News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 18:58:37 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 13:13:19 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 16:28:17 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 16:53:46 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 14:20:52 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 13:35:39 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 11:22:14 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 11:41:21 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 14:04:51 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 11:36:30 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 12:22:49 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 15:11:00 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 15:08:57 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 14:41:47 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 13:18:11 AEDT

Now that students are back to school after a break it’s a good time to chat with your child about safe behaviours when you walk or commute to school.

Here are our top tips to help our students make a safe trip:

1. Be alert and aware

Take note of the dangers you come across on your walk and bring them to your child’s attention. Point out dangers, such as vehicles coming out of driveways. Talk to your child about being alert in a road environment.

2. Hold hands

When on the footpath, at a crossing or in a car park always hold your child's hand. It is advised to do this up to the age of at least 8 years old and closely supervise until at least the age of 10.

3. Choose a safe crossing

Lead by example and choose a safe place to cross the road. Explain why it is the safest place to cross.

4. Set a good example

Your child watches everything you do, so if you cross at the crossing they will too. It is also important to share these messages with other carers who may walk with your child to school.

5. Stop, Look, Listen, Think every time you cross the road

Discuss this important road safety message. STOP! one step back from the kerb. LOOK! continuously both ways. LISTEN! for the sounds of approaching traffic. THINK! whether it is safe to cross.

Practise makes perfect

The more supervised practice your child can get the better, so why not make Term 1 the start of a new routine to walk with your child to school more often.

Older children may be ready to make the journey to school independently. Before they take this step, observe if they are road safe and reinforce the road safety messages.

For more information, check out the department’s pedestrian safety advice for students, parents and carers.

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 14:57:00 AEDT

The first day of Kindergarten and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you make the most of this time and enjoy the experience, we’ve compiled some useful tips and checklists. We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

Our film #FirstDay2019 captures the excitement – and the nerves – of the rite of passage that is the first day of Kindergarten.

Video – Back to School 2019: First Day at Kindy

Duration – 1:00

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 16:23:14 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.

Premier highlights the value of public education

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:30:30 AEST

Public education can be the springboard to the top job in New South Wales.

That was the message from the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, as she launched Education Week celebrations today at Parramatta and Kiama public schools.

"I know that all schools across the state today are highlighting and celebrating what we all value in public education – where someone like me who couldn't speak a word of English when she started school has somehow ended up being the Premier of NSW," she said.

Ms Berejiklian said she had met many possible future leaders during her visit to Parramatta Public School and "couldn't be prouder, as your Premier, to witness the outstanding achievements of all the students across the state".

The dual school launch, linked via a live simulcast, focused on the theme of Education Week, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, which highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the launch was hosted entirely by primary school students and featured student performances from Eastwood Public School violinist Justine Zhang, Bossley Park High School soloist Ezra Loau and dancers from Hoxton Park Public School.

Year 8 students from Kiama High School – Alira Morgan, Jannali Morgan and Olivia Talbott – opened the celebration with an Acknowledgement of Country performed in language.

Keynote speeches were delivered from Kiama by Terara Public School Year 6 student Lucy Boundy, Molly Chapman, a Year 8 student at Dapto High School, and Nowra East Public School instructional leader Vishanti Govender.

Lucy told the launch that education was about opportunity: "Opportunity to learn, opportunity to improve and opportunity to make a difference."

In detailing her early struggles with learning, Molly said a more hands-on approach to study at her high school had a huge impact on her.

"I learn more effectively by seeing and doing things because it gets in my head more easily and pictures are worth a thousand words. Thanks to school, I'm exceeding in almost everything I touch," she said.

Education Minister Rob Stokes highlighted the "incredible legacy" of public schools on society, a role contemporary education and educators would play in the future.

"We are in a period of vast technological, social and economic change, and with that the role of education becomes more important, even bigger, and the challenge for teachers and students becomes more complex," he said.

"We need to provide training in those skills that recognise the future is uncertain and to train and encourage young people not just to be ready for the change that is coming but to be excited by it."

Education Week 2018 - Today's schools creating tomorrow's world

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:57:36 AEST

The future of education will be showcased in NSW public schools from August 6 – 10 as students, teachers and parents across the state celebrate Education Week 2018.

Education Week kicks off on Monday, August 6, with a simultaneous launch at Parramatta and Kiama public schools livestreamed on YouTube so all government schools and their communities can join in.

