News

2019 Christmas Carols

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:17:37 AEDT

Our annual Toukley Public School Christmas Carols will be held on Thursday 5th of December. Come and celebrate Christmas with our wonderful school community. There will be a number of food and market stalls as well as a visit from the man himself...Santa.

Presentation Day

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 11:07:33 AEDT

Our schools Presentation Day for K-6 will be held on Tuesday 10th December. We will be presenting the awards in stages this year. The times are as follows;

Year 5 and 6 9.15am - 10.15am

Year 3 and 4 10.15am- 11.00am

Kindergarten - Year 2 11.40am- 12.40

Year 6 Graduation

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:45:00 AEDT

On Friday 12th December we will have our Year 6 assembly at Toukley Public School from 9.30am - 12 noon to celebrate our students completing primary school and heading off into high school.

The Year 6 Graduation/ Farewell will be held at Club Toukley RSL Club from 6.00pm - 8.30pm this year.

Year 5 and 6 Excursions

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:50:03 AEDT

On Wednesday 13^th November, both our Year 5 and 6 students will be heading off to their end of year excursions.

Year 5 are being offered the opportunity to attend a two night excursion to Bathurst which supports their unit of learning on Australian History.

Year 6 are being offered the opportunity to attend a two night excursion to Canberra to support their unit of learning on Australian History- Government.

Year 6 students are reminded to wear their school uniforms on the first day of the excursion as they will be attending Parliament House.

Both Year 5 and 6 excursions will be leaving early on Wednesday 13^th of November. Specific departure times to come.

School Community Charter

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 14:32:45 AEST

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:19:34 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 14:57:53 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

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:23:40 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.

Farewell Mr Kelly

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 11:53:56 AEDT

Today we say goodbye to our beloved principal Mr Kelly, after four and a half years at Toukley Public School. He will be sadly missed by the students, staff and wider community. We wish him the best of luck as he heads into retirement after an amazing career with the Department of Education for over the last 40 years.

Friday For Farmers

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:44 AEST

On Friday the 7th of September (Week 7) the SRC will be running a Friday For Farmers fundraiser. Students are encouraged to dress as a farmer for the day and bring along a gold coin donation. There will also be a small range of games for students to participate in during lunch. All money raised will go directly to the Buy a Bale foundation. Help us support our Aussie farmers.

2018 Book Parade

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

Book Parade 2018
Well done to the students and staff of TPS for their enthusiasm and creativity this year in our book parade. A big shout out to parents and carers for attending the parade and helping to create fantastic outfits.

(More photos in our Gallery)

Coding with Scratch

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:37 AEST

During Terms 1 and 2, all students in Years 3 to 6 are learning the basics of CODING with Miss Tomlinson using the computer program Scratch. The students learn how to give a character or ‘sprite' a simple chain of commands to make it do certain things, for example walk forwards, turn left, change size or colour, disappear and reappear. They then use their knowledge to create simple games. This involves selecting characters, backdrops and sounds then coding or writing scripts for each character to make the game work. The students can then play their own game and share them with others. All of the students taught so far have been very enthusiastic coders and should be proud of what they have produced in these lessons!

There is a link to the Scratch website below - it is free and a fun way to learn coding.

Scratch Website

Athletic Carnival Cancelled (21/06/18)

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:30 AEST

The Athletics Carnival is cancelled today due to the weather. The canteen at school will be closed. Those students that have purchased a sausage sandwich will receive it today for lunch.

Academic Olympics 2018

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:27 AEST

Toukley Public School attended the Academic Olympics on Tuesday 10th of April at Gorokan High School. All students should be very proud of their team work and their efforts on the day. The day begun with mathematics activities, then creativity exercises, English and finally STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths). We had four teams made up of year 5 and 6 students. Congratulations to the girls who received a silver medal for their achievements.

Thank You Bunnings

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

Toukley Public School would like to thank Ann-Maree and Bunnings Lake Haven for their generous donation, including chicken manure, organic compost, sugar cane mulch, fertiliser, seedlings (kale, chillies, cabbages, silver beet, beetroots, garlic and much more. This community garden would not be possible without the support of Bunnings and the community. A big thank you from all the "Green Thumbs".

For those wondering, the market stall will commence shortly after the produce is ready.

Surf Fun Day

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:13 AEST

On Friday the 16th of March, Year 6 attended Surf Fun Day at Toowoon Bay. The day was very well organised by Surf Life Saving Central Coast. All students thoroughly enjoyed the obstacle courses, relays, becoming "crumbed chickens", rescue races and many more fun activities. The students learnt about the possible dangers when swimming or surfing at a beach. All students participated enthusiastically and our mentors were very impressed with Toukley's behaviour. Well done Year 6!

Worlds Greatest Shave

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:22 AEST

Congratulations to Tahni and Summer who took part in the Worlds Greatest Shave. We are extremely proud of these two amazing young ladies. Thank you to the wonderful school community who came to school with crazy hair and raised over $850 for the girls today. The girls raised a total of over $5000 for the cause!
What a wonderful effort!

SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

School Photographs are on Monday 19 February. Because the photographs are early this year parents will have up until Friday 9 March to complete payment for photographs that have been requested.

A note with more information will be attached soon to the "Notes Home" tab.

EARLY ACTION FOR SUCCESS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:41 AEST

EARLY ACTION FOR SUCCESS

VOLUNTEER COURSE

The Parents as Teachers/Community Helpers (PaTCH) course is a training program to accredit volunteers supporting children learning to read, write and use counting in the early years of schooling.

Volunteers who have successfully completed PaTCH training have undertaken a 10 week course involving:

Participation in 5 training sessions totaling 10 hours of tuition.
A minimum of 15 hours practicum in an early years classroom completing set between session tasks.

Participants are required to:

Collect work samples through a learning journal. The collection includes samples of resources, photographs or recordings of activities, short summaries of activities and reflections of practice.
Be observed and supported by the classroom teacher and the school's instructional leader during the practicum experience.
Engage in regular interviews related to session content with the school's instructional leader.
The PaTCH course will be run by Instructional Leader Emma Pezet this semester.
Parents who would like to attend the information session and morning tea on Thursday 22^nd February at 9.15am in the Library please inquire in the office by Friday 16^th February.

UNIFORM 2018

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

Please note that as we receive a lot of new enrolments around the end of the year and the beginning of next year, we are informing parents of the uniform required to be worn by students at Toukley Public School.

End of Year Rundown

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

END OF YEAR RUNDOWN

There is a lot happening this time of year so please refer to the following list for a rundown of the events to come

Friday 1^st Dec- Purple Day SRC Fundraiser
Gold coin donation for those students to wear the colour purple
Tuesday 5^th Dec- Year 6 Orientation Day GHS
Students to meet at GHS
Tuesday 5th Dec- Preschool Graduation
2:00pm in the hall
Thursday 7^th Dec- Toukley Coastal Carols
5:30pm Area C
Thursday 7th Dec- Second Hand Book Sale
Recess and Lunch outside the Library- Gold coin donation
Friday 8^th Dec- Summer Awards
Early Stage 1- 9.00am- Area A COLA
Stage 1 & 2 – 11.40am- Area A COLA
Stage 3 – 11.40am- Area B COLA
Students who receive their awards will be provided with a sausage sizzle and extra playtime as their reward.
Monday 11^th Dec- All Seasons Award - All in hall
Stage 3- 9:15
Stage 2- 9.45
Early Stage 1 & Stage 1- 10:15
Students who receive their awards will take part in a silent disco as their reward.
Tuesday 12^th Dec- Presentation Day
9:15- Area A COLA
Wednesday 13^th Dec- Year 6 Farewell Assembly
9:20- Area A COLA
Wednesday 13th Dec- Year 6 Farewell
6:00-8:30pm in the hall

Farewell Mrs Birch

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:43 AEST

Congratulations Mrs Birch! Last Friday saw the start of a new phase in Mrs Birch's life when she takes leave prior to retiring early next year. The students were all too willing to gather for a goodbye cheer and hug before Mrs Birch farewelled her beloved TPS.
Congratulations Judy! You are one inspirational teacher and you will be missed 💜

School Uniform Shop

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

The school uniform shop will be open on January 17th from 9am- 11am and the 24th January from 9am- 11am in the Hall. Online orders can be made at Online Uniform Shop. These online orders can be picked up on the above dates between 11am-1pm.

Bathurst Camp Year 5

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:32 AEST

A gigantic thank you to all the Year 5 students who attended the Bathurst Camp.
Your behaviour was impeccable. Everywhere we visited gave you raving reviews on your manners and respect. You even managed to constantly get ready ahead of schedule and deliver the tidiest rooms
Well done Year 5!

See Gallery for more photos

Stage 3 Oz Tag

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:10 AEST

On Wednesday the 15th of November four Stage 3 teams made up of two girls teams and two boys teams played Oz Tag against a range of Central Coast schools. The gala day gave students the opportunity to play a modified version of rugby league tag. Each team played four games throughout the day and enjoyed some wins and some losses. A big thank you to Chris Buckland from Camp Toukley who provided us with a mini bus to transport students and Vicki Harding for kindly taking the day to drive the students to Gosford and back.

Stage 2 Oz Tag Day

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

On Wednesday the 1st of November four Stage 2 teams made up of two girls teams and two boys teams played Oz Tag against a range of Central Coast schools. The kids displayed great sportsmanship and teamwork playing a game many of them had never played before.

Khiarna 4S- Oz Tag was so fun and half of the people didn't even know the first thing about the game, but Mr Downes and Miss Bennett taught them how. My team drew all three games which was an amazing achievement.

Jarrod 3B - Yesterday was so good and very competitive but at the end of the day we all had fun.

See Gallery for more photos

Milo T20 Cricket Day

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:55 AEST

A great day was had by the Year 5 students that attended the Milo Cricket T20 Gala Day at Harry Moore Oval, Toukley. The students all showed great sportsmanship and enthusiasm during the gala day. The students played a variety of local schools in a modified game of cricket, enhancing their skills in bowling, batting and fielding. A big thank you to Cricket NSW for making the day possible.

2K's Crime Scene

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

2K Crime Scene.

Teachers at Toukley Public School are always looking at new ways to engage students. As an introduction to a narrative unit, 2K investigated a crime scene which involved students using inference and descriptive writing as just some of the elements in solving the mysterious crime.

For more images see Gallery

National Science Week

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

National Science Week

Term 3 Week 5 was an amazing week as students celebrated National Science Week
TPS got involved in Science Week in by creating some imaginative and fabulous ideas in and outside classrooms.
See Gallery for more images.

We are the Champions!!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

Winners are Grinners!
Hunter/Central Coast grand final winners!!!!
A massive congratulations on the most exceptional achievement to the Toukley PS Senior Debating team.
They took out the title of the best debating team across the whole of the Hunter and Central Coast and will now be competing at the State Championships in November against the top teams in NSW across 10 regions. We could not be more proud of their achievement, team work, commitment and determination. Such a well deserved accomplishment.

School Bus Safety Program

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

School Bus Safety Program

Busways are coming out to visit Stage 2 students on Tuesday and Wednesday in Week 6 as a part of the Road Safety Teaching and Learning program.

The School Bus Safety Program has been offered as a community service by Busways since 1989. The trainers have a dedication to spreading the school bus safety message.

The Busways School Bus Safety Trainers travel to Toukley Public School and provide a classroom tutorial on school bus safety, running through some key points including:

Waiting at bus stops
Getting on and off the bus at school and at bus stops
Safe behaviour whilst travelling on the bus
Student code of conduct
Using bus passes
Telling the bus driver about problems on the bus
Parent/carers responsibilities (waiting on the correct side of the road)
Evacuation procedure in case of an emergency
The role of public transport in the community

We are very fortunate to have this opportunity to welcome the Busways team and appreciate them spreading the safety message to help keep our Toukley Public School students safe.

2017 Book Parade

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:24 AEST

A huge congratulations to everyone who participated in the 2017 Book Parade. It was a fantastic event that was enjoyed by the entire school community. A special thanks to Amy Sivanandan our school librarian for her hard work and organisational skills in making the day a success.

Premier's Sporting Challenge

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

On Friday the 11th of August, Year 5 attended the long awaited Premier's Sporting Challenge Day at Harry Moore Oval. The event allowed students to experience a range of different sports with an emphasis on participation and sportsmanship. A huge thank you to the PE department at Gorokan High School for organising such an amazing day.

See photo gallery for more images

Robotics Day 2017

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

On Friday the 11th of August a few lucky students from Stage 3 attended a robotics day at Gorokan High School. They had a fantastic day learning about a range of different robots and coding systems.

See Photo Gallery for more photos

Bunnings Visit

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:35 AEST

The " Green Thumbs" would like to give a warm thank you to Ann-Maree from Bunnings for visiting our vegetable patch and providing our school with compost, seedlings, potato farms and plant food. We are very excited to be growing some new produce including broccoli, cauliflower, leeks, onions, dwarf peas and spinach. We have also started a lovely strawberry patch.

Sporting Event Changes

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:08 AEST

The venue for the boys cricket team playing Friday16th June is now been moved to Caves Beach Public School Oval. At this stage the game is still going ahead.

The boys rugby league gala day at Sohier Park, Ourimbah on Wednesday 14th June has been postponed due to oval closure. We are still waiting conformation of the new date.

Congratulations to our Age Champions (Swimming)

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:38 AEST

Congratulations to our Swimming Age Champions for 2017.

Jai Costello (Top left)- Senior Boys Champion

Mary Williamson (Top Right)- Senior Girls Champion

Christopher Johnston (Far Left)- Jnr Age Champion

April Clements (Absent)- Under 11's Girls Age Champion

Owen Lumby (Front Middle)- Under 11's Boys Age Champion

Savannah Maynier (Far left)- Jnr Girls Age Champion

Stay informed with our Skoolbag App!!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:10 AEST

We have replaced our old school app with the new Skoolbag App.

How to install Skoolbag on your smartphone.

Iphone or Ipad users:

- Go to the "App Store"

- Type "Toukley Public School" in the search

- The app will appear, select "get" then "install" (the app is free to download)

Android users:

- Go to the "play store"

- Type "Toukley Public School" in the search

- The app will appear, select "install" (the app is free to download)

- Select "accept" for various permissions (please note, no personal data on your device will be modified)

Once you have installed the app

Once the app is installed you have the option to set up push notifications for selected grades so that you can stay up to date with your child's year group.

To do this:

- Open the app

- Select "more" in the bottom right corner of the apps main screen

- Select "setup push notifications"

- Here you can select the appropriate year group/s by toggling the on or off button.

Book Week Parade

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:47 AEST

On August 25th,Toukley Public School celebrated Children's Book Week by hosting our annual Book Parade. Both teachers and students looked fantastic dressed up as their favourite book characters. We would like to thank parents and community members for helping us celebrate this event.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)Day

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:10 AEST

On Thursday 18th August, Toukley Public School participated in STEM Day. Thanks to a grant obtained by the hard work of Mrs Cheney, each Stage completed activities designed to educate students in the four areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. These activities encouraged problem solving and collaborative learning.

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Launch & Opening of the new COLA

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

Toukley Public School officially opened the new COLA and launched PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) on the 9th August 2016. It was a fantastic afternoon with special guest such as B-mer (our new school mascot), Mr Murray Ellis (former Assistant Principal) and Ms Kris Stillman (former teacher).

The Aboriginal dance group, Junior dance troop and the Boys Choir put on outstanding performances. We were also surprised by a dance performed by all the students in Stage 3.

Thank you to all parents and community members who joined us to celebrate on the day.

Congratulations to the U/10s Rugby League Team

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:38 AEST

The Under 10's Rugby League team have made it to the Grand Final on the 30th June. The boys played three great games. They tied their first game 12-12 with Woy Woy South, then got beaten by Bateau Bay 16-6. In the semi-final against Budgewoi the boys won 16-6. The boys all showed true sportsmanship and worked together as a team. Well done.

Stage 2 Camp Deposit Due Friday17th June

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

The $50 dollar deposit for Stage 2's camp to Camp Toukley is due Friday 17th June. Please ensure you have paid the deposit as we need to finalise numbers and payments for the camp. Thank you

Too Sick For School?

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:15 AEST

Too sick for school.

Canteen Reopening

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:35 AEST

Toukley Public School Canteen will be reopening Week 2, Monday 2 May 2016.

The canteen will be back to full operation and will be offering the full menu.

Canteen Menu (pdf 199 KB)

SWIMMING CARNIVAL WAS A GREAT SUCCESS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:13 AEST

The school swimming carnival was held at Toukley Aquatic Centre on the 12th February. It was a fantastic day with Speedwell house winning the carnival by one point over Dixon. Gwydir came in third followed by Paterson. A big thank you to Miss Curtis and Miss McKay for organising the carnival. We would also like to thank the staff at Toukley Aquatic Centre, parents, and staff who assisted on the day.

SCHOOL CANTEEN CLOSED INDEFINITELY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

Our school canteen was water damaged during the holidays. Unfortunately the canteen will be closed indefinitely for repairs. We apologise for any inconvenience.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2016 SCHOOL LEADERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:38 AEST

On Tuesday the 8th of December our school leaders for 2016 were announced. As always this is a highlight of our annual presentation ceremony. A big congratulations to Dylan Di Franco and Sammy Tracey who are our new school leaders. They will be supported by Nikita Hicks, Ieshia Grech, Annalise Rasmussen and Brandon Williams who have been named as school prefects. Congratulations also goes to them.

OUR FIRST CHRISTMAS CAROLS WERE A HIT!!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:59 AEST

Our Christmas Carols held on the 1st of December were a hit. It was fantastic to see the local community coming together to listen to some amazing singing from our students and staff. Our principal Tom Kelly proved that he can hold a note as he jigged along to the carols.

WHITE RIBBON WALK

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:21 AEST

On Friday 27 November members of our Junior Red Cross participated in the Central Coast White Ribbon Walk at The Entrance. The students were all asked to wear a white T shirt. The walk is part of a 16 day Action Against Gender Violence commencing 25 November and continues until Human Rights Day on 10 December 2015.

Memorial Park The Entrance was the starting point of the walk and the students walked to Picnic Point and back. They were able to listen to various speakers who were either victims of domestic violence or contributors toward it. The students were accompanied by Mrs Starr, Mrs Paterson, Mrs Corbett and Mr Kelly who all said that the speeches were quite moving.

ROTARY CITIZENSHIP AWARD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

Two of our Year 6 students were recently recognised for being great citizens. Each year Northlakes Toukley Rotary Club ask for 2 names of students who display specific citizenship qualities.

This year Tanique Nolan and Maverick Irvine were given the honour of receiving this award. It was wonderful that their parents were able to attend the annual dinner to see them presented with their medal and certificate.

They are great ambassadors for Toukley Public School.

AMAZING NEW BOOKS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:28 AEST

Our school has recently purchased some quality books for use in the classroom as well as for perusal in the school library. All these books need to be covered with either plastic film or contact. We are looking for parents who may have some time on their hands and can help us out with this mammoth task. If in fact you can spare some time please contact the school office and we can point you in the right direction.

VIEW CLUB MAKE CONTRIBUTION TO OUR LIBRARY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

Toukley Public School would like to make mention of the generous donation of a beautiful children's book to the school library. Sandra Daniel, Secretary and Byril Marshall, Publicity Officer visited our school last week and presented Mr Kelly with a beautiful copy of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.

FUN IN THE SUN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:45 AEST

On Friday 30 October students from Stage 3 enjoyed a day in the sun. The students travelled by coach to Toowoon Bay where they participated in activities provided by Central Coast SLSC. Students who weren't allowed to enter the water enjoyed activities on the sand such as Beach Volleyball and Beach Races.

The students who went into the water learnt how to save someone, how to use a board and they also got to have some time for a free swim.

A great day was had by all and the weather man was very kind to them.

KARA RECOGNISED FOR HER OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

Kara Walker, our Aboriginal Education Officer was recently recognised with a prestigious Gili award. Gili Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of Aboriginal Students, the contribution and dedication of TAFE NSW staff and the outcomes of TAFE with industry, schools and Aboriginal communities.

Kara is employed at our preschool and is currently undertaking a Traineeship in Children's Services Certificate V (Diploma) with TAFE NSW.

Family and local AECG executive were present to witness Kara receiving her award.

OUR STUDENTS CERTAINLY HAVE THE X FACTOR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:00 AEST

On Wednesday 11 November our school held it's 2nd Talent Showcase. Our performing groups displayed their X factor in an entertaining manner.

Performances were given by our Boy's, Senior and Junior Dance Groups, Aboriginal Dance Group, Didge Group and the School Choir. There were two fantast shows which were well attended by our parents and school community.

We look forward to seeing the talent of our students in 2016 Showcase.

K-2 MORE AWARE OF DOGS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

On Monday 9 November our students from Kindergarten to Year 2 were privileged to have local dog trainer John Gatt of K9 services, visit and provide them with some good tips on how to treat and approach dogs, not only their own dogs but dogs not known to them also.

It was a most entertaining show and John was accompanied by his trusty companions Scooby Doo, Snoopy and his own furry friend Angel who performed some tricks. The following are some of the tips the children were provided with.

BOOK CHARACTERS LIGHT UP OUR SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:33 AEST

In the theme of Book Week 2015 "Books light up our World", students and staff dressed up as their favourite book characters. Our school was certainly lit up with a sea of colour, music, and many weird and wonderful characters.

We had Spiderman, Harry Potter, Mineons, the Ugly Step Sisters and a number of fairies.

Staff members certainly got into the action where we had the Seven Dwarfs, however no Snow White. Mrs Gurnhill was Cruella and the School Learning Support Officers were dressed as 101 Dalmations. The staff from our Multicategorical Classes represented the characters from the Wizard of Oz.

It was a great morning enjoyed by students, staff and the many parents who came along to see the parade. There are many more photos in the Gallery of this webpage.

Have a look at the great characters in our Gallery: Book Character Parade Album

STAGE 2 ENJOY PT WOLSTONCROFT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

During Week 4 of Term 3 students from Years 3 and 4 enjoyed a two night at Point Wolstoncroft. The camp is located on the shores of Lake Macquarie at Gwandalan. The children who attended had a great time canoeing and taking a turn on the giant swing. Other activities included archery and rock climbing.

The students enjoyed all the programs on offer including the food. They were all on their best behaviour and came away with wonderful memories that they will share for years to come. There a quite a few photos in the gallery on this webpage.

Toukley Public School Gallery

BOOKS LIGHT UP OUR WORLD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:34 AEST

Toukley Public School will be celebrating Book Week in Week 7 (Mon 24/8 to Friday 28/8. This years theme is "books light up our world".

During the celebrations our students will be given the opportunity to participate our annual Book Parade on Wednesday 26th August. Information for the parade will be sent home during Week 6. In the meantime, it's time to get those fabulous costumes ready for the parade.

We are so looking forward to seeing students family and friends come along to witness this great event.

NEWCASTLE PERMANENT & KWASI GET KIDS ACTIVE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

As part of a program sponsored by Newcastle Permanent Building Society, ex Central Coast Mariner player and current Youth Development Coordinator, Adam Kwasnik, visited our school and engaged our Stage 3 students in physical activities and skills related to football. This particular program is school focussed to encourage children to be more active.

"Kwasi" was great with the students, created fun and earned their respect in return. All the students who participated in the activities thoroughly enjoyed it. They were all presented with a showbag of goodies.

It was great to get positive feedback from the students and from Adam who was impressed with the behaviour of the Toukley Public kids. We are looking forward to welcoming him back perhaps during Term 4 to give our Stage 2 students the opportunity to participate in the program.

ANNUAL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:29 AEST

Students aged 8 years and up participated in Toukley Public School Athletic Carnival last Friday 31 July. Students in all events displayed true sportsmanship and encouraged all their competitors and fellow house members equally. Students who did not compete in the normal events such as shot put, high jump etc enjoyed activities such as 3 legged races and sack races.

There was a good roll up of parents and friends to cheer the children on.

HANDS ON MATHS FOR PARENTS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

On Tuesday 28 July 21 families participated in a Hands-On Maths workshop presented by the Toukley Public School Maths committee. Mrs Pollock showed many games that parents can do at home and helped parents understand how students learn in maths. Parents were provided with resources to use at home and shown many games that can be played with cards, dominoes, cars, socks and pegs.

