Office Hours

The school office is open between 8.30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. Penny is available during these hours to assist you.

Information Communication Technology

Our students live in the Digital Age and are highly competent users of technology. We provide for this age by ensuring we have the appropriate technology available to meet the needs of our students. Opportunities for our students to present their knowledge and report back on activities using a variety of technologies are provided in the normal day-to-day running of the classrooms. These presentations increase their self-esteem and allow them to share their skills with other children.

Reporting Absences

In the interests of your child's safety we account for every child each day. Please inform the school between 8.00 a.m. - 8.50 a.m. if your child is to be absent/late on any particular day. This can be actioned by another child in the family informing the appropriate class teacher or alternatively a phone call to the office. If your child is absent and no message has been received, the school secretary will telephone home to check why your child has not arrived at school. This system is in place to protect your children and consequently we ask for your co-operation.

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If a child is absent for reasons other than sickness (eg appointment with a specialist) a note is required.

School Attendance Times

School begins at 8.50am with the daily roll call and class prayer. All students are expected to be ready for roll call and prayers prior to the bell. Lateness of pupils is disruptive to the class prayer atmosphere and prevents the student from being prepared for the day. Parents are therefore requested to ensure their children are at school by 8.45 am. The final bell rings at 3.00 pm. Children are expected to leave for home as quickly as possible and use the Riccarton Road patrol where appropriate.

Shared Vision

St. Teresa's, a Catholic School of choice, a community of life long learners where the teachings of Jesus are valued and respected.

Principles And Practices

The school has developed a set of shared principles and practices to support our vision.

We will ensure we achieve our Vision by:

• Continually working to improve student achievement
• Actively encouraging and developing Catholic Values
• Engaging children in positive, relevant and meaningful learning
• Sharing clear expectations with our students and community.
• Role Modelling as part of our effective teaching and learning.
• Working as a team.

The primary function of the school is to provide a caring Christian environment in which the development of the whole person - spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, emotional and physical.

Curriculum

Education has a vital role to play in helping our students reach their individual potential and develop the competencies they will need for further study, work and lifelong learning. At St. Teresa's School we have a focus on Literacy, Numeracy and Religious Education.

• We believe English is a priority as it enables our students to communicate effectively. English provides the basis for all learning to take place and is the focus for Years 0 - 8
• We value Mathematics as a major priority as it is an essential learning area that enables students to make sense of their world.
• We believe Religious Education is a priority as it enables our children to live their faith.

All other curriculum areas are covered through our Inquiry Learning Process. Through Inquiry Learning our students are encouraged to actively engage their minds and bodies as part of their learning. At our school we want

• to develop lifelong learners,
• to ensure that our pupils experience authentic learning in a meaningful context,
• to allow for deeper learning,
• to develop explicit links between curriculum areas and the real world,
• learning to be fun,
• to celebrate success.

At St. Teresa's School:

• Years 0 - 2 children are working primarily from Level 1 of the curriculum.
• Years 3 and 4 children are working primarily from Level 1 and 2 of the curriculum.
• Years 5 and 6 children are working primarily from Levels 3.
• Years 7 and 8 children are working primarily from Levels 3 and 4.

Inquiry Programme for 2009:

Let's Investigate
TERM 1 Uniqueness - acknowledging we are individuals and everyone is special. Enduring Understandings to develop: Sense of self worth - Spiritual We are made in the image of God Everyone is special - Social Concern and respect for others Work as a team Being a leader - Emotional Confidence and positive attitude We have strengths and talents Facing and accepting challenges Having a sense of humour - Physical Safety Physical activity is essential Assess health needs Employ strategies to improve health - Intellectual Good learning creates success We learn in different ways Identify and strengthen our weaknesses	TERM 2 Cultural Diversity- celebrating our similarities and differences Enduring Understandings to develop: Our Catholic beliefs and charism mould our school character We are all made in God's image People have different rights, roles and responsibilities Showing compassion for each other Choices have consequences Celebrating cultural diversity of our community Cultures face different issues Our NZ history and significant places mould our identity Being responsible citizens Make a difference through social action Awareness and acceptance of cultural values The Arts serves a variety of purposes and functions Change happens over time Understand our place in the economic world
TERM 3 Environmental Awareness- showing concern for our local surroundings. Enduring Understandings to develop: Relationships between people and the environment Being responsible, tidy kiwis Appreciation of our school and community environment including Riccarton Bush Show initiative for environmental issues (e.g. recycling, conservation) Be responsible for personal safety within our environment Seeing God in our environment	TERM 4 Global Thinking - thinking beyond ourselves Enduring Understandings to develop: Act locally, think globally Social action and justice contributes to the well-being of society We live in a privileged society New Zealand makes a significant contribution to the world Our actions have consequences that shape our future The past shapes our future Exploration of scientific and technological ideas, issues and processes helps us contribute to a sustainable future Financial capability contributes to New Zealand's economic well-being; Business capability contributes to developing and maintaining a prosperous community; Creative, innovative thinking enables opportunities for future growth and success

