News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:53:06 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

#Ready2020 – a great year starts here

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:01:18 AEDT

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

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

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

You’ll find:

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

Video – #Ready2020: First day of Kindy

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 16:15:13 AEDT

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way to protect your family from harmful diseases this holiday season and into 2020. Visit your doctor for general health and vaccination advice.

Immunisation not only protects you and your family but also others in your community, by reducing the spread of preventable diseases.

Children starting school in 2020 must have up-to-date immunisations to enrol.

These vaccinations help protect children from highly infectious and severe diseases including whooping cough and measles.

Travel health

If you’re travelling overseas during the school holidays, you may need vaccinations or medication – both for general health protection and for region-specific diseases.

If you’re travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, you may even need a flu shot.

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 16:43:04 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 14:12:19 AEDT

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

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

This year's events will feature:

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

Group bookings

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

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

Tickets for you and your family and friends

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

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:33:40 AEST

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

Have your say today on before and after school care.

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

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

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

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:20:27 AEST

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

Get involved at home

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

Join in from the classroom

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

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

Take the Book Swap Challenge

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

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

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

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

Duration: 0:38

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

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:38:42 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:01:08 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:33:40 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:20:29 AEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:05:24 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Video – Kids ask the hard questions

Duration – 3:45

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:07:03 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:19:53 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:14:57 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 14:52:58 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

EV Report

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 11:27:08 AEDT

The external validation process is an important component of a system–wide approach to school excellence. Schools regularly self– assess their improvement efforts using evidence to support their reflections and an external validation panel considers the school's evidence, providing assurance to the school and the system that the process being made either through the school plan or as part of their ongoing school focus areas, aligns with the standards articulated in the School Excellence Framework.

Kaia's beautiful art

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 10:45:14 AEST

Year 3

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 10:59:27 AEST

Year 3 will be looking at Informative texts this term, specifically animal related. We will link this to our creative arts unit as well.

We will be getting ready for our athletics carnival early in the term, then we will continue our rotations for sport on a Thursday afternoon. In science we will be visiting the maker space, looking closely at robotics and Tinkercad.

We will continue to work hard in numeracy, linking ‘Youcubed' activities, Prodigy maths and study ladder to all our learning.

We will also continue with our gardening and cooking every week.

We are looking forward to another fun-filled term.

Rock and water

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 11:42:47 AEST

The Rock and Water program helps students to develop an awareness of our own strengths and capabilities and the ability to play, work and live respectfully together. It also assists students in developing positive communication skills whilst building trusting and respectful relationships.

Pamper Day is KS

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:12 AEST

Where do you go if you're a mum looking for a makeover – hair, nails, make up, massage, morning tea? Well, you may be surprised to hear that Ms Sanders and students in Kindergarten at Maclean Public School offered the complete pamper package to 30 lucky mums and nans last Friday!

Children enjoyed creating a crown and some on trend accessories for their special visitors then began to manicure and hair style so mum and nan would look sensational for the photo booth shoot.

It wouldn't be a Kindergarten event without a little dancing so Ms Sanders led the Kinders and their guests in the entertainment segment of the morning. With the Mindfulness session completed, it was a very stylish and Zen group of ladies (and one dad with an immaculately groomed beard and pink toenails) who enjoyed their High Tea at the end of the morning. We hope all the mums had a brilliant Mothers' Day last Sunday.

Whiddon Group

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:17 AEST

This week our kinder students created his fantastic clown to support the Whiddon Group here in Maclean. The students were given a clown colouring in to complete and each school in our local area was asked to make a clown. We used our hands to trace and cut out to form the body of our clown and glued him together!
Students in our school visit the Whiddon group and spend time singing, playing musical instruments and reading with the residents. It is a rewarding and heart warming experience for all involved.

School Kitchen Garden

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:14 AEST

An enthusiastic team of students worked in the food garden this week to relocate our compost bins. After much weed removal we covered a layer of old newspapers with mulch and put the bins in place. All fruit scraps left from class crunch and sip time and morning tea / lunch will now be composted in the school food garden. Thank you to all students who helped out in the food garden. The garden will be open at selected lunch times during the week to allow further garden jobs to be completed. If anybody is able to donate mulch for our gardens please contact the school.