It was wonderful to see so many parents participate in this valuable workshop. Parents gave very positive feedback and are looking forward to more similar workshops presented by our school.

CONTRIBUTING TO A GREEN AUSTRALIA

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:39 AEST

Toukley Public School students had fun contributing to a greener Australia on National Tree Planting Day, Friday 24 July. Each student got to assist in planting one tree per class in our new nature walk area. Some students dug the hole, whilst others placed the tree in the ground and others watered. It was great to see such great teamwork in the classes.

The trees planted included bush tucker plants such as pig face, lily pily and many others.

Parents will soon be able to visit our nature walk and see the new additions to the plants.

FUN IN THE AFTERNOON

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:45 AEST

On the afternoon of Friday 24 July students from Preschool to Year 2 participated in a fun sport afternoon. Activities included a fun run, relays, skipping, obstacle course, rob the nest, simon says

and dancing. The children had so much fun in all the activities.

It was wonderful to see our gorgeous students so well behaved and being very sportsmanlike.

Parents came along to watch and cheer their children on.

YEAR 6 DISCOVER UNIVERSITY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:26 AEST

On 22 July Year 6 students together with an adult member of their family visited Newcastle University, Ourimbah Campus. The students interacted with the current university students in various faculties. Sport Science, Music and IT were just some of the faculties our students visited.

This day was a great success and enjoyed by all who attended. We have received such positive feedback.

100 DAYS AT SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:22 AEST

Miss Cross and her K-2 class will find any reason to celebrate. On 20 July the class celebrated their 100th day of school this year.

Each student was given the task of making a lolly bag, by filling a snap-lock bag, with 100 lollies. The children used a counting mat with 10 circles to sort the lollies into groups of ten. They then counted each group as one group of ten to fill their bag.

What a novel and yummy way to celebrate.

SUCCESS AT SEVENS GALA DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

On 20 July two teams of Toukley boys competed in separate competitions at a Rugby League 7's Gala Day at Gumbuyah oval, Lake Munmorah. One team competed in the "Fairleigh competition" and the other team competed in the "Terry Quinn competition.

The team in the Fairleigh competition competed against some very big and strong opposition. The boys did our school proud when they played hard and regularly put their body on the line. These boys did not get the result they would have liked in the first three games, however were rewarded with a victory in the final game.

The second team competed in the Terry Quinn competition. After their hard fought win in their third game against Gwandalan Public School our boys qualified to compete in the semi final round. The boys were too strong for Terrigal Public School who were their opposition in the semi final. This win set up a rematch with Gwandalan Public School in the final. The Toukley boys performance in the final was the most impressive of the day, which resulted in a 16-4 victory and made them the winners of the Terry Quinn competition.

It was great to see so many parents come along to support our team.

WE HAD FUN CELEBRATING NAIDOC

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

During the last week of Term 2 our students enjoyed a week of activities to celebrate NAIDOC Week. Each day all students got to participate in specific activities including art work shops and Indigenous games led by our Stage 3 students.

We had students from Gorokan High School Didge and Aboriginal Dance groups visit our school to upskill our students in these areas. This was a very popular activity among the students.

All students had the opportunity to taste kangaroo sausages and kangaroo bolognaise, very interesting flavours.

The celebrations ended with the entire student body participating in a their rendition of "We are Australian". The children wore red, yellow and black tshirts and were arranged in the shape of the Aboriginal flag. It looked and sounded fantastic.

The behaviour and enthusiasm of the students during the week of celebrations was excellent and made us a very proud school.

STUDENT WELLBEING UPDATE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:11 AEST

Our PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) team are currently working on an updated Student Wellbeing Policy. Parents will be provided with a copy of the draft in the next week or so for any feedback they may like to put forward. A copy of the Draft is attached below for perusal. The team would love any type of feedback.

Student Wellbeing Draft (pdf 149 KB)

STAGE 2 STEP BACK IN TIME

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

Stage 2 stepped back in time on 27 May when they travelled to Windsor and visited the Australiana Pioneer Village. They got to attend a strict classroom and found out about what the kids from "the olden days" learned when they were at school. The children were intrigued not only when the teacher Mr Kevin waved a cane around but also with the lift up desks and the beautiful cursive writing on the chalkboard. A far cry from classrooms of today.

They got to visit a shearing shed and learned how the wool was spun into yarn and how you got the different colours before it was knitted to make all types of garments.

Wandering the grounds of the village the students got a good idea of how people lived over a hundred years ago and how small the rooms were in the houses. Artefacts from days gone by were on display in the bank, the post office, the church and the blacksmiths shed. Many of the children were fascinated by these.

Some of the children got to churn some butter which we all got to sample prior to leaving to head back to school. It was a great day and some students showed an interest in returning.

STAR CLASS IN PRACTISE FOR JUMP OFF

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:10 AEST

Our current star class 5/6M are into practise for the "Jump Rope for Heart" jump off on 19th June. You can take a look at their skills on this video.

As our star class we have a display in the foyer provided by the class. All are welcome to visit our foyer to see 5/6M's Mothers Day artwork. It's impressive.

WALK SAFELY TO SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

Our students are being encouraged to take part in the 16th annual Walk Safely to School Day. This day is held every year and families participate to ensure that their children walk and commute safely to school.

Some of the objectives of the day are:

To encourage parents and carers to walk to school with primary school age children
To promote the health benefits of walking and create regular walking habits
To help children develop vital road crossing skills and ensure children up to the age of 10 years hold an adult's hand when crossing roads
To help children develop the vital road-crossing skills they will need as they become mature pedestrians
To reduce car dependency and traffic congestion
To reduce the level of air pollution created by motor vehicles
To promote the use of public transport.

More information is available on the Walk to School website at: http://www.walk.com.au/WSTSD/

1S LEARN AUSLAN SIGN LANGUAGE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:22 AEST

During this year 1S has been learning Auslan sign language in class. They have been using it in Literacy to communicate a simple question to Miss Smith their teacher. The class has been eagerly awaiting the start of the "Count Us In" music program and as we have also been learning simple signs we decided to learn a song in sign language. The song is called "paint you a song" and was translated by a group of children from the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children especially for the "Count Us In" Program. We hope you enjoy the video.

GETTING READY FOR NEXT YEAR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

Getting ready for next year already you may think, however that's just what we are doing. On Wednesday 20 May commencing at 6pm our Kindergarten teachers are holding any information evening for 2016 Kindergarten families. The venue for this information evening is our current Kindergarten classrooms.

The teachers will give parents an insight into what to expect in the Kindergarten classrooms during 2016. Parents will be able to sample and see the technology which is now used to educate the Kindergarten children.

All prospective Kindergarten parents are welcome top come along to this evening. There will be free child minding provided on the evening.

WEDNESDAY CROSS COUNTRY CARNIVAL POSTPONED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

Our school cross country carnival due to be held this coming Wednesday (6 May) has had to be postponed due to the wet conditions. The new date will be announced when we have confirmed our field booking with Wyong Shire Council.

WE WILL MISS MRS BUCK

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

Kooloora Pre School teacher Mrs Sharon Buck has accepted a new position as a P-2 Initiatives Officer for the Department of Education and Communities for the Hunter/Central Coast Region. Sharon has had such a dynamic approach to revitalising our Kooloora preschool to make it a highly respected and high profile preschool in our region.

Miss Brianna Thomas will fill the position of Kooloora preschool teacher during Mrs Buck's absence. In her new role she will continue to support the preschool and Brianna as well other preschool staff.

It is always sad to lose such a valued staff member, however our school community wishes Sharon well in her new role. We look forward to her return to our school at a later date.

ROCK AND WATER TRAINING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

On Staff Development Day for Term 2 staff were introduced to a new program being implemented into our school. Rock and Water training aims to support students in their Self Control, Self Reflection and Self Confidence.

Led by Mrs Wilson, Mrs Stopps, Mr Steinbeck and Mr Gillett staff participated in a number of the play activities in the program to gain an understanding of the activities and ideas of the course. Staff will be involved in more training over the term to build the school's knowledge of the program.

Amongst laughter and whole lot of fun, teachers were able to see and feel each activity and like it back to our school rules and socially acceptable behaviours.

TOUKLEY PUBLIC SCHOOL REMEMBERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:16 AEST

A group of our students gathered in Toukley on Anzac Day to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the ANZAC spirit. Led by our school leaders the group marched together with parents, students from other schools and various sporting and community groups, from the Village Green to the Cenotaph proudly waving Australian flags.

At the Cenotaph the school captains laid flowers on behalf of Toukley Public School. Our students displayed the ultimate respect and outstanding behaviour during the course of the entire proceedings. Once again our students have done us proud.

On Wednesday 29 April special Anzac Assemblies will be held in the school hall.

WET WELCOME TO TOUKLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

Toukley Public School community are excited to have a new teacher to add to our fantastic staff. Mr Matthew Downes started at our school on Day 1 of this term. He was given an interesting induction with being volunteered to act as a patient in CPR Training on Day 1. Then the dreadful weather conditions came in and closed the school for the next two days. Thankfully this hasn't deterred him and Mr Downes has still decided to stay.

He has a wonderful class in KB and is looking forward to sharing the achievements and excitement of the first year at "big school" with his students. Mr Downes has been teaching for 10 years including a period of time when he taught overseas. At Wamberal Public School he also taught a Kindergarten class prior to joining us at Toukley.

In his leisure time he enjoys surfing and spending quality time with his family and friends. We are happy to have him here at Toukley.

STUDENTS ARE ABLE TO RETURN TO SCHOOL THURSDAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

The school will be operational tomorrow but access to certain areas and classrooms will be restricted until we have been assured of their safety.

Access to the school will be via the gates in front of the library and carpark gates. There will be no access to the centenary garden until that area has been cleared of the fallen tree and other debris. The classrooms for 5/6W, Ms Wilson and 5/6N, Mr Norman will not be used tomorrow and will be cordoned off. There will be temporary barriers erected which will exclude all children, parents and staff members. Please ensure that you remain outside the areas barricaded off.

When children arrive tomorrow (after 8.30am please) they are to assemble in the area in front of the double storey classrooms unless it is raining. If it is raining children will move directly to their classrooms. Students will receive information about areas that they are to stay well clear of when they arrive at school tomorrow.

We are expecting tree loppers soon at school to start the big job of clearing the fallen trees and examining all trees for signs of distress, clear branches that are hanging loosely and on top of buildings, and trim trees where necessary.

MORE TREES FALLEN OVER NIGHT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:55 AEST

Overnight more trees in our school ground have fallen over. The strong winds have certainly decorated our school with debris, trees, branches and leaves together with the puddles. We appreciate the co-operation of our parents at this time in keeping our students at home where we know they will be safe.

NO SCHOOL WEDNESDAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

Under advice from the Department of Education and Communities and until we can ensure the safety of our students and staff, our school will be non operational tomorrow Wednesday 22 April. No educational programs will be delivered and minimal staff will be on site.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

WILD AND WINDY WEATHER

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:21 AEST

Unfortunately because of the wild and windy weather school presented some dangers and therefore parents were asked to keep their children at home for their own safety.

Within our school grounds we have trees down, and flying debris from our damaged COLA area, which made many parts of the school unsafe and inaccessible.

As a school we are concerned for the safety of our children and appreciate the cooperation of parents in keeping the students in the safety of their own home today.

Have a look at the photos in our photo gallery.

RED CROSS PAY A SPECIAL EASTER VISIT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

Members of Toukley Public School's Junior Red Cross made a special Easter visit to Norah Head Nursing home on the Wednesday before Easter. The residents were treated to a dance to "Peter Cottontail". Students also read some Easter stories to them.

During the weeks leading up to the visit the Red Cross members made some paper flowers and created pretty Easter Cards to distribute to the residents whilst they mingled. These students are a credit to our school and always thoroughly enjoy putting a smile of the faces of the elderly residents at the nursing home.

THE WEEK TO STAY IN YOUR SEAT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

The Rule of the Week for the last week of Term 1 is "Stay in Your Seat". This week lessons will be taught with a view to reinforcing this rule. The Rule of the Week PBL program has been most successful throughout this term and will continue in Term 2 with more rules of the week.

Children who are seen to be following the rules are rewarded and go into a draw to win a prize from Ms Binnie's bundle of goodies.

5/6C LOOK FOR A FAIR GO

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

During Term 1 5/6C have been completing a literacy unit of learning called Fair Go!!. This particular unit addresses the ethical and social dilemmas associated with sport.

Students have spent the past 9 weeks exploring a wide range of topics concerning sporting dilemmas including:

Language of Sport and Persuasion
Corruption in Sport
Rich vs Poor
Advertising
Drugs in Sport
Amateur vs professional
Sexism in Sport
Disability in Sport
Codes of Sport

This class is our foyer Star Class for the next two weeks. Come into the school foyer and see the artwork the students have created relating to this topic.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR FOR LEARNING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) is a school-wide behaviour initiative which was implemented at Toukley Public School in 2010. PBL uses a whole school approach to address problem behaviour and it's effects on outcomes for students and on the school community as a whole.

The program has been given a revamp in conjunction with our school Welfare Policy in 2015. Each week there will be an emphasis on one aspect of our school rules, which are Care, Courtesy and Co-operation. On Mondays all classes will discuss the current "Rule of the Week" and lessons will be taught in regards to this particular rule.

Children are rewarded for following the rule with tickets in a draw conducted at fortnightly assemblies. Winners of the draw will receive a prize from a prize box.

We are now in Week 8 and to date this new approach has been very successful. We are happy to see our students embracing our "Rules of the Week".

TOUKLEY IS FULL OF STARS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:16 AEST

Toukley Public School is full of stars and evidence of this is showcased in our school foyer. Each class is given the opportunity to display their work both written and artwork on a special star class board in the school foyer.

This week 2K are our star class. This class has been learning all about Australia. They have been reading books such as Edwina the Emu and The Cocky who Cried Dingo. They have also learnt about Australian slang and what the Australian outback looks like.

Come into our foyer and see the amazing pieces of writing and artwork created by this young class.

TOUKLEY'S BACKYARD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:17 AEST

A group of children with an interest in gardening have been busy creating the school's very own vegetable patch. With the assistance of Bunnings the children built the garden beds and today they were once again assisted by Bunnings workers to plant the garden beds out.

Bunnings provided the group with seedlings and seeds to plant out. Marigolds were planted in each garden bed to attempt to keep pests and insects at bay. They planted a variety of vegetables including peas, spinach, lettuce to name just a few.

The gardening group will be maintaining the gardens and before we know it they will be enjoying the fruits of their hard work.

SUPER SWIMMING CARNIVALS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

Thursday 12 February saw Toukley Aquatic Centre host the annual swimming carnival of Toukley Public School. This carnival was a great success and it was wonderful to hear such positive feedback from parents and spectators. From this carnival 26 of our students were eligible to compete at the Wallarah Zone Swimming Carnival. This carnival was held at Mingara last week. Two Toukley swimmers then became eligible to compete at the next level of competition and one swimmer has been chosen as a reserve for the Wallarah Zone swimming squad. They will compete at Hombush in the Sydney North Swimming Carnival. We wish them luck.

WHERE HAS TERM 1 GONE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:21 AEST

Well here we are in Week 7 already, what has happened to the last 6 weeks. Time always flies when we're busy and our school has been very busy so far this year.

Already we've had our Annual Swimming Carnival, our Parent Teacher Afternoon and BBQ and we have competed in various PSSA competitions including cricket, students have gone to trials to represent the Zone in a variety of sports.

Our PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) program has had a successful start to the year. Students are taught lessons in relation to the appropriate "Rule of the Week". For acknowledging and following the rules of the week the students are rewarded.

The School Photographer has also visited and taken the 2015 class photos and will return to photograph the school representative teams at a later date.

And there are many more activities in the planning.

As you can see we've had a very busy start to the year.

THE END OF ANOTHER SCHOOL YEAR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

Another school year ended for students on Wednesday 17 December, however staff are still working hard in preparation for another busy school year in 2015. Thursday 18th and Friday 19th December were School Development Days when all staff participate in Professional Development to maintain our high level of teaching.

Thursday 18th December saw staff participate in a Cultural Education day where they visited many Aboriginal sites from Somersby Falls to Norah Head. This day was most enjoyable and whats more very informative. All staff learnt so much about Aboriginal Culture and history from our guide Gavi.

Friday 19th December all staff undertook various mandatory training as set out by the Department of Education. A well earned rest during the school holidays and then staff return to school on Tuesday 27 January and students Year 1 to Year 6 commence their 2015 learning on Wednesday 28 January.

A SPECIAL DAY FOR YEAR 6

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:27 AEST

Thursday 11 December was a special day for all our Year 6 students. The day began with a special whole school assembly where Year 6 students were presented with their graduation photos and Semester 2 reports. At the conclusion of the assembly all the graduating students were clapped out of the school hall by all on hand including their parents and community members.

In the evening the Year 6 students celebrated the completion of their primary years with a dinner and farewell disco. Many staff members joined them for dinner and a dance afterward.

Our 2014 school captains, Natasha Fisk and Nicholas Tabrett cut their Farewell cake and is was shared among everybody.

It certainly was a day when all the Year 6 students were made feel very special.

2015 LEADERS ANNOUNCED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:24 AEST

At the annual presentation ceremony the leaders of our school for 2015 were announced. The new leaders are:

Riley Shortland - School Captain

Zaxson Eaton - School Captain

Amelia Barone - School Prefect

Lilly Severino - School Prefect

Jacob Perks - School Prefect

Maverick Irvine - School Prefect

The parents of these children were on hand to present them with their badges and share in the excitement of the announcement.

We know that these students will be great ambassadors for Toukley Public School.

STUDENTS ACHIEVEMENTS RECOGNISED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:11 AEST

The achievements of our students were recognised on Tuesday at our annual presentation ceremony. Class awards were given out by each class teacher and the major school awards were announced.

The major award winners for 2014 were:

Dux of the school - Matthew Openshaw

Citizenship Award - Izabelle Wooden

Sportsperson of the Year - Matilda Taylor

It was wonderful to see so many family members and friends in our hall to share in the students achievements.

OUR FANTASTIC FETE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

What a brilliant day we had on 8 November for our fantastic school fete. The sun was shining however there was a breeze which kept the temperature down.

There was such a great relaxed feel among the crowd and lots of smiling faces. Obviously they were having a great time.

The children enjoyed the rides and particularly dunking their teacher whilst the adults enjoyed the variety of stalls who operated on the day.

The local school talent was showcased through our school choir, our junior and senior dance groups, our Aboriginal dance and didge groups. Gorokan High school's Aboriginal dance and didge groups also participated in the day. A highlight was Mrs Smillie and Mr Norman performing together to sing some great songs. These performers were all fantastic and entertained the large crowd in attendance.

Kath Lord and her band of loyal workers should be very proud that all their hard work resulted in such a successful event.

GRANDPARENTS RELIVE KINDERGARTEN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:48 AEST

Grandparents had the opportunity to relive their Kindergarten days on November 7 when they visited our Kinder classrooms for Grandparents Day. Changes in methods of teaching and learning since they were at school was a hot topic of conversation. The children enjoyed having their nan and pops assist them in various classroom activities.

After their visit to the classroom the grandparents joined our children for a picnic lunch. This is a wonderful experience for our students to have this special time with their grandparents.

FEATHERS FUR AND FINS EXPERIENCE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:43 AEST

To compliment the unit of learning on Australia, students in Year 3 recently visited the Australian Reptile Park where they had a feathurs, fur and fins experience.

The students travelled to the Reptile Park by coach and enjoyed a day of getting up close and personal with many Australian creatures including lizards, kangaroos, koalas and native birds. Some children got to hold such things as lizards and snakes. They got to see the crocodiles, dingoes and Tasmanian Devils as well.

The highlight of the day for the children was seeing Mr Shipp with a big snake around his neck. The behaviour of all the students who attended was excellent and the accompanying adults were very proud of them.

SPOOKY MC1

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:08 AEST

On Friday 31 October MC1 room became spooky when the students decorated the room and dressed up for Halloween. They have been learning about celebrations including birthdays and took the opportunity to get into the spirit of the Halloween celebrations.

Ms Cross and Mrs Holgate took the students around the school trick or treating. Rooms they visited included the Library, classrooms, the front office and Mr Kelly's office.

The staff had just as much fun as the children.

STAGE ONE RACE THROUGH NEWCASTLE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:10 AEST

Stage One students visited various areas of Newcastle on their excursion affectionately known as the "Amazing Race" to compliment the unit of learning on Transport. The excursion saw the students visit Fighterworld at Williamtown RAAF base where some got to sit in some jet fighters.

They also caught a ferry across Newcastle Harbour fronm Stockton to the Newcastle Foreshore where they got to witness some big ships entering the harbour with the support of a tugboat. The students also visited the bus terminal and train station during the day.

The children enjoyed their "Amazing Race" and were great ambassadors for Toukley Public School.

CREATIVE PROJECTS ON AUSTRALIAN LANDMARKS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

Mrs Pollock's class (3/4P) have been studying Australian landmarks in their HSIE unit on Australia. The students were asked to choose any Australian landmark and present a project on whichever one they chose. They were given a brief and were able to be as creative as they would like on their presentation.

The projects were presented in a variety of manners. Some students presented their project on cardboard, while some students created diorama. Projects were also presented in Power Point form and some were very creative and produced videos on their chosen landmarks.

Chosen landmarks included Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, The Olgas, The Three Sisters and local landmark Norah Head Lighthouse.

The quality of all projects were outstanding. Well done to the creative 3/4P.

ABUZZ AND READY FOR SOME FUN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:27 AEST

Toukley Public School is abuzz at the moment in anticipation of our school fete. The fete will be held on Saturday 8 November 2014 from 11am until 3pm.

The P&C committee have been working tirelessly in the planning of this major fund raiser.

On fete day there will be many activities on offer including a Chocolate Wheel, Lucky Dip, Teacher Dunking Tank, BBQ and numerous market stalls.

We are hoping that our families and the general community will support this fun event.

GRANDPARENTS ARE GREAT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

Toukley Neighbourhood Centre organised a fun day where our Year 6 students were invited to attend a "Grandparents are Great " day at the centre. The students together with their grandparents participated in many fun activities and enjoyed a lovely BBQ lunch.

Activities were also organised at school where some students took part in a drumming session, played with hoola hoops and attempted archery. The whole day was enjoyed by all who took part.

STAGE 3 STEP OUT OF THEIR COMFORT ZONE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:10 AEST

During Week 2 of Term 4 eighty six Stage Three students attended The Great Aussie Bush Camp at Kincumber. During their 2night/3day camp they were encouraged to step out of their comfort zones by undertaking a variety of challenging activities. These challenges included mud runs, giant swing, power fan (jumping off a 15 mtr pole) and a tree top course.

The children enjoyed every aspect of the camp especially the food they were served. The instructors were fantastic and treated our students and staff with the utmost respect which was given in return. The behaviour of all students who attended was outstanding and were proud ambassadors of Toukley Public School.

To see more photos visit the Aussie Bush Camp album in the gallery on this website.

CREATIVE WITH MILK BOTTLES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:40 AEST

Two School Learning Support Officers from our Multicat unit became creative with empty milk bottles. Karen Merrin and Vicki Holgate have built an igloo shaped retreat for the students use in our MC2 class.

The retreat provides a quiet spot for the children to go to when they need to or when they would like to quietly look at books.

The igloo was many weeks in the making and looks fantastic in the classroom.

STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN LEARN TO SWIM PROGRAM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

Some students from Year 2 up participated in a Department of Education and Communities intensive learn to swim program. This Water Safety Program is an intensive learn to swim program which develops water confidence and basic skills in water safety and survival.

The students attended YMCA Toukley Aquatic Centre daily for two weeks and took part in skill appropriate activities to improve their swimming ability and techniques.

All the students who attended enjoyed the activities provided and hopefully have improved skills to allow them to safely enjoy their swimming and water activities during summer.

CONGRATULATIONS HAYLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:38 AEST

Toukley Public School would like to congratulate Hayley Corduroy who came 4th in 9 Years 100m heat at Sydney North Regional Athletics Carnival. Hayley qualified for the final in this event. Hayley was very happy with her performance and did Toukley Public School proud in reaching this level of competition.