This year's theme, Today's schools – creating tomorrow's world, highlights how NSW public schools are equipping young people with the skills and capabilities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

For the first time the Education Week launch will be hosted by primary school students and will feature a dancing robot, student performances and a film highlighting how schools are working with their communities to solve real-world problems.

A highlight of the week is the Game Changer Challenge, in which 16 teams of students from schools across NSW will compete in a three-day design program, working alongside leading industry professionals to create the school of the future.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today's students were learning at a time of great change.

"From the far west to our metropolitan hubs and everywhere in between, our state's schools will celebrate not only what we've achieved, but the future we are creating," Ms Berejiklian said.

"We are living in a time when the traditional walls of the classroom are opening up to new worlds of learning, paving the way for students to connect and collaborate with their peers regionally and globally."

Education Minister Rob Stokes said there had never been a more exciting time to be involved in schools with technology reshaping the way students learn and billions of dollars being invested in new school infrastructure.

"The NSW Department of Education is continually striving for improvement and innovation so that the young people in our care learn in a world-class education system," Mr Stokes said.

"The NSW Government is supporting that vision through a record $6 billion in funding to build the classrooms and schools of the future."

The Secretary of the Department of Education Mark Scott said ensuring today's students had the skills they would need to "not just survive, but thrive" in the future underpinned the department's evidence-based approach to learning.

"I am incredibly proud of the innovative teaching and learning that is being done across our State's public schools to ensure that every student can perform to their full potential," Mr Scott said.

"We don't know what the future will hold, but we do know that we are focused on equipping today's students with the skills and knowledge they will need to lead fulfilling lives in the future."

More new classrooms, preschool places and teachers in $17.3 billion education budget

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:33:09 AEST

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, Education Minister Rob Stokes and Early Childhood Minister Sarah Mitchell outlined a range of new initiatives funded by the $17.3 billion education budget in 2018 to 2019.

The government will be investing $6 billion over the next four years to deliver more than 170 new and upgraded schools, including planning for more than 20 new projects.

"We are proud to be making this unprecedented investment into the future of our children," Mr Perrottet said.

"This year's NSW Budget takes our already record school building program to another level – a massive 170 schools new and upgraded schools over the next four years.

"That brings our total schools building program to 230 new and upgraded schools since 2011."

"The NSW Liberals and Nationals Government's strong financial management has allowed us to invest so heavily in our schools and education system."

Mr Stokes said communities right across NSW will benefit from this record investment into education.

"NSW is experiencing an increase in school enrolments and we have in place an unprecedented program of investment in new and upgraded schools to meet this demand," Mr Stokes said.

A staged investment of $500 million is being allocated to provide cooling for schools, while improving the indoor environmental quality, through the installation of smart and sustainable air conditioning systems powered by solar energy.

In another landmark initiative, NSW will become the first Australian state to provide universal access to community preschool for 3 year olds under a $197.8 million program.

"Because of this historic investment, average daily fees will decrease significantly and the savings will go directly back into the pockets of hard working families," Mrs Mitchell said.

This brings total spending on early childhood education to $474.3 million in 2018 to 2019.

Other education investment in the 2018 to 2019 NSW budget includes:

$160 million to be spent in 2018-19 to continue its blitz on planned school maintenance, part of a record $747 million investment over four years.
$71.8 million to implement the literacy and numeracy strategy in NSW schools.
$50 million in additional flexible funding will be provided to government schools to implement the school leadership strategy - freeing up principals and school leaders from administrative work.
$3 million for the first comprehensive review of the entire school curriculum since 1989.
$2.8 million to encourage the preservation and study of Aboriginal languages.
$30 million to continue to deliver greater access to green space and sports facilities in public school playgrounds through the 'share our space' program.
Funding for around 900 extra full-time equivalent teaching positions in NSW government schools.

The NSW Government will also invest $1.3 billion on non-government schools, an increase of 7.5% on 2017 to 2018. This includes a $32 million increase in the building grants assistance scheme over four years for capital works projects to support enrolment growth in non-government schools.

The record $17.3 billion investment in education allocates $15.7 billion for recurrent expenses and $1.6 billion for capital investment in 2018 to 2019.

