principal's address
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Welcome to the start of the 2022 school year. It is always fantastic to meet all the new students and welcome them to the school, even if this is from behind a mask. Year 7 students have made an impressive start to the year, participating in three days of team building activities in their House Groups. Feedback from the students has been very positive as they meet and work with each other.
Congratulations to the class of 2021. Highlights include:
- Certificates of distinction: 8 students
- Certificates of merit: 15 students
- ATAR above 95: 8% students
- ATAR above 90: 28% of students
- ATAR Above 80: 44% of students
- ATAR students offered a place at University: 98.3%
- Median ATAR: 78 Median ATAR for TISC applicants: 80.5 median
- Graduation rate: 96%. Same as like schools and 7% above public schools-
- Attainment rate: 85%. Same as like - schools and 3% above public schools
- 5 ATAR subjects had student results in the top 15% of the state
Congratulations, also to all students and staff for adhering to the COVID-19 protocols. In the warmer weather masks are not always comfortable. If students break their mask during the day, spare masks are available from student services or reception. In my Connect notice I outlined other measures we are taking to keep everyone safe and continue your child’s face to face education. As the protocols and actions we take change, you will be kept informed on COVID-19 procedures in school as required. If you require further general information please go to https://www.education.wa.edu.au. This includes the current high case load measures and what constitutes a close contact at school.
Please keep the communication open with your Year Coordinator if your child requires additional support.
Our school P&C is looking for parents and carers to attend meetings twice per term. The P&C raises valuable funds for the school through the operation of the canteen, uniform shop and parent contributions. There is no fundraising. The role of the P&C is to keep the businesses going and spend the funds on school projects. If you would like these services to continue we need your help. Most elected office bearer positions are filled, they just need numbers for support and to keep a meeting quorum. In light of current COVID-19 protocols our P&C will now be online, with the first AGM on Wednesday 16 March 2022. Contact our President on lshspandc@gmail.com for additional information. Meetings are normally held in the conference room, which is located next to the Administration building. All new families are welcome to be a part of Leeming’s Harmony and Excellence.
Finally, we have 2 job advertisements. If you, or anyone you know, is interested in a either a School Gardening position or School Crossing Guard position, please contact the school. We are offering very flexible days and hours for the Gardening position.
Mr B. Wallwork, Principal
SCHOOL CAPTAINS 2022
We would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land, the Wadjuk people of the Nyyongar nation and their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this region.
As we share our knowledge, teaching and learning, may we also show respect for the knowledge embedded forever within the Aboriginal custodians of this land.
Welcome back students and parents to the start of 2022. We extend a very special welcome to all new students, teachers, and parents who have joined Leeming SHS. To our new Year 7 students, we hope you enjoy our amazing school.
We would like to introduce ourselves as the new School Captains for this year.
I am Mitchell and I'm a super friendly and confident student at Leeming SHS. I live an outdoorsy and sporty life. The Student Leadership camp that was held at the end of last year was very enjoyable. I was able to meet a group of new students and those who I will be working with this year to represent the Leeming SHS student body. What I loved about the camp was the leisure time where we were able to bond with the other students. The highlight for me was going fishing early in the morning. Together with my fellow leaders, I've got some big plans for this year. Oh! and go Findlay!
Hey everyone. I'm Sophie and I'm so excited to be one of your School Captains for 2022. What I love most about Leeming SHS is that there's a sense of belonging. Belonging to not just a school, but a community, full of different and exciting people. To enhance this sense of belonging, Mitch, myself, and the student leaders, are planning to establish clubs around the school. We've come up with a variety of different clubs, so there's something for everyone.
We know, of course, that this year will have its challenges, and with COVID-19 throwing its punches it won't always be easy. However, we know that here at Leeming SHS we can and will persevere. Please, just know that if you're ever feeling stressed or worried, we're here to support the students. So, don't be afraid to come find us and have a chat.
As your Captains for 2022, we will be doing everything we can to make this an awesome year and a happy environment in which everyone can thrive.
Work hard and rest well.
Sophie and Mitch
TERM 1 PARENT PLANNER 2022
DATES TO REMEMBER
Top of the State
Congratulations to our wonderful HASS students who surpassed themselves in Leeming’s best ATAR performance yet, with Geography, Economics and Psychology exam performances coming in at the top 15% of Western Australia!
