Frequently asked questions

🏫 1. Choose a school

• Find your local public school (based on your home address) using the NSW School Finder tool on the NSW Department of Education website.

✍️ 2. Complete the Application

• Most schools let you apply online via their website. Alternatively, you can download and fill out the Application to Enrol in a NSW Government School form.

📄 3. Provide required documents

You will also need to submit:

• Your child’s birth certificate or identity documents
• Proof of residential address
• Immunisation history statement from the Australian Immunisation Register
• Any relevant medical or court orders paperwork
• Click here for the full list of documents required.

🗣 4. Interview or contact

• The school will usually contact you to confirm details and may arrange an interview with the principal or senior staff.

📅 5. Timing

• Schools generally start accepting enrolments in the second half of the year before your child starts school, but applications are accepted year-round.

🕘 School Day

• Playground supervision starts: 8:30 am
• School day begins: 8:55 am
• Lunch break: 11:00 – 11:40 am
• Recess: 1:20 – 2:00 pm
• School day ends: 3:00 pm

📌 These are the official bell times used for student attendance and class scheduling.

📞 Notify the school as early as possible

Tell the school on the first day of absence (or before school starts) that your child will not be attending due to illness. You can notify them in several ways:

1. School Bytes app – preferred method and often how the school sends daily absence SMS notifications. To go there now click here.
2. Email – sarahredfe-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au.
3. Phone call to the school office (02  9820 1499) between 8:30 am – 3:00 pm.
4. Seesaw message to your child’s class teacher.
5. Written note sent with your child when they return, with your contact details included.
6. In‑person communication with the teacher.

🩺 If your child is unwell

• Keep them at home if they are sick so they can recover and not spread illness to others.
• If symptoms develop during the day, staff will care for your child and contact you if needed.

📄 Medical certificates & extended absences

• If your child is absent for more than 3 days, a medical certificate may be required to justify their absence.
• NSW policy requires parents to explain absences within 7 days to avoid them being recorded as unexplained.

📌 What counts as a valid explanation

A valid explanation is a brief reason (e.g., “sick with cold/fever”) and the date(s) they were absent. This helps keep attendance records accurate.

⏰ Late Arrival

• Sign in at the office: If your child arrives after 8:55 am, they must go to the school office accompanied with a parent/carer and sign in on the Late Arrival register.
• Reason for lateness: Parents/carers should provide a brief explanation (e.g., “traffic delay” or “medical appointment”).
• Class notification: The office will inform the teacher, so your child is marked present from the time of arrival at the school for that day.

🏃 Early departure

• Sign out at the office: If your child needs to leave before 3:00 pm, parents/carers must come to the school office and complete the Early Leave register.
• Identification: Parents may be asked to show ID for security purposes.
• Teacher notified: The office will contact the class to release the student safely.

📌 Important Notes

• Attendance records: Both late arrivals and early departures are recorded as partial absences.
• Repeated lateness or early leaving: The school may contact parents to discuss attendance if your child has frequent absences, as regular attendance is important for learning.
• Medical appointments: It is best to schedule appointments outside school hours if possible, but if not, provide documentation if requested.

📅 2026 Term Dates (Eastern Division – most of NSW, including Sydney)

• Term 1: Mon 2 Feb → Thu 2 Apr 2026
• Autumn Holidays: Tue 7 Apr → Fri 17 Apr 2026
• Term 2: Wed 22 Apr → Fri 3 Jul 2026
• Winter Holidays: Mon 6 Jul → Fri 17 Jul 2026
• Term 3: Tue 21 Jul → Fri 25 Sep 2026
• Spring Holidays: Mon 28 Sep → Fri 9 Oct 2026
• Term 4: Tue 13 Oct → Thu 17 Dec 2026
• Summer Holidays (end of year): Fri 18 Dec 2026 → Wed 27 Jan 2027 (Eastern)
• For full school year calendar - click here

At Sarah Redfern Public School, communication with families happens through several official and convenient channels to keep parents/carers informed about school events, student progress, and important notices:

📨 1. Email

• The school regularly sends updates, and notices via email.
• Make sure your email address is current and correct with the school office.

📱 2. School Bytes / Online Portals

• School Bytes is used for permissions, absence notifications, and fee reminders.
• Parents can submit forms, pay invoices, and receive messages directly through the platform.

📲 3. Seesaw (or Class Communication Apps)

• Teachers may post student work, class updates, and messages via Seesaw.
• A convenient way for parents to stay connected to classroom activities.

💬 4. SMS / Text Messages

• For urgent notices (e.g., school closures, emergencies), the school may send SMS alerts to parents.

