work where students in the Years five and six combined Opportunity Class chose and studied an eminent person. A biography or autobiography of the eminent person was then composed, in a format chosen by the student, which suited that particular identity.

On the Night of the Notables the excited students arrived not only dressed in character but also prepared to mingle with other classmates, their Principal, teachers and family members using the persona of the identity studied. The 'Guests of Honour' then took part in a press conference where they answered questions about their life and their work.

The night was a huge success with amazing costumes and convincing performances from students showing how much they had learned and enjoyed their project.

Zac Mara - runner up in Andy Griffiths Writing Competition

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:45 AEST

Zac Mara is thrilled to have recently received an email announcing that he has been selected as the runner up in the Dymocks Andy Griffiths Writing Competition. As members of our school's Opportunity Class, Zac and his classmates each wrote and submitted a 200 word short story developed around the topic of 'treehouses'.

Zac, already a fan of the Australian author, says that he "...studied Andy Griffiths' writing style by reading a selection of his books before writing my story. He has twisting plots about weird things. Some of his writing is funny and you can't predict where the storyline will go."

With Andy Griffith personally reading each entry, Zac's teacher Mrs Danielle Craddock and the students of 5/6C are all delighted by Zac's success in the competition. Zac is now looking forward to receiving, and reading through, his prize - the entire collection of Andy Griffiths' books.

Art Club

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:03 AEST

Students from Year 2 to Year 6 have been involved in the Art Club with Ms Hook throughout Term 4.

They have focussed on techniques used with various materials to produce a range of artworks. These included working with chalk pastels, oil pastels, watercolour, PVA glue, raffia and wool.

They studied techniques used by American artist James Rizzi and used these to create their own portraits.

Students from Stage 3 also created their own Fabric Sculpture people.

Visit our Gallery to see photos of these students in action and some of their artworks.

McCains Veggie Patch prizes

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

Thank you to families who sent in barcodes from McCain's frozen vegetables this year. Our school has now received the following products through the points rewards system:

21 pairs of gardening gloves, 2 hessian bags to grow potatoes in, a PH level meter, a watering can, 2 bags of compost and 1 bag of water saving mulch.

These items will help our school maintain our wonderful gardening program next year!

4HB Gardeners

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:56 AEST

Our first zuchinni.

Students use our fresh produce to cook a delicious meal.

Our zuchinni and carrot slice. It was delicious!

Students in 4HB have been growing vegetables this year in our garden patch.

Through this gardening program, students have been learning about how to plant and care for vegetables. They have had an explosion of zuchinni recently, with two of them weighing nearly 500g each!

Other vegetables that they are growing include peas, cherry tomatoes, leek, capsicum, cucumber and corn. They are also growing Russian garlic that one of the students brought in from home.

Taking turns each week, the students water, fertilise and carefully weed their garden watching excitedly as their seedlings are growing. During the growing season, students have had to research recipes for making natural pesticides to ward off aphids that inhabited the corn and a white dusty mould that was spreading on the zuchinni plant. They were surprised at how effective these recipes were!

Students in Stage 1 have been responsible for caring for the worm farms. 4HB used the worm farm by-products to fertilise the vegetable garden.

Students have enjoyed eating the fresh veggies, feeling the cherry tomatoes 'pop' in their mouths and trying food they don't normally eat. They used zuchinni to make a Zuchinni and Carrot slice. The smell of it cooking wafted through to all the Stage 2 classrooms, making mouths water.

Students have sold excess produce to staff. The gardening program is an invaluable part of our students' education at Toormina Public School.

Bush Tucker Garden

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:07 AEST

Rachel, Damian and Aaron, from Coffs Harbour City Council, came to our school today to help students in Year 4 plant our new Bush Tucker garden. They brought with them 100 small plants which are all local to our region. Students learnt how to dig water-saving crystals into the soil before plutting each plant into the garden bed.

Many of these plants will produce fruit that we can eat as early as next year. We can't wait to try these and use some of them in our cooking.

Thank you to the wonderful CHCC staff for helping us with this project!

Check out the Photo Album section on our website to see our wonderful students in action.

Maths Olympiad 2011

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

This term students in Ms Ricketts Maths Group spent six weeks working on a long-term task for the Maths Olympiad. We had to investigate an alternative energy source and design a presentation that linked the energy source to Mathematics.

Our team investigated Solar Energy and used higher-order thinking and problem solving strategies to investigate how much energy the average Australian family uses per day, how much energy a solar panel can store and how many panels the average home would need.

