Contents - Mary Mackillop Primary School

Parent Handbook 2011
MARY MACKILLOP PRIMARY SCHOOL
Ernst Wanke Road
Narre Warren North
Ph. (03) 8794 5777
Principal: Mrs Maree Swenson
Email: principal@marymacnarre.catholic.edu.au

Mary MacKillop Primary School
Cnr of Narre Warren North Road and Ernst Wanke Rd,
Narre Warren North 3804
Postal Address: PO Box 130
Narre Warren North 3804
Telephone: (03) 8794 5777
Fax: (03) 9704 9477
Email: principal@marymacnarre.catholic.edu.au
Principal: Maree Swenson
Assistant Principal Religious Education: David Gulavin
Assistant Principal Student Wellbeing: Lina Lidonnici
Assistant Principal Teaching and Learning: Lynda Kennedy
Admin Officers: Pamela Bruce
Marita Glass
Our Lady Help of Christians Parish
496 Princes Highway, Narre Warren 3805
Postal Address: PO Box 166,
Narre Warren 3805
Telephone: (03) 9704 7935
Fax: (03) 9704 7023
Email: olhc@netspace.net.au
Parish Priest: Fr John Allen PP
Assistant Priest: Fr Mathew Joseph
Deacon: Deacon Peter Stringfellow
Pastoral Associate: Sr Doreen Dagge RSJ
Parish Secretary: Suzie Schumacher
Sacramental Coordinator: Emily D”Sylvia

Contents
Welcome to Mary MacKillop 3
Vision Statement
Our Patron and Logo
Religious and Spiritual Dimensions of
School Life:
Teaching and Learning 7
Wellbeing of the School Community
• 14 - 16 Student Wellbeing
• 16 Special Education
• 16 Drug Education
Prep Transition 17
Parental Involvement
• 20 School Board
• 20 Friends of Mary MacKillop
School Management and Administration
• 21 Bell times
22
4
5
6
14
20
21
Welcome
The members of Mary MacKillop
Primary School Narre Warren
North take pleasure in extending
a very warm welcome to you and
your child.
We hope this is the beginning of a
rewarding association between
yourself and those at Mary
MacKillop Primary School.
Mary MacKillop Primary School
belongs to the Parish of Our Lady
Help of Christians, Narre Warren.
Our school is an integral part of
the local Parish which is led by Father
John Allen who is supported
by the parish team.
As a school we work closely with
the two other primary schools in
the parish, Don Bosco Primary
School in Narre Warren and Trinity
Primary School in Narre Warren
South.

Page 4
“Inspired by
the wisdom of
Mary
MacKillop”
Our Vision
Mary Mary MacKillop Primary School School Parent Parent Handbook
Our school, inspired by the person of Blessed Mary MacKillop:
• Is a Catholic community, where God’s love is experienced,
shared and celebrated.
• Is a supportive community where quality relationships are
nurtured, strong partnerships are valued, achievements
celebrated and challenges embraced.
• Is a learning community growing together; where all are
engaged, empowered and encouraged to develop a love of
learning.
Our Mission
The mission of Mary MacKillop Primary School is to achieve this vision by
addressing the priorities and goals of our annual development plan. Our
annual development plan is derived from the goals set during our school
renewal process during 2007. Each year our annual development plan is
developed, monitored and evaluated.

Page 5
Our Patron Saint—Mary MacKillop
Mary MadKillop, the eldest child of Scottish immigrant parents, was born
in Fitzroy, Melbourne on January 15, 1842.
Mary, along with her two younger sisters, opened what was to become
the first Josephite School in 1866 in Penola, South Australia and began to
provide Catholic education to the isolated and the poor.
On August 15, 1867, Mary became the first Sister of Saint Joseph to take
the religious vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.
Special Needs
Today, Mary MacKillop is honoured as Australia's first saint. Her life was
lived with great faith in God, whom she never doubted. She displayed
courage and strength to stand up for what was believed was right and fair
and never wavered from her devotion to the poor and needy.
THE SISTERS OF SAINT JOSEPH
Mary MacKillop with the support and guidance of Father Woods founded
the Sisters of Saint Joseph to teach the poor. The Order of Saint Joseph
was open to anyone who felt herself called to the life, regardless of background
or education. Today 1300 sisters, working mainly in Australia and
New Zealand, but also singly throughout the world: Ireland, Pakistan,
Uganda, Cambodia, Brazil, Samoa, the Philippines and Peru, continue to
serve the needs of people particularly the suffering, the deprived and the
needy.
School Logo
The school logo was designed to acknowledge the fact that the year that
we were founded was the same year as Blessed Mary MacKillop was canonized
Australia’s first saint. It also acknowledges the importance of our
national identity and for these two reasons the map of Australia is featured
in the centre.
Around the map you can see the shape of a crucifix to acknowledge that
we are a Catholic school.
The map of Australia is surrounded by a crown of stars which represents
the crown of stars that is seen in depictions of Our Lady Help of Christians
the Patron Saint of our Parish and the Patron of Australia.
In some representations of the logo the words “Mary MacKillop School”
are featured.
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
In Seasons for
Growth we talk
about all the
changes in our
family when we
talk about autumn.
Mary MacKillop School
Parish Logo

