News

Welcome to our new deputy principals

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 11:22:05 AEDT

We are delighted to welcome our two new deputy principals.

Mrs Lisa Miller (pictured left) will be responsible for Kindergarten to year 2, and Mrs Danielle Farrow will look after years 3 to 6.

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 19:11:19 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 13:40:35 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 17:10:18 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.

Schools Spectacular

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 11:42:18 AEDT

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:25:01 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.

Boys softball team State champions!

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 13:27:26 AEDT

The year 2019 will certainly be remembered at Harbord as a year of success on the sporting field with two state championship trophies sitting proudly in the cabinet.

On Monday 4^th November our boys touch team competed at the NSW PSSA State Finals Day held at Parramatta. Leading up to this day the boys had round victories against Avalon (6-1), Mona Vale (2-1), Cherrybrook (4-3), Umina (5-1) and Wamberal (6-5) to finish Sydney North Champions.

To the boys' credit they played two of these games without Chayse (their captain and NSW representative), proving that they were a team to be reckoned with.

On finals day the boys’ hunger for victory continued. The boys had a convincing 5 – 2 quarter finals win against Tweed Heads. They then had a battle on their hands against Old Bar in the semi final and were proof that good things come in small packages. A 6-3 win giving them a finals berth where the best of the west played the stars of the north. The Harbord team took an early lead and finished their touch journey with a 4-2 win against Samuel Gilbert P.S crwoning them NSW State Champions 2019.

Whilst being triumphant, the boys also displayed outstanding sportsmanship having photos taken with the Samuel Gilbert team and before their presentation the Harbord boys found time to form a run on tunnel for the Newport girls who then went on to win the girls’ final. A double header for Sydney North.

Congratulations to a champion team (Mitchell, Freddie, Max E, Chayse ©, Carter, Mason, Rico, Sifa, Beau, Eddie, Max T and Cooper) and their champion families who were a great support along the way.

As their coach the boys did me proud both on and off the field.

Mrs Hanlon

Intermediate band entertains local kindy

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 11:16:29 AEDT

On Wednesday 30th October I was fortunate to have accompanied Mrs Rose-Castle and the intermediate band on a visit to Harbord Kindy.

The children performed a few of their pieces to the audience of students and teachers. The smiles on the faces and the movement in their bodies was wonderful to see. It was a thoroughly enjoyable morning.

Thank you to the parents who supported the band in ferrying musical equipment to the kindy, and thank you to Mrs Rose-Castle for providing these opportunities for our students.

Mrs Hall
Assistant Principal (relieving )

KR shares fairly!

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 11:53:46 AEDT

It is always nice to share things with our friends - especially yummy cake!

KR are learning to share the cake equally between friends and make equal groups. For example, if we have 6 pieces of cake and 3 friends, they get 2 pieces cach.

Band news

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 11:38:47 AEDT

We ended October with three big events!

On Sunday 27^th Jazz Band members attended the Combined Schools Jazz Workshop at Wheeler Heights where they were mentored by local jazz legends John Morrison, James Greening and Geoff Power. Other school jazz bands attending were from Wheeler Heights, Mona Vale and Collaroy Plateau Public Schools. The day culminated in a huge combined performance.

The Jazz band played brilliantly at Warringah Mall a couple of days later in the 2019 Schools Showcase which is run by Mall Music. The band received a $250 Mal Music voucher which will be useful.

The intermediate Band ventured down to Harbord kindergarten to play a baby proms-style concert for the preschool children. Many thanks to the parents who volunteered to help with all the band equipment.

Softball stars

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 14:11:04 AEDT

During the last week of term 2, the State Carnival for Girls Softball was held over three days. The team was undefeated across the three long days of play and finished as champions!

Congratulations to Talea who was selected to represent NSW in the Nationals to be held later this term.

Way to go, Harbord! Girls soccer State Champions!

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 10:13:25 AEDT

The Senior Girls soccer team has had an amazing PSSA season. After finishing the season undefeated, the girls easily defeated Curl Curl 3-0 in the semi-final. They then moved onto the grand final against a very strong Beacon Hill Team and were victorious 3-0. Throughout the season, the girls scored 48 goals in total and only conceded 1 goal.