On the competition day, we had to present to the judges and we had a chance to look at what other primary and high schools had been working on. We had to work on a spontaneous task and the judges looked at how well we worked as a team. Then we participated in a maths relay, it was fun!

At the end of the day judges presented the awards. We won our heat in the Primary section and were off to the finals. We all received a certificate and a medal and our school received $450 from Essential Energy to go towards buying some new maths equipment. It was a great day.

In the finals we competed against 6 other Primary schools and received a participation award.

Sunday Market Wall Art

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Students from 4HB, 5/6C and staff participated in the Jetty Village Markets 'Sunday Wall Art' project last weekend. They painted a 2.5mx4m mural featuring iconic destinations from around the Coffs Coast in just 3 hours! We think the finished artwork is amazing!

This project includes a competition, which involves members of the public voting for the best mural. The prize money totals $1500. You can help our school win by voting THIS WEEK. The best way to do this is by visiting Facebook through the following link: http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/115089395259842/ and joining the group. Once you are a member, 'like' the photo of our mural. Every Facebook like = 5 normal votes. Spread the word to family and friends!

You can also vote this Sunday (25th September) at the markets. Keep an eye out for Captain Jack and the voting box.

Flowers for Mrs Pow

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:15 AEST

Year 1 girls Ashley and Sophie arrived at school recently with lovely bunches of flowers for their teacher, Mrs Pow.

"Wish for a Wife"

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:45 AEST

Our school community came together recently to celebrate the singing, dance, drama skills and general enthusiasm of our students in the musical production "Wish for a Wife". Written and directed by two of our talented teachers Mrs Danielle Craddock and Mrs Rebecca Saunders, the success of the production was the culmination of many auditions, student committment to rehearsals and the creation of wonderful costumes, props and backdrops by community volunteers, parents, students and staff. The cast consisted of students from Years 1 to 6 as well as many others being involved in supporting roles. Over two sold out performances, the school community shared in the excitement of students as they proudly showcased their new and developing musical and dramatic skills.

2012 Kindergarten Orientation

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:53 AEST

The transition from Pre-School or home to school is a time of great excitement and change for both children and parents. At Toormina Public School we endeavour to make this as smooth a transition as possible. We want your children to feel happy, safe and secure as they become a member of our school community.

Kindergarten Orientation Evening (pdf, 1078 KB)

The 2012 Kindergarten Orientation Evening for Parents is happening on Monday 19th September 7pm to 8pm. (Invitation link above.) At this evening you will be able to find out more information and ask any questions about your child starting school with us. This is also a good time to put your child's name down to attend three of our transition to school sessions where they take part in everyday school activities, giving them a chance to become familiar with our school routines.

Transition to school sessions:

Monday 24th October 2-3pm

Tuesday 25th October 2-3pm

Wednesday 26th October 2-3pm

Monday 31st October 2-3pm

Tuesday 1st November 2-3pm

Wednesday 2nd November 2-3pm

Thursday 3rd November 2-3pm

We look forward to meeting you all and welcome any questions or enquiries you may have.

Fun Learning with Shavefoam

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:15 AEST

With the assistance of Mrs Duguid, Support Teacher for Learning, Year 1 students Logan, Nicholas, Jorja, Nareika and Kulaia were busy practising their spelling and writing skills last week. Forming letters and words in shavefoam on top of their desks is a multisensory activity that encourages learning while also being a little bit messy and loads of fun.

School Banking Champions

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

Congratulations to Kara, Caterina, Tui, Tori, Matthew, Teal, Chloe, Traz, Mia and Patrick, our final group of students to achieve the backpack reward for saving regularly through our School Banking Rewards Program. Students can still continue to earn Dollarmite tokens, for weekly banking, which can be redeemed for new rewards.

Our School Banking program gives school an easy, fun and interactive way to teach kids money management skills they'll use for the rest of their lives. Through the program, kids can bank at school, giving them hands-on banking experience in a fun and interactive environment.

3KC Science Experiments

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:56 AEST

3KC have been having a lot of fun in class watching each others science experiments. It's been a bit messy, but very exciting.

The kids have been asking, "Why is it so?"

For more photos look in our photo album.

1G Farm Dioramas

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:51 AEST

1G has had the pleasure of Mr Kenny, a university prac student teacher, working with them for the last 4 weeks. During this time the students made a farm diorama with Mr Kenny using a range of materials from school and home. Here are a few examples from their exciting day.