STUDENTS SHINE IN DRAMA WORKSHOPS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

During the end of term 3 six of our wonderful Stage 3 students were given the opportunity to participate in intensive lessons on drama related skills.

Students experienced workshops including, voice projection, improvisation and creative ways to express ideas through dramitic performance.

The children enjoyed the opportunity to reward parents with a special performance at the end of the workshop.

A DAY TO HELP ISOLATED COMMUNITIES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:26 AEST

Indigenous homes in isolated communities have very limited access to books, computers and other educational resources. Toukley Public School students were asked to make a gold coin donation to participate in an Indigenlous Literacy Day. These funds will be forwarded to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation to support them in their endeavours to provide resources to these remote communities and reduce the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students in the Literacy field.

During the day our students listened to stories read to them by members of our local Aboriginal community. Specially decorated sanctuaries were erected for students to enjoy quiet reading time.

Our students really supported this cause whilst enjoying various books in a nice relaxed and quiet environment.

KEEGAN DOES US PROUD IN GOLF

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

Keegan Phillips has done Toukley Public School proud when he recently participated in the State PSSA Championships in Golf in Port Macquarie. He was a member of the Sydney North golf team and competed against teams from all over the state. Sydney North were runners up in the team event.

Eighty children, including Keegan, participated in a 5 hole Matchplay event. He won all of his matches in this event and won his bracket. Keegan made it into the finals where he finished Runner Up.

Who knows he may be our very own "Shark". Watch for his name future golf tournaments..

OUR TALENT ON DISPLAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:00 AEST

On Friday 12 September all of our school's hard working Performing Arts Groups performed in the school hall to display the vast array of talent in our student body. The groups who performed were our Senior and Junior Dance Groups, Our Aboriginal Didge and Dance groups and the school choir.

Each of these groups have spent a lot of time preparing and rehearsing for this event and were so excited to be able to share their performances with the school community.

We feel privileged as a school to have so much wonderful talent and look forward to sharing our talent again in the 2015 Performing Arts Showcase.

DADS ENJOY PRESCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:40 AEST

On the Thursday evening before Fathers Day our Kooloora preschool children invited their dads to come and visit our wonderful preschool facility.

The dads spent an hour participating with their children in various activities including Fathers Day craft. The fashion statement of the evening were some Dads sporting some quite trendy glasses expecially made for them.

It was wonderful to see the children enjoying the meaning of Fathers Day with their own dads.

BOOK WEEK SUCCESS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:34 AEST

What a successful book week we have had at Toukley Public School . We had a visit from an inspiring author, a bright and colourful book character parade and our short films for Toukfest.

The weeks leading up to the book parade the library was buzzing with children looking for a character to come dress in for the parade. With our visit from the author there has been a lot of exciting talk about how to write and publish a book. Ther has also been many great ideas for producing short films for next year.

Our students and families are to be congratulated for their efforts over the last week.

FANTASTIC RESULTS AT THE ZONE ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:43 AEST

Last Friday Toukley Public School had 46 students represent us at the Zone Athletics Carnival at Mingara.

The weather presented trying conditions for our students however they performed with the true Toukley spirit.

We had a fantastic result with four students going onto Sydney North PSSA Athletics Carnival which will be held at Homebush on the 8th September.

VISITING CHILDREN'S AUTHOR SHARES HER LOVE OF BOOKS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

Local author Judy Townsend has shared her love of childrens literature as part of childrens Library lessons during Book Week. Judy is recently retired and is passonate about childrens picture books. She believes picture books play an important role in the development of reading.

During her lessons she showed the students initial sketches and manscripts for her picture books. She also discussed all stages of publishing a children's book.

Judy's book titles include Chalk and Cheese, Evidently That's Not Normal, How Do I Know? and Off to Bed Sleepyhead!

HAROLD RETURNS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

After a few years of absence Life Education's Healthy Harold returned to our school during Weeks 4 and 5. During his visit Harold the giraffe presented age appropriate lessons to all students from Preschool to Year 6. These lessons provided the children information and strategies to make the best decisions for a safe life in relation to drug and health education.

Life Education has been providing schools with these lessons for over 30 years. The lessons are always enjoyed by the children and it was wonderful to have Healthy Harold back at Toukley.

CONNECTING WITH BOOKS 2014

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

Our students are really looking forward to the Book Week celebrations at our school. Book week is from August 18 until August 22 and the theme for 2014 is "Connect with Books". To set the scene and create the interest students are looking at books which are finalists for Book of the Year 2014 during weekly Library lessons with Ms Stillman.

Activities during this week include:

Toukfest: a short movie festival where students are invited to make and present a short 5 minute movie based on the plot of a book or something completely original. These will be presented on the afternoon of 22 August.

Children's Author Visit: Local author, Judy Townsend will visit the school on 20 and 21 August to share with the students information on publishing books including a display of initial sketches and manuscripts for her books.

Book Parade: This is a real favourite for students and staff. On Friday 22 August students are invited to dress up in costume to represent a book character from a book within our Library. They should be carrying the book as they parade.

Stay posted for further information on this exciting week.

YEAR 4 ENJOY FINE WEATHER AT CAMP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:24 AEST

Year 4 students who attended Pt Wolstoncroft camp during Week 3 were blessed with fine weather to enjoy all the activities on offer.

Some of the many activities the children participated in were giant chess, rock climbing, fishing, archery and the giant swing. Staff members in attendance also tried their hand at the activities. Ms Hakopa was seen to be swinging high above the ground while Mr Kelly showed his talents on the rock wall. Mr Shipp was more attracted to the quieter activities like fishing.

All came home with lots of great stories even if they were exhausted after their two nights away.

Kindergarten Information Night 2015

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:52 AEST

Give your child the best start for their educational future at Toukley Public School. Come along and meet our highly qualified and caring staff at our Kindergarten Information Evening and discover the wonderful programs and resources that the school has to offer.

The Information Session will be on Wednesday 11th June 2104 and take place in the Kindergarten classrooms. Free child minding will be provided and everyone is welcome to attend.

SPECIAL DAY FOR A SPECIAL GIRL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

On Friday 21 March when the rest of the school celebrated Harmony Day Ms Stopps class 1/2S had an additional celebration in honour of one of their special class members, Bethany. Bethany has Down Syndrome and her class helped her celebrate World Down Syndrome Day by holding a class party with a special cake and party food.

World Down Syndrome Day helps raise awareness of what Down Syndrome is, what it means to have DS and how people with Down Syndrome play a vital role in our lives and our community.

Bethany enjoyed sharing her special day with all her school friends.

SPECIAL ASSEMBLY FOR SWIMMERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

A special assemby in conjunction with our fortnightly Yrs 3-6 assembly was held on Tuesday 18 March. During this assembly the place ribbons from the annual school swimming carnival were presented to the placegetters for each event. All ribbon winners were presented individually with their ribbons and also recognised as a group.

Age champions were also announced and these students were presented with special medallions to recognise their achievement.

It was wonderful to see so many parents and community members come along to witness these students being acknowledged for their efforts.

WE CARE ABOUT HELPING THE FARMERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

On Friday 21 March our students showed the spirit of our school values of "Care Courtesy and Co-operation". In conjunction with Harmony Day, the students were encouraged to dress in orange and bring along a gold coin as a donation toward Buy a Bale who are assisting farmers in our drought stricken areas.

Toukley Public School students certainly jumped on board with this great cause by donating enough gold coins to purchase 25 bales of hay (around $500). As a school we have decided to continue this important fundraiser until the end of term hoping to receive enough donations to purchase 30 bales of hay ($600). A donation bucket is on the counter of the front office for any member of the community to contribute. A thermometer indicating the current status of our fundraising activity is also on display.

How wonderful it would be for our school to be responsible for contributing 30 hay bales to these poor farmers.

GIRL'S CRICKET TEAM DO US PROUD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

Our Girl's cricket team did Toukley Public School proud when they had a first round win in the PSSA Girl's cricket competition. The girls travelled to Doyalson cricket fields and competed against the girl's team from Northlakes Public School.

After winning the coin toss Amelia Barone, our team captain for the day, elected to bat. Our girls batted well and scored 114 runs. Northlakes then batted and only reached a total of 58 runs. Four great catches were taken by our girls in the field.

Our girls were very excited as this was the first win in Round 1 of this competition for many years. Both teams showed what true sports they are by giving three cheers to their opposition.

Our girls will play Kanwal in the next round of the competition.

WE'RE PROUD OF OUR SWIMMERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

At the Wallarah Zone Swimming Carnival held at Mingara on Wednesday 5 March the 20 students who qualified to attend did Toukley Public School very proud.

All participants swam to the best of their ability and displayed true sportsmanship whilst supporting their team mates and other schools. Their behaviour was outstanding and was a credit to them.

Next year we hope to spend a bigger contingent to the Zone carnival and we are encouraging students to start training now for the 2015 swimming carnival.

A big congratulations must go to Matilda Taylor who has gone one step further and will be participating in the Regional Carnival on 25 March at Homebush Aquatic Centre. We are very proud of Matilda for this achievement.

ALL HANDS ON DECK FOR CLEANUP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:28 AEST

All hands were on deck on Friday 7 March for our annual School Clean Up Australia day. Classes were each given an area of the school grounds to clean up of any litter and unwanted waste. Armed with bags, gloves and hand sanitiser the classes proceeded to clean up their designated area with great enthusiasm.

It was very rewarding for the students and staff to stand back when they had completed their area and see what a difference it made. Our part of Australia has definitely been beautified by the children and staff on this special day.

MURAL FINDS A HOME

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

Our colourful mural which has been on display in the school hall since it's completion late last year has found a home on the wall adjacent to the entry to the school office. This wonderful piece of art was made possible thanks to a generous grant from Club Toukley and the wonderful artistic ability of Mrs Karen Tracey.

This unique mural incorporates many local features including historical landmark, Norah Head Lighthouse and favourite pastimes of local residents including surfing and boating. The school flag connects our dynamic school with the local culture in this artwork.

Come and visit our school and view this beautiful piece of art.

WHERE IS THE CLASS OF THE WEEK ???

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:21 AEST

"Where is the class of the week??" you may well ask. It has been missing from our school newsletter this year.

To promote our classes and their wonderful work we have decided to have a "Star Class" display in the office foyer instead of a Class of the Week in our newsletter. Each class will be given the opportunity to showcase the work they have been studying in class. There will be a class photo together with a write up from the class teacher. Photos of various class activities will also be on display.

Next time you visit our school take the time to have a look at the current display.

BEST START IN EDUCATION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:32 AEST

What a fantastic start to the year the Kindergarten students have had.

This year all Kindergarten students came in to our school with their parents to have their Best Start Assessment. This was a fantastic opportunithy for the teachers to meet each child individually and get to know a little about each child and their family. The parents were given a tour of the class and it was a wonderful opportunity for the school-family partnership to be formed.

Kindergarten students started at Toukley Public School on Monday 3 February with confidence, ease, independence and beautiful big smiles. The students have become accustomed to the routines of big school and are entering the classrooms ready to learn every day. Literacy and maths sessions have begun and are full of hands on learning, with open ended resources that allow students to learn and create at their own pace.

Kindergarten are coming together as a grade several times during the week to sing, dance, play sport and interact socially with their peers in a play based environment on Friday afternoons. Strong friendships are being formed throughout the grade and it is encouraging to see the students interacting so well with a diverse range of friends.

CRICKETERS TRUE SPORTS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:15 AEST

On Thursday 27 February our school cricketers competed against Kanwal Public School in the first round of the NSWPSSA Boy's Cricket Knockout Competition. Both schools displayed excellent behaviour and true sportsmanship.throughout the day.

Toukley batted first and were dismissed for 45 runs. Zane Humphries was the standout with the bat while Reegan Petersen was left not out after hitting a fantastic four.

In reply Kanwal reached our score with the loss of 4 wickets. All the boys bowled well while Timmy and Joe Johnston both affected a run out each with throws which were direct hits.

A big thank you to Mrs Tabrett for scoring and Mrs Humphries for being the photographer for the day. Most importantly thank you to the boys who represented our school with pride and showed true sportsmanship.

We look forward to the Milo Cup Cricket Competition in Term 4.

SWIMMING CARNIVAL WAS A GREAT SUCCESS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:13 AEST

On Friday 14th February our annual swimming carnival was held at Toukley Pool and was a great success.

Students embraced the day and participated in many events. The children who didn't participate cheered the swimmers on from the stands where they sat with their other house members.

The favourite race of the day was the teacher's race which was won by Mr Stokes. The overall house points winner was Gwydir, 2nd Speedwell, 3rd Dixon and 4th Paterson.

A GREAT START TO THE YEAR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:26 AEST

Toukley Public School has had a great start to the 2014 school year. Students Yrs 1 to 6 returned to school on Tuesday 28 January and our new Kindergarten students had their very first day at big school on Monday 3 February.

Our school this year has 19 mainstream classes, 3 classes in the support unit and full compliment of children at Kooloora Preschool.

The students have settled well into their classes and commenced their learning for the year in an enthusiastic manner.

NEW SCHOOL YEAR WITH CHANGES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

The 2014 school year has started with changes in the leadership at Toukley Public School. Mr Gary Crowther is our acting Principal for the duration of Term 1. Mr Crowther has had many years of experience as Principal and his priority will be to support and maintain the dynamic programs established at our school.

During Term 1 a merit selection process will determine the replacement for Ms Armour, who has been appointed the role of Principal at Berkeley Vale Public School. The successful applicant will take up the role of Principal of our school in Term 2.

YEAR 6 ARE MOVING ON

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:26 AEST

It's that time of the school year when it comes time for us to say farewell to our current Year 6 who will be moving on to high school.

On Thursday 12th December they were farewelled officially with the 2013 Year 6 Farewell. The festivities began with a formal presentation to the students followed by a dinner and disco. The students and staff all had a wonderful evening.

The entire staff of Toukley Public School wish the students all the very best in their future endeavours.

2014 LEADERS ARE ANNOUNCED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:24 AEST

Toukley Public School Leaders for the 2014 school year were announced at our Annual Presentation assemblies on Tuesday 10 December. The new leaders are as follows:

SCHOOL CAPTAINS: Nicholas Tabrett and Natasha Fisk

SCHOOL PREFECTS: Joe Johnston, Kaidyn Kitchen, Matilda Taylor and Kara Burgess

GWYDIR HOUSE CAPTAINS: Melanie Elshaug and Calisa James

SPEEDWELL HOUSE CAPTAINS: Taylor Stirton and Penny Tracey

DIXON HOUSE CAPTAINS: Dylan Crawley and Brienna Cresswell

PATERSON HOUSE CAPTAINS: Keegan Phillips and Koko Lemke

It was a very exciting time for both our new leaders and their parents who were there to share in their celebration.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS RECOGNISED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:11 AEST

On Tuesday 10 December Toukley Public School held the Annual Presentation Day. This is a special day in our school year when student achievements are recognised. Their parents are invited to come along and share the well deserved recognition with them.

Each class announces four individual awards which are Academic Achievement, Effort Award, Citizenship Award and Star of the Year Award. It is wonderful for these children to be recognised for their achievements in front of not only their peers, but their family and friends also. Well done to all recipients.

As part of the actual ceremony students and visitors were entertained by 5/6W who presented two songs and 3/4N who also presented a song.

Ms Armour thanked all her staff for their efforts during the 2013 school year and also announced that this is her last year at Toukley Public and that she will be taking up the position of Principal, Berkeley Vale Public School as of 2014.

BELLS BAUBLES AND ALL THINGS BRIGHT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:32 AEST

Toukley Public School was a sea of Christmas colours on Thursday 5 December. Our school PBL Committee organised a fund raiser day to assist in the cost of the reward outing for outstanding behaviour throughout the year. There were Santas, angels, elves and the odd Santa's Helper. The children (or their parents) have a very vivid imagination.

The staff also joined in the fun with their own angels and elves. It was a fun day which raised $245.05.

PUBLIC SPEAKING FINALISTS EXCEL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

The final in "The Lion Peter Foster" public speaking competition was held recently and the eight finalists presented outstanding speeches. In the first round of the final the participants were asked to present a two minute talk on the topic of their own choice. For round two they were given 10 minutes to independently prepare and present a one minute talk on the topic of "Facebook".

The judges for the competition were Mr Murray Ellis (ex Toukley Public School teacher) and Ms Wendy Wilson. After much deliberation Mr Ellis and Ms Wilson found the winner to be Peta-Louise Rixom. First prize in the competition is a scholarship to help provide uniforms and school equipment for High School.

The wife of the late Peter Foster kindly provides our school with this scholarship in memory of her husband. The competition has been instrumental in enhancing our public speaking program.

It was quite a close competition and congratulations must go to the other finalists who presented excellent speeches. The other finalists were: Daniel Brands, Joel Shortland, Harry Packham, Jotrdan McBride, Alexis Khoury, Nicola Barons and Kirra Willett.

PROUD TOUKLEY PUBLIC SCHOOL CITIZENS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:03 AEST

At a recent ceremony at Halekulani Bowling, two of our senior students did our school proud by receiving a Toukley Northlakes Rotary Citizenship award. Peta-Louise Rixom and Anayla Schipp were identified through their involvement in activities which contributed to the benefit of others in our school and in the community. They have demonstrataed an outstanding level of humanitarianism and selfless commitment to activities such as Red Cross, Breakfast Club, Peer Reading, SRC, Gardening Club, Preschool and community support visits to places such as local nursing homes.

Both girls, who were joined by their parents, enjoyed the evening and their dinner of chicken nuggets and chips. They thought that the night was nerve racking, however by the end of the night they were proud Toukley Public School citizens.

THIRD BEST IN THE COUNTRY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:15 AEST

Matilda Taylor of 5/6W has recently competed in the National Clubs Gymnastics Championships in Geelong Victoria where her and her team mates came 3rd overall, which makes them the 3rd best Gymnastics Level 5 team in Australia.

Matilda enjoyed her very first time on a plane to get to Geelong, which she enjoyed immensely.

After competing on Thursday the team were 3rd overall which made them eligible for the finals on Friday. Their results on Friday were 4th on bars, 4th on floor, 3rd on vault, 2nd on beam and placed 3rd overall in Australia.

Matilda's individual placing was 19th overall in Australia out of 122 competitors. She will now be training and competing in Level 6 in the National Stream. Our school is so proud of her achievements.

OUR FUTURE BRIDGE BUILDERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:25 AEST

Year 5 students participated in the "Discover Uni Science and Engineering Challenge" at Wyong High School on 11 November. Our students competed in groups of 4 against other schools, to complete a series of construction challenges.

Participants used principles of science and engineering to construct an object to meet a specified purpose. In the grand finale, team Rusi, James and Dylan built a bridge which was able to withstand a sizeable mass. They came second overall, defeating students in Years 6 and 7, which was a fantastic achievement.

Organisers complimented our students on their behaviour and engagement in all the activities, stating that "they were the best of all the students attending" .

This was a fantastic day, enjoyed by all who attended, we are looking forward to participating in 2014 if our school is invited.

HELP US WIN $5,000

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

Sanitarium, who are major sponsors of our Breakfast Club, organise the world's largest U/16 triathlon. In 2013 over 35,000 children across Australia and New Zealand took part.

Just by organising a school team we go into the draw for a possible $5,000 and also various other prizes including 12 Springfree trampolines. You get to have a fun day, lots of gifts and even get to meet a sporting celebrity such as Brett Lee.

These triathlons are organised to encourage children to live a healthy and active life style. Participating in an event such as this also improves self confidence and self esteem. A real sense of achievements is evident on the faces of the children as they cross the finish line and are all presented with a medal. There a no winners or losers on this day.

Perhaps you and your friends could organise a time for Toukley Public School. Here is more information about this fun day.

YEAR 6 GET A TASTE OF UNIVERSITY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:26 AEST

On Friday 1 November Year 6 students together with a family member travelled by bus to Newcastle to participate in a visit in conjunction with a program called "Aim High". Aim High is a program which strives to increase the understanding of, and aspiration for, higher education among low socio-economic status schools. More can be learnt about this wonderful program by visiting: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/community-and-alumni/community-engagement/community-and-school-programs/aim-high

During the day the participants had brief visits to classrooms and various university faculties. The hands on activities which followed were a very popular.

The visit to the university was a great success and enjoyed by the students and family members who went.

MORE GOOD SPORTS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:55 AEST

Our school has once again produced some good sports. Teisha Saunders of 3/4B and Jacob Perks of 3/4C will be representing the Central Coast in the 2014 Oz Tag State Cup.

Teisha has been selected in the U/11 girls side whilst Jacob is representing the U/11 boys of the Central Coast.

They will travel to Wollongong in February of next year to compete in a 3 day tournament. If successful they may be selected to represent NSW. This is the second year they have been selected to play in this tournament. Good luck to both.

LIONESSES SUPPORT PLAYGROUP MUSIC

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

Our playgroup now has a wonderful range of musical instruments thanks to Toukley Lionesses, who donated $500 for the instruments. The playgroup children and are really enjoying the experience of creating their own music every Tuesday morning.

Toukley Lionesses are very supportive of Toukley Public School and have a long history of donating funds for specific purposes, for not only playgroup but Breakfast Club also.

These ladies work tirelessly for various charities and we are appreciative of their support. Annette Starr, our Community Engagement Officer has a wonderful relationship with the Lionesses and showed them our appreciation by recently having a thank you morning tea with them.

ELIJA COMES SO CLOSE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

Toukley Public School student, Elija Steiner just missed out on going to the National Carnival after recently represented Wallarah Zone PSSA in the 11 year 200m event at the state athletics carnival. Elija qualified for this event after achieving fantastic results at our local zone athletic carnival.

Unfortunately he missed out on a place on the State team to attend the National Carnival in Adelaide by the tiniest margin of 0.12 of a second. His overall result was:

1st in heat; 3rd overall; qualified for semi final - 27.68 seconds

4th in semi final; 6th overall; qualified for final 27.39 seconds

4th in final 27.27 seconds.

Elija's time improved in every race and he made our school very proud.

2013 RELAY FOR LIFE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:23 AEST

19 of our students, known as "Team Toukley", recently participated in the 2013 Relay for Life at Mingara. After setting up a rainbow themed camp site the entire team walked the first lap together. The team then took turns in walking the track in half hour lots according to a pre determined walking roster. Every single student waited eagerly to take their turn in walking the track.

Team Toukley's fund raising activities for the event included face painting, nail painting and spraying hair with different colours. All up Team Toukley raised in excess of $3,000 for the Cancer Council.

Team Toukley kept the walking all throughout the night. The students really joined the spirit of the occasion. This was a wonderful experience for all concerned - children, parents, Mr Gillett, Miss Weeks and Ms Wilson.

A big thank you must go to local businesses who provided the team with bread and meat for them to eat and maintain the stamina for the event.

Parent, Kristie Wagstaff, has written this recount of the occasion. It is well worth the read:

MS WAGSTAFF RECOUNT (docx 18 KB)

A STEP BACK IN TIME

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:27 AEST

During Week 3 of Term 4 Year 3 students took a step back in time when they travelled by coach to Sydney to participate in a Walking Tour of the Rocks area. This excursion was organised to compliment the unit of learning studied in class on "British Colonisation".

Upon arrival the students enjoyed their morning tea prior to meeting with their tour guides for the walk. One student from each group was chosen to dress as Captain Arthur Phillip. A captain and a lieutenant were then chosen, while the remainder of the groups were convicts. Each convict was given a card which identified who they were, their age, what crime they committed and how long their sentence was for.

The children thoroughly enjoyed the walk during which they learnt heaps about the history of the Rocks area. Each guide had pictures of what the area looked like when Captain Phillip and the First Fleet arrived in 1788 and various stages of the development of the area.

A fantastic day was had by all who attended and the children were very well behaved and were exceptional ambassadors for Toukley Public School.

OUR STATE CHAMPION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:59 AEST

Stage 3 student Matilda Taylor of class 5/6W competed in the NSW State Gymnastics Championships over the weekend. These championships were held at Rooty Hill.

Matilda placed 1st overall with a score of 58 earning her the title of Level 4 Juinior State Champion 2013.

She placed 1st overall on floor and beam making her the State Champion for these apparatus as well. She also placed 3rd on vault and 4th on bars.

Matilda will now compete in the national titles and we wish her well.