The Senior Girls Soccer team has also been involved in the state wide soccer knockout competition.

The girls results are as follows:

Def Avalon 3-0

Def Artamon 1-0

Def Mount Colah 7-0

Def Umina 3-0

Def Avoca Beach 3-0

Def Caves Beach 2-0

Def South Grafton 3-0 (State Semi Final)

Def Shell Cove 2-1 (State Final)

On Monday 21st October the girls travelled Valentine Sports Park to compete in the NSW State Finals for girls soccer. Their semi-final was against South Grafton and they comfortably defeated them 3-0 in very warm conditions. The state final was against Shell Cove Public School. The girls went into half time with a commanding 2-0 lead. The second half was an even contest until late in the gamewhen one of their very skillful NSW representative players kicked an excellent goal. Our girls were under attack for the final few minutes of the game, but they defended well to come out with a 2-1 victory.

With over 500 NSW public school teams participating in this knockout competition, this is a fantastic achievement. I can honestly say that it's been one of the most pleasurable years of coaching I've had and that I'm really proud of how the girls played and competed each week. Each player contributed to the team, they all played well together and we had a lot of fun along the way.

You girls should all be proud of yourselves and I would like to personally thank Lily, Sophie, Lucinda, Maisie, Amelie, Cecilia, Keely, Niamh, Elouise, Cienna, Georgina, Annika, Hannah and Ellie for an extremely enjoyable year.

I would also like to particularly thank the parents who helped with driving all over NSW this year. The girls would not be able to enter knockout competitions like this without your support.

Mr Addicott

Regional athletics carnival

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 15:04:53 AEDT

What a great day for Harbord at the Regional Athletics Carnival!

Our senior boys relay team (pictured) came third and are off to the State competition, while our senior girls relay team came fourth. Freddy (year 6) came 1st in shotput, 2nd in discus, and Lucinda (year 6) came 1st in 100m and 1st in 200m too!

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 19:07:20 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

KB paint van Goghs

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 15:10:28 AEST

Our principal, Mrs Tickle, had a surprise visit from Mrs Berry's KB class who came to show her the beautiful starry night van Gogh paintings they had just completed.

While painting, they had learned about wind and stars, as well as perspective which is why the tree looks so much bigger than the houses.

KR fights pollution

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 14:48:03 AEST

Taking care of our special places has been discussed this term during HSIE lessons.

Littering is a concern as we know that it may end up in our waterways and the ocean. KR designed posters to remind everyone to put their rubbish in the bin as it pollutes the water and injures our sealife.

Town Hall choir

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 14:07:57 AEST

Congratulations to our Town Hall Choir students (Year 3 and 4) who performed at the Primary Proms Choral Festival at Sydney Town Hall.

They sang alongside 400 students from NSW Public Schools - performing a challenging repertoire of 11 songs in unison and two-part harmony. Miss Dalgleish was very proud of our students who braved the pouring rain and made the most of the opportunity to perform in such a prestigious concert. Well done boys and girls, your efforts this year have been outstanding!

Congratulations to Jemima (Year 4) and Kate (Year 6) who performed beautifully at the same concert as members of the NSW Junior Singers.

Have your say on before and after school care

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 13:40:11 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.

NSW Touch and Rugby rep. player

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 11:32:16 AEST

Few get to wear the ‘two blues’ colours and represent their state, but for Chayse (6L) this dream has come true.

Chayse represented Sydney North in back-to-back weeks, firstly at NSW Touch championship held at St Mary’s and then the NSW Rugby Union championships held at Hawkesbury. The Sydney North Rugby team won gold, defeating CIS 33 – 0 in the final and the Sydney North team were joint state champions. Chayse’s state selections will now see him go on to compete at the Australian championships for both sports. A champion effort Chayse!

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:26:30 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.

Parliament House Bear Pit public speaking competition

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 13:07:51 AEST

Congratulations to Kingston (5D) and Jaslyn (4J) who represented Harbord PS in the Parliament House Bear Pit competition in a strong field of stage 2 and 3 finalists from both public and catholic schools.