Page 6
Religious and Spiritual Dimensions of School Life
Narre Warren Catholic Parish along with Mary MacKillop School belongs
in the Diocese of Sale. Bishop Coffey has directed all Parishes within the
Sale Diocese to establish a Parish Based Sacramental Program
Role of the Parish
In 1998 Our Lady Help of Christians Parish- Narre Warren began their
Sacramental Program. The Parish is responsible for co-ordinating Sacramental
preparations and providing the necessary resources. Through their
Religious Education program the school continues the children’s educational
preparation for each of the sacraments. The parish has a Sacramental
Team that consists of the Parish Priest, Pastoral Associate, Sacramental
Coordinator, Religious Education Coordinators from the three parish
schools, parents and parishioners. The Sacramental Team works with and
supports the schools and parents in providing workshops for parents/
children for each of the Sacraments. Children may receive the sacrament
of Reconciliation from Year 2 onwards, First Eucharist from Year 3 onwards
and Confirmation from Year 5.
The Sacramental Coordinator and the Religious Education Coordinators
keep parents informed regarding the Sacraments through parish and
school newsletters, along with letters sent home to families.
Role of the Families
Parents are the prime educator of their children’s faith. Therefore parent
involvement in Sacramental preparation is most important. The parish and
school are there to support parents in their children’s faith journey. Parents
decide when their children are ready to receive the sacraments and
enrol the children in the program at the Parish.
Role of the School
Our role as a parish school is to provide a thorough Religious Education
Program and to support the Sacramental Team in their work. The school
assists families who are involved in the Sacramental programs by attending
Sacramental ceremonies and facilitating workshops for the various Sacraments
as well as providing assistance to students.
The central aim of our Religious Curriculum is to help students develop a
conscious, loving relationship with God, in Jesus Christ, through the Holy
Spirit.
Religious Education Curriculum
The Religious Curriculum used in our schools is a sequential
program from Year Prep through to Year
Six. It is called ‘Journeying Together in Hope.’
The Sacraments are taught at every level, which
means that the units of work are based at the level
appropriate to students’ ages.
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Children can prepare
for First Reconciliation
from Year 2 onwards.
“ A parish
based, family
centred, school
supported
sacramental
program.”
At present children
can receive First
Eucharist from Year 3
onwards.

Page 7
Students can receive
the Sacrament of
Confirmation from
Grade 5 on.
Victorian
Essential
Learning
Standards
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Religious and Spiritual Dimensions of School Life Cont’d
Children in our school are provided with experiences and a curriculum
which enriches the values, incorporates the traditions, nourishes the faith
and shares the stories of our church.
At Mary MacKillop we foster and nurture your child’s faith journey by:
• Teaching, nurturing and living Gospel values.
• Providing a Prep-Year 6 curriculum, which encompasses Catholic
faith and traditions and ongoing Sacramental education.
• Regular class Masses, Paraliturgies and Reconciliation celebrations.
• Supporting families in sacramental preparations.
• Creating a prayerful environment.
• Providing a supportive environment where each child is valued as a
unique individual.
Educational Effectiveness of the School
Classroom Organisation
At Mary MacKillop School classes are generally organised into multi-age
groups such as Year 1/2 or Year 5/6.
The Principal and staff believe this form of organisation is an educationally
sound approach for the following reasons:
• It assumes and caters for the varying learning rates of children.
• Older children become good role models showing responsibility,
understanding, awareness and respect for different levels of
development.
• All children are able to recognise the contribution everyone makes
to learning.
• School identity and unity are strengthened as children become
more caring and mix well with different ages.
• Our class groupings match the VELS levels; ie. Prep - Level 1, Year
1/2 - Level 2, Year 3/4 - Level 3, Year 5/6 - Level 4.
In allocating your child to a class a large number of factors are taken into
consideration including, though not focusing solely on friendships. Such a
decision, once taken is rarely open to change.
Curriculum
The school implements the Victorian Essential Learning Standards or
VELS as the core curriculum taught and reported against at Mary MacKillop
school.
At Mary MacKillop we implement VELS through an integrated approach
to learning. This allows the students to have many real life learning experiences.