Well done to all the students and teachers who worked so hard to achieve such impressive results. A special mention goes out to our Psychology student Ella J. who delighted all with her excellent Psychology performance which helped cement her position as joint Dux of 2021
Writing the World
Following in their fabulous footsteps, a new cohort of Humanities and Social Science students are beginning their studies with enthusiasm. Year 8 HASS students studying Geography have walked through Grid References (literally) as they located geographical features on a giant map. AEP students also honed collaboration and mapping skills to compete in the Landform Island challenge.
Brains, Games and Psychology
Beautiful brains made by Year 12 Psychology students will help them better understand and recall the complexity of the amazing organ that, more than anything, makes us uniquely human. Meanwhile, jelly babies doubling as experimental subjects, helped Year 11 Psychology students understand different ways participants can be allocated to advance the noble cause of most social of sciences. Year 10 “Introduction to Psychology" course has again proved popular with students exploring ethics by debating scenarios from the famous “Trolley Problem.” A hilarious game, undoubtedly, but with a serious message not lost on these fine students and one that is arguably more important than ever as we enter 2022.
From Lawyer to Leeming, Lillian Catovic has left a practice in family law to bring her passion for Civics, Politics and Law into the classroom, with a focus on accessibility and relevance. Growing up with a History Professor uncle instilled both a love of HASS and a recognition of its importance in giving students “a sense of understanding and belonging in the world we live in”. Out of school, she enjoys arranging dried native plants, cooking spicy food and tackling home renovations. Her first impression of Leeming SHS is an “incredibly supportive and nurturing” school.
With a Geography Degree in hand and enthusiasm for HASS, drumming and anything sport related, Lachlan Guthrie has thrown himself into teaching at Leeming with gusto. It is the variety of subjects in HASS; all released to current, real world events, that he finds most appealing, as well as the school itself. “As soon as I walked into Leeming SHS, I knew I was going to enjoy it. I have loved every second so far.” The HASS team is likewise excited to welcome two such knowledgeable and promising teachers.
Ms R. Murray, HASS Teacher
Dance
All Dance students have settled in well to the new school year. They have all been working hard in class learning about various genres of Dance, how different cultures use Dance and working hard to improve their Dance technique. We have been very fortunate at Leeming SHS to have acquired the skills of an industry specialist, Alyssa Radic, who has been instructing commercial jazz classes for our Year 11 and 12 students.
I am also excited about a new initiative in Dance with the appointment of Dance Captains for 2022. I am very proud to announce that Lucy H. and Tegan S. will be co-captains this year. The girls demonstrate fantastic leadership skills and are both very talented dancers. I am really looking forward to seeing them grow in their new roles. Congratulations girls!
Mrs E Brooks, Dance Teacher
Music
Welcome to all of our musicians, both new and returning. Pictured are our new Year 7s during their first music lesson, engaged with using our class computers along with the fabulous music application. We wish them success and enjoyment as they undertake Music at Leeming SHS.
It gives us great pleasure to announce that one of our previous students William M. (2021) has gained entry into WAAPA. Many of our students have gone on to study at WAAPA, however, Will is the first who has been selected as a Composition major. In many ways this is no surprise as those who know Will have seen and heard the complexity and depth of his compositions. Will lent his creativity at school to Drama productions, Media projects and presented many of his projects to others in Music class. We look forward to staying in touch with Will and hearing about his future endeavours.
One of our current students in Year 12, Mufaro M, has been accepted into an elite program at WAAPA overseen by renowned pianist/composer Mr O’Halloran. This program aims to connect high level Jazz music students across schools to create an outstanding ensemble. It is a privilege that Leeming SHS was recognised by Mr O’Halloran as a school that engages students in Jazz music. Mufaro M. has proven her musical ability across several years here, and it will be great to hear the results of this program.
On that note fingers crossed for a smooth and productive year for all!
Mr G. Ryder, Music Teacher
Library Newsletter Article
The school year has had a smooth start with all Year 7s completing a session in the Library as part of their orientation program. The Library has lots of new books which will be out on display for loan, plus we also have a selection of databases covering a wide range of topics. Information regarding these will be on Connect in the Library Information and Activities section.