CRAZY SOCKS FOR KIDS IN NEED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:40 AEST

On Wednesday 16 October our Student Representative Council organised a fund raiser to support Central Coast Kids in Need. This organisation is volunteer based and they support families of seriously ill Central Coast children with assistance with accommodation expenses.

There was a vast aray of socks including multicoloured socks, odd socks and self decorated socks around the school, including in the office, where Ms Lesberg and Ms Brookes joined in the spirit of the day. There was even a sock with a tiger hanging off it. Lots of thought went into decorating the socks.

Photos of some of the crazy socks can be viewed in the Crazy Sock Day album in gallery in this webpage.

A total of $231.50 was raised for this worthwhile cause.

BIKE EDUCATION FOR STAGE 2

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:33 AEST

Our school was fortunate enough last year to receive a grant to purchase bikes and helmets. This equipment was recently used by Stage 2 in the Bike Education component of their PD/Health/PE unit of learning.

Acting Sgt Best from NSW Police visited the school and spoke to the children about bike safety, rules and helpful hints when riding a bicycle. Under Sgt Best's watchful eye, each class in Stage 2 completed an obstacle course where they practised riding in straight lines, turning, stopping and starting correctly. A very important lesson learnt was how to fit a bike helmet correctly.

It was a great program and we hope that all our students will remember what they've learnt whilst riding their bikes.

TOUKLEY'S BUDDING FIREMEN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:17 AEST

Toukley Public School may have some future firemen in our midsts after a visit from the local fire brigade on Monday 2 September. Firemen, including ex student Jarrod Beckley, from Toukley Fire Station brought their big red firetruck to visit our Kindergarten children as part of their unit of learning on "Workers in the Community"

The children got to see all the different equipment on the truck as well as the various protective outfits that the firemen wear.

Having a turn at the big fire hose was a highlight for all the children and they didn't stop talking about it.

To see more photos of the visit see the gallery section of Our school website.

PERFECT WEATHER FOR YEAR 4 CAMP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:01 AEST

Our Year 4 students enjoyed perfect weather for their 2 night camp at Point Wolstoncroft during week 9. The sun shone unlike the wet weather of last year's camp.

The students who attended enjoyed many activities, including archery, the giant swing, kayaking, rock climbing, fishing from the jetty and many other fun activities.

All students displayed outstanding behaviour and the camp co-ordinators commended them for their efforts. They were fantastic ambassadors for our school.

Other photos from the camp can be viewed in the gallery section in Our school section of this webpage.

FOOTSTEPS WAS BACK !!!!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:44 AEST

In conjunction with PD/Health/PE units of learning students at Toukley Public once again participated in the fantastic Footsteps Dancesport Program. The Footsteps program runs for 5 weeks, during which time students learn many different, age appropriate dances. The styles of dance range from hip-hop to rock and roll.

Footsteps has been visiting our school for four years and is still very popular with the students.

HEATING UP IN 3/4B

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

Students in 3/4B have been studying a unit of learning called "Hot Stuff". In this unit they are learning all about heat. How a flame cannot burn without oxygen, how to make a fire with no firelighter and how heat can create power are all examples of what they have learnt.

To prove that heat can in fact create power was undertaken in an experiement where the students were given instructions and asked to create a simple solar motor. They made this motor from 6 empty cans painted black. Watch the video and Ashton will explain how this solar powered motor works.

HIGH ACHIEVEMENTS IN ATHLETICS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

On 30th August eligible students from Toukley Public School participated in the Wallarah Zone athletics carnival at Mingara athletics field. Our students represented our school with pride, dedication and absolute fantastic sportsmanship. Results for the day reflected how well our children participated.

Toukley Public School had two champions for the day:

11 year boy champion: Elija Steiner - 1st 11yr 100m, 1st 11yr 200m, 2nd 11yr 800m

Senior boy champion: Harry Packham - 1st 12/13yr 100m, 1st 12/13yr 200m, 2nd 12/13yr Discus,

Other achievement included:

Jet Secomb - 2nd 8yrs 100m

Adam Riding - 2nd 12/13yr 200m

Brielle Riding - 3rd 10yr 100m

Tara Wagstaff - 12/13yr 800m

Joeli Morris - 3rd 12/13yr 800m

Teisha Saunders - Jnr Girls Shot Put

Our Senior Boys relay team came first in this event.

Toukley Public School Athletics team came an overall 3rd on the day. We are very proud of the outstanding achievements and the manner in which our students participated and behaved at this carnival.

PUBLIC RECOGNITION FOR DEDICATION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:03 AEST

Three members of Toukley Public School recently received Public Education Awards for their outstanding dedication and strong commitment to the education of children.

Alan Andoni, Maureen Calder and Sue Curran were all presented with certificates at an award ceremony held at Erina High School. Our school is very proud of these staff members and extend congratulations to all three.

SCHOOL TRANSITION RECOGNISED ON VIDEO

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

Toukley Public School has an exceptional Transition to School Program including our Kindergarten Orientation known as KindyStart. This program was recently recognised by the Dept of Education and Communities and an information video was professionally filmed for use at various Department conferences and seminars.

Our Transition to School Program is exceptional. Information evenings are held not only at our school but also at local Preschool facilities. Various programs are organised for both the children and their parents to make them all familiar and comfortable with our dynamic school environment.

KindyStart is our school's way of slowly introducing next year's Kindergarten students to school life. The children attend school one morning a week, either Tuesday or Thursday for the 15 weeks. They get to experience all aspects of school life including visiting classrooms, the school library, the school computer lab and the canteen. They are exposed to all our school's technology including ipads.

To find out more about Toukley Public School's innovative program view this Transition to School video.

EDUCATION WEEK ALL SUMMED UP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:41 AEST

One of the many activities students of our school got to participate in during Education Week 2013 was a whole school maths day.

All students got to take part in various fun maths related practical exercises. The children visited various classrooms where they participated in age appropriate exercises involving concepts in Mathematics. These incorporated money, measure, number recognition just to name a few.

To sum up the day the students thoroughly enjoyed the day.

YOU NEVER STOP LEARNING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:27 AEST

The saying that you "never stop learning" is an apt saying for the staff at Toukley Public School. We pride ourselves on giving our students a quality education which meets the unique learning needs of all our students. To enable us to provide this high standard of education our Professional Development is ongoing. Professional Development of staff is incorporated into our weekly staff meetings to ensure that our teaching methods are consistent and current.

Ms Carinne Cheney is teaching not only students but staff this semester in the latest technology techniques and how to use them efficiently in the classroom. This terrific initiative is proving to be most beneficial to both staff and students.

BOOK FEVER HITS TOUKLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:33 AEST

What an exciting week it has been at Toukley Public School during Book Week. The entire school student population were involved in creating the colourful rainbow snake which is hung along the school fence.

A highlight of the week was the Book Character Parade held on Thursday when all students from preschool to Year 2 dressed up as their favourite Book Character. It was quite a colourful display with a vast range of characters being represented from Buzz Lightyear to Little Red Riding Hood. Teachers also got into the spirit of the day by also dressing up. A large number of parents and friends came along to enjoy this fantastic spectacle.

DAD'S NIGHT OUT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:40 AEST

A big night out was had by dads, stepdads, pops and uncles at Kooloora Preschool on the Wednesday leading up to Father's Day. They were all invited to spend an hour or so in the evening to learn about the fun and educational activities the children participate in during the daily preschool program.

It was wonderful to see them all involved in the various activities. Leggo and finger painting seemed to be the favourite activities on the night.

GRANDPARENTS SPECIAL KOOLOORA VISIT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:48 AEST

The children at Kooloora Preschool recently had some very special guests join them for a morning at preschool. They played hosts to their grandparents and special older friends. Their guests spent the morning in typical preschool style, enjoying the various activities such as painting, reading and even playing in the sandpit.

The grandparents and special friends then joined the children for morning tea. The children were so excited to share their morning, the activities and their work folders with their older friends and grandparents.

AFTERSCHOOL AUSKICK TASTER DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:28 AEST

During Week 4 all girls in the school participated in age appropriate activities to encourage them to take up AFL as a sport. The day was organised by NSW AFL to promote girls AFL. Captain of Killarney Vale Bombers, Brendan Lewis coached the girls in various skills associated with the game.

An After School Auskick clinic will be held for girls at our school on Fridays from 16 August to 20 September. The cost is $20 and interested girls can get an information brochure from the office.

The day was a success and the girls had a great day learning the various skills.

WE WIN ALL DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

During Week 4 Toukley Public School Touch Football Side participated in a PSSA Knockout Gala Day. Under the guidance of Ms Faulkner the whole team played with great sportsmanship and went on to win all games on the day.

The boys now compete against teams from other PSSA zones.

They were so excited when they got on the bus to return to school, it was wonderful seeing them enjoy and share the win. They are a champion team.

MR CURRAN IS OFF TO COMPETE IN CANADA

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:55 AEST

Michael Curran, teacher of class 3/4R is heading off to Canada to represent Australia in the 2013 World Para Cycling Championships, as a member of the Australian team.

His students will miss him while he is away, but are looking forward to hearing about his competition when he returns. We are all hoping that he will be able to show us a medal.

Good Luck Mr Curran.

BRUSHING UP ON HEALTHY EATING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:35 AEST

On Tuesday 30 July and Thurs 1 August Kooloora preschool was visited by Leanne from Pacific Smiles dental. As part of their unit of learning on healthy eating she spoke to the children about good foods for their teeth and general dental care.

Leanne also showed the children how to brush their teeth with the help of "Kevin the Kangaroo" puppet. The children so enjoyed the interaction with Kevin and putting on gloves and masks and practising correct brushing techniques.

Maybe we have some budding dentists in our preschool.

"READING ACROSS THE UNIVERSE"

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

Book Week is fast approaching. Toukley Public School will be celebrating Book Week from August 17 to August 23 and embracing the theme of "Reading across the Universe.

A Book Character Parade involving students from Preschool to Year 2 and our Multicat classes will be held on Thursday 22 August from 9.15am. Students in these classes are encouraged to dress up as their favourite book characters. Prizes will be awarded for creativity. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the creative side of our students (and parents) and all community members are welcome to come along.

Our school library will be hosting a "Donate a Book" stall as a school fundraiser. Students are asked to donate good quality, second hand, books to be resold to other students for $1.

OUR DANCERS SHINE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

In May our junior and senior dance groups participated in the annual Central Coast Dance Festival. The dancers performed at Laycock Street Theatre in Gosford. The junior dancegroup performed "Starstruck" while the senior dance group performed "Dance with Me Tonight".

All parents and friends who attended the performances commended all the dancers for the professional manner in which they represented our school both on and off the stage. One parent commented they our dancers "shone and lit up the stage with their performances".

ATHLETICS CHAMPIONS ANNOUNCED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:30 AEST

On Monday 22 July our school held a special assembly to present students with their Athletics Carnival Ribbons. During the assembly the 2013 Athletics Champions were announced. This was a very proud moment for all these students:

Junior Girl Champion: Montana Sharpe

Junior Boy Champion: Reegan Peterson and Bailey Loughlin

11 Year Girl Champion: Koko Lemke

11 Year Boy Champion: Elijah Steiner

Senior Girl Champion: Katy West

Senior Boy Champion: Adam Riding

EGGCITING EXPERIMENT FOR 3/4B

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:41 AEST

Students in 3/4B had an eggciting time with a recent Science project. The class was learning about different types of materials in a Unit of Learning "Material World". They were asked to design and create a protective cover for an egg. The egg with it's protection was then dropped onto concrete from the top verandah of our two storey building to see if their protection was successful. The result was not many scrambled eggs. Parents waiting to collect their children from school were quite entertained by the egg dropping.

FAMOUS AUTHORS INSPIRE OUR FUTURE WRITERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

Students in classes 3/4B and 5/6W enjoyed a day at Sydney Town hall on Friday 24 May attending the Sydney Writers Festival.

The purpose of this festival is to inspire young writers and provide them with strategies to get ideas. Our students got to listen to talks given by famous writers, including renowned author Jackie French. They got to meet these authors and have books autographed by them.

It was a great day enjoyed by all who attended.

BACK TO KINDERGARTEN FOR GRANDPARENTS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:31 AEST

Children in our Kindergarten classes invited their grandparents to join them for a morning at school. This is a highlight on our school calendar each year.

Grandparents helped the students make some bright and wonderful artwork. The children enjoyed reading books to their grandparents.

Modern day teaching methods were an eye opener for the grandparents with resources such as Interactive Whiteboards and ipads. Such things were not around when they were at school was the general talk.

Fortunately the rain held off and the children enjoyed a picnic lunch with their special visitors.

CELEBRATION OF LEARNING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:37 AEST

Tuesday 25 June saw our Aboriginal students recognised at a special NAIDOC Week assembly. Each student received a "Celebration of Learning" award to acknowledge their achievements at school. Parents and friends who attended the assembly were entertained by the students of Kooloora Preschool and the Aboriginal Dance and Didge groups from Gorokan High School.

Following the assembly Ms Kara Walker (TPS Aboriginal Education Officer) visited the Kinder rooms and read the children the dreamtime story of The Ranbow Snake. Older students participated in a variety of Aboriginal Cultural games.

SPORTING EXCELLENCE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:08 AEST

Joeli Morris, one of our School Leaders has once again excelled in Netball. As well as her many club achievements she recently shone at School Zone Netball. Joeli stood out among many players from our region to be chosen to represent Sydney Met North at a State wide carnival to be held in Broken Hill during July.

We are very proud of Joeli and wish her well in Broken Hill. We know she will represent our school with pride and be a great ambassador.

FAREWELL MR ANDONI

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:43 AEST

Mr Alan Andoni has given notice of his retirement after 38 years of dedication to Public Education. His last day at our school will be Friday 28 June.

He has been a member of staff at Toukley Public School since 2004 in the role of Deputy Principal and has filled the role of Relieving Principal on several occasions. Alan has always put students at the forefront and has worked tirelessly to ensure that Student Welfare policies and procedures at our school are the best they can possibly be.

Staff joined him on Wednesday for a celebratory afternoon tea to wish him a long happy and healthy retirement. President of the P&C, Ross Lord presented Alan with a farewell gift on Friday.

He will be sorely missed by our school community.

OUR BELL TIMES WILL BE CHANGING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

During Terms 3 and 4 we will be trialling a change to our students learning and play times. These changes that students will now have two shorter recess breaks each day. The start and finish time each day will remain the same. The break times are as follows:

RECESS 1: 10.20-10.40

LUNCH (eating): 12.00-12.10

LUNCH (play): 12.10-12.40

RECESS 2: 2.00-2.20

SILVER AWARD CEREMONY COMING UP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

A Silver Award assembly will be held on Friday July 19. This assembly is to celebrate students who have displayed outstanding behaviour during Terms 1 and 2.

Parents and friends are welcome to attend these assemblies to witness their children being rewarded for the outstanding behaviour.

Times for the awards are: Kinder - Year 2 - 1.40pm to 2.20pm

Years 3 - 6 - 2.20pm to 3pm

FREE TAFE COURSES ON OFFER AT OUR SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:44 AEST

A Certificate II Skills for Work and Training in the Community Sector program is being offered at our school. Participants will gain confidence in a range of employability skills focused on work in the community sector.

Lessons will be held 3 days per week for 18 weeks during school hours in our school Community Room.

Anybody wishing to participate should make enquiries at our school office.

FINE WEATHER PREVAILS FOR OUR CARNIVAL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:43 AEST

Fine weather prevailed for our 2013 Athletics Carnival on 7 June. After a few sprinkles of rain Mother Nature looked after us by holding back the rain and allowing us to complete our carnival.

It was a fantastic day which saw our students aged 8 years and over participate in events such as high jump, shot put and running events. All students competed with pride and much enthusiasm and of course great sportsmanship. True spirit of support for their respective houses was evident as the students wore their house colours proudly.

It was wonderful to see so many family and friends come along to watch our students compete.

KINDERGARTEN SWING AT THE OPERA HOUSE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:52 AEST

On Wednesday 22 May our Kindergarten students attended a performance of Swing Baby Swing at the Sydney Opera House. This show is specially designed for this age group and was performed by swing dancer Wayne Scott Kermond. Kermond hopes that his performances inspire a love of Swing music in his young audience.

The children enjoyed lunch sitting on the steps of the Opera House and were very excited to be so close to the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.

MAKING SPELLING EASY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

Students in all stages at Toukley Public School are really enjoying the lessons based on spelling. Each day they participate in a variety of class activities based on their individual weekly spelling lists.

These activities help children understand each word, it's meaning and how it can be used and most importantly the correct way to spell it.

They are all enjoying the various ways with words and also the outcomes. This will set them in good stead for the Premiers Spelling Bee which is held later in the year.

FUN IN THE SUN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:45 AEST

On Friday 17 May the students from Kooloora Preschool jointed the children from Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 for an afternoon of fun. We were lucky to enjoy an afternoon of sunshine for this annual P-2 Fun Run.

Together with the actual fun run all the children enjoyed a variety of other activities such as relays, parachute fun, and playing on the playground equipment.

Many parents, family and friends came along to watch the children participate in a fun and friendly manner.

LEARNING IN OUR LIBRARY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:53 AEST

Each class at Toukley Public School, including the students at Kooloora Preschool get to visit the school library for one lesson each week.

During this time our current Librarian Mr Marcus Beeby extends the knowledge of the children through books and multimedia resources. His lessons are based on the "Units of Learning" being studied in the classrooms of each class.

Our school library is hosting a Book Fair during the week commencing Monday 20 May. Quality books will be on display and available for purchase by students, parents and community members.

FUN ON THE FIRE TRUCK

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

The children at Kooloora Preschool together with the children from the school's playgroup had a heap of fun in the last week of Term 1 when Toukley Fire Brigade visited them with their big red fire truck.

The visit was organised after Mrs Buck had given lessons on fire safety and had participated in fire drills during the previous few weeks.

All the children got to have a look in the truck at all the fire fighting equipment and also go to sit in the drivers seat. They got to hear all the different types of sirens.

The highlight of the visit was when they all got to have a turn on the fire hose.

FUN WITH FRACTIONS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

The children in KE are beginning to learn about fractions. They are very confident in the knowledge that something cut into 2 is creating halves and that things cut into four is creating quarters.

They have been having fun cutting various coloured shapes into halves and quarters. Later in the week the fun will be even twice as much when they plan to cut up food items into halves and quarters.

All the children are looking forward to eating their fractions.

BOOK FAIR IS COMING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:33 AEST

During Week 4 (Monday 20th to Friday 24th May) our school will be holding our annual Scholastic Book Fair. The Book Fair provides students, parents, teachers and the community the ideal opportunity to purchase quality books and stationary at very competitive prices. The school receives credits to purchase valuable resources dependent on the sales amount.

The Book Fair will be held in the Library each morning before school and during lunch time. All are welcome to come along and have a look at the fantastic books available for purchase.

SUNNY SKIES FOR CROSS COUNTRY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

Mother nature was kind to our students on Friday 3 May when students ages 8 years and over participated in the school's annual Cross Country carnival.

The children crossed the road to Harry Moore oval where they competed in their age groups over a pre determined course. Competitors ages 8 - 10 years ran a distance of 2kms and children 11 years and over ran a 3km course. Toukley students always display great sportsmanship and the Cross Country carnival was no different, they encouraged one another all the way.

Many spectators came along and encouraged the children during the race.

STAGE 2 WENT OUT IN THE WOODS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

During Week 11 students in Stage 2 enjoyed a bush walk in Wyrrabalong National Park. This walk was organised to compliment a Unit of Learning studied in class on National Parks.

The children walked down Evans Road and joined the Wetlands trail. During this walk they saw lots of native plants and enjoyed many wonderful views of Tuggerah Lakes and surrounding areas from the viewing platforms along the track.

The behaviour of the students was exceptional. They returned to school at the end of the day excited and very tired.

ABORIGINAL STUDENTS ENJOY FUN IN THE SUN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:27 AEST

Aboriginal students from Years 5 and 6 enjoyed a half a day at Toowoon Bay Beach learning water safety skills and various beach games and activities.

This day was organised by Central Coast Lifesaving Association to make young indigenous students aware of the dangers of the surf.

The students had an awesome time and their behaviour was outstanding.

KOOLOORA BUSH TUCKER GARDEN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:53 AEST

Thanks to a generous grant from Gunawirra our preschool children have been able to develop a bush tucker garden.

The land was cleared and the garden beds were established with the help of some parents.

Older students from the school enjoyed assisting the younger children with planting a variety of bush tucker plants.

The fun continues as they maintain the garden beds and water the plants when necessary.

Thanks to AEO Kara Walker the children have learnt about all the plants and what they have been used for.

IT RAINED IN 3/4B

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

During Science lessons in Term 1, 3/4B have been learning about the weather, including the atmosphere, the water cycle, types of weather and how they occur.

The class has been experimenting to recreate weather phenomena in their own classroom and recently made it "rain" in a jar. This experiement was a simulation of the water cycle and how water evaporates and precipitates to form rain.

The students were extremely excited to see this process occurring right before their own eyes. We definitely have some budding meteorologists and future scientists at Toukley Public School.

BUNNIES GALORE AT KOOLOORA

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:41 AEST

In the week leading up to Easter the children at Kooloora Preschool, adorned with Bunny ears they had decorated themselves, entertained parents and friends with some songs with an Easter theme.

Whilst they were performing, an anonymous Easter Bunny hid Easter eggs around the grounds. Following the performance the children had fun hunting for the eggs then enjoyed a picnic lunch with their families.

Fun and laughter was enjoyed by all who came along.

HARMONY DAY CELEBRATIONS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

Harmony Day is celebrated on 21 March each year. It is a day of respect for all who call Australia home. We learn how all Australians from various and diverse backgrounds belong in, and enrich our country.

Toukley Public School students enjoyed a day of different types artwork and participated in various sports activities.

All students had the opportunity to present a speech on an Australian from a different background who they admire and respect. The theme of Harmony Day speeches was "Many stories - One Australian". Speeches were on a variety of individuals from sportsmen to actors to poets. Sasha Cowan from 5/6S presented a wonderful speech on her Mum.

Harmony Day was a fantastic day at our school and was enjoyed by all students and staff.

SPORTING LEADERS OF THE FUTURE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:08 AEST

As part of the Premiers Sporting Challenge ten students from Years 5 and 6 participated in a sports leadership day at Blue Haven. The day is organised to enhance leadership skills for the students to use at school to successfully facilitate sport sessions with small groups to help encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

Students enjoyed sporting activities across different levels and different sports including golf, football, ultimate Frisbee, touch football and cricket.

All students enjoyed the day and were excellent ambassadors for Toukley Public School.

FUN AND RELAXED GALA DAY FOR OUR CRICKET GIRLS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:45 AEST

On Thursday 7 March twenty four of our Year 6 girls crossed the road with Mr Curran to Harry Moore Oval and competed in what was a fun, relaxed and fuss-free cricket gala day.

They were well prepared and dressed in Toukley Public School's new blue sport uniform with the zinc cream to match.

Our school entered 4 teams, each playing 4 games over the course of the day. Scores were kept, but in keeping with the "fun and active" aim of the day, there were no leader boards or winners.

Each team won a few, and lost a few games but most importantly participation was at 100%. Between games the girls had fun cart-wheeling and hand standing keeping in the theme of the day. They certainly were active and definitely had fun.

GETTING READY FOR SCHOOL 2014

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

Our kindergarten teachers are getting ready for an informal information night for parents and carers of Kindergarten 2014 children. The information evening will be held on Wednesday 3 April commencing at 6pm.

We encourage all parents and carers of children enrolling in Kindergarten 2014 to attend this evening. Those who attend will have the opportunity to see the dynamic programs and exceptional resources and technology that Toukley Public School has to offer it's students.

Free child minding is available.

2013 STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES HAVE BEEN ELECTED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:24 AEST

Classes from Years 2 to 6 have recently held a ballot and elected two students to represent their classon the Toukley Public School student council. These students will listen and represent student views, opinions and ideas. They will attend weekly meetings with Mrs Stopps and report back to their class with the matters raised at these meeting. The representatives will also liaise with the Principal.