Page 8 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Curriculum—Victorian Essential Learning Standards
The Victorian Essential Learning Standards is a whole school curriculum
planning framework.
Underpinning the curriculum are the following three interwoven purposes
to equip students with capacities to:-
• Manage themselves and their relations with others
• Understand the world and act effectively in that world
• To prepare them for success in education, work and life.
This is achieved through the three core, interrelated strands of
Physical. Personal and Social Learning
Knowledge, skills and behaviours in:-
• Health and Physical Education
• Personal Learning
• Interpersonal Development
• Civics and Citizenship
Discipline Based Learning
Knowledge, skills and behaviours in:-
• The Arts
• English
• Languages Other Than English
• The Humanities
• Mathematics
• Science
Interdisciplinary Learning
Knowledge, skills and behaviours in:-
• Communication
• Design
• Creativity and Technology
• Information and Communications Technology
• Thinking
Across the stages of learning:-
Years Prep to Four—Laying the Foundations
In these years the curriculum focuses on developing the fundamental knowledge, skills
and behaviours in literacy and numeracy and other areas including physical and social
capacities which underpin all future learning.
Years Five to Eight—Building Breath and Depth
In these years students progress beyond the foundations and their literacy and numeracy becomes
more developed. An expanded curriculum program provides the basis for in depth learning within
all domains in the three learning strands.
Years Nine to Ten—Developing Pathways
In these years students develop greater independence of mind and interests. They seek
deeper connections between their learning and the world around them and explore how
learning might be applied in that world. They need to experience learning in work and
community settings as well as the classroom. They are beginning to develop preferred
areas for their learning.

Page 9 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Teaching and Learning at Mary MacKillop
Teachers at Mary MacKillop use the VELS learning framework as a basis
for planning at each level.
At Mary MacKillop our curriculum centres on a Prep to Year Six concept
each term. This concept gives direction for learning in all areas of the curriculum,
in particular Science, Information and Technology, The Arts, Humanities-
Economics, Geography and History, Health, Civics and Citizenship,
Personal Learning, English and Mathematics.
Each term teachers in each level publish a Curriculum Term Outline. This
document is designed to inform parents of the curriculum focus for learning
during the term.
English and Mathematics skills are taught everyday in all classes and form
the foundations for learning. It is our belief that the teaching of these skills
need to be explicit, practised, applied and related to life experiences.
In order to become good readers, writers, spellers and conversationalists,
the following three skills are constantly reinforced through various literacy
activities:
1. Understanding the relationship between letters and the sounds
they can make (phonics).
2. Using the correct grammar of both spoken and written language.
3. Learning to gain meaning from text.
Technology is very much part of children’s lives and therefore a vital component
in learning. Computer, Interactive Whiteboards, Internet access
and other modern devices such as iTouch provide our students with additional
avenues for learning. Mary MacKillop Primary School is part of the
Catholic Education Victoria Network and is therefore limited to www
access to sites deemed educationally sound and appropriate by this body.
An acceptable User Policy outlining expectations, appropriate use of, and
consequences of inappropriate use to network resources is in place.
Our aim is to
create a
community of
effective
learners who
are not only
knowledgeable
but are also
able to find and
use information
as required.
“When reading
at home, the
main focus is to
nurture an
interest in
literature and a
love for
reading.”

Page 10
Teaching and Learning Continued
All attempts are encouraged as each child develops at his/her own pace.
The teacher is constantly modelling good learning behaviours and skills in
a variety of real situations. Children are encouraged to take risks as they
apply strategies and develop skills in their learning.
We promote the children’s enjoyment and appreciation of literature by
encouraging the reading of a variety of materials both at home and at
school. Take home books are an opportunity for children to share literature
at home by:
1. Reading books to another person.
2. Reading books with another person.
3. Listening to a book read by another person.
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
When reading at home, the main focus is to nurture an interest in literature
and a love for reading.
At Mary MacKillop we also offer support to students in the early years,
through the specialist teachers and small reading groups. There are special
processes in place for students with special needs through a variety of
programs. This includes access to specialist services from outside the
school.
It is our belief that a sound mathematics program should include the following:
• A wide variety of concrete experiences in the early years.
Children’s manipulation of concrete materials provides meaning
upon which their mathematical ideas are built.
• Recognition of the importance of drawing upon what students
already know and using concrete experiences to assist children
in grasping more abstract principles.
• A variety of practical classroom activities where children are
encouraged to solve mathematical problems encountered in
the real world.
• Time for concentrated practice of skills with opportunities to
apply these skills.
• An appreciation of different learning rates.
• Opportunities for children to verbalise their understanding of
mathematical experiences and concepts. Development of subject
terminology through appropriate mathematical activities.
Reading to and
with children are
wonderful things
that families can
do together.