All of the clubs that usually take place in the Library were set to commence in Week 2 of Term 1 with a wide range of new equipment and resources ready to be introduced to students throughout the term. Unfortunately, due to the current guidelines for school operations, all clubs had to be modified or cancelled. Each day is designated to a particular year group, however Year 11 and 12 students are able to study in the Library at any time in their set areas.
Which Club Can Students Join?
The Study Smarter Strategies session on a Monday afternoon is specifically aimed at helping Year 7s to get organised for high school. Information will be placed in the Content folder of the Library Connect page for other Year groups.
Students will learn valuable skills to develop solid study strategies to help them become capable lifelong learners. They will set up their diaries, as well as a weekly planner to manage their time successfully. Students gain a lot by finding out their learning style then using this knowledge to become a more efficient learner, as well as how to stay focussed at school.
The Robotics and STEM Clubs are very popular with students and we have modified the sessions so that we will be running the same session at lunchtime each day, over the whole week, allowing all year groups the opportunity to participate.
Week 4 – Spheros; Week 5 – Yoda Lego; Week 6 – RVR spheros; Week 7 Codeybots; Week 8 – Medieval Blacksmith Lego; Week 9 – Super Spheres; Week 10 – Imperial light cruiser Lego.
What’s on in the Library?
Leeming Senior High School – BYOD
All students are reminded to bring their device to school every day, fully charged. This year, Year 7s will start using their own device from Week 3, Term 1 and they will be learning how to use their device in Digital Literacy. Students will also be able to bring their devices into the Library at lunch-time Monday, Wednesday and Friday for assistance
Leeming Senior High School - Preferred Device.
Surface Pro or Surface Go, Windows 10, Education bundle (tablet, keyboard & pen)
Parents can purchase any device providing it meets the minimum specifications.
Leeming SHS’s preferred supplier is JB Education.
- Website : https://www.jbeducation.com.au/byod/
- Password : leemingshs2022
- Parents can also go into a JB HiFi store, show their child’s Education Department email address and negotiate a price.
Movies at lunchtime
Students are welcome to come to the Library at lunchtime on their year group day - sit down, relax and enjoy a movie.
Below is a list of the movies being shown this term. In order to show movies that the students enjoy, we have included some that have a rating of PG. If any parents disagree with these movies being shown in the Library, please contact the Principal.
Read to achieve
Ms C. Steel, Teacher Librarian
.
English News
Introducing Amanda Slocum
The English Department team welcomes a new teacher, Amanda Slocum for 2022. Amanda comes to us with considerable experience. She taught at Divine Mercy College for 13 years as both an English and Gifted and Talented teacher, while also participating in the badminton club. Amanda also has international experience in teaching and she brings a diverse background to our team, providing new perspectives to enhance our syllabi. Amanda’s hobbies include reading, writing and demonstrating her sense of vocation in communication. She has enjoyed meeting the Year 7, 8 and 9 groups of students and will be very involved in Academic Extension.
Ms L Longmire, English HoLA
Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment – 2022
What is OLNA?
The Online Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (OLNA) is a program run by School Curriculum Standards Authority (SCSA). Each year, in March and September, students sit an online assessment in Reading, Writing and/or Numeracy, if they have not yet qualified in that area. Once they have demonstrated the required level they do not need to sit that component again.
Round 1 of the OLNA will begin in Week 5 of this term, and continue through Weeks 6 and 7. Your child may not have to complete this assessment – students who have achieved a B and 8 or higher in the reading, writing or numeracy components of NAPLAN have prequalified in that component and do not need to satisfy numeracy and literacy requirements through OLNA – but if they do need to complete one, two or all three tests then we would like to offer them some additional support.
We have purchased access to the preparation site – OLNA SUPPORT – and we encourage any OLNA candidate to access this site and complete some of the practice tests. They will be given feedback on their responses which should help to improve their results.
To access this support simply click on the link above (or go to olna.com.au) and click on School Code Register:
Enter the unique school code: LEEMOLNA2022 and click Apply.
Students who have accessed this site in the past may just log in, and apply the new school code.
If your child has a recently diagnosed medical condition that the school may not be aware of, please let us know as soon as possible as they may be eligible for accommodations such as extra time.
If you have any questions about the OLNA, or if you are not sure if your child is required to complete this assessment, please email Edel.McGill@education.wa.edu.au.
Ms Edel McGill, Learning Support Coordinator (Year 10 -12)
Science Learning Area
Welcome to 2022! The Science team are looking forward to this year, and hope that there won’t be too many disruptions to face-to-face teaching.
