Hello!

I cannot remember the last time I saw such wonderfully positive spirit among young people as I did at last week’s swimming carnival. It was heart-warming to see boys cheering on their friends irrespective of which house they are in, boys celebrating each other’s achievements and boys encouraging each other to give it a go. I’ve never been more proud to be part of the Newington community.

Speaking of communities, the Wyvern P&F is an affiliate of the NSW Parents’ Council, which has been representing parents of non-government school students in NSW since 1962. The Council advocates on our behalf to achieve better educational outcomes for our children and most importantly to protect our right of choosing the right school for our children. I will keep you posted about its various initiatives as they arise through the year.

First up, the Parents Congress is a new initiative of the Council, which has organised a super line-up of panellists to discuss parent engagement and education policy and options among other topics. Leading commentator and advisor on consumer, cultural and demographic trends Bernard Salt will host the event. The Congress is free to attend, running from 1.30pm-3.30pm on Sunday, 8 March at the Wesley Centre in Pitt Street (the first time it has ever opened for a purpose outside worship on a Sunday). Please refer to your year group or to the P&F space in SPACES for more details, including the list of panellists. Parents all over NSW will be part of this live or via webcast.

The NSW Parents’ Council is strongly of the view that the support and involvement of a parent in their children’s education is incredibly beneficial. It enriches the child’s learning and strengthens their development through school. A parent who engages with their child’s homework and school activity can better support their child in general, but especially their confidence, motivation and progression. Being engaged is simple – ask questions, review their homework, be interested in what they like and dislike at school, make time to be available and willing to help at school events when you can. A child who is assured of their parent’s support and encouragement is likely to feel more confident and positive about school, which also gives them a solid path for success.

Finally, an example of Council activities is last year’s safety initiative with Instagram. Our saturated social media and digital environment is ripe for people who can cause harm or just act irresponsibly. “A parent’s guide to Instagram” is worth a read.

Until next time, be well and happy

Natalie Mina
President, Wyvern P&F
natalie.mina@accenture.com; 0414 850 455

Upcoming P&F Events

• Term one – 10 week term ending on 2 April, followed by a 2 week break
• 19 February – P&F Exec meeting (Newington Inn)
• 5 March – P&F General Meeting (Wyvern Hall) featuring Ian Holden, Chris Patel and Cate Fryda
• 20 March – Women of Wyvern (WoW) Dinner at Dedes on the Wharf, click here for flyer
  
• 9 May – Year 6 Parent Night out at Vinery Foods, Annandale