Page 11
Extra– Curricula and Specialist Subjects
An appreciation and personal response to the Arts is highly valued and
encouraged at Mary MacKillop School as we believe these skills are ‘Life
Skills’ and can enhance the quality of experience and participation in life.
At Mary MacKillop, we value giving children the opportunity to extend
themselves and their interest in the Arts. As well as music classes for all,
students, have the opportunity to participate in music club, band and
choir. Private instrumental tuition is available after school.
Students have specialist physical education classes weekly. Year Prep to
Year 2 students undertake an intensive swimming program each year. The
school is a very active member of two inter-school sporting groups and
students from Years 3 to Year 6 are given the opportunity to regularly
represent their school or be involved in sports clinics for many different
sports.
LOTE, LIBRARY ICT AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES ART
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) is a concepts and movement program
that utilises specialist gym equipment and is offered twice a week to Preps.
At Mary Mackillop Primary School, the library and its programs are considered
to be central to learning in all curriculum areas.
We endeavour to promote an interest in, and a love of all literature, the
teaching of information literacy and information technology skills. Individual
grades also use the library for the development of skills and resource
use.
All grades have a weekly borrowing time. The library is also open for borrowing
before school most days and the first half of every lunchtime. Parents
are encouraged to come into the library with their children in the
mornings. We have a growing collection of resources of interest to parents.
These are available for borrowing.
Music Club, choir and
after-school guitar
tuition.

Page 12
Student Wellbeing
The term ‘Student Wellbeing’ encompasses almost every aspect of school
life. Mary MacKillop School seeks to build healthy relationships between
students, teachers and families. Our school has many programs and policies
that aim to assist children to be happy, to feel good about themselves
and to respect other members of our school community. Student Wellbeing
is the responsibility of all staff.
Pastoral Care in the School Community
Wellbeing of the School Community
At Mary MacKillop School we value:-
• Learning and Relationships
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
• Respect for School Rules
• Consideration, respect and friendliness towards students, staff, parents
and visitor
• Responsibility for assigned duties
•
•
Respect for rules
Respect for school equipment and property
of the school.
Punctuality
Respect for themselves
and others.
• Self discipline in class, the playground and while travelling to and
Consideration, re-
from school
spect and friendli-
Respect for those
ness towards visi-
The School has an extensive Special Education/Student in authority. Wellbeing team
tors
under the leadership of the Assistant Principal Student Wellbeing. The
newsletter is also a wonderful source of information
Parents and students are asked to contact the School if there are ever any
concerns or issues. If we know about a problem then together we can
work to finding a solution.
Responsibility for as-
Self discipline in
signed duties.
class, the playground
The school library has an extensive collection that parents and can while borrow travelling to
help with a range of parenting issues.
to and from school.
Punctuality
Many aspects of Student Wellbeing are taught through the Religious
Education and VELS. We aim to develop in the students a sense of
belonging, an understanding of the values, the ability to build positive
behaviours and to engage Respect behaviourally, for school emotionally and cognitively whilst
developing a sense of equipment curiosity and prop- intrinsic motivation.
erty.
Mary MacKillop
School seeks to
build healthy
relationships
between
students,
teachers and
families.

Page 13 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Respect for the
rights and
dignity of each
individual.
We play to have fun.
Wellbeing of the School Community continued...
You can help the school by:
• Being a positive example to your child in attempting to reflect the ideals
of the gospels.
• Taking an active interest in the learning activities of your child.
• Offering loyalty to Principal and staff.
• Supporting and participating in the activities of the school and its
community.
School Rules
Parents are asked to co-operate with teachers in reminding the children
of the few regulations which exist at the school. The school anticipates
the support of parents in this regard.
The school prefers to have as few rules as possible emphasising the areas
of:
• Common sense
• Respect for the rights and dignity of each individual.
• The development of trust and responsibility.
General rules are as follows:
• If my action is likely to hurt another person or myself it is not permitted.
• Children are not to be in the classroom at any time unless a teacher
is present.
• Stones, sticks, toy guns etc are not appropriate play things at school.
• Children are not permitted to leave the playground in school hours
without a parents written consent.
• School equipment belongs to everybody at school. It should therefore
be treated with respect.
• Use the school crossing.
• Bikes/scooters/rollerblades (and other wheeled modes of transport)
are not to be ridden in the playground and are to be left alone during
school hours.

Page 14
Special Needs
Special Education
Mary MacKillop School to the best of its ability will assist children to reach their
full potential
Special Education covers a wide variety of children who experience some
difficulty in the process of learning.
This sometimes requires minimal intervention that is catered for by the
classroom teacher and Mary MacKillop Literacy Support Staff.
Other children have more severe learning problems which require
specialist intervention and liaise with the parent and school.
Mary MacKillop in consultation with Catholic Education Advisers can access
funding to support parents in easing the financial burden when specialist
assistance is required.
This financial support is subject to specific criteria determined by the CEO
Office, Warragul. The allocation of funds can vary from year to year depending
on government funding.
At Mary MacKillop one of the role of Special Education Co-ordinators is
to assist parents and teachers in meeting the needs of these children. The
Special Needs Co-ordinators can be assessed by parents via the classroom
teacher, principal or student welfare officer.
Drug Education
Our School has participated in the state-wide ‘DEEM’ program and has
integrated relevant learning's throughout the curriculum as is appropriate.
The School offers each year the Life Education Program.
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
In Seasons for
Growth we talk
about all the
changes in our
family when we
talk about autumn.
Special
Education
covers a wide
variety of
children who
experience
some difficulty
in the process
of learning.