The 2013 SRC have many ideas planned including:

Raising awareness of the "bigger issues"
Establishing links with the wider community
Charity and fundraising events which will benefit the local community and the wider world
Improve school atmosphere and school facilities

TOUKLEY SHOW TRUE GRIT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:18 AEST

A 12 player strong Toukley Public School cricket team travelled to Kanwal on 28 February to play Kanwal School's side in an interschool match. Toukley won the toss and elected to bat. A solid defensive effort saw the boys all but last the prescribed 20 overs, only falling 2 balls short. Our boys enjoyed thenselves thoroughly at the batting crease.The boys showed true grit in bowling and fielding however Kanwal reached the total and won. Toukley won the respect of each other and the skill of sportsmanship and giving everyone a fair go.

PARENTS GET INFORMED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:01 AEST

Many parents took the opportunity to visit their children's classrooms on the afternoon of 20 February. The purpose of the afternoon was to acquaint parents and carers with what the 2013 school year holds in store for their children.

It was lovely to see parents embracing many of the literacy and numeracy activities their children participate in each day, including the technology side of these activities.

They all enjoyed a sausage sizzle with other parents and staff to end the most successful afternoon.

PARENT INFORMATION AFTERNOON COMING UP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:00 AEST

The parent teacher information afternoon for all classes from Kindergarten to Year 6 is being held on Wednesday 20th February. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents to meet the wonderful staff at Toukley Public School.

Classrooms will be open from 3.30pm to 5pm to enable parents to meet their child's teacher in an informal setting, as well as looking at student work and becoming familiar with the increasing amount of technology in our wonderful school.

Following the classroom visit a free BBQ will be held from 4.30pm until 6pm. We are looking forward to meeting with all our parents on this informal afternoon.

SPORTSMANSHIP WITH A SPLASH

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:08 AEST

On Friday 15 February students of Toukley Public School showed true sportsmanship at our Annual Swimming Carnival. Exceptional sportsmanship was shown by many students who could not swim in the 50m events, however participated in the across the pool events.

There were many outstanding performances on the day. Twenty One swimmers have qualified for the next level of competition. They will compete in the Zone Swimming Carnival on 6th March at Mingara Pool.

The behaviour of all students who attended our swimming carnival was something for our school to be proud of.

KINDERGARTEN SETTLE IN BEAUTIFULLY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:52 AEST

The Kindergarten students for 2013 have settled into school life beautifully. They have been quick to learn the routines of Toukley Public School and have made plenty of new friends along the way.

Reading, Writing and Maths groups have already started with the students engaging in directed and independent learning experiences. They are also enjoying the experience of using technology to support their learning. IPads, computers and Smartboards are standard learning tools in every Kindergarten classroom.

Kindergarten are integrating well into the playground and enjoying all the facilities including the school canteen.

All these students have shown enthusiasm and that they are ready for an exciting year ahead.

See some more wonderful photos of their great start in the gallery of this web page.

2013 BRINGS A NEW LOOK

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:23 AEST

2013 is going to be another fantastic year at Toukley Public School. New students, new classes and a most exciting new uniform. Our 2013 school leaders looked fantantastic in the new uniform when they wore it to our 2012 Annual Presentation Day. The uniform shop will be open on Thursday 17th January and Thursday 24th January from 9am to 1pm to allow parents to purchase the new items.

Teachers will be working together as a team during the holidays preparing their classrooms and also important "units of learning" for each class. Staff will be returning to school on Tuesday 29th January for a School Development Day when they will participate in various professional development units.

Students Years 1 to 6 will return on Wednesday 30th January 2013.

We are looking forward to welcoming our new Kindergarten students on Thursday 31st January. It is always an exciting day for these children and their families as they set off on their journey through education.

Kooloora Preschool will also be welcoming 40 new students and their families. These children will be attending preschool in a 5 day fortnight program when they get to enjoy all the wonderful facilities Toukley Public School has to offer. Families will have received letters advising them of the actual start date for their preschoolers.

Staff are looking forward to 2013 being another great year at our dynamic school.

2013 SCHOOL LEADERS ANNOUNCED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:23 AEST

On Tuesday 11th December Toukley Public School held their Annual Presentation Day where the School Leaders for the 2013 school year were announced. The Captains and Prefects are:

SCHOOL CAPTAIN: Lucee Thomson

SCHOOL CAPTAIN: Harry Packham

PREFECTS: Ashli Gillard, Joel Shortland, Tara Wagstaff and Kirra Willett

House Captains were also announced during the presentation, together with all class awards. The full list of the awards appear in the newsletter published this week, which can be accessed on this website.

It was wonderful to see the excitement and pride on family members and friends who witnessed the presentation ceremony.

READY FOR KINDERGARTEN 2013

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

Our Kindergarten students of 2013 are all ready to start "Big School" next year following their 15 week KindyStart orientation program. During the 15 weeks they participated in many activities to ready them for school. These included working with classroom technology such as Interactive Whiteboards, desktop computers and iPads. They have developed pre Literacy and pre Numeracy skills. The children also visited classes, the school library and the canteen.

Participants in all three groups were joined for Graduation Ceremonies during Week 8 where they were presented with a Graduation Certificate.

Toukley Public School is really looking forward to welcoming them into our dynamic school community at the start of 2013.

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:28 AEST

During Week 9 our PBL (Positive Behaviour for Learning) committee organised a fund raising activity where students were asked to come to school dressed as something they would like to receive for Christmas. A gold coin donation was the nominal cost of this right.

There were some very creative outfits to be seen, including iPhones, boats, surfboards and watches just to name a few. A winner from each class was chosen to receive a prize. The fundraising activity raised over $300 to go toward PBL rewards for 2013.

NRL HELPS TACKLES LITERACY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

Recently 52 lucky students travelled to NRL headquarters in Paddington to participate in a program called "Dream, Believe, Achieve". This program involves a variety of Literacy based activities focusing on making good choices, setting goals, thinking big and believing in yourself.

NRL players, past and present, spoke to the children about the value of hard work, commitment, leadership and success.

This was an excellent excursion for all who attended.

KOOL PURPLE KOOKAS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:53 AEST

During Week 8 twelve Aboriginal students participated in a program organised in conjunction with Wyong Shire Council aimed at empowering them and their families to take charge of their own well being.

The program saw Corey Grech, a chef from Sydney spend four days with them discussing their Aboriginal culture and proper eating habits. The students had the opportunity to prepare and cook healthy meals with everyday ingredients and also some unique ingredients such as Crocodile, Emu, Kangaroo and Barramundi.

On Friday they all participated in a "master chef" type cook-off when judges got to choose the pick of the dishes.

This was a great four days for all the students involved in this wonderful program.

KJ WITNESS REACTIONS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:53 AEST

KJ have been studying reactions as part of their Science Unit of Learning. They have been learning how different substances react with each other in certain conditions.

Recently Miss Jackson took them outside to watch an experiment and to see what happens when a

Mentos lolly is added to Diet Coke.

"I liked it when it popped up really quick" Jye

"I saw the coke go up and we had to move back"

Anna

"The coke exploded everywhere all over Ms Jackson's glasses" Ella

The children were all so excited when the coke erupted out of the bottle.

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR OF ADULT LEARNING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:30 AEST

During 2012 Toukley Public School once again provided a venue for adults to be upskilled in the areas of computer, literacy and numeracy.

On Wednesday mornings Ms Jillian King from Wyong TAFE conducted combined computer and literacy skills in our school's computer lab, whilst the numeracy component was held in Toukley Public School Community Room during the afternoon. The morning course provided the participants with skills in computers such as spreadsheets, emails, word documents together with skills in literacy.

All participants are now members of TAFE and will be presented with Certificates in recognition of their achievements.

Comment from Judie Telfer (participant): "Our teacher, Gillian is just so wonderful and we have a great fun time as we learn"

RECOGNITION OF GOOD CITIZENS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

Last week Lara Corbett and Mack Dowling were honoured with Citizenship Awards at the annual Northlakes-Toukley Rotary Club Awards Dinner. Lara and Mack received their awards in recognition of their contribution as outstanding citizens of our school and our entire school community. They have represented Toukley Public School with pride at many school and community activities, including visits to nursing homes and the senior citizens centre. They have also involved themselves in school based community activities such as Junior Red Cross and various fund raising events.

Lara and Mack were fortunate to have family and friends witness this presentation, together with Principal Ms Armour and Deputy Principal Mrs Curran.

CLAIRE IS OUR PUBLIC SPEAKING CHAMPION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:37 AEST

Claire Cantwell was announced at Monday's assembly as the winner of the inaugural Peter Foster Memorial Public Speaking Scholarship and was presented with a certificate together with $700 worth of vouchers for educational purchases. Our school is thrilled to have been chosen by members of Toukley Lions Club to be the recipient of this annual public speaking award.

After preliminary rounds seven of our students recently participated in the final of this award. Finalists, Georgie Saare, Zoe McAndrew, Jacqui Chapman, Jade Pearce, Claire Cantwell Elizabeth Shipp and Sophie Jones spoke first on the topic of their choice. They each then had 20 minutes to prepare a speech on the subject of "holding hands". All students are to be commended for their outstanding concepts and delivery with minimal preparation time.

Local Public Speaking adjudicator, Sue McNeil had the difficult task of judging Claire as the winner from the outstanding speeches each student presented.

We look forward to witnessing another wonderful display of public speaking in 2013. Who knows, we may have the next Prime Minister in our midsts.

3RD IN THE DISTRICT IN MATHS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

Joel Shortland recently attended a presentation ceremony for the Newcastle Permanent Primary Maths Competition. Joes came 5th in this competition overall and had the outstanding result of coming 3rd out of all entrants in the Gosford District.

As a result of his outstanding achievement Joel has been invited to attend a Maths camp in March next year.

TUESDAY FUN IN OUR COMMUNITY ROOM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:18 AEST

Each Tuesday morning our Community Room is alive with fun and laughter. Our Community Engagement Officer Mrs Annette Starr conducts a play group where children from the entire Toukley community are welcome to come along with their parents/carers and enjoy 2 hours of play, fun, music and laughter.

The children enjoy activities such as colouring in, play with the vast array of toys and many interesting creations are made from playdough. During the morning our preschool teacher Mrs Sharon Buck engages the children in 15 minutes of educational musical activities.

The increasing number of families attending enjoy this wonderful social interaction for 2 hours each Tuesday.

GOOD KARMA COMING OUR WAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:47 AEST

Our school's Junior Red Cross is currently are participating in the Red Cross Karma campaign. Karma machines are located around our school to collect donations of quality clothing or accessories for resale in Red Cross retail stores. All proceeds are utilised to assist vulnerable in the community, which is good for everyone's Karma.

We have collected quite a lot of clothing etc to date, however collections are being accepted until Monday 26 November. Make no mistake, the Karma Machine is a finely calibrated piece of cosmic technology. The more we donate the more good karma is in stall for us.

YEAR 2 TARGETED FOR NIPS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

A group of Year 2 students have been targeted to participate in our school"s NIPS (NAPLAN Improvement Program). These students are being familiarised with the NAPLAN test format. Their test results and other data is being analysed to ensure that areas of weakness are targeted and taught accordingly.

A group of talented students from 2M visit the maths room once a week for Maths extension activities. These students have been familiarised with the test format and structure of NAPLAN Numeracy tests. As the term progresses they will spend most lessons solving number problems.

This is a exceptional program which will bring improved NAPLAN results for our school.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS RECOGNISED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:22 AEST

Our environmental projects have been once again recognised by Wyong Shire Council. This year was the 25th Anniversary of the Primary Schools Environmental Awards and Toukley Public School have been honoured with a Special Achievement Award for "Continued Improvement to School Grounds".

School Captains, Logan Humphries and Claire Cantwell accompanied Mrs Curran to the Award Ceremony at Wyong Shire Council Civic Centre on 15 November to accept the framed certificate on behalf of our school.

This wonderful achievement highlights the ongoing work of our students and our hardworking SEMP committee.

HI TECH KINDYSTART

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

Children attending our Kindergarten orientation program, KindyStart, have been experimenting with the latest in educational technology. The children have been given the opportunity to dabble in the latest hardware including Interactive Whiteboards and iPads.

The Interactive Whiteboards are a part of everyday life in classrooms at Toukley Public School and iPads have proven very useful since the introduction of them earlier this year. iPads are used to play educational games and one particular app which has proven very popular with the Kindystart children is one which enables them to make up their own story.

They will all be looking forward to utilising all these wonderful resources when they start "big school" in 2013.

CELEBRATION OF KOOLOORA REFURBISHMENT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:36 AEST

The recent refurbishment of Kooloora Preschool was celebrated when special guests attended a small ceremony to officially open the updated premises.

Ms Karen Jones (School Education Director) and Ms Lesley Armstrong (President of Central AECG). officially opened the refurbishment. The ceremony was witnessed by other guests from AECG, Dept of Education and Communities, parents and other members of our community.

A highlight of the ceremony was a performance of two songs by students of Kooloora.

Following morning tea visitors were free to wander around the premises and grounds to view all the improvements to the preschool. All in attendance were very impressed with the bright new learning environment for our children.

A LITTLE EXCITEMENT AT KOOLOORA

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:26 AEST

The students at Kooloora were a little excited recently when they got to sit in a real firetruck and had turns at squirting water from the fire-hose.

The children had been learning about fire safety and practising fire drills at preschool. Firemen from Toukley Fire Station visited the preschool and spoke to the children and reinforced what they had been learning.

There are now lots of budding fire fighters at our preschool.

YEAR 3 VISIT BLACKBUTT RESERVE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:23 AEST

Year 3 students travelled by coach to Blackbutt Reserve in Newcastle on Wednesday 31 October. The excursion was organised by teachers to complement "The Great Australian Journey: unit of learning they have been studying in class.

They got to get up close and personal with a variety of creatures including koalas, wombats, birds, bearded dragons, stick insects and Trent the Snake.

It was a great experience for all the students.

YEAR 2 GET UP CLOSE WITH DINOSAURS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:22 AEST

Students in Year 2 together with some parent helpers had the opportunity to get up close to dinosaurs during their excursion to the Australian Museum in Sydney. This excursion was organised to supplement the unit of learning on dinsosaurs they have been studying in the classroom.

Students experienced many hands on activities relating to dinsaurs and had the opportunity to look at a range of fossils and dinsaur bones.

It was a fantastic day, enjoyed by students, staff and parent helpers who attended.

TOUKLEY HOSTS THE OLYMPICS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:16 AEST

During Week 2 of Term 4 our students enjoyed a fantastic Olympic Day.

The day began with all students participating in an Opening Ceremony. Students took part in a march in their respective country groups and completed the Opening Ceremony by lighting the Olympic Flame following the Torch Relay.

Many and varied activities were included in the program of the day prior to finishing the day with all students coming together once again for the Closing Ceremony.

It was an awesome day enjoyed by all who participated and those community members who came along witnessed the day.

Comment by Mrs Tania Cant (parent): "Good work Toukley Public School on organising such a great event. The children enjoyed a real fun, interactive day which was clearly evident by their remarks at the end of school".

KINDERGARTEN HOSTS VIPs

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:52 AEST

During Week 9 of Term 3 our Kindergarten students played host to some very important people in their lives. It was wonderful to see the number of Grandparents and Great Grandparents who came to celebrate the important role they play in the lives of our Kindergarten children.

Our VIPs enjoyed watching our very excited Kindergarten classes perform in the school hall prior to visiting their classrooms. Grandparents enjoyed participating in some of the many activities the children do in the classroom each day. Their artistic abilities were put to the test in helping the children complete an "I love my Grandparents" picture.

They all enjoyed a lovely morning tea in the sun to complete their visit. It was wonderful to see the enjoyment on the faces of both the children and their VIPs.

"LET'S GET TOGETHER"

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

During Week 9 of Term 3 Aboriginal students from Toukley Public School travelled to Budgewoi School to participate in their Annual Bilby Bash. The Bilby Bash enables Aboriginal students celebrate their culture with students from schools within our Local Management Group.

Students from our school performed a wonderful song accompanied by didgeridoos called "Lets Get Together". All our students had a fantastic day and their behaviour was outstanding.

FOOTSTEPPING OUT AT TOUKLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:44 AEST

Footsteps Dancesport Program is this year once again part of our PD/Health PE program. This fantastic 5 week Dancesport program is very popular with our students as is evident by the number of students choosing to participate.

Many positive comments from students and teachers have been overheard since the 2012 program began in Week 6.

It's fantastic to see children showing off their new dance moves during recess and lunch and talking excitedly about Footsteps to their friends.

Looking out "Dancing with the Stars" here comes Footstepping Toukley.

EXCITING TIMES FOR KOOLOORA PRE SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

The students, family and staff of Kooloora Preschool are very excited at the moment as they have recently moved back into their newly renovated building.

The new spacious interior together with the extended outdoor learning area have allowed additional space for the set up of more learning activities for the children both inside and outside.

A warm and welcoming feel is created by the new pathway from the front gate to the door of the building.

"CHAMPIONS READ"

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

"Champions Read" was the theme of this year's Book Week which was celebrated during Week 6.

Our students brought in some great photographs of themselves reading with the theme "Champions Read" in mind. One of the many fantastic shots was of a student reading whilst sitting in the middle of Olympic Rings made out of books. The imagination shown in all the photographs was amazing.

The week concluded with senior classes being paired with junior classes in a variety of literacy activities, including making books together and reading to each other.

We certainly have some Champion Readers in our school.

OUR NOMINATION FOR NSW GILI AWARD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:59 AEST

Our school has been nominated for NSW Gili Award in the TAFE/School Partnership category. This nomination is a result of the "Central Coast Public Schools: Education Our Way" program conducted in our Community Room during 2011.

The TAFE NSW Gili Awards celebrate and recognise the achievements of Aboriginal NSW TAFE students, staff and programs that have contributed to Aboriginal communities through training and education.

Toukley Public has three members of this program currently working in our school.

Our school community is keeping it's fingers crossed that we win this wonderful award which will be announced on 30th August.

THEIR FIRST TASTE OF "BIG SCHOOL"

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

Kindystart, our innovative kindergarten orientation program began in Week 4 when three groups of excited children had their first taste of life at "big school".

This program allows 2013 kindergarten students to experience "big school" and attend one morning a week for 15 weeks.

They participate in various activities relative to school life including visiting classrooms and joining the older students in various programs including numeracy, literacy and craft activities. They also get to visit the school's computer room, library and later on will visit our school canteen.

There was lot's of excitement upon arrival and big smiles when it was time to go home.

We are looking forward to permanently welcoming these new members of our school community in 2013.

FAMILIES CELEBRATE NATIONAL TREE DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:36 AEST

On Friday of week 2 our students together with some parents and grandparents enjoyed a lovely afternoon in the school gardens cleaning, weeding and pruning. This activity was organised to celebrate National Tree Day.

As spring approaches each class will continue to maintain there own gardens.

KINDER AND YEAR 1 TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

Kindergarten and Year 1 enjoyed an excursion to Sydney Wildlife World on Friday 3 August. The

excursion gave the students an up close experience with native Australian animals. They have been learning about these creatures during Science lessons in their classrooms.

Students, teachers and parent helpers had an exciting and educational day. Highlights of the day included the butterfly room, the sleepy koalas and the enormous crocodile.

CARNIVAL OF FUTURE OLYMPIANS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:36 AEST

Who knows we may see some Toukley Public School students competing in future Olympic games. There were some outstanding achievements from students throughout our Annual Athletics Carnival on 10 August. Some students will be rewarded by representing our dynamic school at the Zone Athletics Carnival to be held 31 August at Mingara Athletic Field.

The outstanding behaviour of the students together with the assistance, support and encouragement from the parents and carers who attended contributed to the success of the carnival.

A big congratulations to all students for doing their best, having a go and showing true Toukley sportsmanship.

STAGE 3 HAVE FUN IN THE MUD AT KINCUMBER

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

During Week 2 eighty nine of our Stage 3 students spent two nights at the Great Aussie Bush Camp at Kincumber. During the three days they participated in many activities, the most popular seemed to be the ones involved in getting muddy.

The students certainly represented Toukley Public School with Care to all, Courtesy to each other, the teachers and the camp instructors and Co-operation when they had to work as a team.

Courage during activities that challenged them, Fearlessness when they climbed an 18m pole only to step from a small platform and Tenacity and humour during a commando style obstacle course through the mud were also displayed by the children.

A fantastic time was had by all, including teachers.

SPIRITS NOT DAMPENED AT POINT WOLSTONCROFT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:24 AEST

During the last week of Term 2 our Year 4 students and teachers attended a week long camp at Point Wolstoncroft, Gwandalan. While the week began in beautiful sunshine, it wasn't to last. Toukley students spirits weren't dampened by the terrible weather and they all had a great week enjoying all the activities the camp had to offer.

Activities they participated in included archery, giant swing, low ropes course, BMX riding (the muddiest activity by far!), damper making, rock climbing and kayaking.

Despite the less than perfect weather, the children thoroughly enjoyed their camp experience and were great ambassadors of Toukley Public School.

MC1 CELEBRATE 100 DAYS AT SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

Miss Cross and the students in MC 1 class had a funfilled day on 25 July celebrating their 100th day at school this year. A variety of exciting and educational activities was enjoyed by all. Counting to 100 by 5's and 10's and craft activities including making themselves a special school crown celebrating their 100th day at school this year.

The students enjoyed reading a book called Chicka Chicka 1,2,3 where 100 numbers climb an apple tree.

The day finished with a cake that had a candle in the shape of 100. It was a fantastic day.

GETTING READY FOR KINDERGARTEN 2013

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

Excitement is building around our school in anticipation of hosting KindyStart our innovative Kindergarten Orientation program. KindyStart students will come to school one morning a week for 15 weeks commencing in Week 4 as part of their school orientation. They get to experience school as they will know it in Kindergarten 2013, including lining up and other classroom etiquette, visiting our Library, participating in computer lessons and visiting classrooms from Kinder to Year 6. Mrs Pauley is looking forward to nurturing these children through their introduction to big school.

NETBALL GIRLS HAVE MIXED RESULT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

During week 9 of Term 2 our girls netball team participated in a PSSA Gala day held at Terrigal Basketball Stadium. They enjoyed a win in the first round against Wyong Grove, but unfortunately were defeated by Terrigal in a hard fought encounter in Round 2.

The girls displayed exceptional behaviour and sportsmanship t;hrought the day, proving to be wonderful representatives of our Toukley Public School..

HEROIC EFFORTS IN RUGBY LEAGUE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

On Thursday 28th June Toukley Public School's Open Rugby League team participated in the statewide Classic Shield knockout at Morry Breen Oval, Kanwal.

Unfortunately due to injury and other unforeseen circumstances our team participated with only 11 players, this was certainly a challenge.

All 11 players had an outstanding day and achieved truly fantastic results. They defeated a full strength Mannering Park side in their first match 18-12. Unfortunately playing sides with 13 players plus 4 reserves took it's toll and they were gallantly defeated by Warnervale in their second match of the day.

All eleven players did a magnificent job and are to be congratulated on their heroic efforts.

AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:31 AEST

April is Autism Awareness month! Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. Many people with Autism have sensory issues and often experience overwhelming anxiety. Studies show 1 in 160 Australians have (ASD) and that it is more prevalent in boys than girls. Autism lasts a lifetime and there is currently no known cure for Autism.

TAKING THE CHALLENGE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

The Premiers Reading Challenge is proving very popular among our students this year. To date we have three times as many students registered for the challenge as we had last for the entire challenge in 2011.

Our revamped library has many of the books listed on the reading list for students to borrow such as Too Many Pears, Bear & Chook and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

Mrs Pezet has been reading Premiers Reading Challenge books to the students in the library from the shelf dedicated to the Challenge Books.

More information on the Premiers Reading Challenge can be found at https://products.schools.nsw.edu.au/prc/home.html

HAVING FUN WITH MATHS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

Students at Toukley Public School continue to be engaged and motivated by the innovative maths program that was implemented successfully in 2010.

Throughout the 2012 school year this program will be supervised by experienced teacher Miss Jane West. Miss West will be working with class teachers to develop and implement class specific maths programs.

Maths Home Games are available as a homework program for students Kinder to Year 4. These have proven very popular not only for students, but for families as well.