Kingston's topic was “ What it means to be brave” and Jaslyn's was “ If I had three wishes”. Kingston was awarded runner up, which was an incredible result. Congratulations to both our students!

Masterclass for Concert Band

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 14:17:25 AEST

The Concert Band was privileged to have a master class with Prof Rob McWilliams, an internationally renowned mucician, educator, conductor, composer/arranger and adjudicator.

The students were really responsive to his key points:

"Listen louder than you play"
Posture - straight back, feet flat, sit forward on the chair
"Forte" means "Strong" not just "Loud"!
Style and expression - not just playing the right notes.

Festival of Choral Music

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 09:31:57 AEST

Congratulations to our Festival Choir students (Year 5 and 6) who performed at the Festival of Choral Music at Sydney Opera House last week.

They sang alongside 700 students from NSW Public Schools performing a challenging repertoire of eleven songs in two-part harmony. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to see the songs come to life in such an iconic venue and accompanied by a live orchestra and stage band. Well done boys and girls, you have done an outstanding job and we are very proud of you!

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:47:58 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.

Jersey day

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 10:04:58 AEST

Harbord staff got into the spirit of Jersey Day wearing their favourite jerseys to promote awareness of The Organ and Tissue Authority and the DONATE LIFE network and in support of one of our colleagues.

Jersey Day was inspired by the story of Natahn Gremmo who was tragically lost in an accident in May 2015. Nathan’s family chose to give the gift of life to others to honour the legacy of Nathan’s generous personality.

Make sure you're on the Organ Donation Register!

Ready for the zoo

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 09:51:09 AEST

Our kindergarten are very excited about their upcoming excursion to the zoo.

Recently Mrs Naylor's class made a beautiful and very scary multi-coloured snake which they came to show to Mrs Tickle, and Mrs Robinson's class turned into a herd of elephants!

Arts Alive Opera House Choir

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 11:17:01 AEST

Congratulations to our Year 5 students who recently performed at the Arts Alive Choral Festival at Sydney Opera House.

These dedicated students have been working tirelessly since the beginning of the year to learn ten songs in two-part harmony. They performed to a sold-out Concert Hall with a live orchestra alongside 700 students from NSW Public Schools. Well done boys and girls - you have done yourselves and Harbord PS very proud!

Choir achievements

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 13:23:34 AEST

Congratulations to the following choir students on their recent achievements:

The beautiful 'Australiana'-themed artwork above was created by Isabella (year 5) who won the Arts Alive Program Design Competition from hundreds of entries across NSW public schools. Isabella's painting will feature on the cover of the program for the Arts Alive Choral Festival at Sydney Opera House in August. Well done!

Lucca (year 5) and Georgina, Rhianna and Poppy (year 6) are talented vocalists who attended the NSW Junior State Music Camp from 21-26 July at Sydney Academy of Sport. This prestigious camp provided students with expert tutelage and the opportunity to rehearse and perform high quality repertoire culminating in a concert on the final night for families and friends. Well done students on your outstanding commitment!

Fionn (year 4) did an outstanding job as one of the comperes at Pulse (a NSW Public Schools Creative Arts concert at Sydney Opera House) on 4 July. Fionn was selected from applicants all across NSW and proudly represented Harbord PS with confidence and great personality. Well done!

Welcome to our new Principal, Mrs Tickle

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 10:11:16 AEST

We are delighted to welcome our new Principal, Mrs Susan Tickle.

Mrs Tickle was most recently Principal of Narrabeen Lakes Public School and has spent many years teaching on the Northern Beaches and overseas as well as working as Principal Education officer, Futures Learning in State Office.

She writes: " I am very excited to be here and am looking forward to getting to know the ‘Harbord Way’. I already know how lucky I am to have such an enthusiastic team of teachers and staff. I hope that my varied experiences and expertise, as well as my Master's Degree in Gifted Education and Educational Leadership, will assist to further the great educational path of students and staff at Harbord."

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:13:28 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

Curl curl beaches clean up

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 12:24:05 AEST

A big thank you to Luka in year 6 and our team of Eco Warriors. AŌer studying sustainability at school and developing a concern for our local environment this team of students iniƟated a weekend clean up at Curl Curl Beach. Many community members including students, parents and staff turned up armed with a ‘save our world’ spirit and a pair of gloves. Together they collected waste that had been leŌ to damage our marine environment. CongratulaƟons to all involved for making a difference.