Page 15 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
After family,
the school is
likely to be the
most profound
influence on
the course of a
child’s life.”
(Phi Kappan 1994)
Prep Transition
“One of the few universals of childhood in our society is the
transition to school. As each child crosses the threshold of the
school, that child embarks on a remarkable course of learning
accompanied inevitably by successes, failures, friends made and
lost, interests turned on and off. Make no mistakes, school is
the real world and what happens there matters now and forever.
After family, the school is likely to be the most profound
influence on the course of a child’s life.”
(Phi Kappan 1994)
In order to assist children to make the transition to school life as smooth
as possible the school recommends parents consider the following suggestions.
• Visit the school with your child at available opportunities.
• Take advantage of activities the school offers. You will be informed
of these activities via your kindergarten.
• If you are unable to attend these activities, approach the school to
arrange a mutually convenient time for you and your child to visit
the school.
• Visit the playground, walk around, familiarise your child with the
school grounds.
• Discuss school formalities i.e. requesting permission to go to the
toilet.
• Discuss the importance of not leaving the school ground, or the
classroom without permission.
The more informed and familiar your child is with the school environment
the more successful the transition will be.
The school welcomes the opportunity to assist you and you child to experience
the positive and happy atmosphere which is present at Mary
MacKillop School.
As a means of helping your child become more familiar and comfortable
with the school surroundings a series of school visits and activities are
outlined below. This program is aimed at providing a number of positive
experiences of school during the year prior to your child commencing at
Mary MacKillop. Not only will your child have the opportunity to become
more familiar with the school surroundings he/she will also get to
know some of the teachers.

Page 16 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Prep Transition Continued
Please make every effort to participate in these activities. You will be most
welcome.
Transition Programme for Preps
The transition programme consists of 4 steps.
1. A Series of Informal Open Days
2. Initial Parent Interviews and school tour
• The aim of these sessions is to allow children and parents the
opportunity to familiarise themselves with the school.
• Clarify issues and ask further questions.
• Provides the school with information that will help in meeting
your child's needs.
3. Orientation Days
• Each family is notified of these mornings.
• Children will experience a school morning and classroom environment.
• The aim of this morning is to provide children with the opportunity
to interact independently in a classroom environment and
with a teacher.
• The aim of these mornings is to provide children with the experience
of a more structured ‘typical’ morning in the classroom and
school routine.
• It also provides children with the opportunity to experience the
school playground in a safe and supervised atmosphere.
4. Orientation Day information can be found on our website:
www.marymacnarre.catholic.edu.au
• Go to the Enrolment tab on the menu bar and select Open Day
Information from the drop down menu. A PDF document will
open with the current years information once the times and dates
have been set.
5. Special Transition Arrangements
In special circumstances other transition arrangements can be made for students
with special needs, please contact the principal if you think this would
be appropriate for your child.

Page 17 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Prep Transition continued
A timetable has been developed to ease Prep children into the new
school year and make transition easier. Preps have each Wednesday for
the first term as a day of rest. Prep students do not attend school on
Wednesday’s during term one.
Getting Ready
o Have some “practice-runs” before school starts.
o Start the night before.
o Encourage your child to organise clean clothes, and prepare books
and bag.
A Sleep Routine
o Establish a routine with a set bedtime to ensure your child gets
enough sleep.
Dressing for School
o Check the weather forecast; be prepared for unexpected changes
PMP—Percept ua l Mot or P rogram
o Look for easy fasteners when choosing belts, shoes, bags and
clothing.
o Encourage your child to dress themselves so they can manage
things like taking jumpers on and off at school
Looking after belongings
o Label all your child’s belongings. Puff Paint works exceptionally
well—please contact the office for details.
o Show your child where these labels have been placed.
o Check any special requirements such as library bag and arts
smock.
o Note where lost property is held at the school.
Food for Energy
o Be sure your child has a balanced breakfast.
o Pack a healthy lunch and snacks and explain when they should be
eaten.
o Provide a drink bottle full of cool water each day.
Responsibility and Independence
Encourage PMP is a program independence which aims by: to teach children perceptions and understandings
o Blowing of themselves own nose. and their world through movement and motor
experience.
o Taking own jumper/coat/art smock on and off
o Carrying their own bag
All prep children participate in this program. It is a series of half hour
lessons organised by the teachers and run with the assistance of parents.