We welcome a number of new staff to the Science team. Ms E. Scott has joined us this year and is teaching Lower School Science, Year 11 General Human Biology and Lower School Science. Ms P. Garg is course leader for Year 9 and is teaching Lower School Science, and Mathematics. Mr C. Nowers will be teaching a Year 7 class both Mathematics and Science.
In Term 1, we are focussing on reviewing and developing students’ Science Inquiry Skills. Year 7 and 8 are carrying out experiments and focussing on the aspects of writing scientific reports. In Year 9, we will be paying particular attention to the analysis of data, drawing conclusions and critical thinking.
A number of new elective and general courses are running this year for the first time. Mr Sabapathy will be taking Flight School with Year 9 students; and Year 10 elective students will be guided through an introduction to Aviation which includes the uses of drone technology and drone flying. These electives have a strong practical component where students will use our suite of flight simulators on a weekly basis. We are running Year 11 General Human Biology this year for the first time. This practical course might be of particular interest to students who enjoy learning about the workings of the human body and health.
The Science Department hopes to run a number of excursions this year including Perth Hills Discovery Centre for the Year 11 ATAR Biology students in May and the Zoo for the ATAR Year 12 Human Biology Students in August. Mr Sabapathy will be taking Aviation students to the Aviation Heritage Museum in Bull Creek and to Jandakot Airport.
Mr Stubberfield is the Science and Technology Academy Coordinator this year and will be working with Mr Mackenzie to run the SCTA challenges, competitions and Science After School activities. There are lots of activities planned including a drone program, bridge building, excursions to Murdoch University, The Gravity Discovery Centre and Gin Gin Observatory, and Dryandra woodland. Information about co-curricular activities excursions and camps will be posted through the STA flexi classes on Connect.
The Science team wishes all our students well for 2022!
Dr E. Janes, Science HoLA
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ACADEMY
Welcome to the 2022 academic year! And welcome in particular to our new Year 7 students entering the Specialist Program.
The aim of the Science and Technology Academy is to provide enrichment and extension opportunities for students who have demonstrated an interest and aptitude for Science and Mathematics. There is a wide range of activities on offer which cover the many facets of STEM including coding, the arts, technology, and engineering challenges and include after-school workshops, challenges, competitions, incursions, excursions and camps. The greater a child’s participation in STA activities the greater the benefit to their education and sense of belonging to the diverse community of Leeming SHS.
STA Points and Participation
STA members earn STA points for participation in STA co-curricular activities, performance in Science, Mathematics and a number of STEM elective subjects. All members of STA are expected to participate in a minimum of one co-curricular activity each term. This may be a challenge, competition or excursion to accrue STA points.
Student participation in STA activities is recorded throughout the year. The number of points awarded for each activity is based on the level of participation, attainment, and the number of hours that have been accumulated when engaging in a STA activity. For example, participation in four hours of after school workshops would attract 40 STA points. In Term 4 the STA Awards, are presented to STA members to recognise their efforts and achievements at the levels of Participation, Bronze, Silver and Gold.
STA points are also awarded for a number of STEM events which take place in Perth throughout the year including a Astrofest and National Science Week events. To be awarded STA points for attendance or participation in an external STEM activity, students should first seek approval. Students should then submit a ‘selfie’ of themselves at the event and/or a participation certificate following the event.
Activities Planned for Semester One
Year 7 are invited to attend a Science After School program taking place in Weeks 3 and 4 of this term. Year 8 and 9 students will have the opportunity to participate in the Mind Mash robotics program using Lego Mindstorms in Term 2. Year 9 students will be participating in the Murdoch outreach Periodic Table art project, and Year 10 students will have the opportunity to participate in a number of excursions to Murdoch University and careers focused incursions.
STEM Literacy Challenge
As part of a plan to develop students literacy skills and interest in the many branches of STEM. All STA members are encouraged to participate in the STEM Literacy Challenge. In this challenge students seek out STEM related news articles published in magazines, newspapers or journals that interest them. There are a number of websites that publish articles that are specifically for students in Year 7-10.