🌐 5. School Website, Facebook & Instagram

• The school website (sarahredfe-p.schools.nsw.gov.au) has information on term dates, events, and bell times.
• The school Facebook page shares updates, reminders, and community messages. We recommend you follow our page to stay informed SRPSMinto
• The school Instagram pages shares updates, key community updates, reminders and messages. We recommend you follow our page to stay informed sarahredfernpublicschool.

📞 6. Phone Calls

• The school office can contact parents directly for attendance, wellbeing, or urgent matters.
• Likewise, parents can call the office for enquiries on 02  9820  1499.

✅ Tips for Families

1. Ensure the school has your current phone number and email address.
2. Check Seesaw and emails daily for updates.
3. Follow the school’s Facebook page and Instagram page for community news.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, if you have a concern about your child, there’s a clear step-by-step contact pathway to make sure your concern is addressed promptly and appropriately:

1️⃣ Class Teacher

• First point of contact for most concerns about learning, behaviour, social issues, or day-to-day classroom matters.
• Contact via Seesaw, email, or phone to arrange a chat or meeting.

2️⃣ Stage or Grade Coordinator / Assistant Principal

• If the issue is not resolved with the class teacher, or it is broader (affecting multiple areas), contact the Stage Coordinator or Assistant Principal.
• They can help mediate issues and implement strategies to support your child.

3️⃣ Principal

• For serious concerns, repeated issues, or matters involving school policy, safety, or wellbeing, contact the Principal.
• The Principal oversees all school operations and will work with staff and families to find solutions.

4️⃣ School Support Staff

• School Counsellor or Learning Support Team: for social, emotional, or learning support needs.
• Contact the school office to arrange an appointment.

📌 How to Contact

• Email: sarahredfe-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
• Phone: 02  9820  1499 (school office)
• In person: via the school office to arrange meetings

✅ Tips for Families

1. Start with the class teacher – most issues are resolved quickly at this level.
2. Be clear and specific about your concern: what happened, when, and what outcome you are hoping for.

Follow the contact pathway if you need further support – this ensures the right staff member addresses your concern.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, keeping your contact details up to date ensures you receive important messages and emergency notifications without delay. Here is how to do it:

1️⃣ Through School Bytes

• Your child’s information is managed via School Bytes, you can log in and update your contact details online. Click here to go there now.
• This is especially useful for email addresses, mobile numbers, and emergency contacts.

2️⃣ Via the school office

• Send your email request to change contact details to: sarahredfe-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
• Call the office on 02  9820  1499 or visit in person.
• Provide your updated phone number, email address, or home address.
• Staff will update your details in the school’s records.

3️⃣ Written notification

• You can also send a signed note with your child to inform the school of any changes.
• Include your child’s full name, class, and updated contact information.

✅ Tips for Families

• Notify the school as soon as possible after any change.
• Update emergency contacts too, so the school can reach someone if needed.
• Check that all details (phone, email, address) are current at the start of each year.

Sarah Redfern Public School – Curriculum Overview (2026)

At Sarah Redfern Public School, students follow the NSW Department of Education curriculum, aligned with the Australian Curriculum, covering all core learning areas and student wellbeing programs.

Key Learning Areas (KLAs)

Other programs & features

• STEM Integration: Projects that combine science, technology, engineering, and maths.
• Literacy & Numeracy Support: Targeted programs to strengthen reading, writing, and maths skills.
• Wellbeing & Social Skills: Programs that build resilience, emotional intelligence, and respectful relationships.
• Differentiated Learning: Lessons adapted to meet individual student needs.
• Assessment & Reporting: Student progress is monitored and reported in semester 1 and semester 2.

📌 Tip for Parents:
You can follow your child’s learning via class reports, Seesaw posts, and parent-teacher interviews to stay updated on what they are learning each term.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, student reports are issued twice a year:

📝 Reporting Schedule

1. End of Term 2 (Semester 1) – usually June/July

   • Provides a mid-year summary of your child’s progress in all Key Learning Areas.

2. End of Term 4 (Semester 2) – usually December

   • Provides a full-year report with achievements, progress, and next steps for learning.

📌 Format

• Reports are usually sent home electronically (via email or the School Bytes portal).

• Printed copies can be provided if requested.

• Reports cover:

  • Academic progress in English, Mathematics, Science & Technology, HSIE, Creative Arts, PDHPE, and Languages
  • Effort, behaviour, and social development
  • Teacher comments highlighting strengths and areas for growth

💡 Tip for Families

• You can discuss your child’s report further during student led conferences, which are usually scheduled after Semester 1 and/or by request.

Yes! Sarah Redfern Public School offers both learning support and enrichment programs to meet the diverse needs of students. Here’s an overview:

🏫 Learning support

Designed for students who need extra help to reach their learning potential:

• Literacy & Numeracy Support: Small-group or individual programs for reading, writing, and maths.
• Learning and Support Teacher (LAST): Works with students requiring targeted assistance.
• Individual Education Plans (IEPs): Tailored plans for students with specific learning needs.