Mrs Tracey Horsey (parent) says "it's an amazing experience seeing the children's faces light with delight when they win a game, never really realising that they have learnt a new skill in the progress"

SHIPS AHOY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

To compliment the unit of work on Ocean Navigation and Explorers 3/4W and 5/6B visited the Australian

National Maritime Museum in Sydney.

The students enjoyed a tour and talk on the restored tall ship James Craig and the former naval vessel HMAS Vampire. They were able to catch a glimpse of what was life was like on these ships by observing how the ship worked, examining living quarters and handling unusual pieces of cargo.

A great day was had by all students, teachers and parents who attended.

STUDENT INTEREST IN COMPETITION IS GROWING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:11 AEST

Once again in 2012 students from Toukley Public School are participating in the International Competitions for Schools, a highly regarded assessment program organised by University of NSW. The number of our students participating this year has almost doubled in comparison to the number of participants in 2011.

All participants receive a certificate in recognition of their achievement. Many Toukley students received Distinctions and Credits in the 2011 Competitions.

Participation in this program is a wonderful opportunity for our students to compete in an international competition in a variety of areas including, English, Maths, Science, Computer Skills, Spelling and Writing.

FAMILIES CHOOSE THE BEST OPTION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

Toukley Public School is looking forward to another exciting and rewarding year in 2012. We will be welcoming many new families to our dynamic school. These families know that our school is the best option for their children and their academic, social and emotional welfare.

On Tuesday 31st January 2012 eighty new Kindergarten students and their extended families will commence a new and exciting journey through their years in education at Toukley Public School. Our Kindergarten teachers are eager and can't wait to welcome these children to "big school". During these holidays the teachers have been working together as a team to prepare programs and their classrooms to ensure that the new students have the best start to their learning.

Our preschool "Kooloora" is also eagerly awaiting the arrival of 40 new students and their families in readiness for "big school" in 2013. These children will participate in our 5 day a fortnight program and be enthusiastically involved in everything that Toukley Public School has to offer.

The exceptional and innovative programs we have to offer attracts a large number of families with students in Years 1 to 6 who are new to the area. These families choose our school for the important education of their children.

We are excited about meeting and welcoming all these new students and their families to our wonderful school community.

OUR 2012 SCHOOL LEADERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

At our Annual School Presentation Day held on Friday 9th December our School Captains and Prefects for the 2012 school year were announced. Congratulations to:

Logan Humphries and Claire Cantwell- School Captains

Zac Richardson, Mack Dowling, Jacqui Chapman and Georgie Saare - School Prefects

House Captains are:

GWYDER: Nicolaas Harmsen and Hayley Gilyeat

SPEEDWELL: Matty Rogers and Jade Slattery

DIXON: Lu;oe Bridle and Joshua Bryant

PATERSON: Nathan Petch and Georgi Peek

The proud parents of these students accompanied them onto the stage in the hall while they were presented with their badges.

OUR SCHOOL LOOKING LIKE CHRISTMAS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:59 AEST

It was definitely beginning to look like Christmas on 7 December at our school. A special fundraiser was organised where students and staff were asked to dress in the spirit of Christmas for the cost of a gold coin donation. This fun day was a most successful fundraiser which will contribute toward the cost of end of year rewards.

Christmas colours and characters where everywhere to be seen. Class winners for the most "creatively dressed" were chosen from all classes, then overall winners from K-2 and 3-6. The winner from Yrs 3-6 was dressed as a present - very creative.

It was an amazing sight and made for a wonderful feel of Christmas throughout the school.

MUCK-A-BOUT FOR MULTICAT 1 CLASS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

On Tuesday of Week 9 Miss Cross took our Multicategorical 1 Class on the very first excursion.

A mini bus load of excited students, together with 5 staff members, set out for Muck-A-Bout play centre at Charmhaven.

Whilst visiting the centre the children had an absolute amazing time on all the equipment provided. Their behaviour was outstanding and they are all looking forward to their next excursion.

"EDUCATION OUR WAY" CELEBRATION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:04 AEST

Twelve participants in the "Education Our Way" SLSO course celebrated their achievements in front of friends, family and dignitaries at a special ceremony on 6th December in our school hall.

This course has been presented in Toukley School's Community room on Tuesdays and Thursdays during Semester 2 of this year.

Upon completion of the Certificate III in Education Support these twelve people will be qualified to work as School Learning Support Officers in schools across the State. Many of the students have already gained employment in schools for 2012. Sean Thompson will be employed at Toukley Public School for the 2012 school year as an SLSO.

The ceremony included performances by our school Didge group and our Kooloora Pre School students. All who attended thoroughly enjoyed the official presentation and the lovely morning tea which followed.

BIG DAY FOR KINDY START

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:33 AEST

During Week 7 our three Kindy Start groups celebrated their achievements over the last 10 weeks with special assemblies. The assemblies were presented by our school leaders with Kaidyn Lucas reading the "acknowledgement of country".

It was a great opportunity for parents and family to see what our fantastic school has to offer with performances by the school choir and the boy's dance group.

Each and every Kindy Start child had their moment in the limelight when they were presented with their Kindy Start graduation certificate.

All parents were given the opportunity to meet one another at a special morning tea prior to the assemblies. A great morning was enjoyed by all who attended.

A DAY AT THE BEACH FOR STAGE 3

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:26 AEST

During Week 6, over two days, stage 3 students attended Surf Fun Days at Terrigal Beach. The days were organised and supervised by Surf Life Saving Association, Central Coast.

All who attended got to participate in a variety of exciting and fun beach and surf activities. The beach activities included flags racing and beach cricket. Students were then shown how to use surf rescue tubes and nipper boards as part of the water activities.

The behaviour of all students who attended is to be commended. They certainly were terrific ambassadors for Toukley Public School.

REWARDED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

On 22 November Mrs Curran and Mr Stirton (parent of Zac and Taylor) accompanied ten students representing Toukley Public School to Wyong Shire Council for the Primary School Environmental Awards.

Five of these students participated in a combined choir with other local schools to perform "Keep it Clean". This song contains strong environmental awareness messages.

The highlight of the ceremony was when our school was presented with the runner up award for the large schools in the Wyong Shire Council 2011 Primary School Environment Awards. Together with a framed certificate, we were given a worm farm and Bunnings gift cards which will be used to fund some of the schools environmental projects.

This is a fantastic reward to our band of gardeners who spend many hours to develop sustainable gardens in our wonderful school grounds.

MAYOR PAYS A VISIT TO STAGE 3

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

On Wednesday 16th November the Mayor of Wyong Shire, Councillor Bob Graham visited our school to speak to Stage 3 about the roles and responsibilities of Local Government.

Mr Graham spoke also about his life in government and his role as Mayor of Wyong Shire Council. During his political he has held a position not only in Local Council but also in State Parliament.

Following his talk he presented lovely certificates from NSW Parliament to each student who visited State Parliament House in Sydney recently.

ENJOYMENT OF READING IS REWARDED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

Congratulations to Peta-Louise and Kirra from 3/4B and Beau from 5/6L. These three students received a NSW Premiers Reading Challenge Gold Award at Monday's assembly.

To receive this award students must complete the Reading Challenge for 4 years.

Twenty six other students from Toukley Public School Years 1 to 6 also completed the Premiers Reading Challenge for 2011 and received their certificates at Monday's assembly.

Well done to all these students.

YEAR 5 STUDENTS GET A TASTE OF GATS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:25 AEST

During Term 3 selected Year 5 students were given the opportunity to attend Gorokan High School for a GATS program. Matt, Zac and Lachlan attended 4 half day workshops and a whole day workshop.

They studied the Earth's atmosphere.The Powerpoint Presentation they produced is attached for all to peruse. Just open the file and hit F5 to view a slide of this great presentation.

Atmosphere Presentation (pptx, 3290 KB)

All the boys thoroughly enjoyed the experience and "would love to do it again!"

ASSEMBLY DAY CHANGES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:30 AEST

Please be aware that both school assemblies have changed from Fridays to Monday for a trial period. The times remain the same:

Preschool - Year 2: 1.40pm

Year 3 - Year 6: 2.20pm

YEAR 3 GO BACK IN TIME

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:23 AEST

An excursion to The Rocks and Hyde Park Barracks was enjoyed by Year 3 students on Friday 11 November. This excursion was organised to compliment the unit of work on "Australian History".

The students got to dress up as convicts or soldiers, one boy got to be Captain Arthur Phillip for the duration of the tour. The Rocks Tour gave all who attended a great insight into convict life in early Sydney days.

Hyde Park Barracks provided interesting information also on how convicts lived, including methods of punishment. Many students enjoyed lying in hammocks similar to the ones used by the convicts.

A fantastic but tiring day was had by all who attended the excursion.

PRESCHOOL ENTERTAIN AT CONFERENCE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

Kooloora pre school students were invited to sing at the opening of the Australian Child Youth and Family Strategy Conference on Friday 11 November.

They travelled to Kooindah Waters Resort by bus where they sang and acted out five songs, four of which had a definite Aboriginal focus.

The children were warmly greeted and rewarded with a rousing response after each song.

They performed and behaved like seasoned professionals.

STAGE 3 EXPERIENCE STATE PARLIAMENT

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:09 AEST

During a visit to State Parliament students took on roles of ministers in the Lower House Legislative

Assembly and debated educational issues. They discovered the process of law making and democracy. This excursion was organised to compliment their unit of work "Democracy in Australia".

Some groups were lucky enough to meet the current President of the Upper House, Mr Gallagher and actually saw ministers at work.

Outstanding behaviour was exhibited throughout the entire day by our students.

BRIDE AND GROOM PARADE FOR YEAR 6

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:34 AEST

As part of their transition to high school our Year 6 students have been working with Year 9 mentors over the past 2 weeks completing activities in relation to high school.

The program culminated in a Bride and Groom parade where each group got to dress a bride and groom using only newspaper and tape.

There was an amazing range of beautifully dressed brides in the parade.

STUDENTS ENJOY ZUMBATHON

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:27 AEST

Monday 31st October saw students shaking and grooving in a Zumbathon organised by the P&C as a fundraising event.

Parent Jodi Willett tirelessly lead the sessions from 11.40am to 3pm - she is obviously a very fit lady.

It was fantastic so many students participating and really enjoying themselves.

Funds raised will assist repainting Area A with educational games.

LEADERS WALK RELAY FOR LIFE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:53 AEST

Our school leaders, together with Taylor Stirton recently participated in the Central Coast Relay for Life

at Mingara. These students combined to walk for approx 18 hours to help raise funds for cancer research. They secured sponsorship and took on this enormous endeavour under the Toukley Public School name.

Betty and Dallas Stirton, parents of school captain Zac supported the students all the way through this adventure, including walking with them throughout the night. Mr Stirton provided a football boot signed by

legend Andrew (Joey) Johns to raffle toward this wonderful cause. All who participated were very tired after the event, however they found the whole experience very rewarding.

TOUKLEY ENJOY A NON COMPETITIVE SOCCER GALA DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:15 AEST

Our Stage Two soccer players travelled to Bateau Bay on Tuesday 25th October and participated in a non competitive Cottee's 5-a-Side Gala Day. The main focus of this gala day was on developing the children's skills and having fun.

Toukley had three teams play in the day, a boy's team, a girl's team and a mixed team. Each team was assisted by a Stage Three student who was responsible for leading the teams and ensuring every player had a fair turn.

All Toukley players played with enthusiasm and displayed great sportsmanship. A fantastic day was had by all who attended.

WYONG COUNCIL ASSISTS OUR CRICKET TEAM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

Toukley Public School's cricket team are excited to have recently received some new equipment thanks to a Sports Equipment and Recreational Grant from Wyong Shire Council.

The school used the grant of $1389.64 to purchase new cricket equipment including bats, balls, batting pads, helmets, stumps just to same some of the gear.

Members of the team had a great time unpacking the many boxes.

This gear together with the upgrade of the cricket practice net funded by our P&C will provide a boost to our team just in time for the 2012 school cricket competition. The support of Wyong Shire Council and the P&C to upgrade our equipment is much appreciated by Mr Shipp, our cricket coach and the Toukley Public School cricket team.

COUNCIL VISITS FOR ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:39 AEST

Wyong Shire Council representatives recently visited our school as part of their Primary School Environment Program. They inspected our school grounds to view how we as a school care for the environment.

A special assembly was held where students spoke on "Wiping out Waste" and presented some fantastic artwork using recycled materials.

Jacqui Chapman and Claire Cantwell played an amazing Powerpoint Presentation on the many ways our school look after the environment. This presentation was accompanied by the school choir singing a song called "Keep it Clean".

The Council representatives were impressed by the enthusiasm of our students in caring for the environment.

Ten students will be representing Toukley Public School at the award ceremony at Civic Centre in November.

GREAT SPELLERS COMPETE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

The annual Premier's Spelling Bee last week had thirty five students participate. The standard of spelling was outstanding.

The Junior winners were Bailey Horswell and Hannah McCormack and the Senior winners were Tayla McGaw and Connor Cooper. These four students received a school trophy and all finalists received a certificate signed by the Premier of NSW.

Bailey and Hannah participated at a Regional Final on Tuesday at Ettalong Public School and represented Toukley with distinction.

Congratulations to all the children involved.

IN STEP WITH FOOTSTEPS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

During the last five weeks of Term 3 our school was once again visited by Footsteps. Footsteps is a brilliant dance program that teaches students a range of dance styles including hip-hop, contemporary and ballroom. Age appropriate modern music is used to engage the students while they learn both individual and partnered dances.

Footsteps continually dazzles us and makes dancing fun and entertaining for all the students who participate.

PRESCHOOLERS HAVE FUN WITH MATHS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:03 AEST

During Week 7 local preschoolers visited our school and enjoyed lunch and a "Fun with Maths" afternoon with our Kindergarten students.

Fun hands on, maths centred activities were organised and students from class 3/4B did a brilliant job overseeing and assisting at each activity station.

The visiting preschool teachers were thrilled to see their students enjoying the maths activities and were impressed with the range of maths equipment and resources our school showcased on the day.

SUCCESSFUL SWIMMING SCHEME

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

During weeks 7 and 8 one hundred students from Years 2,3 and 4 participated in the School Swim Scheme program. These students walked to Toukley Pool for these lessons each day for the two weeks where they displayed exceptional behaviour during the walk and also whilst at the lessons.

The highlight of the scheme for many children was being able to jump into the pool fully clothed. This exercise was performed to allow the participants to experience being in the water and feeling the extra weight of wet clothes. Whilst in the water they were asked to tread water, back float and perform freestyle.

After 2 weeks of the swimming program, the improvement of the swimming ability of the students was remarkable.

Swim Scheme certificates of achievement will be handed out at the Junior and Senior assemblies on Friday, 16th September . All parents/ caregivers are welcome to attend to see the students receive their certificates.

KINDER VISIT THE AQUARIUM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:52 AEST

On Friday teachers and parents escorted our Kindergarten on an excursion to Sydney Aquarium. The excursion was organised to compliment the unit of work "Underwater Exploration".

Not only was the terrific display of living sea creatures enjoyed the Kinder students were all quite excited when the Sydney Opera House came into view from the bus.

Opportunities were given for us to have some hands on experience, such as feeling coral sand, etc.

When asked what their favourite part was some of the comments from KB students were:

"I loved it when I saw the shark" - Faith
"I saw heaps of fish swim down" - Liam
"The fish got scared and went down" - Maddison
"I saw the Sydney Opera House from the bus" - Matilda
"I liked the diver who swam in with the sharks" - Matthew

These Kindergarten students are going to be great ambassadors for our wonderful school. The behaviour they displayed throughout day was exceptional.

GREAT DISPLAY OF SPORTSMANSHIP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

Toukley Public School students once again displayed exceptional sportsmanship whilst representing our great school at the Wyong PSSA Zone Athletics Carnival last Friday.

Our 38 representatives participated with the enthusiasm and great sportsmanship that our school is becoming renowned for. Congratulations to the following students for their success in reaching the next level of competition in the Sydney North carnival at Homebush on 12th September:

Nic Harmsen - 11 years 800 metres - 1st

Emily McBride - 12/13 years discus - 2nd

Elija Steiner - 9 years 100 metres - 1st

Elija Steiner, Tai Ogle, Adam Riding and Harry Packham - Junior Boys Relay - 1st

A wonderful day was had by all participants and parents who came along to support our school.

BOOK WEEK CELEBRATIONS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:34 AEST

Our school had a terrific week celebrating Book Week commencing 22nd August 2011.

On Wednesday Readers Cafe was held in the school library, when parents were invited to join their children after school to read and enjoy an afternoon tea together. This event was well supported and these Readers Cafe's are planned to be held on a regular basis.

A Book Character parade was held on Friday with the theme "One World Many Stories" What an amazing array of costumes on show. It was wonderful to see so many students and staff getting into the fun of the occasion.

The great atmosphere of the event was enjoyed by all who attended. Great feedback was received from parents, grandparents and visitors on the organisation of a great parade and the wonderful behaviour displayed by all Toukley students. More photos of the Book Parade can be viewed in our Gallery.

BOOKS AND MORE BOOKS!!

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:34 AEST

Our school has spent in excess of $14,000 over recent months on Literacy Resources. The books will be used to support the quality Literacy Programs currently in place to develop and improve reading and comprehension skills for all of our students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

Some of our Kindergarten students were lucky enough last week to have a sneak preview of the new books and they were most definitely impressed.

MC 1 MASTERCHEFS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

Each Wednesday Multicategorical Class 1are joined by Multicategorical Class 2 and enjoy some cooking classes. To date they have made such things as:

Green Eggs and Ham
Dirty Ice Cream
Funny Face Pizzas and
Corn Pancakes

All the students and teachers really enjoy these lessons and the finished products.

GREAT TIME AT CAMP TOUKLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

Wow - What a great time our Years 5 and 6 students had on their overnight camp just up the road at Camp Toukley during Week 4. During the two days they enjoyed a range of exciting activities including high ropes, Mount Everest climb, tug of war, trampolining, archery, just to name a few. Photos of some activities can be viewed in our Gallery.The Care, Courtesy and Co-operation our students displayed to their peers, camp staff and teachers was outstanding. They were a credit to themselves, their families and our school.

Their were many highlights of the camp - some highlights for students in 5/6L are:

"The Mount Everest climb with the milk crates was great" - Daniel

"Boot Camp Commando Course was heaps fun" - Nick

"I really enjoyed spending time with my friends" - Carli

"I enjoyed the high ropes even if it was a bit scary" - Rachael

"The food was good, especially the breakfasts" - Talia

YEAR 1 WALK WITH THE ANIMALS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:22 AEST

A walk with many different animals was on the cards when students in Year 1visited Blackbutt Reserve during Week 4. The visit was organised to compliment the unit of work "Crikey it's a........." when classes studied different animals and their habits.

The children were all very excited when the bus arrived at the destination. They were greeted by Park rangers who guided them through many wonderful activities during the day including:

patting a wombat and a cheeky koala
getting up close with lizards
digging for bugs in the soil
learning about animal shelters and
making their own birds nest from leaves, bark etc

A fantastic day was had by all who went along.

Photos from the day can be viewed in an album in the Gallery on this webpage.

NEW BUILDING OFFICIALLY OPENED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

On 11 August our school held a simple ceremony to celebrate the opening of our new classroom building. P&C President Ross Lord was joined by our school captains to officially open the building.

The two storey building replaced an old classroom building under the Federal Government BER program.

A letter of congratulations was received from Senator Chris Evans. His letter can be viewed on the attached file.

LETTER FROM SENATOR CHRIS EVANS (pdf, 44 KB)

JEANS FOR GENES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:51 AEST

Our Student Representative Council held a special fund raiser day on Friday 5 August. A "Jeans for Genes" day was held to raise money for the Children's Medical Research Institute. All students had the opportunity to wear their favourite jeans to school together with their school shirt for the cost of a donation.

Staff also joined the cause and most members of staff also wore their favourite jeans to school.

In excess of $380 was raised and a cheque for the proceeds of the day will be forwarded to the CMRI.

OFF TO THE FORUM

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

On Thursday 4th August four students accompanied Mrs Curran and Mrs Chapman (parent) to Mingara Recreation Club for the Hunter/Central Coast Student Equity Forum. The day centred around discussions about equity for all students - a fair go, fair share, fair say and fair content to all.

Jacqui (3/4B), Matthew and Lachlan (5/6W and Georgie (5/6B) participated in workshops led by Gorokan High School students to devise and identify recommendations which would make a difference to the learning of all students. Toukley Public students will present their suggestions to Ms Armour, teachers and students.

Mrs Curran was proud of our students who were "outstanding representatives of Toukley Public School."

Feedback on the day from the students can be viewed by on the attached file. STUDENT FORUM FEEDBACK (pdf, 7 KB)

TOUKLEY HOSTS TEDDY BEAR FAIR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:16 AEST

During Week 5 students from Toukley Preschool, Play to Learn, Kooloora and Karinya Preschools visited Toukley Public School for a Teddy Bears Fair. The preschool students were accompanied by students from KW and led and supported by students from 3/4B.

To begin the afternoon everyone sat and enjoyed lunch together before an afternoon of fun filled activities commenced. The students were separated into groups and completed a range of activities including arts and crafts, calendar making, biscuit decorating, story time, letter identification and writing, sports and face painting.

All the children thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. KW and 3/4B students were outstanding ambassadors for Toukley PS and represented our school with pride.

At the end of the day each child excitedly carried home their artistic creations as a memoir of their adventurous and exhilarating afternoon at Toukley Public School.

THANK YOU SASS STAFF

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

On Friday 5 August the staff and students of Toukley Public School celebrated SASS (School Administration and Support Staff)Recognition Week with a special morning tea.

The purpose of the morning tea was to say a big thank you to the dynamic Support staff in our school who do a fantastic job in various areas of the school including the administration office. SLSO's assist implement various programs whilst Mr Derek (GA) maintains our school grounds and buildings.

Ms Armour manned the office and phones so that all the Administrative staff could join the SLSOs and Mr Derek (GA) for a delicious morning tea provided by the teaching staff.

Mrs Burke and Mrs Lesberg both agreed that "It was nice to be recognised - the food was yummy and the company great, thank you to the organisers."

ENRICHING MATHS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

Toukley Public School is striving to provide opportunities for every student to achieve their full potential through our exciting Maths Enrichment Program.

Our Maths Enrichment Program has proven to be most successful since 2009. The aims of this program are to:

· Engage small groups of students within the classroom with exciting and quality hands on maths activities

· Work using maths games which compliment and support the maths work covered in class

· Build on and extend students current level of understanding.

Mrs McConville, Mrs Frost and Mrs Vipan make up the enthusiastic maths team who co-ordinate and monitor this program. They are enjoying their involvement in the program and seeing the great improvements in the students they work with.

FAIRY SPRINKLES IN 1J

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

Students in 1J have been learning how to write procedures. They recently wrote the procedure for making fairy bread. Procedures have commands in the method. Commands used in 1J's procedures included spread, sprinkle, put, press and eat.

The entire class enjoyed eating the final product.

"I love fairy bread and I loved putting the sprinkles on it" - Sammy

"The best part was eating it" - Harry

The attached file contains some work samples from 1J SAMPLES OF 1J BOOK WORK (pdf, 541 KB)

POSITIVE GAINS IN COMPREHENSION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

Students at Toukley Public School are continuing to develop their comprehension skills through the fabulous Focus On Reading initiative. Teachers have completed three workshops and will take part in a fourth during Term 3.

Students are showing positive gains in their skills and love the variety of comprehension tasks and activities that are an important aspect of this initiative.

Here is what some of our staff and students had to say about Focus On Reading:

"I love the support the students get by having additional staff in the room for our literacy sessions, working specifically on comprehension strategies." Pauline McMillan 3/4M

"Focus On Reading has opened a whole new world of ideas for teachers. Students are benefitting from the exceptional professional talk teachers are engaging in." Wendy Wilson 5/6G

"My favourite activity is Sketch to Stretch, where I can draw the main idea of parts of a story. I get to practice visualising the story." Aidan Fowler 3/4P

"The students are introduced to a wide range of interesting strategies and techniques. I feel it makes reading sessions exciting and engaging." Lisa Corbett SLSO

DANCE FOR GOOD BEHAVIOUR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:41 AEST

Each term Toukley Public rewards students for consistent good behaviour. These students receive special awards starting with a Bronze Award, Silver Award, Gold Award and the Platinum Award is the ultimate award for consistent good behaviour throughout the entire school year.