Youth Environment Council

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:45 AEST

Recently students from our Youth Environment Council went along to an Environmental Education Day at Bongil Bongil National Park. Mark, Grace, Riana and Natasha had the opportunity take part in many different hands-on activities such as Waterwatch experiments, bushtucker tastings and getting close to native animals from the Toronga Mobile Zoo. Joining students from other schools, the day at Bongil Bongil provided many interesting experiences, useful information and encouragement for the young environmentalists to continue caring for our unique environment.

Grace (5/6N) was fascinated to learn about stick and leaf insects and how the mothers disguise their young as baby ants so that ants end up looking after them and raising them. After the day at Bongil Bongil, Grace is even more determined to "…save the environment". She says that "humans need to do more to protect and look after our flora and fauna".

Riana (5/6C) loved learning about bush tucker. "Mark Flanders, from NPWS, taught us about some of the plants we can eat from in the bush. He told us about the wild raspberry which has developed spikes around its berries to protect its seed from being eaten by animals."

Mark (5/6M) has always been interested in and collected reptiles so he was very interested in the black-headed python from the mobile zoo. Mark is also keen to see our native animals be protected saying that "…we need to drive smaller cars, which produce less emissions and also to drive safely considering the safety of native animals."

Natasha (5/6C) had a lot of fun doing the Waterwatch experiments. "It was cool learning about the different ways that they test water." "I also thought it was good to see how much power can be produced by us (eg. pedal power) and not by burning fuels and other resources."

Manilla School Band visit

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:22 AEST

On Tuesday afternoon, Toormina Public students were lucky to receive a visit from a travelling school band all the way from Manilla Central School (West of Tamworth). The band ranged from beginner band in Year 4 to Year 11 students and all students were individual taught their prefered instruments from the band conductor who is a retired teacher from the school. They played a variety of well known songs and really got the crowd moving. Toormina Public School students raised funds to contribute to the cost of travelling band and presented them with this money to show thanks to Manilla Central School for an inspiring visit- what a tribute to public eduction!

Toormi Tea Parties

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:40 AEST

Students who are setting wonderful example to others by following our school rules - Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be a Learner - are rewarded through a weekly Tea Party hosted by our Principal, Elaine Norman. Well done to all of those students!

Cross Country

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:10 AEST

Toormina students performed very well, in wet conditions, at the recent District Cross Country event. We had two age champions - 11 years girls, Georgia Ensbey and 12 years boys, John Gordon. Many competitors placed in the top twelve and as a consequence we had 27 children travelling on to the Mid North Coast event.

Bongil Bongil Band Workshop

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:05 AEST

Toormina Public School recently hosted an orchestral workshop, an innitiative of the Bongil Bongil School Community, drawing together students from Bonville, William Bayldon, Sawtell, Boambee and Crossmaglen Public Schools as well as Toormina High School. Under the direction of Nicola Fraser, assisted by Chris Frater and Peter Skelton from the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium, students were given the benefit of specialist instruction, in small groups, culminating in their performance as a large orchestra. The workshop provided many opportunities for students, allowing them to meet and make friends from other schools, share and refine their musical skills while encouraging older students to mentor their younger peers.

1G Narrative

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:51 AEST

1G have been learning about farms through reading and beginning to write narratives during Term 2. Here is the first story we wrote together, then illustrated and published into a book. We are going to write a narritive all by ourselves soon so keep watching!

1G Narrative- Sunny the cow (pptx, 14388 KB)

Farewells

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:14 AEST

Staff and students have farewelled two wonderful members of our school community at the end of this term.

Mrs Annette Lenehan has retired after 30 years of teaching at our school. Mrs Lenehan has contributed so much to our school, over that time, being well known for her enthusiasm in caring for our environment and her passion for introducing her students to work of classic artists such as Monet. She has mixed emotions about her retirement, saying that she "...feels like a part of the furniture here and has always been proud to be part of such a great school."

Aunty Wendy is also leaving us to take up the position of Aboriginal Education Officer at William Bayldon Public School. We will all miss her greatly. She has been a wonderful support to all of our children, their families and the staff at our school and to our Aboriginal students in particular. Her warm, friendly manner has endeared her to us all.

Best wishes to both Mrs Lenehan and Aunty Wendy for the future. We shall miss you both!