Page 18
The school
acknowledges the
good work done
at home prior to
your child’s
schooling and
that parents have
an important role
to play in the
continuing
education of their
children.
Parental Involvement
The school acknowledges the good work done at home prior to your
child’s schooling and that parents have an important role to play in the
continuing education of their children. In fact parents are the prime educators
of their children. Our school has a policy of encouraging parents
to become involved and we welcome their full participation. If parents
wish they can be involved directly in the classroom or be of assistance in
many indirect ways. This could include contributing and collecting resources
which may be of use in the classroom, supporting requests by
teachers for items of interest or for current themes, supporting your
child with class themes (special days), helping in the library, the canteen,
P.M.P etc.
Parent/Teacher evenings are held throughout the year and you are most
welcome to make appointments to meet your child’s teacher at other
times. There are also opportunities for you to actively assist in various
programs at school. Arrangements should be made with the individual
teacher involved.
You are encouraged to support the school by supporting the School
Board, Friends of Mary MacKillop (FOMM), working bees, parish activities
and various school activities.
School Board
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
The Mary MacKillop School Board is an advisory Board. It is compromised
of the Parish Priest, Principal, Teacher Representation and a Friends
of Mary MacKillop School representative and six elected parent representatives.
Any parent of a child attending Mary MacKillop School is eligible
to nominate for a Board position. The identity of Board representatives
is published on the office notice board. The Board may be contacted by
either leaving a message in the mailbox provided in the school office or via
email board@marymac.sale.catholic.edu.au)
Friends of Mary MacKillop (FOMM)
This is a parent auxiliary that meets on a monthly basis: mostly during evenings
but occasionally in the afternoon. While this committee raises valuable
funds for the school, takes responsibility for canteen and uniform it
also has a strong social and pastoral role. You are encouraged to become
involved wherever possible and to support the F.O.M.M. activities.
All funds raised by the Friends of Mary MacKillop go to purchasing resources
and equipment that directly benefit the quality of the school's educational
program.

Page 19
FOMM Continued
The canteen is also the responsibility of the Friends
of Mary MacKillop School and is a subcommittee of this
auxiliary. While this activity makes a modest profit for
the school it is considered to primarily be a service to
parents. As such it relies upon volunteers for its
operation although we have a manager for the canteen
who is a member of our school staff.
Our school is fortunate to have enthusiastic and generous parents who
are prepared to take responsibility for the management activities. They
do however rely heavily upon assistance from other parents in our school
community. Please give serious consideration to offering your services
(even occasionally) as it will be greatly appreciated.
School Management and Administration
School Bell Times, Play Times and Supervision
Bell times are as follows:
8.45am Commence school
10..50am Eat playlunch inside
11.00am Begin morning play
11.40am End morning play
1.00 Eat lunch inside
1.10 Begin lunchtime play
1.50pm End lunchtime play
3.15pm End school
In addition to before and after school, the children are supervised by a
teacher at all times while in the playground.
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
As supervision begins at 8.20am each morning, your co-operation is requested
in ensuring that your child attends after this time. Similarly all
children are expected to have been collected from school by 3.30pm.
Before school children are not permitted to remain or play in the car
park. Children are to be in the courtyard area before school. This area is
supervised from 8.30 am.
Our school is
fortunate to
have
enthusiastic
and generous
parents.

Page 20 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Children are required
to wear a school uniform
hat in Term 1
and 4.
Hot Weather
The school has a Hot Weather Policy to ensure that children are protected
in summer.
• All children must wear a hat outside, and sunscreen is strongly advocated
in Terms 1 & 4.
• If the weather is above 35 degrees the school will adopt a Hot
Weather Programme and reduce the amount of time that the children
are outside in the heat of the day.
• Children are constantly reminded of the importance of frequent
drinks when playing.
• Teachers provide children with many opportunities to take fluids
during class time.
• Sporting activities where possible are time tabled for early morning.
• On such days parents are welcome to collect children from school
at lunch time.
• As a result of a major fundraising efforts over the years the school
has installed air conditioning in all classrooms .
End of Term Finish Times
Collecting and Dropping Children at School
These rules have been adopted to further guarantee your children’s
At the end each term, school closure will be at 12.45pm
safety.
1. Any visitor to the school (during school hours) is to report to the
office to receive (and sign for) an identity pass. This pass is bright
yellow and readily recognisable by both staff and children. Anyone
NOT wearing a pass will be challenged if seen within the school
grounds.
2. Anyone picking up children during school hours must report
to the office. If children are going home early (due to illness
etc) then the identity of the person picking up the children will be
verified. Anyone picking up children during school hours will be required
to sign an early dismissal register. You will be given a slip to
collect your child from the classroom. If your child is late for school
please go to the office for a visitors pass and then take him/her directly
to the classroom.