Once an article of interest has been found, students should choose one of the text analysis tools provided in the ‘Content’ section in the STA flexi class on Connect to analyse the article and develop a deeper understanding of the topic and practice summarising information from written text. A copy of the article and their review should then be glued into a scrap book or placed in a display folder. This activity is an excellent opportunity for students to broaden their interest and knowledge on current affairs in the many areas of STEM. The challenge also benefits students by developing their literacy skills and ability to analyse text for deeper a understanding.
Scrap books and folders will be collected towards the end of each term for the award of STA points. Students should complete up to one article analysis per week, 10 articles per term as part of their ongoing study and participation in STA. Completion of this task can attract up to 50 points per term, 5 points for each article reviewed.
Term Challenges
STA members are encouraged to participate in the independent term-challenges which take place in Term 1, 2 and 3. The STA challenge for Term 1 is a pop stick bridge building competition. There will be a number of after school workshops to support students in completing this challenge in the second half of this term. Further details about the challenge will be available through Connect in Week 2.
Use of Connect
Each STA member has been added to a STA Flexi Class on Connect. Information about challenges, excursions, incursions, activities and camps will be communicated through Connect and will be publicised in the Daily Notices, the parent and student inbox.
Mr J. Stubberfield, Science and Technology Academy Coordinator
Languages Awards
Last year, our French students participated in the Alliance Francaise exams. Whilst the Year 12’s were acknowledged at their final assembly, we would like to take the opportunity to congratulate the following students for their achievement in the exam:
- Thomas U.
- Jacinta U.
- Mehtab J.
- Zara H.
- Beatriz B.
- Jacinta C.
We would also like to make a special mention to Japanese student Chelsea T. who won the opportunity to be the Western Australia’s representative in the National Japanese Language Speech contest last year. Chelsea’s speech on COVID-19 saw her place second at a National Competition and come away with some fabulous prizes. Well done Chelsea T. on such a huge achievement!
Mrs M. Hansen, Teaching and Learning Coordinator
french
Bienvenue pour cette année scolaire 2022
Welcome back to the new school year 2022. Mme Robert and Mme Spears are looking forward engaging in as many activities as we can with our students studying French. Things to look forward to this Term:
French Club Les Petits Français – back on from week 3, every Thursday 3-4pm. We are continuing our online exchange with the students from Toulouse with a special theme for this term.
Alliance Française Poetry competition – starting soon, the finals have been scheduled for 25 June 2022
Other events are to be confirmed in due time and plenty more in the following Terms.
Ms M Robert, French Teacher
Years 7 & 8 Japanese Specialist Program Term 1 Workshops
Register and join the Year 7 and 8 Japanese Specialist Program on Wednesday afternoons in the LE7 classroom from 3-4 pm.
During the Term 1 Workshops, the Japanese Specialist students will explore Edo including Japanese history, samurai and ninja’s.
Complete the permission form and submit it to Sgro Sensei either during class or in the Languages Office.
More information is available on the Japanese Specialist Connect Page.
Due to COVID restrictions Specialist Programs will be offered to different Year Groups each Term. Term 1 – Year 7 & 8 students, and Term 2 the program will be offered to Year 9 and 10 students.
Ms J. Sgro, Japanese Specialist Teacher
Chinese New Year
Health and Physical Education.
Physical Education Uniform
It has been pleasing to see the vast majority of students correctly changed from the practical classes down in our Learning Area. Thanks to the staff at the Uniform Shop for managing the supply of uniforms in such difficult times. There may be a shortage of the odd sizes. Please ensure you have placed an order for the items you require, to avoid a uniform breach being recorded on Compass. The PE uniform policy is available through the Connect page of all Physical Education classes.
Classes are continuing following the COVID-19 guidelines, for both indoor venues at the Striker Indoor Centre and outdoors ovals and courts.
Swimming Carnival
Unfortunately, the House Swimming Carnival had to be postponed. We will look at rescheduling if circumstances change during the year.
Outdoor Education and Camps
We have also received advice that camps are unable to run. We will be looking at alternative ways to meet the learning requirements that camps offer and if possible, conducting them later in the year.
Covid Challenges
The current COVID-19 scenario is providing some challenges to the normal day-to-day running of our Physical Education and Outdoor Education programs. We will continue to follow the advice and guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety and deliver as close to our full programs as possible.
Mr S. Ellis, HoLA Health and Physical Education
Meet Leeming Senior High School Student Leaders for 2022
At the end of 2021, the elected 2022 Student Councillor and House Captains headed off to Busselton for the Leadership Camp. 40 students and 5 staff members enjoyed the spectacular surroundings, stunning weather and used these three very special days to bond, build teams, and develop a vision for their work in 2022.