Mrs Walter's Farewell

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Yesterday was Mrs Walter's farewell luncheon and many friends, parents and former colleagues came to say goodbye. Mr Douglas presented her with a beautiful gift to thank her for her 16 years of service guiding young minds. Mrs Walter was very humbled and gave a wonderful reply to this by saying how much she had enjoyed working at Kirkton Public School. Many of her current students also presented her with gifts to let her know how much they would miss her. Emmily made a beautiful farewell cake which Mrs Walter shared with all the students. She has been a caring and loving teacher and many students have looked to her for guidance. We will miss her and look forward to hearing that she has settled into the next chapter of her life near her family. View photos from this special occasion in the Gallery.

Kindergarton Orientation Days

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Dates:

Thursday 26 November 2015

With a very strong sense of community spirit we not only provide a personalised education for your child/children but offer many varied and interesting ways for the whole family to be part of Kirkton Public School.

Lily sings up a storm

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

School Captain Lily Lewis is a girl of many talents. One of her outstanding talents is in Singing and Performance. Lily has again thi year featured in Star Struck as a member of the Junior Back Up Vocalist ensemble. This is the third year she has taken part. Recently Lily successfully auditioned for the lead role in "Bobby the Musical". The musical, written by Mark Walton OAM will be performed by students from a range of Upper Hunter Schools in September this year. Other students from Kirkton will be performing in the band also. Lily is also very excited to have been accepted at the Hunter School of Performing Arts for Year 7 2011.

Chooks arrive at Kirkton

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Kirkton Public School has recently acquired four new friends. They are our fluffy chooks, Pearl, Snowball, Chicky and the rooster Afro. They have settled nicely into their new home, kindly completed by Mr Barnes and Mr Hauschildt. The Keepers are rostered to look after the chooks. Food scraps are now able to go either to the chooks, or to our new compost bin which was bought with the Environmental Funds established by Year 6 of 2009.

Bubbles ready for judging

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Say hello to Bubbles, the Kirkton school entry in the Singleton Picasso Cow Project. The project focuses student's attention on the importance of Dairy Foods in their diet. During Term 2 all Kirkton students have been learning about dairy foods and the dairy industry with a number of activities and research challenges. A big part of the project has been painting a life size fibreglass cow to reflect the theme given to Kirkton for the project of "Three Serves a Day". Students selected the name of Bubbles for the cow, and all had a hand in contributing ideas for her design. Bubbles is definitely a most popular member of the school. On Thursday June 24 Bubbles will travel to Singleton along with other cows painted by local schools for a special presentation day. Good luck Bubbles!

News story

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Jackson Skinner and Josh Thompson took part in the World's Greatest Shave on Wednesday 10th March. The boys have been collecting donations from the local community. Kirkton School has held "Wacky Hair Day" since 2008. The whole school gets behind the event with a special dress up day to raise money. The school has connected with the Leukaemia Foundation as a charity to support since a former pupil Ben Loss took part in the shave in 2008 to support his little sister Jaci who was diagnosed with leukaemia as a toddler. In 2009 brother Peter Loss shaved along with his mate Bradley Oldfield. Kirkton were really thrilled to this year have Jack and Josh taking part.

Small Schools Swimming Success

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:15 AEST

Kirkton again enjoyed outstanding results at the Singleton small Schools Swimming Carnival on February 4 at Singleton Pool. The level of participation was fantastic, and it was great to see so many parents in attendance. A number of Kirkton students were Champions or Runner Up in their age divisions. Main Carnival results were as follows:

Total Point Score winner: Kirkton

Handicap Point score winner: Kirkton

Most Improved: Martindale

Senior Girls Champion: Eloise Callingham Kirkton

Senior Girls runner-up: Charlotte Lambert (K)

Senior Boys Champion: Jackson Skinner (K)

Senior Boys runner-up: Josh Thompson (K)

11yrs Girls Champion: Megan Searles (K)

11yrs Girls runner-up: Elizabeth Nichols (K)

11trs Boys Champion: Thomas McNamara (K)

11yrs Boys runner-up: William Cupitt (Mt Pleasant)

Jnr Girls Champion: Courtney Stevens (Mt P)

Jnr Girls runner-up: Emily Searles ( K)

Jnr Boys Champion: Zack MacDonell (Broke)

Jnr Boys runner-up: Corey Briffa (BR)

Juvenile Girls Champion: Isabella Farrelly (K)

Juvenile Girls runner-up: Chantelle Briffa (Br)

Juvenile Boys Champion: Daltyn McCartney (Jerry's Plains)

Juvenile Boys runner-up: James Nichols (K)

All the students enjoyed a great day. Here is Year 3 student Madison's report on the event:

On Thursday 4^th February 2010 we competed at the swimming carnival. There were other schools there besides Kirkton, like Mt Pleasant, Martindale, Broke, Milbrodale and Jerrys Plains.