Page 21 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
School Fees
School Fees are a necessary part of the school’s funding structure, forming
approximately 25% of the annual school recurrent budget. The remainder
of the school's recurrent funding comes from both the State and Federal
Governments. School fees are used to meet such expenses as power and
heating, insurance, office expenses (i.e. telephone) and maintenance etc.
Additional necessary equipment is purchased by local fundraising and parish
support.
In 2010 the school fees are $300.00 per term per family. Fees are charged
on a family basis regardless of the number of children attending Mary
MacKillop School.
In addition to this there is a curriculum levy which is charged per child.
This covers the cost of all additional Excursions, Incursions, Swimming and
Camp etc. The 2010 fees are:
2010 CURRICULUM LEVY
Prep $184.00 pa
Junior $184.00 pa
Middle $138.00 pa
Senior $338.00 pa
Fee Payment Options
The options available to you are set out below. Please feel free to contact
the office if you require further details.
• Cheque or cash – this can be paid in person at the office or sent
to school with your child.
• EFTPOS – is available at the school office.
• Bpay
• Direct debit – Monthly or Fortnightly payments can be arranged.
A parish/school committee periodically reviews the school fee policy.
School Fees are a necessary part of the
school’s funding structure, forming
approximately 25% of the annual school
recurrent budget.

Page Page 22 23 Mary Mary MacKillop MacKillop Primary Primary School School Parent Parent Handbook Handbook
Education Allowances—EMA
Education Maintenance Allowance is a Government assistance scheme for
which you may be eligible. If you hold a Commonwealth Government
Health Care Card you may be eligible for the Education Maintenance Allowance.
Please check with the office staff if you think you may be eligible.
Excursions and Incursions
Parental permission is essential before children attend excursions. If a
note is not returned prior to an excursion your child will not be able to
attend. Excursion costs are covered by the Curriculum Levy outlined on
the annual fee account.
Excursions and Incursions are designed to enhance the learning that is
occurring in classrooms.
Before and After School Care
Mary MacKillop has a before and after school care program as well as a
vacation care program. This program is administered by Youth Leadership
Victoria and operates on our school premises.
To register or make enquiries parents should :
• Contact Youth Leadership Victoria on 8790 6511
• Contact Centrelink and register for Child Care Benefits
Student Banking
Children are encouraged to bank regularly through the school each Monday.
Our school banks with the Catholic Development Fund. The banking
procedures are run by volunteer parents and senior students. The Catholic
Development Fund has been established to assist Catholic Schools and
Parishes within the Diocese and has been of considerable assistance in the
establishment of Mary MacKillop School.
Personal Property
The school will not be held responsible for electronic games, toys or
other devices that are brought to school. If a child does bring such items
to school he/she will be asked to put it in a safe place in the classroom
until the end of the school day. It is preferable that such items are left at
home. While care will be taken at school, no responsibility will be accepted
by the school for personal property which is lost or damaged.

Page 23
School Canteen and Lunch Orders
The school operates as a service to families a school canteen on
Mondays and Fridays only.
• Please provide a paper bag with your child’s name, class, order, and
correct money enclosed.
• Children place their order in their class basket.
• The basket will be collected at 9am and lunch handed out at
12.45pm.
• Icypoles and other frozen items are sold. Children may order frozen
items with their lunch order or buy them over the counter.
• After your child has eaten his/her lunch he/she is able to go to the
canteen to buy frozen items or be given one if it has been ordered.
The brown lunch bag must be shown to the canteen staff in order to
receive the ordered items.
• Please alert children if they are to receive change and remind them
of their responsibility to bring it safely home.
• Inform children of changes to their lunch order. Children are often
upset, if they are expecting an icy pole etc and it has been decided
not to order one.
Since the beginning of 2001 the school has employed a canteen manager.
Her role is to manage the administration and daily operations of the canteen.
Parents who volunteer can do so confidently in the knowledge that
their time will be well used and appreciated.
Smoking
Mary MacKillop School is a smoke free school. Smoking is not permitted
(by parents, staff, or visitors) in the school buildings at any time nor is it
permitted in the school grounds while children are in attendance.
Dogs in School Grounds
In the interest of safety dogs, even on leashes, are not permitted in the
school grounds during school hours.
Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Parents who
volunteer can do
so confidently in
the knowledge
that their time will
be well used and
appreciated.
Smoking is not
allowed in
school grounds.