- The three days were a buzz of activity, with a mix of planning sessions, team building activities and free time. An ‘Amazing Race’ through the coastal landscape of Cape Naturaliste.
- Working in teams to cook for 45 people led by Head Chef S Morgan and Sous Chef M Nelson
- Actions planning for the ‘Clubs initiative' for 2022.
- Hanging out together, building relationships and fantastic team chemistry.
- A trip to Simmos.
Student Testimonials
The leadership camp was the highlight of 2021. It gave me the opportunity to make friends with people outside of my social circle and allowed me to learn so many new perspectives from such a diverse group of amazing people. I loved the Amazing Race because I learnt how to work with new people and communicate effectively to achieve the best outcome and also because our team won! by : Rumesha S. (Year 12)
I went to camp knowing about 5 people in the student leadership group and I came back with 35 new friends. I loved Mr Morgan’s cooking and working with the rest of my house group to prepare meals with him. I loved the Rad Rock experience and climbing the high ropes. Even though I was scared at first, the rest of my team encouraged me to face my fears. It was an awesome experience. By D’ Luca. V (Year 8)
Through the 2021 Leeming SHS Leadership camp, I collaborated with members of year groups from Years 7 to 12 to flourish new friendships and share ideas. I had great fun meeting students of different backgrounds, ages and house groups to spread our shared love of helping and improving the school for students and teachers alike. I am so grateful to now have familiar faces around the school to brighten my day. By Adah H.(Year 12)
In the film Inside Out, Riley's "core memories" represent major moments in her life that have shaped who she is. This camp is definitely one of my core memories. By Sophie A. (Year 12)
Student Councillors 2022
House Captains 2022
Ms S. Dyson, English Teacher & Student Council Coordinator
congratulations
Congratulations to our Year 12 students Rumesha and Bailey who received a SCASA Certificate of Achievement for completing the 5-day Youth Explorer Voyage on board the STS Leeuwin II from 13 - 17 January this year.
Year Book 2021
Please be advised that there has been a delay with the 2021 Yearbook. Once it has been delivered, parents will be advised. Thank you for your patience.
Chaplain’s Chat
Welcome back to school, we are all planning for this year 2022 to be a good one. One that we care for each other genuinely. Where we slow down and look after ourselves and do less procrastinating and more realistic planning and achieving. You matter to us, we are all a part of the Leeming SHS community that desires to care for you and to support you to achieve your best and to discover your personal potential.
Please this year allow yourself a bit more you time, to think, plan and process your feelings. Be a seeker of support for yourself and your friends.
If you would like some support from the school, there are many caring people at this school and Carl Hough and myself Bettina Carter are also available to chat with and to support you and your family.
Mr C Hough, and Ms B Carter, Chaplains
Health Centre
Hi to all students and families attending Leeming SHS and a big welcome to all the Year 7s and any new students and families, to the school. My name is Deb Kitak Community Nurse based at Leeming SHS. I am looking forward to meeting students and parents. I work Monday to Thursday 8.30am - 4.30pm. I wish you all the very best for the term and year.
Welcome Back 2022 with COVID and Keeping your Child Safe
Parents/Guardians please continue to support your child and using COVID-19 safe practices when you come to school for drop off and pick up. Parents are encouraged to get their children 5 years and older vaccinated. Information on the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine is available on healthywa.wa.gov.au. All secondary students must wear a mask, when there is a public health requirement, in place to do so (masks are currently required in Perth, Peel and the South West regions), unless:
- They have a physical, developmental or mental illness condition or disability which makes wearing a face covering inappropriate.
- They are deaf or hard of hearing and visibility of the mouth is essential for communication
- A medical certificate is required for the mask exemption whilst at school.
- They are engaged in physical exercise.
- •They are eating, drinking or taking medication
Unwell Student or Staff Member
If a student or staff member shows possible symptoms of COVID-19 they will be sent home and asked to seek testing at public free COVID clinics. Parents, I strongly advise you to please keep your child home if they are unwell with COVID–19 symptoms. Anyone with symptoms, even mild, should get tested, fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, runny nose and loss of taste or smell
Medical Conditions
If your child has a medical condition or develops a medical condition for example asthma, anaphylaxis, diabetes or epilepsy please contact me for an Action Plan if you have not already done this. This is so that I can manage your child’s medical condition appropriately whilst they are at school.