ANZAC Day Ceremony

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:01 AEST

Toormina students and staff took the opportunity, at our last morning assembly for the term, to pay our respects to those who have fought and fallen during our ANZAC Day Ceremony. Our student leaders ran the ceremony conducting the Welcome to Country, the Last Post and the reading of the Ode followed by our National Anthem. At an area set aside, as our own Cenotaph, students respectfully laid their sprigs of rosemary in remembrance of those who have served our country.

Easter Hat Parade

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:12 AEST

The Toormina Public School community braved torrential rain to join in the atmosphere of the school's annual Easter Hat Parade. Creating their hats in class as a group, students love the excitement of coming together, in the Parade, to show off their handiwork and to celebrate the occasion with their school friends and families. Congratulations to those who won prizes in the P & C's Easter Raffle.

Student Representative Council

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Toormina Public School students have elected their Student Representative Council for 2011. The role of these students is to take ideas and issues, discussed within their individual classrooms, to a fortnightly meeting chaired by Mrs Burns. The Council works together to make positive suggestions, from the student body, become reality, build on fundraising proposals and take steps to address issues of concern to Toormina students.

The Jollybops Science Show

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:40 AEST

Science came alive this week for Toormina students due to an entertaining visit from The Professor and Rustie the Robot of the Jollybops Science Show. Exciting demonstrations conducted with the assistance of many of our students, allowed the Professor and Rustie to illustrate the science behind some of the great inventions and environmental understandings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Rustie the Robot provided plenty of laughs, with his funny observations and mischievous comments, while reinforcing the rich scientific knowledge shared by the Professor. Some of the concepts introduced to students were the science behind the first man-made flying machine, the boomerang, as well as sound waves and how they work in a didgeridoo. The audience also learned about the inventor David Unaipon,the Aboriginal man who is commemorated on our $50 note, best known for his modifications to the handpiece for sheep shearing.

4HB students Leilani McConville, Jesse Baylis and Blake Milne loved the science show. Leilani said …"it was all new and they made it really easy to learn. It was so funny because the robot fell in love with Mrs Hook!" Jesse's favourite parts of the show included balloons being blown up, fireballs made from little pieces of paper and the smoke rings coming out of the garbage bin. Blake loved learning about the frozen carbon dioxide which is minus 80 degrees Celsius and doesn't melt …"it was hilarious when the robot nearly froze his bottom on the tin with the carbon dioxide in it!"

Kindergarten Bus Safety

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:19 AEST

Liz, from the NRMA, and Di, from Busways, visited our school recently to teach Kindergarten students about travelling on buses safely. Students learned to stay five steps away from the kerb, to look for the flashing lights on the bus, not to put any part of their body outside of the windows, to stay seated at all times and to keep their backpacks safely under their legs while travelling to and from school.

The Bus Safety session included a bus trip around the school block, practising getting on and off the bus, to reinforce the rules that students need to follow to stay safe. For some of our students, it was their very first trip on a bus and there was an atmosphere of much excitement.

2011 School Leaders

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:53 AEST

Congratulations to our School Leaders for 2011. Captains Holly Koivisto and Keeden Corliss, Vice-Captains Jaydan Stevens and Charlie Towells and Koori Representatives Tiffany Smith and Ace Craigie. These students are all excited to have begun their new roles in representing the students of our school.

Swimming Carnival

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Toormina Public School's recent swimming carnival was a great success due to the fantastic

sportsmanship of our students and the enthusiastic support of their families.

Held on an extremely hot day, there was some terrific swimming seen and a high level of participation from all who attended the event.

Sports Co-ordinator, Mrs Pam Greenway said that ‘the organisation of the carnival was made so much easier due to the many parents and members of the school community who assisted with record and timekeeping duties'.

Congratulations to the 2011 swimming champions Grant Weeks, Emmett Duncan, Shaylee Holmes, Liam Taylor, Georgie Ensbey, John Gordon, Natalie Hawkins and Pippa West.

School Banking

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

Stephanie and Debbie, our School Banking Coordinators, are back after the holidays and are reminding students to bring in their banking each Tuesday morning.

Laura Fowler from the Commonwealth Bank will be visiting Kindergarten students this week, educating them on the benefits of saving small amounts of money regularly. Each student will take home a parent information package containing a booklet explaining the Dollarmite Rewards Program and an application for a Youthsaver School Banking Account.

It will be great to see more students earning Dollarmite rewards just by saving regularly through School Banking.