Boys vocal program

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 11:51:59 AEST

Congratulations to Billy (6H), George (6) and Kai (6) who were selected and participated in the Boys Vocal program held by The Arts Unit at Trackdown Studios earlier this term.

There were 100 students from 27 schools including 5 regional schools. The rehearsals and recording took place over 3 days. There was a presentation from movie producer, Jomon Thomas (Hotel Mumbai, The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015) and Damascus Cover (2018)) as well as sing a longs and some time in the engineers box during the recording. The boys also performed at the Entertainment Quarter markets and parents were invited to along and see for themselves the wonderful harmony singing that took place during the program.

As part of a group the boys have recorded a song and the final track is now with the videographer. I have had a listen to the mastered version of the song and it sounds great! The final track is now with the videographer who should have our clip finished early next term.

NAIDOC week

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 14:03:21 AEST

“Let’s Work Together for a Shared Truth”

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC is celebrated not only in Indigenous communities, but by Australians from all walks of life.

The Indigenous voice of this country is over 65,000 plus years old. Theirs were the first words spoken on this contnent. Their languages passed down lore, culture, knowledge, practices, skills and innovations over thousands of years. They are precious to our nation.

As 2019 is the United Nations International Year of Indigenous Languages, the Naidoc Week theme this year is particularly significant.

For generations, Aboriginal people have sought recognition of their unique place in Australian history and society and have looked for significant and lasting change, to be the architects of their lives and futures. Voice. Treaty. Truth. are the three key elements to creating this change.

With NAIDOC Week falling in the school holidays, why not take a look at some of the local (and free) actvities on the Northern Beaches which celebrate this event including the unveiling of the Weaving Bridges artwork project that our Year 2 students participated in this year (Tuesday 9th July 10:30 at Queenscliff Surf Club)

https://gai‐mariagal‐festival.com.au/

Next time you visit our school hall, look out for the two new flags, those of the Aboriginal and the Torres Strait Islander people which are now on display for our school assemblies. We draw attention to them when we pay our respects to the Gai‐Mariagal people. (See picture on the next page)

Next term our students will attend a performance by Paul Choolburra. Paul has previously performed across the world with the Bangarra Dance Company. His performance will include traditional dance, didgeridoo, story, knowledge and humour and students will be encouraged to dance, sing and participate. We look forward to Paul visiting Harbord.

Banner assembly - semester 1

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 11:54:27 AEST

We're a big school with a big heart and students who try their very hardest to show Respect, Responsibility and do their Personal Best.

It's not easy to be awarded a banner but all these students achieved this at our end of semester assembly. They had to be awarded 5 class or merit awards to get a gold award, and 5 gold awards to be awarded a banner.

Pictured above are the primary recipients and below are the infants banner winners.

Cross country champion

Thu, 04 Jul 2019 12:29:52 AEST

Well done to Adelaide (5S) who is the Sydney North 11 years girls cross country champion. We're very proud of you, Adelaide!

Ahead of the pack, Adelaide (5S) was named 11 years Sydney North Cross Country Champion. The Sydney North PSSA comprises of approximately 180 schools and 4800 students. To achieve the award of age champion is an outstanding performance. Adelaide will now compete at the NSW Cross Country Championships to be held at Eastern Creek on July 26th.

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:42:36 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.

Sydney North Eisteddfod winner

Fri, 31 May 2019 13:52:19 AEST

Congratulations to Jaslyn (year 4) who recently won the 10 years solo section in the Sydney Eisteddfod, against 34 other competitors!

Biggest morning tea

Fri, 31 May 2019 13:38:12 AEST

Harbord staff celebrated the Cancer Council's Biggest Morning Tea in style, wearing white shirts and enjoying a huge and delicious morning tea organised by Ms Jensen. Thanks, too to Mrs Montgomery for organising the raffle. We raised $1583.20!

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 12:27:28 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.