Brooms Head Excursion

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:04 AEST

Last Friday MPS Kindergarten, year 1 and year 2 students travelled by bus for a fun day out at Brooms Head. For some of us it was our first go on a big school bus! When we arrived, we went for a walk up to the Lookout to watch for dolphins or whales. After a delicious morning tea we walked through the Caravan Park to the Lake so we could take our shoes and socks off and play on the sand. We found baby crabs and lots of interesting things on the sand. Our excursion was a great opportunity to build friendships and have a look around our natural environment.

Robotics

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:13 AEST

Students in year 5 at Maclean Public School are developing STEM knowledge and skills through practical lessons in the Maker Space. After exploring several block coding platforms, including Scratch, Tynker and Leg Wedo students were given the opportunity to build and program a robot.

Boxes were opened, instructions read and parts sorted. Students excitedly clipped, screwed and bolted everything together to create their robot. Each group was able to create something tangible and make it perform the actions they had programmed it to do. As the robots made their way around the course, (or not) the students realised just how important it is to create accurate instructions. It was inspiring to see such high levels of student engagement and cooperation throughout the process and to observe the students turn frustration into creation.

Swimming Carnival Success

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:16 AEST

Maclean Public School swimming carnival was a great success with the full participation of students in races across the day. A mixture of competitive, short course and novelty events saw students in the pool throughout the day and regularly cooling off from the hot weather. Congratulations to Yaegl House for winning the carnival point score and Clarence House for their sporting behaviour. House Captains did a superb job rallying support with their war cries and keeping the grandstand area clean.

"It was day magnificent day with students enjoying the opportunity to swim in both a supportive and competitive environment" said carnival coordinator Mr Michael Rosnell. "With great staff, helpful high school timekeepers, and respectful, responsible and safe students the carnival went ahead without a hitch" added Mr Rosnell.

A select group of swimmers now head to the Northern Rivers Carnival to be held in Lismore on Wednesday 28 February 2018. We wish them well.

New School Playgrounds

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:10 AEST

The Maclean Public School students are eagerly anticipating playing on the 2 new sets of playground equipment currently being built. The equipment includes slides, bridges, balancing poles and climbing walls.

The students have also enjoyed watching the construction process take place over the last few weeks. Year 1 students have been writing about what they have seen.

‘At the construction site I can see dirt laid on the grass. I can see an orange digger and the builders who are putting in the new equipment. I can smell the smoke coming from the machines and the dirt. I can hear a cement mixer making the cement. I could also hear the workers talking.' By Luke.

‘At the construction site I can see an orange digger. I can see dirt. I can see a ute with a trailer on it. I can see a dump truck. I can hear workers talking. I can hear the workers talking. I can see the workers putting in poles.' By Olie

The children are very excited. Here is what they had to say.

‘I really want to play on the new equipment, especially the spider web and the round monkey bars!' Issy Year 3

‘I am excited to try the equipment. I can't wait to try the spider web.' Hayden Year 3

‘I can't wait to go on the spider web and climbing wall to practise my climbing skills.' Jay Year 3

School Musical

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:14 AEST

"That was the best thing I've seen done at a Clarence Valley primary school!" and "That was amazing! I can't believe they were primary school students!", were just two of the comments made at the conclusion of the Maclean Public School musical on Thursday night 2^nd October.

"Jungle Fantasy" is the title of the production the staff and students have been working on for the last few months. All students were involved either on stage, back stage, in sound and lighting or set construction.

"It was so exciting to watch the children grow in confidence and maturity throughout a process which has been educational on so many levels.", says MPS music teacher Elizabeth Moore. The students stood up in front of a packed hall and delivered all their lines with poise and had the audience in stitches!

In the jungle presided over by the fearsome Jungle Queen, cheeky monkeys caused havoc, the Bongly tribe cracked jokes, Jane found out that her mate Tartan could actually speak properly thanks to their oxford educated ape friend Charles, the group of all girl jungle cats finally got to see a man, the elderly survivors of a plane crash discovered the delights of the spring of youth, movie director Gus gave up on his idea of remaking "King Kong" after a series of ridiculous auditions and the Jungle Queen found love in Scottish body guard McBurleigh…otherwise known as "Big Mac"!