When I got there I went off to the grandstand and started helping dad unpack our things. The day was a very sunny day, perfect for going swimming.

I had my swimmers underneath my clothes, so it was easy to get dressed. Mrs Walter came up to me and drew a 9 and K with a black marker on my hands.

It was my race now. I followed Linda Searles and a group of other children I did not know. "On your blocks!" cried the starter "Get set!" he said. Then he pressed a red button and an ear-splitting sound came out. I dived into the pool. It was super cold. "I think my toes are going numb" I whispered softly. My heart was racing. I could hear Kirkton kids in the grandstand yelling 2,4,6,8 Who Do We Appreciate? Kirkton (clap, clap, clap) Kirkton (clap, clap, clap) they chanted. But did I win?...Sadly no, but I think I came second! Second is good isn't it? My dad always said "It does not matter what you come" he would say "you always make me proud". A couple of kids congratulated me and went on their way. I was helped out of the water. "So cold" I said. I could not believe I, Madison Battams has swam 50 metres.

I watched a couple of races until I realised it was breaststroke my favourite. I dived in as the red button was pressed and that awful sound came out. I kicked as fast as my little legs could carry me. I jumped out of the pool, as I did mum arrived. Yay! Mum passed me a cup of scorching hot chips with cold tomato sauce. When she did it started to sprinkle "Oh no!" mum exclaimed. "The rain is coming!". I headed for the Kirkton cover and saw my friends waving wildly. I played with them and then mum said it was time to head home soon.

I saw how Nicole, Bella and Emily got medals and how the school got a trophy for the most points and the handicap races. The carnival ended so we went home.

I had a thumbs up carnival.

Kirkton wins State Championship

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

It was an exciting day for Kirkton when they became State Champions in their division of the PSSA Small Schools Soccer Knockout for 2009.

The finals were held in Sydney at Hammondville on Friday October 30. Team members and their families, with Coach Jamie Fairfull and Principal Eve Field left Kirkton on Thursday afternoon.

Kirkton's semi-final was against Tintinhull. The Kirkton team came out ready to play from the start. Goals from Pete Loss and Harry Skinner in the first half put the team in a strong position. They maintained their strong team effort into the second half, with a further goal from Harry sealing the deal. Fantastic defence from the backs and goalkeeper Bradley Oldfield ensured a 3-0 victory.

The win put the team into the Final against Rosebank. This was a tense and exciting game, with two strong sides both keen to take out the Championship. Harry scored a goal in the first half. Again excellent defence from the whole team ensured that Rosebank did not score, with Kirkton achieving a well deserved 1-0 victory.

Kirkton has a great history in the Small Schools Knockouts. They were State Champions in their division in 2005. Last year the team, which included a number of this year's players, came third in the State. This year 42 teams began in the competition. The school community is ecstatic about the achievement of the Soccer team, and very proud of the talented players.

Building Underway

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Work has begun on the first of a number of school facility improvements at Kirkton. Our upgraded library is nearly ready for use. In the holidays work will be begin to build a new double classroom block, and early next year the school residence will be refurbished as an administration block.

" By the middle of next year Kirkton will be offering totally State of the Art facilities in all our learning and administration areas, while still retaining its beautiful traditional rural character." said Principal Eve Field.

Regional Athletes Ready

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:15 AEST

Three students from Kirkton are in the Upper Hunter Regional Athletics team attending this year's PSSA Hunter Central Coast Regional Athletics Carnival. Lily Lewis and Peter Loss are both in High Jump. Charlotte Lambert is in the Long Jump as well as the 200m and 800m races.

All three are very excited about reaching Regional level.

Spelling Bee Finalists Buzzing

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:15 AEST

Having come out on top in the recent 2nd Annual Kirkton Spelling Bee, four Kirkton students have been studying up for their Regional Final on September 21. Junior champion and runner up Josh and Kirby will compete against 40 other students at East Maitland Public School in the morning. Senior champion and runner up Theo and Brad will start spelling in the afternoon. The students are all looking forward to the challenge of the Bee.