Stewart House Presentation Ceremony

Thu, 30 May 2019 10:26:43 AEST

Students from Harbord visited Stewart House to assist with their Annual Presentation Ceremony. Year 6 students, who were accompanied by Mr Sly, acted as tour guides for important guests showing them the facilities at Stewart House.

The Festival Choir, led by Miss Dalgleish performed ‘An Empire’s Message’ - a tribute to the Anzacs as part of the presentation ceremony.

The students are to be commended for their fine representation of Harbord PS.

Year 3 STEM excursion

Thu, 30 May 2019 09:17:27 AEST

Year 3 went on a walking excursion to Freshwater Beach as part of their STEM unit. The social innovation project asks, “How might we minimise our impact on marine life in our local area?”

To identify the state of the problem, students collected rubbish found on the beach and discussed their findings. Overall, plastics were found to be the most common form of litter found on our beach.

Over the next few weeks year 3 students will conduct further research on the impact of this rubbish, design possible solutions and create prototypes.

Year 5 camp

Wed, 29 May 2019 12:08:26 AEST

At the end of Term 1 year 5 enjoyed three days away at the Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Centre.

The teachers and the children loved getting a chance to participate in activities that they might not have had the opportunity to experience in the past. We felt the highs and lows of the giants swing, chased each other on paddleboards, caught some air during sailing and tested our problem solving skills in raft building. All of the participants thoroughly enjoyed their time at camp. It was a fantastic way to gear up for a well-deserved two week holiday!

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:23:34 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

State swimming champ

Wed, 29 May 2019 11:58:30 AEST

Congratulations to Jaslyn for her outstanding results at the state swimming championships.

Jaslyn placed first in 10 years 50m freestyle, 50m butterfly and all age relay and second in the 200m individual medley. She will now compete at the School Sport Australian 12 years and under Swimming Championships held at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre on the 31^st July. An achievement to be proud of!

Netball Rep. player

Thu, 09 May 2019 14:08:57 AEST

Congratulations to Ashton (6N) who has been selected from more than 80 girls to play in the Sydney North netball team.

Ashton plays at centre/wing attack and says she loves netball because "it's fun and you get to play with your friends". All the best, Ashton, for the big competition in Orange next term!

Junior band workshop

Wed, 08 May 2019 14:31:36 AEST

Around 80 keen junior band members came to school on Sunday to participate in the annual junior band workshop.

The day is a combination of full band rehearsals with 13 professional musicians/tutors sitting in, and small group tutorials. The students enjoyed morning tea and the day culminated with a performance who were suitably impressed with the amazing standard of Tyrannosaurus Rocks, Bugler’s Dream, Turbo Rock and Power Rock – they really rocked it!

Matific Maths Champion trophy winner

Wed, 08 May 2019 14:24:08 AEST

The Matific Maths Champion Trophy acknowledges and celebrates the winning K-2 Matific class. The trophy is presented to the winning class at the morning assembly. Congratulations KI on being the first class to receive the Matific trophy.

Garden Gurus working bee

Fri, 03 May 2019 15:06:20 AEST

Thank you everyone! What a busy time!

We mulched around the year 1 compost bins; we weeded and removed straggly weeds and grass from the pathway; we dug up our super-duper rich compost from the kitchen garden site and enriched the year 1 garden beds with it; we transferred extra parsley plants from the year 1 garden beds into the kitchen garden beds for our canteen; and we used our brand new, children size garden tools.

Now it's time for Garden Gurus to start again for term 2. Sign up at the school office, then meet us on Thursday lunchtimes outside the canteen and come along for lots of fun!

KI sings to our Principal

Fri, 03 May 2019 14:29:06 AEST

Five children from Mrs Iacovitti's KI class popped in to surprise Mrs McKenzie with their Jumping Jim song. They've been learning about the letter J and could tell Mrs McKenzie all sorts of words which started with the letter.

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:14:31 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 15:26:49 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.

Kindergarten and their year 6 buddies

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 08:11:12 AEST

The year 6 students learn so much about leadership and supporting their younger peers and the Kindergarten students learn about modelling the correct behaviours and listening and learning from older students. Both grades regularly meet and recently they were engaged in activities such as the hop scotch word game and the geography unit of locating places.