Anaphylaxis - checklist for parents of students at risk:
- Tell the school administration if your child has been prescribed an adrenaline autoinjector (i.e. EpiPen), has experienced anaphylaxis, has any changes in allergies, and/or any other health care needs that may affect anaphylaxis management.
- Make sure your child carries an adrenaline autoinjector in their bag and replace the device before it expires.
- Make sure your child knows how to use the adrenaline autoinjector. Show his or her friends, brothers and sisters if they are old enough to understand.
- Provide the school your child’s ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis completed and signed by your child’s doctor. Update the plan (including a photo of your child) when the adrenaline autoinjectors are renewed (usually every 12-18 months). Action Plans are available from www.allergy.org.au.
- Help the school to develop an Individual Health Care and Risk Minimisation Plan for your child.
- Educate your child about how to avoid known allergens (triggers).
- Remind your child to immediately tell someone if she/he feels sick whilst at school
- Parents/Guardians if you have a child at the school that has Anaphylaxis can you please make sure that their Anaphylaxis Action Plan is updated 12-18 monthly as this is the Department of Education policy.
The Health Centre is located in the student central building with Student Services managers, Chaplains and School Psychologist and there is a Community Nurse based here 4 days per week, Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 4.30pm.
I am happy to meet parents and discuss medical issues that may be a problem for your child. I am also happy to meet the students, especially if they are new to Leeming SHS. Please come to the Health Centre and say hello. I do encourage students to come and see me in their own time, before school, break times and after school, if the matter is not urgent. If your child needs to see the nurse in class time they need to bring a note from the teacher or their diary signed by their teacher.
Only emergencies will be seen in class time.
Confidentiality is respected and students can make an appointment to see me if they would like to discuss an issue or problem.
Important Health Messages
- Nutrition Students are encouraged to eat a healthy breakfast prior to school
- Fluids Students are encouraged to drink plenty of water 6-8 glasses per day and to bring their own water bottles into school and not share their bottles.
- Sleep Growing children need 10 to 12 hours of sleep a night with no interruptions Eg: No TV, Electronic gadgets, mobile phones, computer, games etc. in your bedroom at sleep time.
- School Bags Look after your back! Students your bag should not weigh more that 10-15% of your body weight. If you have a back pack you need to carry it on your back and shoulder straps on both shoulders supporting the load on your back.
- Hats and Sun Wear a hat if you are in the sun and apply sunscreen.
- Hygiene daily shower and maybe twice a day in summer is required and don’t forget to use soap on your body and shampoo your hair regularly. Use deodorant and don’t forget to brush your teeth twice a day after meals and at bedtime.
The School Health Service
The school health service aims to promote healthy development and wellbeing to help students to reach their full potential. Students are better prepared for learning when they are healthy, safe and happy. School Health services provide an easy access point to health care for students. The school health nurse may carry out health assessments and provide information, advice, referrals and support for students. The support encourages development of knowledge, skills and behaviour, and encourages the young person to deal with their health issues and make healthy lifestyle choices. Individual students can seek information, guidance and support about a range of issues that may include: coping with illness, culture or racism issues, feeling anxious, stressed or unhappy, healthy eating and nutrition, healthy weight and body image, mental health and wellbeing, loss and grief, problems at home, relationships, sexual health, smoking, alcohol, drug use and other adolescent concerns.
There may be times when the school health nurse needs to share information with parents or guardians or certain others in the school community, to provide support and care to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the young person. The school health nurse encourages and supports young people to talk to their parent or guardians about significant health issues.
Ambulance Cover
I strongly advise parents/guardians to have ambulance cover as an ambulance will be called in emergency situations and when deemed necessary. The school DOES NOT pay for this service.
Medication
Parents and students are reminded that the nurse is NOT allowed to give paracetamol or other medication to students. Parents/Students are reminded that they can bring a dose of paracetamol to school to take if you have pain. Eg: headache, period pain, toothache etc.
Updating Contact Details
Can families please ensure the school is notified as soon as possible if any contact details change. This includes home, mobile and emergency contact phone numbers and email addresses.
Mrs D. Kitak, Community Health Nurse
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