Everyone worked together to create an amazing performance and fantastic memories! Spectacular set, stunning costumes and sensational singing! Congratulations Maclean Public School!!

Crazy Hair Day

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:06 AEST

Thank you to all those that contributed to raising $185 for the Alyssa Project on our ‘Crazy Hair' day. The funds will be well received by Opportunity Cambodia and will enable students to attend school.

Kindy Visits

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:09 AEST

Students from local preschools have been getting a taste of big school through an innovative transition program being implemented at Maclean Public School.

"In 2015 saw the need to forge a closer working and supportive relationship with our feeder preschools" said Maclean Public School Assistant Principal Mr. Michael Rosnell. "Preschool is such an important learning space that we wanted to add to their programs, not take anything away." he added.

Since then students and staff from our local Community and Cubby House for Kids preschools have attended regular lessons at Maclean School during Term 3. Staff with particular K-2 expertise have run lessons specifically designed to cater for the preschool student. This year Ms Sanders shared her love of art and reading, Mrs Richey immersed the students in Yaygirr language, Mrs Moore was magnificently musical and Mrs Simmons was literate in the library.

The program was available to all senior preschool students, not only those intending to enrol at Maclean Public School. Feedback from preschool staff and parents has been overwhelmingly positive. The staff at Cubby House for Kids Preschool have said "Our children loved visiting Maclean Public School and really enjoyed the wonderful activities provided for them. This is a fantastic program. It is well run and organised. Well done and thank you." The staff at Maclean Community Preschool commented that "through the Preschool Transition Program, organised by Maclean Public School, our children have engaged in exciting and fun activities that have provided experiences across the school curriculum. Our children have continued to grow in confidence and develop a positive attitude to Big School."

Maclean Public School Kindergarten 2018 Orientation Program is now in full swing during Term 4. "With healthy enrolments now confirmed Maclean Public School welcomes our Kindergarten 2018 students and families with four weekly class visits and some parent information sessions," said kindergarten teacher Ms Nicole Sanders. "We are getting to know each other in the classroom whilst parents are meeting to discuss all aspects of preparing their child for a smooth transition to school," concluded Ms Sanders.

One thing is for sure - these young students have been given a wonderful preparation for big school thanks to a close working relationship between the staff of Maclean Public School, Maclean Community Preschool and Maclean Cubby House For Kids Preschool.

Jump Off

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:08 AEST

JUMP ROPE

Maclean Public Schools students are jumping for joy because the school's JUMP OFF day is coming soon.

On Wednesday, September 20^th the students of Maclean Public School will be having a JUMP OFF as part of the Jump Rope For Heart program.

Through the program students have been learning about healthy heart habits, engaging in physical activity in a non-competitive way, raising much needed money for the Heart Foundation to fund research, and learning the benefit of helping others.

The JUMP OFF day will start with a skipping marathon in the morning with students skipping non-stop for two hours. Then the real excitement begins with the MPS SKIPTACULAR show.

Students can't wait to get up on stage to perform their skipping routines. Ella in Year 6 said, "She loves the loud music and seeing the Kindy kids skipping on stage. They are amazing."

That's Not Cricket

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:16 AEST

There has been a lot of discussion about the world's growing population and the very real problem of not being able to grow enough food to feed everyone. Current methods of farming require large amounts of land, but as the population grows this land is needed for housing. One type of farming that has grown in popularity is ‘Cricket Farming'.

Are cricket farms the answer to the world food shortage? Cricket farms are popping up around the globe, with crickets being very nutritious. Maybe it will be worth a try here in Australia! Instead of cane and beef farms in our local area there could be ‘Cricket Farms'.

The biggest cricket farming country is Thailand! Cricket farming is a popular activity for farmers in Thailand and started in 1998. There are currently 20,000 farmers worldwide doing this strategy of farming and this could be the way of the future!

Cricket farms are getting more popular and a lot of farmers are seeing this as a good opportunity for the future. They are easy to breed and there are many species of crickets, including Teleogryllus mitratus, Gryllus bimaculatus, Telegryllus occipitalis, and the Acheta domesticus.

During our research we found that most cricket farmers describe the process as perfect for farmers with only a small amount of land because the crickets are bred in containers placed in a vertical stack. Each container can hold thousands of crickets. Having a low impact on the environment, this sustainable type of farming has hardly any waste. In fact, they use recycled food waste to feed them and then use their manure as fertiliser.