Year 3 science

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 11:13:11 AEDT

Recently all year 3 classes participated in a very exciting and engaging science workshop. Mitch from Kaleidoscope came to teach us about solids, liquids, gases and plasma. We did a variety of interesting experiments involving dry ice (pictured!), liquid nitrogen, gallium and plasma.

Year 3 learned about states of matter, sublimation, conductors/insulators, pressure, expansion/contraction and lightning. It was so much fun learning through hands-on experiments and activities.

Swimming age champions

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 10:10:47 AEDT

Not only did Harbord finish in first place at the Manly/Pittwater District Swimming Carnival - we had three age champions! Congratulations to Fionn and Jaslyn (both year 4) and Kai (year 6) who were presented with their trophies by Mrs Hanlon. Jaslyn was also presented with a medal as age champion in the Regional competition. We are very proud of you all!

Harbord canteen the healthiest in the state!

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 10:21:44 AEDT

It's official! According to the Dept of Health Menu Check Service, we have the healthiest canteen of all public and Catholic schools in the state! Read the criteria on the Healthy School Canteens website.

It's been a huge amount of work for our canteen manager, Jan Baldwin, and a real credit to all the staff and wonderful volunteer parents who work with her every day.

SRC induction

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 10:01:26 AEDT

Each class from years 3 to 6 elected a classmate to represent them on the Student Representative Council. In the picture they are reading their pledges at the SRC Induction Ceremony.

The children will organise events to raise funds for selected charities or organisations, provide information and promote school based events and be a voice in making suggesitons to make harbord a happy place to work and play. Most importantly, they will keep their classmates informed aobut things that are happening in the school.

Captains, seniors and house captains induction ceremony

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 14:16:57 AEDT

Congratulations to our elected student leaders for 2019. They received their badges in a special assembly and pledged to carry out all duties given to them to the best of their ability, to uphold the rules and traditions of Harbord Public School and to set an example for other pupils in their work, behvaiour and effort.

The house captains started their duties the day before, colourfully dressed, when they led their respective houses at our annual swimming carnival.

5 road safety tips for parents and carers

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:41:41 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.

Choir

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 13:17:16 AEDT

Congratulations to Jemima (year 4) and Kate (year 6) who have successfully auditioned for the NSW Public Schools Junior Singers, and Jack (year 5) and Jasmin (year 5) who have succeeded in gaining a place in the Arts Alive Combined Schools Choir.

Your selection in these prestigious choirs is an outstanding achievement and reflects your hard work and commitment to your singing. We are very proud of you! Participation in these choirs provides students with incredible performance opportunities including the Sydney Opera House, Town Hall and the Schools Spectacular.

Kindergarten get down to work

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 11:27:32 AEDT

Right at the beginning of the term Mrs Naylor's kindy class learned how to apply glue correctly to glue their work into their books. They also learned how to write the numeral "1" from top to bottom. Well done, kindergarten - you're off to a flying start!

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:06:03 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

Kindy graduation

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 14:27:10 AEDT

Kindergarten students celebrated finishing their first year at school in front of their proud parents at the kindergarten graduation ceremony. Here they are singing that they're off to "First Class, First Class" to the tune of New York, New York. They brought the house down!

Country experience day

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 14:03:40 AEDT

Four school leaders from Year 6 attended an "On Country Experience day" at West Head along with 4 other school representatives from the NBLA schools.

Clarence Bruisma, an Aboriginal Education Officer, led the group and a teacher representative from each schools joined the students.

Charlie, Poppy, Adam, and Angus thoroughly enjoyed the experience. A follow up work shop with Mrs Hall and Mrs Telfer on writing a school Acknowledgement to Country, allowed the children time to reflect and have their ideas written down as their own personal Acknowledgement.

The key messages taken from the day were

What is country?
Why was it so important to the Aboriginal peoples.
How we need to continue to look after country as it is everybody's business.
We need to give back- not overusing resources, key sustainability message
Respecting, learning from the past.

State girls softball champions - again!

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 14:48:15 AEDT

For the fourth year in a row, Harbord PS has won the PSSA State Girls Softball championships! It's also the first time this has happened in the competitions's 42 year history.