Swimming Carnival

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:38 AEST

Toormina Public School's swimming carnival will be held on Friday 4th February. Notes will be sent home early in the week with further information.

Kindergarten First Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:19 AEST

Kindergarten students start at Toormina Public School on Thursday 3rd February.

Each student has been allocated a starting time. Please contact the office on 66532122 if you need to check on a student's arrival time.

School Term Commences

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:35 AEST

Years 1 to 6 return to school Monday 31st January.

Best Start Screening

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:04 AEST

Best Start screening for 2011 Kindergarten students will be carried out Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 31st January to 2nd February.

Each child's screening will take approximately 40 minutes.

While children are being screened, parents will have the opportunity to meet with our Aboriginal Education Officer, Wendy Morris and School Community Liaison Officer, Elizabeth Paff, enjoy a cuppa and ask any questions. Elizabeth and Wendy will also be available to assist with the completion of enrolment paperwork.

Children who are already enrolled at our school have been allocated a timeslot and these were mailed out to parents at the end of 2010.

If you are enrolling your child at Toormina Public School and have not received your letter with these times or need to confirm your child's appointment time, please contact our office on 66532122.

News story

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:27 AEST

1/2H adopts a family for Christmas

Following their studies on 'Celebrations', and subsequent discussions about some families not being as fortunate as others, students of 1/2H decided to become involved in the Coffs Harbour 'Adopt a Family' program.

The response from families was fantastic. In fact, the washing basket 'hamper' was so full that Ms Hook needed help to carry it to her car to deliver it! Students and their families should be very proud of their contributions to our local community.

Well Done!

Ice-Cream Day for Debating

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Thank you to everyone who recently bought ice-creams in support of Amber Grierson who is part of the North Coast Debating team. We served over 250 ice-creams with sprinkles and lollies. It was a great day.

Amber travelled to Sydney on Sunday afternoon and arrived back home Wednesday. Her team competed in five debates and got into the semi-finals before just being beaten by Illawarra. We are very proud of Amber and her representation of our school.

Also a special thanks to Derek Beverley at Crazy Clarks Toormina who donated all of the lollies for our day.

Chess Team Success

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:07 AEST

Billy Ensby, Natalie Hawkins and Mark West have had a great result, placing third in the NSW Junior Chess League - North Coast 3 Person Tournament.

The A Grade team, coached by Mr Gelagin, competed against 13 other teams in their division. They each played 13 games. Billy on Board 1 won ten of his games, Mark on Board 2 won 9 of his games and Natalie on Board 3 won 6 of her games.

Each player had a great day at the competition meeting new and familiar faces among students from Coffs Harbour, Urunga, Bellingen and Nana Glen.

The team acknowledges the strong coaching and support that they have had from Mr Gelagin saying, "We couldn't have done it without him!".

Thanks also goes to Mr West and Mrs Ensby for all of their support and encouragement.

Kindergarten 2011 Transition

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:19 AEST

Every year Toormina Public School conducts a transition program for children enrolling in kindergarten the following year. This program gives children the opportunity to become familiar with their teachers, school routines and also to participate in a number of activities. These include computer, dance, gross motor exercises, literacy, interactive whiteboard as well as PE and outdoor games.

School Calendar

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:34 AEST

Toormina Public School now has a calendar of coming events in 2010 available in the calendar tab on the top right of your screen.

1L Art and Music

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:52 AEST

Fridays are a very creative day in 1L as we are fortunate enough to have two very special parent helpers come in to our class.

To help us develop our artistic skills, Mrs Julie Nash has been most generous with her time, talent and art materials. Each week the children have had the chance to learn how to model clay, create prints, decorate our room and windows to suit our HSIE themes or to use colour and texture in painting. They have created some wonderful pieces.

Later in the day Mrs Melissa Bennett teaches the recorder. This really takes a lot of time and patience. We can now play three songs and are quite a happy young band.

It is wonderful for parents, teachers an children to work together and gain so much. Education is about learning as much as possible to enrich our lives.

1/2H and 2B 'Celebrations'

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:50 AEST

Students in 1/2H and 2B have been studying ‘Celebrations' this Term. We have been investigating special events that people participate in within their families, communities, countries and around the world.

We were very lucky to have a visit this week from a local resident, Mr John Arkan. He came to tell us about the Indian festival of Diwali (The Festival of Lights). He explained the history of the festival and how people traditionally celebrate this occasion.