🌟 High Potential and Gifted Education

For high potential and gifted education students who are excelling or need additional challenges:

• STEM Projects: Hands-on science, technology, engineering, and maths activities.
• Creative arts opportunities: Advanced music, drama, and visual arts programs.
• High-ability programs: Extension activities in literacy and numeracy.
• Competitions & events: Opportunities to participate in academic, sporting, and cultural competitions.

📌 How It Works

• Teachers identify students who may benefit from learning support or enrichment.
• Parents are consulted and informed before any program placement.
• Programs are flexible, with support provided in-class, in small groups, or individually.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, student health and safety is a priority, including managing allergies and medical conditions. Here is how the school approaches it:

🏥 Health Care Plans

• Students with allergies, asthma, or other medical conditions are supported through individual Health Care Plans.

• Plans are developed with parents/carers and the school and approved by the principal.

• They include:

  • Symptoms to watch for
  • Emergency responses (e.g., epipen use for severe allergies)
  • Medication requirements and administration instructions

⚠️ Allergy awareness & nut products

• The school encourages families to avoid sending nut products and other allergens in lunchboxes.
• Classrooms may have allergy-safe procedures (e.g., designated eating areas, hand washing before and after eating).

💊 Medication at school

• Parents must provide clearly labelled medication with instructions in the original packaging.
• Staff are trained to administer medication safely according to a Health Care Plan.
• Medication is kept securely in the school office or designated area.

📞 Communication & responsibility

• Parents are asked to notify the school of any new medical conditions or changes to existing plans.
• Teachers and staff are trained in emergency procedures for students with medical conditions.

✅ Tips for Families

1. Complete or update a Health Care Plan for any medical condition.
2. Provide all necessary medication with clear instructions.
3. Make sure the school knows about any food allergies, asthma, or other health concerns.
4. Encourage your child to follow safe practices, like washing hands and not sharing food.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, student wellbeing and behaviour are treated as core parts of learning. The school aims to create a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment where every student can thrive. Here is a clear overview:

🌱 Student Wellbeing Approach

• Holistic Support: Focuses on social, emotional, and academic growth.
• Wellbeing Programs: Activities and lessons that promote resilience, emotional regulation, and respectful relationships.
• School Counsellor & Support Staff: Available for students needing extra support with wellbeing, social skills, or personal challenges.
• Positive Relationships: Encourages staff, student, and parent collaboration to foster a safe and caring environment.

🎯 Behaviour Management

• Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL):

  • Encourages expected behaviours through clear rules and routines.
  • Uses recognition and rewards to reinforce positive choices.

• Consistent Procedures:

  • Staff apply a clear, consistent approach for inappropriate behaviour.
  • Consequences are fair and educational, focusing on helping students learn from mistakes.

• Restorative Practices:

  • Students are guided to take responsibility, resolve conflicts, and repair relationships.

📌 Key Values

• Respect: For self, others, and the environment.
• Responsibility: Taking ownership of actions and learning.
• Safety: Physical and emotional safety in all areas of the school.
• Resilience: Encouraging persistence, problem-solving, and coping skills.

✅ Parent Involvement

• Parents are kept informed about behaviour and wellbeing matters.
• The school encourages partnerships with families to support students’ social, emotional, and academic development.
• Parent workshops or communications may be provided on topics like bullying prevention, emotional regulation, and positive behaviour strategies.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, bullying is taken very seriously, and the school has a clear, structured approach to prevent it and support students if it occurs. Here’s an overview:

⚠️ Definition of Bullying

• Bullying is repeated, intentional behaviour that harms, intimidates, or excludes others.
• It can be physical, verbal, social, or online (cyberbullying).

🛡 Prevention Strategies

• Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL): Promotes respect, responsibility, and safe behaviours.
• Social and Emotional Learning Programs: Teach students empathy, resilience, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
• Classroom Lessons: Regular discussions on respect, inclusion, and online safety.
• Staff Training: Teachers are trained to recognise, respond to, and prevent bullying.

🚨 Response to Bullying

1. Report: Students or parents can report bullying to the class teacher, Stage Supervisor, or Principal.

2. Investigation: Staff investigate incidents promptly, gathering facts from all involved parties.

3. Support:

   • Students affected receive counselling or support.
   • Perpetrators are guided to understand the impact of their actions and to change behaviour.