Crickets have a high nutritional value and are packed full of protein. Insects have been on the menu in Asian countries for many years and are slowly creeping their way onto menus in countries like Australia. However most of the cricket consumption in our area is in the form of protein powder. So maybe next time you're out to dinner look out for crickets!

By: Ethan Fisher and Marlo Mayo.

Kids Afloat!

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:09 AEST

Last week students from Maclean Public School saw all of their planning, prototyping and building turn into action, on the water. It all started when student David Torrens said, "Wouldn't it be cool if we could build a raft in the Makerspace!' We were super excited and started working on our ideas. We began by researching rafts and floatation and then drew up some plans. From there we made small scale models of a variety of rafts and tested their floatation and stability.

After we decided on which model we would build, we researched materials to find light and buoyant products. We also had to think about how much weight the raft had to support. This maths was fun. Ms Phillips and Mr Woods helped us get the materials and taught us how to use the tools we needed to build with. We had lots of fun working together turning David's idea into a real raft.

We all went to Yamba and tested our raft out. It was so much fun and the best thing was that it FLOATED!

By: David Torrens, Gregory Griffen, and Tyrelle Waters.

Maclean Public School Chess Team

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:09 AEST

Each year students are given the opportunity to participate in the school chess team. Students are involved in chess practice sessions where they develop their skills and learn various chess strategies. Students then represent Maclean Public School and compete in the NSW Junior Chess Competition which was held at Yamba this year. It is a great opportunity for students to display their chess skills, meet students from other schools and have lots of fun.

Recorder Excursion

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:13 AEST

A ten hour train trip departing Grafton at 5.15 in the morning doesn't sound like much fun. However, if you're with your mates and the destination is the Sydney Opera House, it's a different story! Seven of our talented Maclean musos will be doing just that next week! Mrs Moore will be accompanying the students to Sydney where they will perform in a group of 700 recorders and 200 string players from all over NSW. It is a huge number of students that make an amazingly beautiful sound together performing for hundreds of very proud relatives. It is an experience that all involved will remember long after they have forgotten the 10 hour train trip! We wish our students all the best for an exciting and safe excursion.

STEM education in the primary classroom

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:15 AEST

STEM education integrates science, technology, engineering and mathematics and aims to encourage students' critical and creative thinking skills. At Maclean Public School, Year 1 students have been participating in STEM challenges throughout the term. Recently, as part of a fairy tale literacy unit, students were provided a problem-based learning task based upon the Three Little Pigs. Students were required to build the Three Little Pigs' houses using a variety of everyday materials. We then compared the structures to see which as the strongest and which could be knocked over. This was determined by the Big Bad Wolf (the teacher) huffing and puffing and attempting to blow the house down.

Students loved this activity as they were able to plan and make new products, and solve design challenges by helping each other come up with ways to make their house stand or hold together better.

Year 1 pupils love the opportunity to participate in interactive STEM activities across the curriculum, and are already excited for their next challenge!

Science Week

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:14 AEST

THE HEAT IS ON! - SCIENCE WEEK AT MPS

Year 3 students in Mrs Teague's class at Maclean Public School turned up the heat during conductivity experiments as they put Fourier's Law of heat transference to the test. Hypotheses were made, trials carried out, results recorded and solid scientific facts learnt. Up in the Makerspace, Mrs Phillips year 5 students experimented with electrical conductivity when they used the Makey Makey and Little Bits kits to design and create electrical circuits. Year 6 students in Mr Sozou's class worked with MHS teacher Mr Kelly to design, create, customize and program robots using Lego Mindstorms. You cannot beat hands on, project based learning in the 21^st century! Every week is Science week at Maclean Public!

Athletics Carnival

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:03 AEST

Our annual athletics carnival was held Friday the 28th July. With excellent weather and an outstanding participation rate the day was very successful. The students were well-behaved and enthusiastically cheered on their Yaegl and Clarence housemates. The house spirit and passionate display of house colours from the students was remarkable.

A big thank you to all staff members for their assistances on the day, allowing the carnival to run smoothly and effectively. Thank you also to all students who contributed to make the day successful and all of the parents and family members for their support. A special thank you to the Maclean High School students who helped on the day.