Mr Arkan also brought along two musical instruments, which students were allowed to play. He led the students in a short meditation session and answered many questions about his culture.

Some interesting facts that we discovered include:

· During Diwali, people line the streets and houses with small clay lamps, traditionally filled with oil and a cotton wick.

· There are approximately 20 million babies born every year, just in Dehli. That is about the same as the population of Australia – every year!

· There are 24 different languages spoken in India, including English.

· The greeting spoken when both meeting and leaving is ‘Sat Shri Akal ji'

Thank you to Mr Arkan for sharing his time, knowledge, culture and music with us. It was fantastic!

To view more photos, click here

1/2H Planting Vegetables

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:51 AEST

Toormina Public School families collected McCain frozen vegetable barcodes recently and were lucky to receive free packets of vegetable seeds with the points we earned.

Taking advantage of the beautiful weather this week, students in 1/2H prepared the garden beds and planted pea, bean, carrot and capsicum seeds. It was interesting discovering the different sizes and shapes of the seeds.

After watching our worm farms become established, it is exciting to be able to use the nutrition from these to make our gardens thrive!

2B Mini-Beasts Writing

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:55 AEST

We studied mini-beasts in Term 3 and enjoyed writing narratives, poems and expositions on this topic.

Click on the link below to view samples of the students' writing.

2B Mini-Beasts Writing (doc, 655 KB)

Australian Reptile Visit

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:03 AEST

Toormina Public Students were captivated during a recent visit to their school by Bob Withey of Australian Reptile Displays. Bob entertained students and staff with his vast knowledge of reptiles and his great sense of humour. The focus of Bob's presentation was to explain and demonstrate to students the important part that reptliles play in our environment and why many of them are listed as an endangered species.

Chelsea Majorek in Class 3K thought that it was great to learn that snakes are good "…redbelly black snakes eat grasshoppers and if all the redbellies were to die out, there would be so many more grasshoppers eating our foodcrops."

Christopher Owen also in 3K said "the show was really interesting. Now I know that snakes don't really attack you unless they are threatened."

Book Bank Launch

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:06 AEST

Toormina Public School students are reading books "just for the fun of it" thanks to the

school's inclusion in the Dymocks Children's Charities - Book Bank Project. One of five

fortunate schools in NSW to be selected for the project, Toormina students get to choose

a new book of their own from a catalogue of great titles each term during 2010 and 2011.

Once students read their books, they are placed into a classroom 'book bank' where they

are shared among fellow classmates.

The official launch of the project took place this week at the school, attended by

Jacquie Stratford, Managing Director of Dymocks Children's Charities and

Annalies van Westenbrugge, Senior Curriculum Advisor, NSW Department of Education.

Jacquie and Annalies have been delighted by the excited and appreciative response of

Toormina students as they received the delivery of their first two books. A ceremony to

celebrate the launch, organised and run by students, included video messages to the

children from comedian/author Ahn Do and radio/television personality Adam Spencer

with each student receiving a book mark autographed by Ahn Do.

Creature Creations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:10 AEST

Creature Creations

Students in 1/2H and 2B have been studying mini-beasts in class this Term as part of the Schoolyard Safari science unit. We have explored our school yard for creatures like ants, bugs, snails, spiders, butterflies and worms.

We have been using the scientific skills of predicting and making visual recordings of our findings. We are lucky enough to have a USB microscope which lets us see some of our tiny bugs enlarged on our Interactive Whiteboards! Did you know that a mozzie has hairs along its proboscis?

This week we went on a treasure hunt within our schoolyard to find natural items that we could use to create 3D mini-beasts. We had so much fun and created some fantastic and creative creatures!

Earlier this year, all students in our classes had the opportunity to name a worm in a competition. Jacob from 1/2H had his entry chosen as one of the winners. Toormina Public School was lucky to receive a range of compost bins, worm farms, worms, aerators and other accessories. Mr Pickering (our wonderful General Assistant) has an extensive knowledge about worm farms and he helped us set two of them up. We can't wait to start adding our fruit scraps and making our own compost and fertiliser for our gardens!

Thanks Mr Pickering!

We are looking forward to studying ants, snails and worms in more detail.

Ms Hook & Mrs Black

NAIDOC Week Celebrations

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:25 AEST

The students, parents and staff of Toormina Public School are still smiling after a busy week of NAIDOC celebrations which was very successful owing to the huge amount of support and cultural knowledge shared from our parents and community. This eventful week got underway with Aunty Sue Hoskins' Welcome to Country and the raising of the Aboriginal flag by Student Koori Representatives Nioka McGrady and Tim McIntosh.