Silver Award winners for Term 2 were rewarded with a disco recently held in our school hall. Award winners from Years 3-6 were rewarded with their disco on Friday while the K-2 students enjoyed their disco on Monday.

The school hall was definitely rocking not only from music, but student excitement on both occasions. It is fantastic to see three quarters of our students being rewarded for consistent good behaviour. .

RECOGNITION FOR A JOB WELL DONE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

Three members of our school community were recognised yesterday (26 July) at the annual presentation of Central Coast Public Education Awards of Appreciation. These ladies were:

Kylie Jackson, teacher, received her award for developing the "NIP" program to help improve NAPLAN results
Lisa Corbett, School Learning Support Officer, for her outstanding contribution to the learning outcomes for students in Toukley Public School
Laurenda Cook, parent, for her tireless work as canteen treasurer for the past six years.

The presentation was held at Woy Woy High School with an audience of in excess of 200 people to witness the presentations.

It is wonderful to see such passionate people in our school recognised for their amazing contributions to Public Education.

TEACHERS OF THE FUTURE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:14 AEST

To complete their Bachelor of Education degree students from the University of Newcastle are visiting our school to gain professional experience with the assistance of our highly dedicated and qualified staff during this term.

Jessica Antaw-Molloy is working with Mrs Pezet in 1/2P and Meghan Fitzpatrick is working with Ms Wilson in 5/6G. These two ladies will be in Toukley Public School for 10 weeks and Joanne Stopps is working with Miss Cross in our junior multicategorical class 5 weeks.

We welcome these three university students to our school and look forward to seeing them embrace the important task of educating children in NSW public schools.

ANOTHER BUSY TERM LIES AHEAD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:29 AEST

Another busy term lies ahead for students and staff at Toukley Public School. Together with our exceptional literacy and numeracy programs, students will be participating in many additional school related activities including:

Year 1 excursion to Blackbutt Reserve
Kinder excursion to Sydney Aquarium
Stage 3 Camp Toukley overnight camp
Whole school Footsteps dance sport program
Year 2 Swimming Scheme
Aboriginal Didge & Dance
Our choir will be participating in the Central Coast Choral Festival
Qualifying students will be competing in both the Zone and Sydney North Athletics carnivals
Some students will be participating in University of NSW English and Maths competitions

Our Kindergarten 2012 Orientation will continue this term with information evenings being held where families will be provided with information on our school and the exceptional programs we provide to all students.

During Week 9 our innovative Kindy Start program will commence, when the children come to school for half a day a week to experience life at "big school". This is a wonderful transition program which has been proven to be most successful in our school since 2007.

We are all looking forward to another fantastic term at our dynamic school.

ATHLETICS CARNIVAL GOES AHEAD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:30 AEST

After watching the weather for fear of rain, our annual athletics carnival was held on Wednesday 22 June at Harry Moore Oval in fine, however cold conditions. The athletics carnival is open to all students from 8 years age and over to participate in athletics competitions including 100m sprint, long jump, high jump and shot put, just to name a few.

It is fantastic to see older children actively engaged in physical activities. Many participating in activities they don't normally have the opportunity to, such as shot put, high jump. discus etc.

All children participated to their personal best both on the track and in the crowd. Cheers of encouragement were so loud that they were heard at the school. Successful competitors will be competing against other local schools at the Zone Athletics carnival being held during Term 3

To have so many families there to support the children added to the positive atmosphere of the day.

YEAR 2 IN SPACE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:23 AEST

On Friday 24 June our Year 2 students visited the Power House Museum in Sydney. This excursion was organised to compliment units of work on "Caring for the Environment" and a unit of work on "Transport".

The students enjoyed the interactive displays particularly in the space section of the museum where they experienced a visit inside a model of the space shuttle. The opportunity to see examples of transport methods from years gone by will greatly benefit their knowledge when the "Transport" unit is studied in Term 3.

A bus full of exhausted students, parents and teachers arrived back at school at 3pm. The "wheels on the bus" was sung so many times during the trip that it is still echoing in the ears of the teachers and parents who accompanied the students on the excursion.

SCHOOL CELEBRATES NAIDOC

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

During the week commencing June 20 Toukley Public School held their Naidoc Week celebrations. Each year all Australians celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and our school is no different.

During the week many classes took the opportunity to read and discuss various Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. Each class created some Aboriginal artwork from their own design to display in their classroom. Some of the artwork may be viewed in the school foyer.

The celebrations concluded with two assemblies on Friday. Our Aboriginal dance and Didge groups performed at these assemblies together with our boy's Hip Hop dance group and Kooloora Preschool students.

"Celebrations of Learning" certificates were presented to Aboriginal students for achievements in various aspects of school life. Mylie and Michelle Nixon from Bungree Aboriginal Association attended our assemblies to present some of these awards. They thoroughly enjoyed the children's performances.

WE PERFORM FOR ALDI OPENING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

Thursday 23 June 2011 was a big day in Toukley. The eagerly awaited Aldi Supermarket opened across the road from our school.

Our school joined in the celebrations by having a stall in the local shopping area where we promoted the innovative programs available in our school including the school's busy Community Room.

Our school choir performed for the many shoppers who took a look at the new store and then checked out the existing shops in our small community of East Toukley. After their performance the choir got to meet the "Happy Cow" who joined in the festivities on behalf of the local butcher.

It was wonderful to see so many people out and about in our end of town. The shoppers who took the time to stop and listen to our choir gave them a resounding applause after each song.

TOUKLEY WINS LOCAL DERBY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:18 AEST

Toukley Public School's Open Rugby League team participated in the All Schools Rugby League Gala day last Friday at Brisbane Water Secondary College, Umina Campus. After two weeks of rain and twice being rained out it was fantastic to finally see our side on the field against other schools in this Gala day.

After narrow losses in the first two rounds against Bluehaven and a well tuned Bateau Bay team we played against St Mary's in our final game. The boys definitely saved their best game for the local derby when they earned their "bragging rights" by defeating St Mary's 16-6.

Mr Lee was very proud of the sportsmanship our boys displayed and how they represented Toukley Public School with honour.

"WHO SANK THE BOAT" IN K/1D

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:21 AEST

In Miss Douglas" K/1D class the students have been doing a unit of work called "Who Sank The Boat". They have been investigating types of boats together with what sinks and what floats.

The class participated in an experiment where they made a boat from foil with a partner. They then tested these boats by floating them in water and determining how much weight they would hold before sinking. They placed plastic cubes in their boats until they no longer floated.

Following the experiment they discussed what changes they could make to their boats to allow them to float for a longer period of time.

The entire class thoroughly enjoyed this experiment and are asking when they are doing more experiments.

FAMILIES ENJOY 3 WAY CONFERENCES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

During week 7 parents were invited to participate in Three Way Conferences together with their child and their child's teacher. The conferences took place in the classrooms and are a highlight on the school calendar each year where work samples are shared and student's progress is discussed.

It was fabulous to have so many parents visit the classrooms and share in their child's efforts. The pride that Toukley Public School students have in their work and achievements is wonderful to see.

Each year these conferences are becoming more and more popular. Once again feedback from students, parents and teachers was very positive.

YEAR 3 EXCURSION POSTPONED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:23 AEST

Due to the extreme weather conditions and in the interest of the safety of our children it has been decided to postpone the Year 3 excursion set down for Thursday 16 June 2011. The excursion to The Rocks and Hyde Park Barracks will be rescheduled and parents will be advised once the alternative date has been determined.

SOCCER TEAMS OUT OF COMPETITION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:07 AEST

Unfortunately both our girls and boys soccer team were defeated in the 2nd round of the PSSA Soccer Knock Out competition. The boys team were defeated by Wyong at Baker Park, Wyong on May 24 and the girls were defeated by Kanwal Public School at Wadalba on 7 June.

Both sides played with typical Toukley enthusiasm and displayed great sportsmanship throughout the games. Logan Humphries and Mary Cornish both our goalkeepers had great games.

Ross Lord who coaches both these sides was very proud of the manner in which our players played the game and the outstanding sportsmanship they displayed.

MUDDY TRACK AT ZONE X COUNTRY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

After a week of wet weather, it was wonderful to see the sunshine for the Zone Cross Country. Mrs Baldwin and Mr Lee accompanied 38 students to the Zone competition held at Koala Park at San Remo on Friday 3 June. The wet and muddy track provided some challenges to the competitors. Every Toukley runner gave their all and managed to finish their races.

Congratulations to Elijah Steiner who finished first in the 8/9 years age group and Nicolaas Harmsen who finished first in the 11years age group. Both these boys will go on to compete in the Regional Cross Country on the 22^nd July at Eastern Creek.

It was wonderful to see so many families and friends came along to cheer our runners on. Our runners display of fair play, encouragement of others and competitive spirits made them excellent ambassadors for our school.

LIVING LIFE WELL AT TOUKLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

The Live Life Well program is alive and well at Toukley Public School. Live Life Well is a program which encourages and rewards health lifestyle practices such as bringing fruit for fruit break, bringing healthy foods for lunch and drinking water in preference to other drinks containing sugar. Actively playing during recess and lunch is another healthy lifestyle displayed by our students.

Demonstration of a healthy lifestyle is rewarded with a healthy eating ticket. These tickets go into a box and twice each term a ticket is drawn to win a Fruit Tray donated by local Fruit Shop – Forest Fruit. The mid term winner for Term 2 was Mia of class 1J.

A Live Life Well award is presented to one student per class at assembly each Friday for demonstrating healthy living practices at school.

It is terrific to see so many students at our school leading such healthy lifestyles.

REDUCING THE GENERATION GAP

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

Wednesday 25th May saw members or our Junior Red Cross pay a visit to Toukley & District Senior Citizens Centre to participate in art classes. The Senior Citizens's bus collected the children from school .

Upon arrival our students joined members of the Senior Citizens for morning tea before commencement of the classes. "Nanna Joan" provided informative art instruction to our students together with the seniors. Artwork created by our students is going to be entered into an Art Competition over the June Long Weekend and will be on display at the Senior Citizens Centre.

Prior to returning to school the children enjoyed a lovely lunch with their new friends. It was a wonderful way for our students to break down the age barrier.

MADHATTERS VISIT TOUKLEY SCHOOL

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:54 AEST

On Thursday 26 May 2011 the Student Representative Council held a Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser for the Cancer Council. Madhatter's Day was the theme of the day. Students were encouraged to wear a unique hat and donate a gold coin toward the cause.

Anita and her team of dedicated workers in the canteen participated in the day and prepared some special items for our theme such as butterfly cakes and lolly teacups.

In excess of $250 was raised on this fun day. Donations are still being accepted in a bucket located on the counter in the school office until Friday 10 June, so feel free to pop in and make a small donation.

It was wonderful to see so many children participate in this worthy fundraising exercise.

GREAT INFORMATION EVENING HELD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

Our school hosted the first Kindergarten 2012 Information Night on Wednesday 1 June. Prospective parents were invited to one of our Kindergarten rooms to view the exceptional facilities and resources provided to all students by Toukley Public School

A Power Point presentation was shown on one of our many Interactive Whiteboards to all those in attendance containing information on the innovative programs, exceptional opportunities and the wonderful achievements attained by our students.

More valuable information evenings are planned for next term together with tours of our whole school facilities. These tours are being held on 18^th and 19^th August and can be booked through our school office on 4396 4275.

Parents attending the information evening found it most informative and the staff in attendance very approachable. All left with a fantastic impression of Toukley school.

OUR WEB SITE BEST IN STATE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:00 AEST

Our website has been recognised by the Department of Education and Training's School Promotions Unit as one of the best websites in the state. Toukley Public School's webpage is now featured in the School Promotions Unit to allow other schools within the State of NSW to see what makes our website stand out. The Regional Director, Robyn McKerihan made the following announcement to all schools within the Hunter/Central Coast Region via a weekly publication called SchoolBiz this week.

"Dear Colleagues

Congratulations to Toukley Public School on the selection of their school website as a state-wide best practice example to be included on the School Promotions Unit Intranet site. Please take the opportunity to browse Toukley's website."

We are very proud of Toukley Public School and love to promote it through our wonderful school website.

3 WAY CONFERENCES COMING UP SOON

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:25 AEST

During Week 7 (Monday 6 June - Thurs 9 June) parents are invited to participate in a Three Way Conference in the classroom with their child and the class teacher. Ms Gray will be conducting the conferences for her class during Week 6 as she will be on leave during Week 7.

These conferences are designed to allow the child, the parent and the teacher to share work samples and demonstrate the student's progress.

This is definitely a highlight on the calendar as it is such an important opportunity for students and parents to share valuable time together and discuss their learning. More details on the conferences are on notes within our notes home section.

MEASLES OUTBREAK

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:55 AEST

Measles- Information for Parents

due to a case of measles being reported to our school the following information is provided by nsw health.

What is measles?

Measles is a viral disease that may have serious complications. In the past, measles infection was very common in childhood. Measles is now rare in NSW because of immunisation.

What are the symptoms?

· The first symptoms are fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, sore red eyes and feeling unwell. A few days later a rash appears. The rash starts on the face, spreads down to the body and lasts for 4-7 days.

· Up to a third of people with measles have complications. These include ear infections, diarrhoea and pneumonia, and may require hospitalisation. About one in every 1000 people with measles develops encephalitis (swelling of the brain).

How is it spread?

· Measles is usually spread when a person breathes in the measles virus that has been coughed or sneezed into the air by an infectious person. Measles is one of the most easily spread of all human infections. Just being in the same room as someone with measles can result in infection.

· People with measles are usually infectious from just before the symptoms begin until four days after the rash appears. The time from exposure to becoming sick is usually about 10 days. The rash usually appears around 14 days after exposure.

Who is at risk?

Measles was common before 1966, so most people born before then are immune.
People at risk of measles include:

· people born during or since 1966 who have never had measles and who have not had two doses of Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine from the age of 12 months.

· people with a weak immune system (e.g., people who are receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancer or people who take high-dose steroid medications) even if they have been fully immunised or have had past measles infection.

· people who are not immune and who travel overseas.

How is it prevented?

· The best protection against measles is immunisation with two doses of MMR vaccine. This vaccine provides protection against infection with measles, as well as against mumps and rubella.

· MMR vaccine should be given to children at age 12 months and a second dose is given at 4 years of age.

· Anyone born during or after 1966 and who has never had measles infection or MMR vaccination should make sure that they have had two doses of MMR vaccine at least four weeks apart.

· It is safe to have the vaccine more than twice, so people who are unsure should be vaccinated.

· People with measles should stay at home until they are no longer infectious (i.e. until 4 days after the rash starts).

· For people who are not immune and have come into contact with a person with measles, infection can sometimes still be prevented with MMR vaccine if given within 3 days of exposure or with immunoglobulin within 7 days of exposure.

How is it diagnosed?

· Measles is suspected when a person feels unwell, has a cough, runny nose or sore eyes and a fever followed by a rash.

· Whenever measles is suspected, a blood test and samples from the nose, throat and urine should be collected to confirm the diagnosis. Confirmation of the diagnosis is important as it allows prompt public health follow-up of other people who are at risk of measles.

How is it treated?

· People with measles infection are normally advised to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take paracetamol to treat the fever. There is no specific treatment.

· While a person is infectious with measles it is important that he or she remains at home to reduce the possibility of spreading it to other people.

What is the public health response?

Doctors, hospitals and laboratories schools and childcare centres must notify cases of measles to the local public health unit. Public health unit staff will interview the doctor and patient (or carers) to find out how the infection occurred, identify other people at risk of infection, implement control measures (such as immunisation and restrictions on attending school or work) and provide other advice.

WELCOME MR GILLETT TO MC2

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:20 AEST

Our Multicategorical classes welcomed a new teacher on day 1 of Term 2. Mr Daniel Gillett has taken on a position of Assistant Principal at Toukley Public School.

He is teaching our MC2 class and is impressed at how well the children have accepted him. Mr Gillett has had a busy term so far with the Multicategorical classes.

Ms Cross' Kinder class has participated in Grandparents Day when they hosted their parents in a classroom visit. The parents were shown work and got to participate in classroom activities with their children.

The older students in Ms Thomas' and Mr Gillett's class took part in the school's Cross Country Carnival, where they performed admirabley and were on their very best behaviour.

NAPLAN OVER FOR ANOTHER YEAR

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

During Week 3 National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests were undertaken by our Year 3 and Year 5 students.

These assessments are an opportunity for students to demonstrate what they have learned in class. Teachers use these results to meet the individual literacy and numeracy needs of all students.

There are four tests covering numeracy, reading, writing and language conventions (spelling, punctuation and grammar).

The wonderful effort that our Toukley students put into the tests will reflect in our school's overall performance in comparison to other schools. The results of these tests will help in determining our future whole school plan and specific programs to be undertaken.

Our students put in their personal best and were very relieved when the testing was complete on Thursday.

GREAT WEATHER FOR CROSS COUNTRY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

On Monday 16 May our school held it's annual Cross Country at Harry Moore Oval In glorious sunshine our children particpated with typical Toukley pride and enthusiasm.

Children in the 8, 9 and 10 year old age groups were required to run two laps of the circuit while 11, 12 and 13 year olds ran 3 laps. All children tried their best in front of many parents, families and community members, who were their to encourage their children and give them their support.

It was wonderful to see that the students who were unable to participate cheering on their friends and classmates. A great morning was had be all concerned.

TOUKLEY WELCOMES BACK CLIFFORD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:18 AEST

Clifford the Big Red Dog from Scholastic once again visited our school last Friday to promote our school's Book Fair. Ms Stillman escorted Clifford together Murray Hawkins from Scholastic to both our school assemblies. Murray did book talks on popular children's book such as "Extinction" and Norman".

The Book Fair is very popular with members of our school community and is being held between 9 May and 13 May before and after school. Students, staff and parents all enjoy seeing what literature is available for purchase.

Clifford is a very popular visitor to our school. KB particularly enjoyed meeting Clifford for the very first time.

SPELLING ACTIVITIES 2C

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:08 AEST

On Wednesday you could have heard a pin drop in 2C classroom. The entire class were so engrossed in their spelling activities. The various spelling activities are aimed at improving the spelling techniques of the children.

The classmembers were working in 3 separate groups doing spelling activities such as Rainbow Words, Word Webws, Plurals, Unjumbling Trickywords, Missing Letters and Editing. Each group of students were working with a different list of words for their relative activities.

When a vote was taken it was unanimous that Unjumbling Tricky Words was the student's favourite spelling activity.

GETTING READY FOR CLIFFORD

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:46 AEST

Clifford, the Big Red Dog from Scholastic will be visiting our school assemblies on Friday. His helper Murray will be coming along with Clifford to do book talks on books which will be available in our Book Fair next week.

Ms Stillman will be running our school's Book Fair next week where students, staff, parents and anybody in the Toukley community can visit our school library where the books will be on sale.

Interested people will be able to view and purchase the books from Monday 9th May until Friday 13th May from 8.15am to 9am in the mornings and from 3pm to 4pm after school. By purchasing books from our Book Fair you will be adding to our schools rewards. These rewards enable us to purchase books from Scholastic to improve the quality of resources in our school library.

The students always enjoy visits from Clifford and this year should be no different.

EAGER TO LEARN IN TERM 2

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:41 AEST

Students at Toukley Public School have returned to school enthusiastic and ready to learn. It is evident by the vibe in the classrooms and the exceptional work being produced that our students are eager to maximise their learning opportunities this term. Classrooms are a abuzz students participating in various classroom activities associated with the Literacy and Numeracy component of the curriculum.

Many students will be visiting venues on excursion to explore more thoroughly and better understand units of work being studied in class. Year 2 excursion to Power House Museum and Year 3 excursion to The Rocks Walking Tour and Hyde Park Barracks are both scheduled to take place during Term 2. Year 4 will be visiting Point Wolstoncroft camp during this term also where they participate in a wonderful outdoor education program.

Our school's annual Cross Country carnival will be taking place on 16th May for students 8 years of age to Year 6. Our students from K-Year 2 also have a fun run afternoon as their Cross Country activity. These are both great activities and all parents and members of the community are more than welcome to come along and cheer the students on.

GRANDPARENTS VISIT OUR KINDERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:48 AEST

On Tuesday our Kindergarten students played host to their Grandparents for our annual Kindergarten Grandparents Day. Our visitors enjoyed performances of two action songs about love. This was followed by a video presentation of the children explaining what they loved to do with their Grandparents. Everybody certainly found this very entertaining!

The Grandparents were then invited to visit the Kindergarten classrooms to see some of the fabulous work andparticipate in various reading , writing and creative activities. Seeing the Interactive Whiteboards in action reinforced how education has progressed.

Following the classroom visits the Grandparents were invited to join their grandchildren for Morning Tea.

The Kindergarten children all had such a fantastic time and it was delightful to see so many supportive Grandparents participating in the day, making it a wonderful success!

COMMUNITY EASTER CELEBRATION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:38 AEST

Our school once again displayed it's community spirit during Toukley Easter celebrations in the Village Green on Easter Saturday.

Members of our school's Junior Red Cross gave up their time to participate in Easter craft activities with both local children and those holidaying in our area. All the children who joined in had fund making various Easter craft items such as bunny ears, Easter baskets and Easter cards.

The school choir, our preschool choir performed together with our Aboriginal dance group during the celebrations in the Village Green in front of a large group of people.

Parents of our students also must be admired for contributing their valuable time transport their children to the venue and assisting in the activities.

Many Community members commented on how wonderful it was to see Toukley Public School becoming involved in so many community activities.

ROBOTS INVADE YEAR 2

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

During Term 1 students in Year 2 have been studying a unit of work called "It's Easy Being Green". Whilst doing this unit they have learnt various means of caring for the environment including water conservation and recycling.

The students were asked to design and make a machine or robot to help solve problems in the environment. A vast range of weird and wonderful looking robots were created from a number of recycled materials such as egg cartons, soft drink bottles and boxes, just to name a few.

Parents were invited to visit the classrooms and view the creations on Tuesday 5 April 2011. Comments were made on the wonderful imagination our students must have.

Some parents commented that their children enjoyed this task as many members of their family became fascinated and involved in the creations. This project created interest and opened the door to numerous family discussions on our environment and how to be environmentally aware.

VISION SCREENING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

Vision testing for students in Kindergarten and Year 2 was conducted during Week 10. The students underwent an optometric vision screening conducted by local optometrist Mr Sean Wand.

The screening evaluates vision clarity, eye co-ordination, colour vision and ocular health. Reports containing results of the testing were sent home to parents/carers.

Parents, carers and or health professionals cannot detect the two most common childhood vision problems amblhyopia and refractive error, simply by observing a child's behaviour or appearance. A kind donation from a member of our school community enabled us to conduct this important testing.

It is wonderful to have such caring people as part of our school community.

AUTISM AWARENESS WEEK

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:31 AEST

April is Autism Awareness month!

Autism is a complex developmental disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others.

Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a wide-spectrum disorder, which means that no two people with autism will have exactly the same symptoms.

Many people with an Autism Spectrum Disorder have sensory sensitivities, often experience overwhelming anxiety, frustration and confusion and also have an intellectual disability.

Studies show 1 in 160 Australians have an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and that it is more prevalent in boys than girls.

Autism lasts a lifetime and there is currently no known cure for Autism.

KINDER CONNECT WITH KULNURA

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:52 AEST

On Wednesday 30 March Toukley Kindergarten classes were able to visit with students at Kulnura Public School through our Connected Classroom. Kindergarten have been examining our school environment and used the Connected Classroom technology to question year 4 and 5 students at Kulnura to identify similarities and differences with another school.

During question time we exchanged questions with Kulnura students and found the that both schools have the following things common:

students have to wait for a teacher before they go out into the playground
both schools have a canteen.

Some differences are:

different uniforms are worn at each school
lunch orders at Kulnura are only one day a week
Year 6 students run the canteen at Kulnura Public School.

An interesting fact was that there are only 88 students enrolled at Kulnura Public School as opposed to 533 enrolled at Toukley Public.

Our students enjoyed asking and answering querstions via the video conference. Hopefully we will be able to do it again sometime soon.