We played Lake Albert at Wagga Wagga in the semi-finals, defeating them 6-2, and won the finals against Halliday's Point 13-6.

Congratulations girls, and your fantastic coach Mrs McKenzie - we are very proud of you!

Wreath making in 2H

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 14:13:57 AEDT

Every year since Mrs Hall started teaching at Harbord nine years ago, her class have had a delightful tradition of making magnificent Christmas wreaths. Families tell us that they still have their wreaths from many years ago!

KR's Christmas creations

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 12:21:00 AEDT

KR were caught on their way to their buddy class (5H) to show them their elves and to ask their buddies to help them put on tinsel pipe cleaners as the tinsel on the tree. They love going down to their room in new building and were very proud of the elves.

Freshwater Village Public Art Project

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 14:43:40 AEDT

Recently, the Friends of Freshwater completed the second stage of the Village Public Art Project with a mural on the southern wall of the Village Plaza. This project came as a result of a Community Development Grant from Northern Beaches Council. The first stage was to recognise the First Peoples of Freshwater and a prominent indigenous artist undertook the task.

For the second stage, a Brookvale collective of artists was commissioned to paint a mural. It has local historical and environmental themes and is designed to uplift a rather drab area of the plaza. One of our year 4 students, Annika, created an excellent piece of art which the artists were able to incorporate elements into the finished mural. Annika was even able to sign her part of the artwork.

National Athletics Championships success

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 12:56:37 AEDT

Congratulations to Freddie (year 5), who represented NSW PSSA at the 4 day National Athletics Championships in Melbourne recently.

Freddie came 7th in the Combined Event (100m, long jump, shot put and 800m) including achieving a personal best in the 800m, and was the highest placed NSW athlete. He also finished in 10th place in the discus.

Freddie also took part in the Teams Challenge (see picture) where his team finished first of the 13 NSW teams.

He is aiming to be selected for the NSW team that will compete in Darwin in 2019. All thebest, Freddie - we are so proud of you!

State beach volleyball school cup

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 11:40:40 AEDT

Asher (5A), Curtis (6Y) and Adam (6Y) recently competed at the SVNSW Beach Volleyball School Cup at Manly Beach and won silver medal against the high school teams!

There were 17 teams in their division, and the Harbord boys managed to win their pool of 4 teams and then played against The Scoots Collage team in their semi-final. With their fighting, consistency and Harbord spirit they claimed a spot for the gold medal match. The day started at 7:30am and the final was at 2:45pm. They played a full game and fought to the last point against Baulkham Hills High School Boys and claimed silver medal at the end of the day.

Asher and Adam have recently selected to the NSW beach volleyball squad and training for the AJBVC (Australian Junior Beach Volleyball Championships) which will be in April 2019 in WA.

Kindergarten 2019 orientation

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 14:43:53 AEDT

We had two fantastic days with our new Kinder intake visiting Harbord in the last few weeks. Our teachers noted how settled, keen and prepared the students were, a reflection on the local pre-school programs.

We are still in the process of finalising numbers for the Kindergarten 2019 classes with new residents in the area and others from overseas still completing their applications. Parents of children who will be placed in classes different to the colour class they attended for Orientation will be notified by early December so they can book the Best Start Assessment interview time with the appropriate teacher.

It always takes a great deal of organisation for our Orientation Days: thank you to the teachers who ‘minded’ our current Kinders on these mornings, our school leaders who led the tour groups, our sound booth helpers and Mrs Kylie Johnson in the office who looks after all the paperwork!

State Drama Festival

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 14:47:20 AEDT

On Thursday 25th October an amazing bunch of kids proudly represented HPS at the State Drama Festival. They were chosen from a large number of schools that performed at the District Drama Festival. Mrs Walton said all members of the group were outstanding and that it has been an absolute pleasure watching them on the stage.

On Thursday 25th October an amazing bunch of kids proudly represented HPS at the State Drama Festival. They were chosen from a large number of schools that performed at the District Drama Festival. Mrs Walton said all members of the group were outstanding and it has been an absolute pleasure watching them on the stage.

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:27:42 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.

SRC Barnardos appeal

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 13:49:01 AEDT

Last term the focus of the SRC for term 3 was "kindness", and this term we have been committed to the topic of "empathy".

