Welcome back to a new school year and a special welcome to new parents and boys.

I hope you all have a great 2013.

The clinic is situated between the Chapel and Le Couteur building – follow the sign on the driveway. I am in the clinic Monday to Thursday 8 am–5 pm and until 3.30 pm on Friday. There is also coverage available for Saturday sport in the first aid room near the back gates.

My best advice for parents, especially for those with children entering Year 7 is to encourage your son to get organised, be positive and ensure they get enough sleep!

Be aware that some students have severe food allergies. I ask where possible that boys do not bring peanut butter or Nutella to school. The canteen is not-nut free, but staff can assist with choices.

Students with asthma should always carry their preventer with them. Ventolin inhalers are also available in the clinic and pool centre.

Some of our students are immunosuppressed, so if your child were to develop chicken pox or measles then please contact the school immediately so we can advise our students appropriately.

Of course with so many students some have other conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, epilepsy, cancer and other chronic conditions. I think it is important to have a conversation with your son letting them know that some boys may not be able to keep up in sport or might have lots of days away from school. It is hoped that all boys will be respectful and inclusive of everyone.

Year 7 and Year 9 will have vaccinations offered on March 7, May 17 and Sept 18.

In 2013 Year 7 will be offered :

• Hepatitis B vaccination in two doses–only required if they have not received it previously
• Varicella vaccine – only if they have not had it previously or had chicken pox disease
• Boostrix (diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough)–This is a single booster dose and is highly recommended
• HPV is being offered to boys in three doses in Year 7 and Year 9

The clinic has a small supply of spare uniform items in case a piece has been forgotten or gets damaged, which the boys are welcome to borrow. I can also do running repairs to get students through the day!

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions on mbates@newington.nsw.edu.au, direct 9568 9426. mobile 0407 004 738

Sister Margaret Bates
School Nurse