Ian Brown tutored Stage 2 and 3 boys who learned about the cultural significance of the didge and the traditional artwork used in its decoration. Over the week ‘Brownie' oversaw the boys work as they individually decorated their own didges and taught them the basics of playing the instrument. Colleen Kitchener worked with Stage 2 and 3 girls who decorated their own clapsticks. The girls were taught how to play the instruments correctly and learned that they were traditionally an important part of storytelling as well as musical entertainment for Aboriginal people. Tracey Brown and Deb Holten joined Colleen in teaching the whole school population the words and actions to a fun song in the local Gumbaynggirr language.

Excitement continued to build throughout the busy week culminating in Friday's mufti day, including the cutting of a NAIDOC cake and concert which brought together all that had been learned. Kerry Neill who is currently running a student mentoring programme within the school, joined in and generously entertained everyone with his didge playing and storytelling. Students greatly enjoyed performing their new songs together and were accompanied by our girls playing the clapsticks while the boys impressed their audience with their enthusiasm and concentration during the didge performance. Many parents stayed on after the concert and joined their children for the visiting Aboriginal Cultural performance of the Bama-Balas.

The enormous success of our NAIDOC Celebrations is largely due to the valuable input of our Aboriginal families, who have been meeting regularly at our Koori Yarn-Ups. Thank you to all the people who were involved and helped out during Toormina Public School's NAIDOC week.

Pyjama Mufti Day

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:33 AEST

A concern for the survival of the orangutans of Borneo, led to a fundraising mufti day at our

school earlier this year. The suggestion, put forward by Class 5/6 B and presented to the

Student Representative Council, proved very popular with our school

community with both students and staff coming to school dressed in their pyjamas,

dressing gowns, beanies and slippers.

A parade was held at morning assembly where we all had a chance to ‘show off' our

sleeping attire. Emmett, in Year 2, loves school ‘pyjama days' because he doesn't have

to get dressed before school. Tori and Kiarna, in Year 4, say that wearing pyjamas is

much more comfortable than their school uniforms.

Over $360 was raised on the day and this money will be donated to the Sepilok

Rehabilitation Centre, in Borneo, where six baby organutans will be adopted by our school

for the next twelve months.

Indigenous Infusion Performance

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:17 AEST

Toormina students and staff were both informed and entertained by the Indigenous Infusion Programme presented recently by a family from the Margaret River region of WA. Alan, Leonie and their son Tristan (known as ‘pancakes') are of the Noongar people and are committed to promoting Aboriginal culture and reconciliation through their show which is a mixture of dance, storytelling and music.

Alan captivated the audience with a booming voice and his retelling of the 500 year old story of ‘Bulcammore' which reinforced the messages of not bragging, realising that we all have many things to learn, respecting your Elders and always being good to each other. Pancakes entertained the crowd with his dance, Spirit of the Kauri Tree, and shared his skills with students who joined him in his performance of the Emu Dance and Eagle DanceA highlight of the show was the strenuous Goanna Dance, where Pancakes was joined by our School Captain, Jesse Kirkman, to the skilful accompaniment of Alan on the didgeridoo and clapping sticks.

Mrs Trist and her class 3T all enjoyed the performance and learnt many new things as a result of seeing the show. Mrs Trist loved the the show's interactive nature and the explanations of each individual dance while Ashton and Danielle were pleased to learn about Emus being attracted by bright, shiny objects.

NAIDOC Fundraiser Cake Stall

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:24 AEST

A cake stall was recently held to raise money for our school's NAIDOC Week activities. Cakes and slices were donated by our school community and the families of our Aboriginal students came along to work on the stall. It was a successful and popular event!

1L and 1P Learning About Farms

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:03:52 AEST

During Term 2, students in 1L and 1P are learning all about farms.

We have talked about the different foods and products that come from

a farm as well as the reasons why some people grow their own fruit

and vegetables at home. We even became farmers ourselves and

planted some delicious winter vegetables. We planted cauliflower,

broccoli, snow peas and strawberries.

When our fruit and vegetables are ready to pick, you can look forward

to some yummy additions to your dinner plates at home!

PSSA Rugby League Knockout

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:32 AEST

Our team were successful in their game against Bayldon Public School and are

through to the 3rd round of the Classic Shield State PSSA Rugby League

Knockout. With the half-time score against them at 12-0, the boys showed

determination and skill to come back and win the game with a final score of 16-12.