Over the course of a month, the SRC have worked tirelessly to educate their peers about the importance of helping those in need and who are less fortunate than we are. This has been mainly done through reviewing the amazing work done by the Barnardos charity and what we could do to assist this charity. So, since the start of this term we have been running a Christmas gift appeal collecting toys for children who are in Barnardos care. This appeal has been incredibly successful and we have received so many generous donations from Harbord families.

The SRC would like to kindly thank all those who have already participated for their generosity and for the empathy they have displayed by helping others!

Students vs teachers netball

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:45:21 AEDT

The annual Staff vs Students netball match is always a highlight of the year. The staff team was very strong but our PSSA netball girls put on a spectacular show which was enjoyed by all the spectators.

Concert band workshop with Prof Rob McWilliams

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:45:15 AEDT

Recently the Concert Band children and Mrs Rose-Castle were lucky to have a band session with Dr Rob McWilliams from Brisbane.

Dr Rob focused on a variety of warm-up techniques, balance, intonation and ways the children could ‘listen to each other' better to improve the ensemble sound. We thank Yamaha Australia for allowing us this free workshop with such an incredible band clinician and hope Rob can visit our bands again in the future.

Rob McWilliams is the Yamaha Education Outreach Clinician and currently lives in Brisbane. Rob is an internationally accomplished musician, conductor, and educator who was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. He has studied and worked extensively in Australia and overseas. He holds a Ph. D. in Music from the University of Minnesota, a Master's degree in Instrumental Conducting from Florida State University, and a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Melbourne. He has conducted and presented at major music conferences in Japan, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Europe. Until 2016 Rob was Associate Professor of Music and Director of Bands and Instrumental Music Education at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.

Young writers awards winners

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 11:51:15 AEDT

Congratulations to the winners of our annual Young Writers awards!

Pictured above are Ruby (year 5 winner), Toby (year 4), Jaslyn (year 3), Indie (year 6),and left Eva (kindergarten) and Marcus (year 2). Not pictured is our year 1 winner, Matilda.

The standard of entry to the competition was very high. Enjoy reading some of their entries in our newsletter

Young speakers competition winner

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:55:16 AEDT

Lots of children try but there's always only one winner.

Positive behaviour for learning in action at Harbord

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:55:18 AEDT

Fun at Harbord!

Cultural concert

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:55:16 AEDT

Article description

Positive behaviour for learning

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 13:55:18 AEDT

Sea Eagles name x name y name z visited Harbord PS

ANZAC Day Assembly

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 20:58:11 AEST

We were honoured that over a dozen representatives from the NSW National Servicemen's Association attended our ANZAC Day assembly.

Students were told about the involvement of Aboriginal servicemen in the Great War and the story of Billy Suggate, a former student of our own school who enlisted. The winners of the ANZAC day competition were announced and Nara, Hartley and Bella were awarded book vouchers form Berkelow Books.

Wreaths were laid in front of our Great War Honour Board, the choir was conducted by Miss Dalgliesh and sang a moving tribute, Always Remember. and the Brass Ensemble played The Last Post and Reveille.

State Swimming Championships

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 20:58:24 AEST

Harbord was well represented at the recent CHS swimming carnival.

Tilda, Joslyn, Alex and Kai swam in individual events, while Alex, Kai, Liam and Cory represented us in the senior freestyle relay.

Agnes came 6th in the diving. She only started diving this term after years of gymnastics for Manly Warringah and her team proudly won the state titles last year. Aggie is very proud of her school and peers and to represent Harbord public school and Sydney North it a big honour for her.

Congratulations to all our competitors!

Easter bunnies

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 20:58:16 AEST

Some very cute bunnies from KB with their teacher Ms Berry hopped past the office on their way to give Easter cards they had made for their year 6 buddies.

Chess club

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 20:58:14 AEST

We have been stunned at the interest in chess at our school!

When we started there were about 100 students wanting to sign up, but due to space constraints we have only been able to accept half of them. The club is run by Mr Kelly on Thursday lunchtimes in the old library and children play social games, ably assisted by eleven year 6 helpers. Students who were not fortunate enough to get a space should try again next term.