Page 24 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
Illness and Injury
Insurance
All children are covered by a separate accident policy while they are attending
school. Further details may be obtained from the school office.
First Aid
First aid will be administered to children by a teacher should an accident
occur. In the event of a serious accident appropriate action will be taken
and parents will be notified immediately.
Illness
It is advisable that your child does not remain at school due to illness,
parents will be notified and will need to make suitable arrangements.
If your child is kept at home due to illness, it is not necessary to inform
the school if the child will only be away for two or three days, if however
the period is to be extended then it would be appropriate to let the
school know the estimated length of absence. On returning to school you
are asked to provide the school with a note.
Medicines
It is sometimes necessary for parents to send medication to school for
their child.
All medication needs to be handed in to the office at the start of each
school day and collected at the end of the day. Permission form is available
from the office or on our website.
Full details of each dose of medication that is administered by an office
staff member, is recorded in a register.
If your child requires constant medication a note of authorisation from
your doctor and signed by parents is required.
Infectious Diseases
It is quite possible that at sometime during your child’s life at school he/
she will contract one or more of the following illnesses. He/she must be
kept away from school for the stated times.
If you have any questions please contact the office or your G.P. for up to
date information.

Page 25 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
School Uniform
Mary MacKillop School places a strong emphasis upon the adherence by
children and parents to school uniform regulations.
As a school we believe that there are many advantages to the maintenance
of a consistent school uniform code.
These advantages are not only administrative but are of benefit to both
our school students and their families.
It is the expectation of the school that upon the enrolment of their child,
parents give an undertaking to fully support and implement this school
uniform policy.
Sports Uniform
The sports uniform is applicable to all children from Prep to Year 6 and is
to be worn on nominated weekly sports days.
Note: Tracksuit pants and runners are not appropriate uniform on days
other than sports days.
Jewellery
Children are not to wear jewellery to school. In the interests of safety,
children with jewellery (especially rings) will be asked to leave such items
with their class teacher.
These can be collected at the end of the day. Stud and small sleeper earrings
are acceptable,
Monitoring
All children are expected to attend school in appropriate school uniform.
If, through unforeseen circumstances parents are unable to send their
child in appropriate uniform on a particular day a note is required. Should
a child consistently attend school out of school uniform a letter will be
sent home from the class teacher along with a copy of this policy if appropriate.
In cases of hardship, every effort will be made by the school to
assist parents to provide their children with the appropriate uniform.

Page 26 Mary MacKillop Primary School Parent Handbook
School uniform continued
UNIFORM LIST
Below is a list of items prescribed for our students. All items are
available from Beleza School Uniforms throughout the year.
Girls Summer
MMPS summer dress
MMPS Navy Windcheater
MMPS Navy Bomber Jacket
Plain White Socks
Black School Shoes
MMPS Bucket Hat
MMPS School Bag
Boys Summer
MMPS Polo Shirt - Short Sleeve
MMPS Navy Windcheater
MMPS Navy Bomber Jacket
Navy Tailored Shorts
Navy Socks
Black School Shoes
MMPS Bucket Hat
MMPS School Bag
Girls Winter
Boys Winter
GIRLS MMPS Winter Tunic – Check Fabric BOYS MMPS Polo Shirt - Short/Long Sleeve
MMPS Winter Skort – Check Fabric MMPS Navy Windcheater
Summer
Dress
Navy Straight leg Tailored Pants MMPS Navy Bomber Jacket
MMPS Polo Shirt - Short/Long Sleeve Summer Navy Straight leg Tailored Pants
MMPS Navy Windcheater Navy Navy Shorts Socks
Windcheater MMPS with Navy school Bomber emblem Jacket Light Black blue School cotton Shoes shirt
Plain White Socks – with Tunic or Skort MMPS School Bag
Hat with school emblem
Windcheater with school emblem
Navy Tights – option with Tunic
School scrunchie Navy Socks – with Tailored Pants Hat with school emblem
White socks Black School Shoes
Navy socks
Black shoes
Black shoes
Girls Sports Uniform
Boys Sports Uniform
MMPS Polo Shirt - Short Sleeve
Winter MMPS Navy Windcheater
Tunic and/or MMPS Navy Navy Slacks Bomber Jacket
MMPS Polo Shirt - Short Sleeve
Winter MMPS Navy Windcheater
Navy MMPS trousers Navy Bomber Jacket
Light blue shirt/skivvy
Navy Sports Shorts
Light Navy blue Sports shirt/skivvy Shorts
Windcheater Navy with Sports school Skort emblem
Navy Tracksuit Pants
School scrunchie White Sports Socks
Navy tights, white Running socks Shoes
Black shoes
Windcheater Navy Tracksuit with Pants school emblem
White Sports Socks
Navy Running socks Shoes
Black MMPS shoes Bucket Hat
Sports Uniform
Sports Uniform
Navy t-shirt Availability:
with school emblem Navy t-shirt with school emblem
Navy sports shorts
Navy sports shorts
Navy track and field pants
BELEZA SCHOOL
Navy track
UNIFORMS.
and field pants
runners HALLAM STORE: 50 SPRING runners ST, HALLAM PH 9702 3181
It is strongly advised that families place orders well
in advance.