School Stationery

Paper Plus Tower Junction prepares and sells stationery packs for each class. They guarantee Back to School prices for the stationery.

Lunch Orders

Lunch orders are taken on Tuesdays only. The following lunch items can be purchased:

Tuesday:
Sushi Roll - Chicken / Salmon - $3.00
Rice Ball - $3.00
Flavoured Milk - $1.00

Orders must be placed at the school office before 8.50am. Pupils may not leave the school grounds to buy lunch.
A sausage sizzle is held every fortnight, organised by our school secretary. Parents are required for this to run effectively.

School Uniform

The uniform was reviewed by a parent committee during 2008. Due to the economic climate it was decided to keep our uniform as it is for the time being, with the exception of the introduction of a school polar fleece. These are available at DUS (Direct Uniform Suppliers) or the school office at a cost of $55.00 each. School hats are compulsory during Term 1 and 4, these are available from the school office at a cost of $12.00 each.

Girl's Winter - Tartan pinafore, long sleeved navy skivvy, maroon cardigan/jersey, navy blue socks or tights, black shoes

Girl's Summer - Tartan pinafore, white short sleeved blouse, maroon cardigan/jersey, white ankle socks, black shoes/sandals. Sandals with heels or without fasteners are not suitable. Culottes optional.

Boy's Winter - Grey winter shorts, grey winter long sleeved shirt, maroon v-neck jersey, school tie and socks, black shoes.

Boy's Summer - Grey summer shorts, grey summer short sleeve shirt, maroon v-neck jersey, grey cotton ankle socks, black shoes/sandals. Sandals must have heel fasteners.

Physical Education Clothing - St. Teresa's School polo shirt - available from the school office, white shorts, white socks and sports shoes. Children who represent the school are provided with the appropriate gear for various sport. Please return this gear at the end of each season, washed and named for checking off.

All clothing should be clearly marked with the child's name. Named items can be returned to the owners.

Jewellery is not part of the school uniform. For safety reasons sleepers are not allowed but one small stud per ear is permissible. Items of cultural significance can be worn at the owner's risk.

Nail varnish is not permitted.

Hair longer than collar length is to be tied back. "Remarkable" haircuts are not encouraged.

School uniforms are available from Lithgows, Riccarton Road; Postie Plus, Bush Inn, Upper Riccarton; Ballantynes.

School Donation

This contribution is set by the Board of Trustees to contribute to the costs of purchase of some sports and recreational equipment and administration; library; educational entertainment; subsiding travel for some class trips and for any other activity approved by the Board of Trustees. The 2010 school donation is $65.00 per pupil. This financial contribution is a tax de-ductable donation.

Medication

The school should only be requested to administer medication during the school day, when it is impossible for the parent or guardian to do so. No medication may be administered to a child without parental permission, this incudes aspirin and paracetamol. Medication will only be administered if a Medical Consent form has been completed and signed by the parent or caregiver. Medication is to be handed in to the office for safe-keeping.

Parents of any child who has a condition or allergy requiring ongoing or immediate attention at school should ensure that the correct medication, clearly labelled with dosages is at school at all times. This must be left at the school office for security.

Mission

Each year we collect donations for the Missions to highlight the importance of the work missionaries do and to raise funds to support their work. All funds are sent to the Catholic organization, the Holy Childhood.

Newsletters

Our weekly Newsletter is our primary method of communication between school and home. Newsletters are sent home with the youngest/only child from each family every Thursday. Parents are requested to ensure they receive a newsletter to guarantee they know what is happening in our community. The newsletter is available via email, parents can receive the newsletter via email by advising the office. The newsletter is also available on the school's website at www.stteresas.school.nz

All class teachers send home class newsletters within the first two weeks of each term as well as at intervals during the term.

Behaviour Management

The school has a behaviour management procedure based on an Assertive Discipline Plan with a positive emphasis. Should difficulties arise, communication with parents is initiated at an early stage.