South Sydeny Visit MPS

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:15 AEST

South Sydney Rabbitohs dropped in to our school Monday afternoon for a meet and greet session. They also had some fun with the students with a few drills.

Mother's Day Memories

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:10 AEST

Kindergarten at Maclean Public School took the opportunity to invite Mums, Dads. Grans and special visitors into their classroom on Friday morning.

They were greeted by a garden full of blooming chrysanthemums, bunting and a welcoming smile. After Ms Sanders and Ms Bloom had started the days proceedings, all children made a dazzling crown for Mum to wear on their special day. The children added sparkling jewels and stickers to their unique crowns.

At 10am we headed out to the playground to participate in our first ever mini Cross Country, with our mums and special visitors cheering us on. Luckily, we missed the rain, and headed back inside to begin our morning of pampering.

Our classroom was set up with various stations the mums could choose to attend. There was a hair salon, a pedicure centre, floral leis, relaxing colouring in, a photo booth, dress ups and a card making station. It would be difficult to say which station the mums loved the most, but we certainly did see some budding nail artists and hairdressers!

At recess time we rounded off our morning with a delicious morning tea, shared by the adults and children. It was a lovely morning filled with smiles, laughter and love. Our mums all left our school with warm hearts and funky toes!

School Cross Country

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:14 AEST

Last week Maclean Public School held their annual cross country event. The track is mapped out around the school grounds which makes it a challenging course with steep hill climbs and differing terrains. Well done to all of our Kindergarten and year 1 students who had the opportunity to run a modified track this year. They had lots of fun and are looking forward to competing again next year. Finally, congratulations to all of our age champions: 8/9s – Zahli Carmichael, Jack Torrens. 10's – Sabrina Bowly, Toby Jamieson. 11's – Ashley Moore, David Torrens. 12's – Alana Griffen, Billy Johnson.

Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:15 AEST

As part of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program at Maclean Public School, students in Year 3 and 4 participate in weekly gardening and cooking experiences. Last week students were involved in cooking and eating basil pesto, quesadillas and a chickpea and spinach stir fry. They spent time in the garden, weeding, planting and harvesting crops. There was a good crop of basil that was used in the pesto.

The students love working in the garden and learning how to cook and share a healthy meal. They learn a range of food preparation and cooking skills. They also clean up, set the table and share the meal they have prepared.

The garden is a practical way for them to develop gardening skills, work as a team, discuss and explore the natural and man made environment.

‘I like to cut up the vegetables."'Daeja

‘I like learning new skills in the kitchen.' Samara

‘I like eating what we have cooked.' Lily

Easter Hat Parade

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:07 AEST

The hall was full of excited students and parents at yesterday's Easter Hat Parade. A big thank you everyone who helped put together what was a colourful and creative spectacular. Students from each class K-2 paraded around the hall to the applause of the audience. Classes then presented some musical items with KS performing Rock A Bye Bear and Stir Up the Pudding while the junior choir sang along. The choir then sung Juicy, Juicy, Green Grass and 2R then performed the River Song.

After a final parade around the hall it was time to hear from the judges Mrs Simmons (librarian) and Ella Connor and Jaala Bendeich-Hall (Ministers for Functions). They announced and handed out Easter Hat Awards to two students in each class. A lucky draw was held and William Smith was the winner. The Easter bunny might be visiting classes later in the week. Thank you once again to everyone involved in our successful Easter Hat Parade.

YR 4 Dinosaurs

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:17 AEST

Dinosaurs could be found everywhere in class 4M at Maclean Public School last week. The students were given the opportunity to choose a Dinosaur that roamed the Australian Continent many years ago. They were given a broad option of research areas to follow.

There were many amazing displays and variation at presentation brought into the class from film, slide show, puzzles and displays.

Fantastic Mr Fox

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:03 AEST

Year 4 students at Maclean Public School are enjoying a literature study of Roald Dahl's "Fantastic Mr Fox". Student Jayla was touched by the way Mr Fox never gives up and how much he cares for his family. Colleague Annika was impressed by how clever Mr Fox is in his endeavours to feed his children and outwit the farmer. Classroom Teacher Ms Brown, said that the children enjoyed studying aspects of the text around cause and effect, character development and perspective. She also said that children really enjoyed having this story read to them prior to their writing session. It will be a bitter sweet final reading today as children look forward to hearing how the story ends but are sad to see it finish.

FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:07 AEST

Fingers were crossed and breath was held as we unveiled the latest Maker Space build. Isaac and Gregory had assembled a working model of a V-12 Motorcycle engine, meticulously organising parts, gathering the appropriate tools and piecing the engine together. They weren't hindered by the occasional breakage of parts. Instead they were extremely resourceful and adapted other materials to create parts.

Both boys were confident that the engine would spark to life. So it was no surprise when they pressed the ignition in front of the whole class, away it went.

School garden

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:14 AEST

This term class 4M have been involved in the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen and Gardening Program. Each Wednesday between recess and lunch half the class go to cooking and the other half get their hands dirty in the school vegetable garden.

The Christmas holiday period devastated the garden so 4M decided to clean it up and start again. Mr Alan Sonter (Strawb) the school General Assistant, became involved and helped us in the garden make over.

The first thing we did was to weed all the garden beds and bring in some new soil. We loved getting our hands dirty. Once this was done we planted out seedlings. These included beans, tomatoes, kale and cucumbers.

The following week we made seedling cylinders by using old toilet rolls and newspapers. First you wrap the newspaper around the toilet roll and put masking tape to hold it together. Next push the left over newspaper into the bottom of the cylinder. Remove the newspaper from the cylinder and fill it with soil.

We had a bag of sweet corn seeds so we placed two seeds in each cylinder. Next we poured more soil on top of the seed. We then watered all the seeds and waited. After 5 days the seeds germinated and green leaves shot upwards. Soon the seedling box was a sea of green.

We planted our corn seedlings and now we are waiting to enjoy the fruits of our labour. We have more plans for the future. We will be planting more climbing beans, sugar snap peas and okra.

Swimming Carnival Success 2017

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:16 AEST

This year's swimming carnival was a great opportunity, in excellent conditions, for our students to showcase their swimming ability and team spirit. It was terrific to see students having a go and entering in both competitive and novelty events.

It was pleasing to see some students enter in every event and eager to earn some points for their house.

Thank you to the parents, family and friends who came along to support our students and enjoy the day. Some students from Maclean High School dedicated their time to help run the day, for which we are very appreciative.

Well done and good luck to a number of students who now progress through to the Northern Rivers swimming carnival held at Lismore on February 23^RD

Finally, congratulations to Yaegl who was this year's winner and to all of our age champions.

Kinders start at MPS

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:09 AEST

It was with great excitement that our new Kinder students started their "big School" journey last week at Maclean Public.

Ms Sanders and Ms Bloom have been working hard to get their new learning space looking fabulous, with bright bare walls ready to be filled with their fabulous art works.

Wide eyed children with nervous mums and dads arrived on their first day to see a great photo booth set up, providing opportunity for fantastic first day photos. All the children were looking grown up in their school uniforms and their shiny new black shoes. Back packs were filled with lunch boxes, drink bottles and their bright yellow hats (and all labelled, of course!) The children enjoyed exploring the playground, all under the constant supervision of some protective year six buddies!

Our Kinder class slipped into their new school routine like they have done it all before. Their first two days were jam packed with group work, craft, singing and dancing, and lots of story reading. Some of us may have closed our eyes for a little rest during reading time!

They are ready for new challenges, from learning and exploring all the great programs on offer at our school. Already the children have been introduced to our Music Teacher, Mrs Moore, and had the chance to play some instruments. Many of the children are looking forward to banging on both drums, and pianos!

We are looking forward to a fun filled year of learning and laughing at Maclean Public School.

Titans visit MPS

Sun, 27 May 2018 06:01:16 AEST

Excitement in bucket loads when players from the NRL Titans visited students in years 3-6 at Maclean Public School. "NRL Respect" provided an interactive learning experience that educated our students on the values that make a successful team, group or community. They focused on belonging to, and participating in, your community and respecting, valuing and celebrating differences. The session looked at how these messages worked in the NRL, in a rugby league team and in life in general. No matter what team the children supported, they were all firmly focused on the Titans players. A very positive session with an excellent message!