Waratah Public School

Special Programs

Buddy Program, Dance, Early Intervention, Sport, English as a Second Language, Enrichment Program, Learning Support, Performing Arts, Peer Support Program, Reading Recovery, Technology, Public Speaking

Buddy Program

Year 6 students undergo a training program and are teamed with a Kindergarten Buddy. The aim of this program is to enable the new kindergarten students to settle happily and easily into their new school life with the assistance of a student who offers security and friendship.

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Dance

Both boys' and girls' dance groups from Kindergarten to Year 6 are taught by trained dance teachers. The groups regularly perform at local and community events, as well as participate in Dance Festivals and Star Struck. Some students have gained success in auditioning for special placement in featured dance groups in Star Struck.

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Early Intervention

This program promotes learning through the development of specialised activities for pre-school aged children with disabilities.

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Sport

A wide variety of sporting opportunities is provided for all students from Kindergarten to Year 6, including:

Swimming Carnival (Years 3 - 6)

Athletics Carnival (Years Kindergarten - 6)

Intensive Swimming (Years 2 - 6)

Programs by development officers in a wide variety of sports - rugby league, basketball, tennis, soccer and cricket

University Physical Education programs for Kindergarten

Participation by individuals and teams at zone, regional levels and state knockout competitions

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English as a Second Language

This program provides assistance with literacy skills to children with a family background where another language besides English is spoken.

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Enrichment Program

This program aims to extend individual children's gifts, talents and interests. Programs include:

Music

Drama

Art

Computers

Cultural Studies

History

Indoor/Outdoor games

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Learning Support

This program ensures that all children from Kindergarten to Year 6 are given supplementary support to enhance their literacy and numeracy skills.

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Performing Arts

Students are provided with several opportunities to perform in arts festivals and activities at both a local and district level. Students have been successful in gaining representation in both drama and dance segments of Star Struck. Students also participate in school and local public speaking competitions.

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Peer Support Program

Year 6 undergo a leadership training program in order to lead a group of children from kindergarten to year 5. Peer support sessions involve the children in activities to foster self-esteem, awareness of others and respect for oneself.

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Reading Recovery

Reading recovery is an early intervention program for Year 1 students, designed to prevent reading failure. It is delivered to individual children on a one-to-one basis. It requires the provision of daily, intensive, high quality assistance to students experiencing reading difficulties.

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Technology

A well-equipped computer room with CD Roms, CD programs, printers and internet access enables students to work with the latest technology. All students use the computer room.

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Public Speaking

The school has a commitment to developing the very important skill of Public Speaking. Programs to enhance the children's confidence and techniques in speaking are a vital part of class routines. Competitions are conducted to provide the children with opportunities to display their talents. Pupils also take part in the Newcastle Regional and Multicultural Public Speaking Competitions

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