EVERYBODY BELONGS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:42 AEST

During Week 9 our school celebrated Harmony Day.

The theme for 2011 Harmony Day was "Everyone Belongs" and this was evident on Monday 21 March when our Junior Red Cross celebrated Harmony Day.

Students of all ages celebrated their heritage and recognised their origins by dressing in clothing appropriate to their culture. Some students provided a plate of food from their culture to share with all who attended this event. Several parents participated in the day by speaking to the school on topics relevant to their culture.

Students were treated to performances from different cultures including Aboriginal dance, a Brazilian troupe and a traditional Maori poi performance.

During the week each class did individual activities to emphasise the significance of Harmony Day.

On Friday the school assembled again in the hall to listen to selected students from grades 2-6

speak on their interpretation and what the Harmony Day theme "Everyone Belongs" meant to them. The school choir performed "Come and Play your Part" which fitted in with the Harmony Day theme.

Toukley Public School has students and families from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds and the celebrations during the week certainly recognised how culturally diverse we are.

TOUKLEY'S GARDENING ANGELS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:17 AEST

Toukley Public School is lucky enough to have it's very own "Gardening Angels". Each Wednesday we have a group of three, sometimes more mothers who spend the morning working on our school's gardens. The ladies work tirelessly to keep our gardens well maintained and looking fantastic.

They not only trim and weed the gardens they also move any tree mulch to areas in need. Propogation of plants from the school's gardens, together with plants from their own gardens are nurtured in readiness for the annual Tree Planting Day at our school.

The hard work of this group of ladies together with our students was rewarded in 2009 when our school won the Pre-schools and Primary category of Wyong Shire Council's Garden Competition.

Our school's entire school community value the commitment the ladies have to our school and it's environment.

GREEN EGGS & HAM TO BE SURE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:49 AEST

Thursday 17th March was not only St Patrick's Day in Multicategorical Classes 1 and 2, it was also "Green Eggs and Ham Day". The students had been studying the Dr Seuss Story "Green Eggs and Ham" and finished off the unit of work with a cooking lesson.

Multicat classes 1 and 2 joined forces and prepared a meal consisting of "Green Eggs and Ham". The eggs were made to appear green with green food colouring and chopped parsley. Each child also made themself a placemat with the "Green Eggs and Ham" theme.

Mrs Trigg from the office joined the classes for a lunch. The children (and staff) were a little reluctant at first to taste their green eggs, however once they tried them they all were pleasantly surprised that they really didn't taste much different. A vote was taken and 7 students voted "Yes" and only 4 voted "No" when asked the question "Do you like Green Eggs and Ham?". It was a unanimous vote from the staff that the green eggs did in fact taste better than they looked.It was a fun experience for all.

VIPs IN KB

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:19 AEST

KB has been learning in their HSIE lessons that they are in fact VIPs. They have to date determined that they are all different. They have looked in mirrors and stated that they can see a "Very Important Person". They have also painted a portrait of themselves and compared how they differ in looks.

The students have discussed what they like e.g. colours, food, sports, toys etc. As a class they have discussed their birthdays and how each of them celebrates this occasion.

"Where do I live?" is another topic KB has discussed, including their addresses and their roles in their own homes. They have each created a house from shapes of coloured paper and these houses were examined to show how they all have different houses.

Each student in KB is indeed a V.I.P.

FOCUS ON READING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:44 AEST

During week 8 sixteen teachers took part in the first module of the "Focus on Reading" program. Focus on Reading is an initiative funded through National Partnerships and provides Professional Learning for teachers in the areas of comprehension, vocabulary and fluency, and is aimed at students in grades 2 to 6.

Helen Evans, one of the region's certified trainers in Focus on Reading presented the course and found the Toukley Public School staff to be very receptive and enthusiastic about this initiative.

As a result of the course, teachers will be working on specific comprehension strategies in classrooms, and look forward to seeing students addint new skills to their comprehension repetoire.

STUDENT HEARING TESTS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:11 AEST

Intercity Hearing visited our school on 10th and 11th March to test the hearing of students in Kindergarten and Year 2. This important health and welfare initiative was able to be offered thanks to a kind donation from a member of our school community.

The hearing test included otoscope and 2 frequency audiometric screening of both ears for each of the students. Parents were given an individual report and recommendations from the audiologist.

Students found to have a problem last year were retested and it was wonderful to see the improvements in their hearing. One parent was extremely thankful for the screening as she was unaware her daughter needed grommets.

We were happy to hear Mr Nicoll, the audiologist, comment on the well behaved and co-operative students we have at Toukley School.

PSSA ZONE SWIMMING

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:03 AEST

On Wednesday 9 March a team of 19 swimmers from Toukley Public School competed the Wyong PSSA Zone Swimming Carnival at Mingara Recreation Club. Our team was made of of the following swimmers:

Josh Bryant, Aimee Butcher, Neisha Deane, Riley Deane, Melanie Elshaug, Jessie Garratley, Bailey Helmgens, Heidi Lea, Emily McBride, Tayla McGaw, Harry Packham, Amanda Purcell, Maddy Spiers, nicholas Tabrett, Tara Wagstaff, Jonty Wood, Tai Ogle, Brodie Packham and Luke Field.

As is typical of our students, they participated with enthusiasm and were very supportive of each other at this event. Tayla, Jonty and Heidi made it to the finals of the 50 metres freestyle for their age group and just missed qualifying for the Sydney North Carnival next week. Likewise the Senior Girls relay team swum a fantastic time but also just missed out on qualifying for the next level.

Once again Toukley students represented our school with pride.

TOUKLEY PLAY IN PSSA CRICKET

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:16 AEST

During Week 7 both our girls and boys cricket teams competed in Round 1 of the PSSA Cricket Knockout Competition at Harry Moore Oval.

On Monday our boy's team played against Kanwal Public School. Special mention goes to Jonty Wood for his batting, Kane Vanderstok for his bowling and Lachlan Tabrett for both batting and bowling.

Unfortunately Kanwal defeated us 13 runs in a closely fought contest.

On Tuesday our girls cricket team took the field also against Kanwal in round 1 of the Girl's competition. For many of our players it was their very first official cricket match. The girls were so excited to be representing our school and playing cricket. Special mention goes to Tiarne McNeil for a great catching attempt, Anastasia Fisk for taking 2 wickets and Amanda Purcell who had to retire from batting to visit the orthodontist. They had a great time, even though they didn't win the match. A great experience was had by all.

Both the boys and girls teams displayed exceptional sportsmanship and were very gracious in defeat

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:37 AEST

Last Friday 4th March, children from Kindergarten to Year 6 participated in our school's Clean Up Australia Day. Students were most enthusiastic to rid our school environment of rubbish.

Students were reminded during the course of the exercise that rubbish goes in the bin not on the ground.

Our school certainly looked neater and cleaner by the end of the day.

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

On 23rd February our Community Room hosted the first day of our Computer Course with one participant. On Wednesday 2nd March we had an attendance explosion when 7 people arrived eager to extend their knowledge of computers. Mums and grandparents were among the participants and received some great computer tips from tutor Ms Jillian King of Wyong TAFE. The compouter course caters for all levels of knowledge and Jillian will teach what individuals want to learn. This is an ongoing course held in the community room each Wednesday until at least the end of Term 2. Depending on the level of interest the course may continue until the end of the school year.

Jillian commented that the people who attended were very receptive to her advice and instruction and she just loves sharing her knowledge with the them. Comments from the participants was also very positive.

"absolutely excellent!!! I learned about 8 different things from a wonderfully friendly teacher". Judie Telfer (grandmother)

It was fantastic seeing participants all helping one another and sharing their knowledge. The motto "here for each other" was certainly evident in Toukley School Community Room.

STUDENTS TAKE TO THE ROADS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

On Monday and Tuesday of this week Year 5 students visited the C.A.R.E.S bicycle education centre at Palmdale. This wonderful centre is a joint project of The Wyong Shire and Gosford City Councils and the NSW Police Department. The facility allows students the opportunity to bike ride on a real road system that has pedestrian crossings, traffic lights and roundabouts.

On arrival at the centre students were greeted by Senior Constable Conn and Constable Mark Best. Students are presented with their bike licenses and then the fun begins:

Students are taken into the classroom where the complete a mini road rules test and watch some DVDs that talk about the importance of safe bike riding and wearing a correctly fitted and standards approved bike helmet.

Students complete a series of bike riding circuits in which they ride around witches' hats and over planks of wood.. There were a few near misses at the stop signs. After that it was the slow riding contest. That was great fun to watch.

Students are taken out onto a specially constructed road system. What fantastic fun Constable Conn, Constable Best and the special Constable teachers have taking points from students who commit all manner of serious traffic offences. It was interesting to watch students making all kinds of excuses as to why they shouldn't lose points for committing offences. Miss West overheard one student telling Constable Best that he needed to be looking more carefully at what other bike riders were doing rather than be taking points from him. (A sign of things to come perhaps???)

At the end of the day the students who do not lose any points off their licenses go into a draw to win a brand new bicycle. Two students from Toukley School have been previous bike winners.

The knowledge all students gain from completing this course is invaluable and it may even save young children's lives in the future.

THERE IS ONLY ONE 2M

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:15 AEST

As part of 2M's Personal Development Unit "There is Only One Me" students have made fingerprints and displayed them in grape formations around the room. They have also used their fingerprints to make people they trust and their friends at school. They have noted the uniqueness of their fingerprints.

Students have also made handprints and used these to form rooster paintings, once again noting their uniqueness of their individual hand prints.

During this unit of work the children are making self portraits, where they are using a photograph of themselves to draw the other side of their face, once again noting their individual characteristics and special attributes. This module develops each child's personal identity as well as considering the feelings, needs and wants of others. Mrs MacDonald said that the class had fun seeing that there really is "only one me".

PLAYGROUP'S FIRST DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:01 AEST

On Tuesday Toukley School Community Room hosted their very first Playgroup. Nine adults (including one Grandmother) and 10 children arrived at 9am and were surprised at what resources were available to them in the room..

They enjoyed two hours of socialising with other parents and grandparents whilst their children interacted with one another in a range of activities, including story time. An open forum was held over a cup of tea for ideas on what they hoped to get out of attending the playgroup.

All who attended gave Annette Starr (playgroup co-ordinator) very positive feedback and mentioned that they would be bringing along a friend next week.

STUDENTS ENJOY A GREAT DAY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:12 AEST

On Friday 18th February we held our annual Swimming Carnival at Toukley Pool. It was a very successful day with children competing in a variety of races. All children did an exceptional job whether they were competing in races, sitting in the stands cheering on their sports house or helping out with jobs on the day. Many parents also helped out which contributed to making the day run smoothly.

The winning house of the overall points score will be announced at our Friday assembly on 4th March when the trophies and ribbons will be presented.

Our Zone swimming team will be named shortly and they will represent Toukley Public School at the Zone Swimming Carnival to be held at Mingara on 9th March.

Our students were wonderful ambassadors to our school exhibiting their very best behaviour on the day. Their encouragement of all swimmers was admirable. One parent mentioned that she was "proud to be a parent in a school who's students know how to behave".

NEW GARDEN FOR CLASSES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

A garden bed was given a revamp by one of our Year 1 dads last weekend. Mr Raymond Mizzi, father of Mia in Mrs Hartcher's class noticed that an old garden bed outside his daughter's classroom needed some TLC. Mr Mizzi worked on the garden over the weekend to repair and give the garden bed a new look. He repaired the concrete border and filled the garden bed with soil and plants, some of which were transplanted from other parts of the school. He and Mia had a wonderful time improving the area outside 1H, 2/3G and MC2.

MEET AND GREET AFTERNOON

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:55 AEST

A most successful parent information afternoon was held on Wednesday 16 February. Parents were invited into the school to visit the classrooms of their children. They were informed of what the 2011 school had in store for their children. They were able to view some of their children's work and had the opportunity to ask any questions.

Following the classroom visits an informal BBQ was held under the COLA area where students, staff and parents mingled and chatted. New friendships were formed. It was a wonderful opportunity for new members of staff and new families to become part of our dynamic school community.

HERE FOR EACH OTHER - COMMUNITY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:50 AEST

Toukley Public School Community Room was officially opened on Wednesday 16th February. Following words of welcome from our School leaders and Principal Ms Narelle Armour, local member David Harris spoke eloquently about the importance of community in Toukley and how projects such as our community room add to the sense of belonging for all.

Following the addresses from the dignitaries members of the public including the Lionesses, Senior Citizens, TAFE representative and parents witnessed the cutting of the ribbon by, Ms Armour, Mary Cornish (School Leader) and Mr Harris to officially declare the Community Room opened. All present stayed on an enjoyed a morning tea put on by the staff.

The Community Room will be a venue for projects offered to our local community such as playgroups, TAFE courses (literacy, numeracy and computers) and parenting groups.

Mrs Annette Starr, the school's Community Engagement Officer was very pleased with the outcome and felt that the community spirit of our school has a big future. "Here for each other" is the motto for the community room and Wednesday morning showed that our community definitely are.

2/3G HAVE THEIR OWN ELECTION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:22 AEST

During week three 2/3G have found time in their busy schedule to elect two students to represent their class on the Student Representative Council. These students will represent 2/3G Terms 1 and 2, after which two more students will be elected. The two students elected are Tara-Nicole Powell and Liam Glover. They are both very excited to be representing their class.

Tara-Nicole Powell

FAVOURITE COLOUR: Green

FAVOURITE FOOD: Pizza

FAVOURITE TV SHOW: Scooby Doo

FAVOURITE CELEBRITY: Hannah Montanna

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT TOUKLEY SCHOOL: The teachers

WHEN I GROW UP I WANT TO be a Volcanologist.

Liam Glover

FAVOURITE COLOUR: Yellow

FAVOURITE FOOD: Toast

FAVOURITE TV SHOW: Merlin

FAVOURITE CELEBRITY: Steven Sullivan

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT TOUKLEY SCHOOL: Seeing my friends

WHEN I GROW UP I WANT TO be a boxer and a soccer player.

SWANS VISIT TOUKLEY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:13 AEST

Jesse White and Byron Sumner from the Sydney Swans paid Toukley Public School a visit on Wednesday 9th February. The players addressed our students in a special assembly. Both players spoke about their history, what positions they play for the Sydney Swans and how they came to play AFL. Jesse and Byron told the students what types of food they ate and what their training regime involves. This was followed by questions from the students.

Following the assembly the players were joined by students from Year 2 including 1/2P and 2/3G for ball skills and basic AFL techniques. The visit was wrapped up with a game of bullrush including the Swans players, students and staff. The students gave the players a resounding cheer and applause in appreciation of a great hour of fun.

TOUKLEY WELCOMES NEW KINDERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:18 AEST

Toukley Public School welcomed our Kindergarten students of 2011 on Tuesday when temperatures were in excess of 38 degrees.

All the students settled well in their relative classes, despite the heat wave conditions, where they got right into the swing of big school, doing reading exercises and participating in activities on the Smartboards in our technologically advanced Kindergarten classrooms.

Some parents found it a little more difficult to deal with the first day at big school for their babies. These parents were well cared for by Annette Starr in the school's Community Room.

Parents were back well in advance of the 2.50pm pick up time eager to hear the wonderful stories of the students first day at school.

Enjoying Smartboard Activities

Book Activities

Enjoying Play

Reunited with Nan

Keep posted on the progress and great activities of our Kindergarten students through the Kindergarten section of this web page.

2010 ACHIEVERS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:22 AEST

Our School held the Annual Presentation Day on Friday 10 December. Two presentation ceremonies were held, the first was for Years 2 to 6 and this was followed by the presentation of awards to our Preschool, Kindergarten and Year 1 students.

During the ceremonies children in each class from Years 1-6 were recognised not only for the Academic achievements, but for also for Citizenship, Effort and a Class award. Kindergarten students together with Kooloora Preschool students were each issued with a Graduation Certificate.

Annual awards of achievement in specific areas were awarded to the following:

Dux Award – Blake Sherry and Katie Best

Sportsperson of the Year Award – Bree Goddard and Ryan O'Beirne

Citizenship Award – Angel Sommerville

Leadership Award – Bree Goddard

Our school choir, aboriginal dance and didge groups and our preschool children entertained the many family and friends who attended these important ceremonies.

SCHOOL CAPTAINS 2011

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:06 AEST

Toukley Public School school leaders for the 2011 school year were announced at the school's annual Presentation Day held Friday 10 December 2010.

Our School Captains for 2011 are Mary Cornish and Zac Stirton. Mary and Zac will be assisted in their leadership duties by prefects Shervana McLachlan, Jonty Wood, Amanda Purcell and Emily McBride.

Sport Captains for 2011 were also announced. The captains for 2011 are:

GWYDIR - Brae Gilchrist and Talia Goodman

SPEEDWELL - Beau Willett and Maddy Spiers

DIXON - Riley Deane and Maddi Coady

PATERSON - Josh Petch and Ellie Mathews

Proud parents, family and friends watched on as these students were presented with their leadership badges.

OUR CHOIR SHINES

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:58 AEST

Members of our school choir at Merchant Mariner Service at Norah Head.

Kooloora Preschool students join together with our school choir in song at the Lighting of the Christmas tree.

Our School Choir over the last two weeks has performed at several locations. They all did a wonderful job at the Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Toukley Village Green. Everyone looked very Christmassy and sang beautifully.

On Saturday many members of the Choir sat through the drops of rain and proudly sang the National Anthem at the Merchant Mariners Service at Norah Head.

The sinking of the MV Nimbin some eight miles off Norah Head on the 5th December, 1940 and the lifeboat arrival of 25 survivors from the ill fated Iron Chieftain on the beach at North Entrance on the morning of the 5th June, 1942 wrote the Coat into Australian history forever.

Almost 18 months later some 35 miles south east of Norah Head a Japanese submarine opened fire on Howard Smith's steamer the Age.

Thank you to those wonderful Toukley families who support local events, and teach our children pride and respect.

On Monday the Choir sang at Erina Fair for Christmas Carols. A great job choir members and thank you to our wonderful families who support and transport our students.

PRE SCHOOL CELEBRATION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:02 AEST

Last weekend Saturday 4^th December, Kooloora Preschool held a BBQ at thePreschool for our end of year and Christmas celebrations.

A terrific turnout of around 155 parents, carers, children, brothers and sisters, grandparents and friends of the family came along to the preschool to enjoy this wonderful occasion.

The children sang some of the songs they had learnt during the year for the enthusiastic audience.

All shared in a terrific BBQ lunch to which all contributed. The BBQ was expertly cooked by Jordan, a friend of our preschool. Thanks to Jordan for his hard work.

A fantastic day was had by all, thanks so much to all who attended. We look forward to doing it all again next year.

AECG AWARDS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:28 AEST

A number of our school's aboriginal students were awarded at an AECG awards nights on Thursday 2 December for their achievements throughout 2010. The students recognised were:

Leadership Award - Angel Sommerville

Cultural Award - Tegan McDonnell

Sport Award - Blake Sherry

Citizenship Award - Lachlan Tabrett

Academic Award - Peta-Louise Rixom

Five Citizenship Awards were presented to the following Kooloora Pre School students - Tenika Williams, Emalee Murray, Caleb Bolton, Benjamin Ella and Brett McDonnell.

KINDYSTART KIDS GRADUATE

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:53 AEST

Our 10 week Kindystart program culminated with 3 graduation ceremonies during week 8. Each of the Kindystart children were presented with a graduation certificate in recognition of their achievements during this exceptional Kindergarten orientation program. Family members and friends were invited to come along and share in this celebration. The program's facilitators Miss Weeks, Mrs Starr and Miss Mason enjoyed their time with all of the children during the program. Our school looks forward to welcoming them to our dynamic school community in 2011.

RESCHEDULED YEAR 3 EXCURSION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:05 AEST

Unfortunately the Year 3 Girrakool excursion has had to be postponed due to unpleasant weather. The excursion has been rescheduled for next Tuesday 23 November. Third time lucky - let's hope that weather is in our favour on Tuesday.

PRESCHOOL - YEAR 2 ASSEMBLY

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:03 AEST

Please be aware that this week 22 October 2010 the assembly for the Preschool to Year 2 students will be held at 12.20pm and not the normal time of 1.40pm.

ATHLETICS TROPHY PRESENTATIONS

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:31 AEST

You're invited to attend this week's Years 3-6 Assembly where the trophies and ribbons for the school Athletics Carnival will be presented. The assembly will be held in the school hall at 2.20pm on Friday 24 September. The ribbons have today been received and therefore will be presented prior to the school holidays and not next term as indicated in last week's newsletter. Please be aware that any Year 2 children receiving ribbons will also be presented at the 3-6 assembly. We look forward to seeing you at this special assembly and apologise for any inconvenience this late notice may have caused.

Narelle's Message

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:56 AEST

What a wonderful time our Stage 3 students and teachers had at Camp Toukley this week, I have been told by many that the food was amazing and the activities were awesome, activities such as archery, adventure course, bush initiatives, high ropes and Everest climb, which I believe some of our staff even had a go at! This camp would not have been possible if it wasn't for Mrs Birch's outstanding coordination and organisation, well done and many thanks for all who attended.

Next week we will be sending home NAPLAN report packages for those students in Years 3 and 5 who sat the 2010 NAPLAN test. If you have any questions or concerns it would be appreciated if you could make an appointment with your child's class teacher to discuss the issue. Please be aware that the school does not receive the results until Friday 10 September and that staff will not have had the opportunity to view their class or school information until staff meetings in Term 4.

I always know when the year is heading towards the end, as our Kindy Start program commences. This year we have two morning programs running from 9 am to 12 noon for a total of 10 weeks and I would like to encourage all parents who have children starting kindergarten at Toukley Public School in 2011 to enrol their child in this outstanding program. Enrolments can be made at the school office.

Congratulations to all students who represented Toukley Public School at the Wyong Zone Athletics Carnival last week and a special congratulations to the following students who will now represent the Wyong Zone at the Met North level; Harry Packham, Luke Millar, Nicholas Harmsen, Gelila Barrett, Emily Mors, Shanice Chambers and Bree Goddard. Good luck and we wish you well.

Narelle Armour— Principal

TOUKLEY FREEMASONS DONATION

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:16 AEST

Thanks to a generous donation of $3995 from Toukley Freemasons Toukley Public

School have been able to purchase Wireless Listening Posts and CDs to assist students from Kindergarten to Year 2 further develop their listening and comprehension skills.

Listening posts have proven to be a valuable learning tool in schools for many years. The listening posts at Toukley have been well used over many years and were old and beyond repair. With the assistance of the Freemason's donation state of the art equipment has now been purchased for all classes Kindergarten to Year 2. This equipment together with a large range of quality literature now available on CDs are providing Toukley students with a wonderful range of activities to enhance their literacy skills.

Greg Mason and John Jenkins from Toukley Freemasons visited KD on Tuesday 3 August to check out the listening posts. Miss Douglas and Miss Gray explained to the two gentlemen how the listening posts will assist improve our students literacy skills.

News story

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:53:57 AEST

At the end of Term 2 we will farewell three of our amazing teachers who will not be with us from the commencement of Term 3, these being Mrs Jenny Perry (4P), Mr Tony Quodling (Multicategorical) and Mr Adam Bevan (5/6A). All three teachers have made significant contributions to our school and have undertaken important roles such as Student Representative Council coordinator and coach of various sporting teams. We wish them the very best of luck in their future teaching careers.

We would like to wish our entire school community a safe and happy July school holidays and we look forward to seeing you all back at our dynamic school on Tuesday 20 July 2010.

ZONE CROSS COUNTRY RESCHEDULED

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 20:54:27 AEST

UPDATE: NEW DATE FOR WYONG ZONE CROSS COUNTRY TO BE HELD AT MORRIE BREEN OVAL FRIDAY 4th JUNE HAS BEEN POSTPONED

Unfortunately due to the wet weather, ground closures the Zone Cross Country has been cancelled for 2010. As the Wyong Zone requires a team to compete at Sydney North Cross Country it has been decided that a Cross Country trial will take place on Tuesday 8th June at Koala Park, Munmorah Power Station. Each school has been asked to ONLY send the 1st and 2nd place runners in each age group. This trial is for the sole purpose of selecting the zone team for the Sydney North Carnival. Children will be required to travel by private transport to and from the venue.