1. Kindergarten 2016 Parent Workshop#2
Role of the EAL/D teacher, the School Counsellor and a typical day in Kindergarten

2. Role of EAL/D Teacher
At Sherwood Ridge we have the expertise of a specialist teacher to support our English as an Additional Language/Dialect students. Their role is to:
to identify EAL/D students
to assess their language competence
to determine the modes of delivery of the EAL/D programs
to plan and teach the EAL/D programs to meet the needs of the EAL/D students
to assess, monitor and report on the students in the EAL/D programs
to provide professional support to teachers

3. Ho help your child Starting School
use home language with your child if you are not confident in English
Complete the same activities as English speaking students
use both languages to explain concepts

4. Role of the School Counsellor
Complete assessment for students that may be finding learning or class work difficult, or who may be finding it difficult to control their behaviours or emotions
Provide recommendations to parents and/or teachers based on these assessments
Can provide families with details of local services, programs or specialists if requested
At times will assist students with counselling support for school based issues
Assist in reviewing the support needs of students with a disability in mainstream or Support Classes

5. Referrals
If your child is having difficulty adjusting to school the class teacher may talk to you about a “Referral” to the LEARNING AND SUPPORT TEAM. This team is comprised of the Principal, Deputy Principals, Teachers, Support Teachers and the Counsellor.
Together this group looks at the issues your child may be facing and considers solutions to assist your child, with the possibility of a counsellor referral if warranted.
Your signed permission will always be required for the School Counsellor to work with your child, for counselling or assessment.
Please discuss any concerns about your child with their classroom teacher as a first step.
Your input is always welcomed and highly valued, and you will be kept in the loop at all times.

6. Remember
Every child will settle into school at different rates, and will have good days and bad days – that is OK
Every child has strengths and weaknesses. As well as practising the things they find challenging, make sure you encourage them to do the things they’re good at and enjoy. Praise their EFFORTS
Where possible, give them opportunities to develop and practise their social skills and friendships – family games, sporting teams and community groups are a great tool for laughter, fun and physical activity!
Make time to really talk to and engage in conversation with your child each day - share in their excitements, sadness, fears and pride

7. A Typical Day in Kindergarten
English
Phonics
Sight Words
Reading
Writing
Talking & Listening
Mathematics
Hands on learning – practical activities
PDHPE
Creative Arts
Music
Drama
Dance
Visual Arts
Developmental Play
HSIE/History
Science

8. Other School Activities
Library
Sport
Assemblies
Excursions
Incursions
Scripture
Volunteering
Fundraisers

9. Preparation for School
This Year
Ensure immunisations are up to date.
If your child has an allergy or medical condition inform the school.
Fill in an application for a bus pass if applicable. Contact
Organise out of school hours care if applicable.
Practice walking or travelling to school.

10. Preparation for School
Some things you might need to buy
School uniform
Hat
School shoes, socks and sports shoes
Backpack
Lunch box
Drink bottle
Raincoat
Paint shirt
Library bag

11. Preparation for School
Next Year
Getting organised at home
Write your child’s name on everything.
Make sure you have the school phone number.
Ensure children are used to using public toilets.
Read stories to your child about school

12. Preparation for School
The night before the first day
Lay out your child’s clothes, shoes and socks.
Make your child’s recess and lunch and pop it into the fridge.
Help your child to pack their school bag.
Pack a spare pair of underpants, socks and a change of clothes in a plastic bag. Let your child know these are in their backpack in case they have any toilet accidents at school.

13. Preparation for School
The first day
Be confident about the first day with your child.
Let your child dress themselves as much as possible.
Tie back long hair or plait hair.
Apply sunscreen and ensure that they have their school hat.
Take photos!