Bicycles and Scooters

Students must walk their cycles and scooters once on the school grounds at all times.

Cell Phones

Pupils who bring cell phones to school are to hand them in at the office on arrival and collect them at the end of the day. Failure to do so will result in confiscation of the cell phone for collection by a parent.

Certificates

These are presented each week at assembly to acknowledge and celebrate good work, progress, participation and Special Character.

Communication with Teachers

Parents are encouraged to discuss any classroom matter with the teacher concerned. Please arrange a mutually acceptable interview time that allows the teacher to provide a meaningful response outside of class teaching hours. Should the need arise for a complaint to be made, parents are directed to the Complaints Procedure as set by the Board of Trustees.

Computers

Each classroom has computers for use by students, we also have a pod of laptops for their use. Internet facilities are available, each child and his/her family is required to sign an Information Communication Technology (ICT) Use Agreement annually to ensure appropriate etiquette is maintained.

Concerns

Any concerns should first be discussed at a mutually agreed time with the teacher involved. Where this proves unsatisfactory please arrange to discuss the matter with the Principal.

It is inevitable from time to time that misunderstandings will occur between home and school. Concerns about matters affecting the school, pupils or the teachers are usually the result of a lack of information or misunderstanding and in most cases can be solved when the full story is revealed. To keep harmonious relations between home and school the following procedures should be followed:

1. The parent or caregiver is to approach the teacher concerned and arrange a time convenient to both parties where the matter can be discussed in private.

2. If satisfaction is not gained from the initial interview a time should be arranged to discuss the matter with the Principal.

3. If satisfactory understanding still cannot be arrived at, the concern or complaint may be put in writing for a response from the Principal.

4. If satisfactory understanding still cannot be arrived a, the concern may be taken to the Board of Trustees. The complaint must be in writing and a copy given to the Principal.

Any concerns you have to do with the day-to-day management of the school should be discussed with the Principal. Matters relating to policy direction or significant health and safety issues should have Board of Trustees involvement. If you are unsure, please make an appointment to see the Principal. In all cases, it is common courtesy to inform the Principal initially.

Terms and Holidays

Term dates and holidays are set by the Ministry of Education and will vary from year to year. The school year is divided into four terms with holidays of two weeks in April, July and October, with the main holidays in December and January. Parents will be informed of term dates and statutory holidays through our regular newsletter.

Term Dates 2009

Term 1	3 February to 9 April	6 February - Waitangi Day
		3 April - Teacher Only Day
Term 2	27 April to 3 July	1 May - Queen's Birthday
Term 3	20 July to 25 September	24 August - school closed
Term 4	12 October - 18 December	26 October - Labour Day
		13 November - Canterbury Anniversary

Term Dates 2010

Term 1	Tuesday, 2 February to Thursday, 1 April	Easter - Good Friday, 2 April
Term 2	Monday, 19 April to Friday, 2 July	Queen's Birthday - Monday, 7 June
Term 3	Monday, 19 July to Friday, 24 September	Mid Winter break - 23 August
Term 4	Monday, 11 October to Friday, 17 December	Labour Day - Monday, 25 Oct
		Showday - Friday, 12 November

Homework

We are currently investigating the value of various forms of homework. All children will have reading every night. Class teachers will explain their process at our "Meet the Teacher Evening on Tuesday 10th February 2009.

Home Reading Habits

Developing sound reading habits is one of the most important activities a child can learn. Every child needs to spend time daily relaxing with a good book for a minimum of 15 minutes. Bedtime is an ideal time for this. Parents should encourage the reading habit by making opportunities to share a book with their children, by regularly visiting the local library with their children and enjoying the activity themselves.

Reporting To Parents

Reporting to parents on a formal nature occurs four times a year:

Term 1 March / April - Interviews

Term 2 Portfolios sent home

Term 3 August - Interviews

Term 4 Portfolios sent home with a final written comment.

Interviews are of 15 minutes duration. If more time is required a further appointment should be made.

In addition to the arranged interview and portfolio viewing, parents are encouraged to contact the class teacher or the Principal when concerns arise. Please phone to arrange an appointment and briefly outline the matter you wish to discuss.

All information relating to your child or family is held confidential to the school and you as the parents or guardians.

Assemblies

School assemblies held each Friday at 9.00am. Our Special Character is a vital part of the life of our school. Taking this into account, the main focus of assembly is prayer. Each class prepares and presents the prayer section and related items on a roster basis. The roster is included in the school newsletter.