4. Consequences: Actions are appropriate and consistent, including restorative practices to repair relationships.

5. Communication: Parents are kept informed throughout the process.

📌 Additional Notes

• Cyberbullying: The school provides guidance for students and parents on safe technology use.
• Whole-School Approach: Bullying prevention is embedded into school culture, policies, and daily routines.
• Student Wellbeing Team: Counsellor and support staff are available to help students manage and recover from incidents.

✅ Tips for Families:
If your child experiences or witnesses bullying:

• Contact the class teacher first.
• Provide details: what happened, when, who was involved.
• Work with the school to support your child and ensure follow-up.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, student safety is a top priority, and supervision is provided before and after school to ensure students are safe while on school grounds. Here is a breakdown:

⏰ Before School

• Supervision starts: 8:30 am in the playground
• Where: Designated play areas (staff monitor students in the playground)
• Students should not arrive earlier than 8:30 am unless attending a before-school program (if offered)
• Purpose: Ensures students are safe before classes begin at 8:55 am
• Please contact Newstart Early Learning Minto (02) 9603 7200 to discuss enrolment in the OOSH program

🕒 After School

• Supervision ends: 3:00 pm
• Students must be picked up by a parent/carer at 3:00pm
• Students remaining on school grounds after 3:00 pm must be attending the after-school care program
• Please contact Newstart Early Learning Minto (02) 9603 7200 to discuss enrolment in the OOSH program

📌 Important Notes

• Late pick-up: If a student is not collected by 3:00 pm, the school office will contact parents/carers or emergency contacts.
• Before/After-School Programs: Please contact Newstart Early Learning Minto (02) 9603 7200 to discuss enrolment in the OOSH program
• Safety reminders: Students are expected to follow playground rules and listen to supervising staff.

You can purchase the school’s official uniform items at Lowes Minto (located in Minto Mall, 10 Brookfield Road, Minto NSW 2566).

Lowes stocks the school polo shirts, jackets, hats, and other uniform pieces both in store and online (search for Sarah Redfern Public School on the Lowes uniforms site).

To buy online now click here.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, mobile phones and smart devices are generally not permitted during school hours, but there are clear guidelines for students who need to bring them:

📵 Policy on Mobile Phones / Smart Devices

• Students must not use mobile phones, smart watches, or other personal electronic devices during class or breaks.
• If devices are brought to school, they should be switched off and handed in at the school office upon arrival at school.
• Purpose: Minimises distractions, ensures safety, and supports a focused learning environment.

💡 Parent/Carer Tip

• If you need to contact your child during school hours, call the school office rather than texting them directly.
• Encourage your child to leave devices at home unless absolutely necessary.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, payments for excursions, school activities, or events are managed in a way that is convenient and secure for parents. Here is what you need to know:

💻 Preferred Payment Method – School Bytes

• Most excursions, sport events, and activity fees are processed through School Bytes.

• Parents can:

  • View permission notes and invoices
  • Pay securely online using a credit or debit card
  • Submit permission forms digitally along with payment
  • Give permission or pay now click here.

🏦 Other Payment Options

• Cash or EFTPOS: Some activities may allow payment at the school office.
• Payment Notes: Certain excursions may require a signed note returned with payment if not paid online.

📌 Steps for Parents

1. Check the note or email from the school for details of the excursion or activity.
2. Log in to School Bytes to view the event and complete payment + permission.
3. If paying in person, bring the exact amount and return any required forms to the school office.
4. Keep the receipt or confirmation for your records.

💡 Parent/Carer Tips

• Check deadlines for payment to ensure your child can attend.
• Contact the school office if you experience difficulties with online payments.
• We can offer payment plans for larger excursions—ask the office if needed.

At Sarah Redfern Public School, giving permission for excursions and events is straightforward and usually tied to the payment process. Here’s how it works:

💻 Online via School Bytes (Preferred)

1. The school sends a permission note/notification via School Bytes.

2. Log in to your School Bytes account.

3. Review the excursion or event details, including:

   • Date and time
   • Location
   • Activities planned
   • Costs (if any)

4. Provide consent by checking the appropriate box/signing digitally.

5. Submit payment (if required) at the same time.

6. Confirmation is sent to you once submitted.

📝 Paper Permission Notes

• For some events, a printed permission form may be sent home.
• Parents/carers sign the form and return it to the class teacher or school office.
• Payment (if required) may accompany the note.

📌 Important Notes

• Deadlines: Permission notes must be returned by the return date indicated on the permission note.
• Emergency details: Ensure your child’s contact and medical information are current with the school.
• Special arrangements: If your child has medical conditions, dietary requirements, or mobility needs, note these when giving permission.

💡 Parent/Carer Tips

• Always read the details carefully for safety, arrival times, and what your child needs to bring.
• Keep a copy of the permission note (digital or paper) for your reference.
• If you have questions about the activity, contact the class teacher or school office before the deadline.