Soccer Team off to Sydney

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:15 AEST

Kirkton Soccer team are off to Sydney for the finals of the PSSA Division 2 Small Schools Knockout. They played Oxley Island on Thursday September 10 at Medowie. The game was exciting, with both teams clearly eager to win and be headed for the finals. The score at half time was 1 all, with Harrison Skinner having contributed Kirkton's goal. The game remained tight in the second half. However Harrison was eventually able to score his second goal for the day to the excitement of the Kirkton supporters. Shortly after Peter Loss put another goal in for Kirkton, bringing the score to 3-1 which was the final score. The Kirkton team and supporters erupted at the realisation that they were off to Sydney for the October 30 finals. All the team made a strong contribution to the result under the guidance of coach Jamie Fairfull. Kirkton came third in the state last year, and are keen to take out the championship this year.

Dumbledore ready for Judging

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

The Kirkton steer Dumbledore is ready for his judging at the Singleton Prime Stock Competition on Thursday 17th September. Dumbledore was won by students Rowan Vallance and Lucy and Sophie Nichols at the Singleton Beef and land management Association Junior Judging Competition on May 8. Since then he has been in residence at the Nichols property, and been carefully cared for by the students. They have kept a diary of his progress. Dumbledore has been gaining weight well and being prepared for the Prime Stock competition. Dumbledore is sponsored by Beltana Highwall Mining company. Kirkwoods have generously donated feed to Dumbledore.

Jed's a top talker

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

Jed Lewis showed himself to be a top talker in the best way when he came first in the Stage 1 Division of the recent Singleton Zone Final for Public Speaking. Jed's topic was his favourite pet, which turns out to be his lizard. When asked how he felt about his result, Jed said that he was "very happy".

Six students represented Kirkton in the Final. Jed and Madison Battams were the Stage 1 representatives. Taneeka Fairfull and Jordan Klok represented Stage 2 and Lily Lewis and Lucy Nichols were the Stage 3 representatives. All the speakers did a great job.

In addition to Jed's first place, Madison and Lily were Highly Commended in their divisions.

Jed will now go on to take part in the Regional Public Speaking finals.

Soccer Girls Keep winning

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:15 AEST

Last Thursday the Small Schools soccer team continued their giant killing run with a win over Muswellbrook, 2 goals to 0. Terri Anderson from Jerry's Plains and Kirkton's Charlotte Lambert were the goal scorers. The girls proceed to the fifth round in hopes of becoming Hunter champions, and moving closer to the Finals. They will play Beresfield on Tuesday 1st September.

The Great Debaters

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:15 AEST

This year Kirkton School entered two teams in the Premiers Debating Challenge. It is great to see the enthusiasm for debating amongst the students in years 5 and 6, and how well skills are developing.

The Kirkton A team was Sophie Nichols, Rowan Vallance, Lucy Nichols and Brad Oldfield. The Kirkton B team was Lily Lewis, Peter Loss, Charlotte Lambert and Harrison Skinner. Also participating in the teams when team members were absent were Megan Searles, Krystal Hill and Shane Kattau.

The teams finished their debating competition with a Gala Day at Singleton Public School. Also competing were Singleton, Singleton Heights, King St, Scone, Broke and Mount Pleasant schools. It was a great opportunity to debate and to watch other debates in action. Kirkton B debated well but were unfortunate not to win a debate on the day. Kirkton A did well to win both their debates.

Well done all debaters!!

Great result for soccer team

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 20:17:14 AEST

It was a great result for the Kirkton soccer team last Wednesday. They played a gala day against Iona and Mt Kanwery schools to determine who would continue in the PSSA Small Schools Soccer Knockout for 2009. The first match was against Mt Kanwery. Mt Kanwery put up a good defence, and it took most of the first half before Captain Harry Skinner was able to score. Kirkton continued strongly in the second half, with Harry adding two more goals and Pete Loss adding one.

Iona defeated Mt Kanwery 5-0, meaning that Kirkton needed to win their last game against Iona to move forward in the knockout. Iona were a very strong team, but Kirkton continued their excellent team play. Harry Skinner scored 3 goals in the match, with the final result 3-0 to Kirkton.

All the team are to be congratulated on their effort. Special mention to Sophie Nichols, who had an outstanding game.

Congratulations also to our coach Jamie Fairfull for a wonderful job.

We now await to see who we will meet in the next round.