Parents are warmly invited to join us for assembly.

School Stationery

Paper Plus Tower Junction prepares and sells stationery packs for each class. They guarantee Back to School prices for the stationery.

Scholastic Book Club

Please take advantage of the excellent books on offer through the Scholastic Book Club. Books bought through the Scholastic Book Club are cheaper than retail, with free books for the school library an added bonus.

Photographs

Class and individual photographs are taken annually. The purchasing of photographs is optional.

Sun Safety

St. Teresa's School has a Sun Safety Procedure which requires all children to wear a sunhat in Term 1 and Term 4. Children without sunhats will sit in the shade during break times.

Parent Help

Large numbers of parents help the school in many ways, both inside and outside the classroom. Parental involvement with children at all levels is encouraged and welcomed by individual teachers. The role of a parent helper is to work with the students as requested by the classroom teacher, ensuring the dignity of each student in the classroom. Respect for confidentiality is a requirement.

Parking in School Grounds

In the interests of children's safety, parents are expected to enter the car park through the entry, leave through the exit and to park in the school grounds when dropping children off or picking them up. Please do not stop in the driveway for children to leave or enter the car as this causes congestion.

School Grounds

Children are welcome to play in the school grounds after school or during the weekend. We request that due care and consideration is shown to any school amenities during these times and that breakage to equipment or damage to buildings is reported to the Principal.

Prize Giving

An annual Prize Giving is held during the last week of the School Year. Awards for effort, academic achievement and special contributions to class or school are presented to pupils in all classes. Our final School Mass follows the Prize Giving ceremony. This year it will be held on Tuesday 15 December at 5.45 pm.

Personal Belongings

Due to the risk of loss and/or damage, children are discouraged from bringing personal belongings to school. Toys, card and electronic equipment are to be left at home.

Privacy Act Assurance

The school is bound by the Privacy Act to ensure that any personal family information collected by the school remains confidential and is used only in the best interests of the child. Requests to the school office for telephone numbers and/or addresses of other children in the school will be declined.

Parent Liaison Officers maintain a phoning list so that families can be personally contacted regarding social and fund raising events in the school. Families who do not wish to be contacted in this way are asked to notify the school office in writing.

 

Staff Meetings

Regular staff meetings are held to ensure effective running of the school, provide professional development for the staff and to prepare curriculum programmes. The teachers are expected to be at these meetings promptly, parents are therefore requested to be aware of the following times when teachers are required:

• Full staff meetings are held every Tuesday from 3.15 pm - 4.30 pm
• Syndicate meetings are held once per fortnight on Mondays 3.15 pm - 4.30 pm
• Leadership meetings are held once per fortnight on Mondays 3.15 pm - 4.30 pm
• Prayer time each Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8.20 am - 8.30 am

 

Unclaimed Property

All named lost property is returned to the owner. Unmarked property is kept in a box in the foyer to the senior block. Parents are requested to view and claim items at any time. Items unclaimed after a reasonable time are donated to the St. Vincent de Paul Society

 

Video / DVD viewing

Teachers will advise parents of any videos/DVDs with a PG rating that are to be shown to the pupils. Parents may request the withdrawal of their children from viewing them, an alternative activity will be provided for these children in this instance.

Suzi de Gouveia
PRINCIPAL

Pirates' Day.

Art Display

 

Mass

We attend weekly school Mass each Thursday at 9.00 a.m. where our students have the opportunity to actively participate in the liturgy. Parents are warmly invited to attend Mass with us. On the second Thursday of each month you are invited to join us for a coffee morning after Mass. Once per term we celebrate Mass with the parish on a Sunday at 10.00 am. Every student is expected to attend and parents are invited to join us for the celebration of the Eucharist. Morning tea is held after Mass in the Parish hall, families are asked to provide a plate of eats to contribute to the morning tea. Students wear school uniform to this Mass. Dates for these Masses in 2009 are - Term 1 - 22 February, Term 2 - 17 May, Term 3 - 9 August, Term 4 - 1 November. After the Parish School Mass in Term 1 and Term 4 a picnic is held in the school grounds to assist in the development of community building.

 

 

 

 

Young Vinnies

Pupils from Year 5 - 8 have the opportunity to join the St. Teresa's St Vincent de Paul group. Many organisational skills are exercised in this group as they plan activities to help those less fortunate. The children organise coin trails, rice day, barbecues, food drives and the annual Christmas gift appeal.