News story

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:27 AEST

Students in Ms Hook's class, 1/2H, have had the opportunity to study a very creative artist, Helen Leitch.

Helen takes Australian plants and flowers and creates detailed visual records of all the features of the plant including colours, textures, petals, leaves, seed pods, stamens and so on. She then draws animal characters, using the features of the plant to adorn them (like using the petals for a skirt, or a seed-pod for a musical instrument in her piece titled ‘The Mallee Hoedown', or stamens in a sword-fight called ‘En Garde' etc).

Our Year 1 and 2 students chose from two types of flowers and created their own visual records, studying the flower from different angles. They then drew a frog each, using their first pictures as inspiration to decorate their character. After much enthusiasm and creativity, the final works look AMAZING! Each character is completely individual. The students are very proud of their achievements and are looking forward to their next project.

Oh, and being able to take their flower home with them proved to be just as exciting!

TPS at School Spectacular

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:42 AEST

Yet another ‘Spectacular' performance from 10 members of our Senior Choir at the Entertainment Centre in Sydney .

Ten members of our Senior Choir were a part of the Primary Mass Choir that was an integral part of the Public Schools Spectacular over the weekend.

The whole performance was in the true sense of the word "spectacular" and memorable. If you wish to see the show it will be broadcast on ABC1 on 13 ^th December and a longer version will be screened on 20 ^th December on ABC2.

Congratulations to our 10 participants – Amanda Zerbe, Abby Lambert, Madilyn Brady, Ashleigh Smith, Bianca Ritchie, Mikayla Wade, Cody Bland, Lara Martyn-France, Amber Grierson and Kelsie Harmer. You were outstanding!!

Chess Tournament Success

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:08 AEST

Toormina Public School's chess players achieved success at the recent Three Person Teams Tournament where twenty-five teams from Urunga to Woolgoolga took part. Two teams made up of Justin Pryce, Trung Bui, Cody Bland and Jay Shipman, Billy Ensbey and Jaden Keens competed in A grade while Clyde Fisher, Mark West and Natalie Hawkins competed in B grade.

A powerful team effort from Justin, Trung and Cody saw the boys coming second overall in the competition winning silver medals and a trophy. Trung displayed a rising talent in chess, winning ten out of his eleven games. Jay, Billy and Jaden played some very strong chess, also at A grade level.

In B grade Clyde, Mark and Natalie achieved silver medals with Mark, the only player in the tournament to win all of his twelve games.

These Toormina students are thrilled with their efforts at the tournament and credit their coach and mentor, Mr George Gelagin with their successful performance. Cody said that "it has been great to have Mr Gelagin teach us how to play well" and Jaden said that the tournament "was fun… it was great to compete with students from other schools".

Kindergarten Transition

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:21 AEST

Every year Toormina Public School conducts a transition programme for children enrolling in kindergarten.

This programme gives children the opportunity to become familiar with their teachers, school routines and also to participate in a number of activities. These include computer, dance, gross motor exercises, literacy, interactive whiteboard as well as PE and outdoor games.

These pictures show current students working with some of our new enrolments.

Tournament of Minds Winners

Fri, 25 May 2018 22:04:41 AEST

Two teams from Toormina Public School had a very successful day at the Mid North Coast ‘Tournament of Minds Competition,' gaining first and second place. The winning team went on to participate in the state competition at the University of New South Wales.

Tournament of Minds is an open ended, creative problem solving challenge for teams of seven. The students have five weeks to work on their problem and it has to be independent of any help from teachers or parents. The solution is presented to an audience in a dramatic presentation and must show evidence of creative and critical thinking.

Although the teams entered different categories they both had challenging problems to solve. "The future of ‘Disunitia's' society rests on the people's ability to come together and create a dance that reflects all of their diverse backgrounds," was the Social Science challenge.

The Language Literature challenge was equally demanding, "all the books in the world have disappeared and stories must be shared by telling."

This event is held every year and gives students from both public and private education across NSW the opportunity to engage in creative, intellectual challenges. It also promotes teamwork.

These students worked very hard staying back after school, three afternoons a week, to come up with solutions, scripts, costume designs and props. On the day of the competition they were also presented with a spontaneous problem and given only five minutes as a team to answer the problem.

Congratulations to both teams for their teamwork, dedication and success.