Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Further information
Phone: 02 5804 7000
Fax:
02 6884 0777
Email: dubbo-d.school@det.nsw.edu.au
www.dubbo-d.schools.nsw.edu.au
Acknowledgements
Thank you to the following staff members for preparing reports for this document:
Chris Mason
Principal
Debbie Murray
Lynda Ipkendanz
Janelle Dowton
Karyn Burgun
Anna Brain
Sue Gown
Jenny Ballhausen
Liana Leigo
Jenny Donovan
Graeme Hosken
Leanne Wynne
Robyn Coman
Senior Teacher
Vanessa Duncan
Andreas Shepley
Graham Grant
Christine Bray
Colin Mackay
Janet Elliott
Introduction
Enrolment patterns
Enrolment categories
Alternate Programs
Middle Years
HSC Seminars
10
Teaching Practices
11
11
11
12
Residential Camps
14
Languages Program
15
16
English
16
Science
16
16
17
Middle Years
17
Student Welfare
18
19
20
20
20
21
22
22
Field Services
23
23
23
24
24
Testimonials
25
25
25
25
Appendices
26
Role Statements for Young Parent Program, YES Program and Learning Centre Staff
26
31
32
34
37
Introduction
At Dubbo School of Distance Education (DSODE) our challenge is to embrace each and every student, who enrols
with us from Preschool to Year 12. Each student brings an individual set of experiences, characteristics, supports
and expectations when they enrol. Many students experiences in previous educational settings have not been
positive and re-engaging students in real learning is challenging. Students firstly need to learn that the teachers
genuinely care and that they believe the student has the ability to learn.
During the enrolment processes information is gathered from a range of sources about each student, his/her
educational history, home context and learning preferences. The student is asked to complete a document titled
About Me, providing initial information about his/her interests and life in general.
Teachers make gentle and regular contact, looking for hooks to engage the student firstly in conversation and
ultimately in learning. The aim is to build trust and lay the groundwork for productive learning to be generated.
Learning materials are selected or created to draw the student into learning. Attention is paid to each students
personal interests, educational goals and literacy and numeracy skills levels. All students, who are performing at a
stage level below that expected of their age, are supported to construct a personal learning plan. Teachers use
this plan to help them develop learning programs and select appropriate learning materials.
For many students support is provided through various school programs, including providing resources to build
self-esteem and to engage them in the educational programs offered by the school.
In this booklet we provide a snapshot of the challenges faced by our students and the diverse programs our
experienced, creative and dedicated staff have developed and implemented to make a difference to the lives of
so many.
Further Information
Established in 1991, Dubbo School of Distance Education (DSODE) provides a valuable equity service for NSW
students, who are unable to attend their local school or access courses because they are not offered in their
home school.
The school develops and implements quality blended learning programs and creates opportunities for students
and teachers to interact through face-to-face contact, telephone, video conferencing, satellite lessons and online
activities.
Approximately 400 full-time and pathways students from Preschool to Year 12 are enrolled in DSODE programs.
Students may enrol for periods of time varying from six months to 14 years and for various reasons including
geographical isolation, medical conditions, vocational talent commitments, travelling in Australia or overseas,
extraordinary circumstances and special needs. In addition to a wide range of Preschool to Year 12 NSW Board of
Studies courses, DSODE has created additional programs and curricula to support students with disabilities,
students who have identified learning needs in literacy and numeracy, young parents, students experiencing
behavioural problems, students who wish to pursue studies in vocational education and students returning to
school because of the increased mandatory enrolment age (17 years). Every Tuesday a crche service is provided
for young parents so that they can access support from their course teachers. The school has implemented
extensive welfare support strategies to assist all students remain in education and deal effectively with
adversities.
Each year DSODE expands curriculum options for students and smaller isolated rural schools by providing
programs for over 600 students studying one or more single courses whilst enrolled in another school or TAFE.
Technologies including Videoconferencing, Moodle and teleconferencing play an important role in supporting the
engagement of students, as do workshops in Dubbo and sometimes in the students home schools.
Students of DSODE have achieved excellent results at the highest levels including ATARS in the high 90s. Several
students have achieved first place in HSC courses including Aboriginal Studies, Ancient History and Metal and
Engineering. DSODEs delivery of Vocational Education Training is first class as was attested by glowing reports
from the external VET audit conducted in 2008, which looked at all aspects of the provision of Metal and
Engineering, interviewing and observing teachers and students.
An experienced, skilful and committed staff of 140 teachers and administration officers ensure that each student
is provided with personalised learning and support. Building and nurturing quality relationships is a key strategy
used to engage students in the school community. The school plans and implements an extensive field service
program with teachers providing workshops for individuals and groups of students in many rural locations
including students homes. DSODE also establishes outreach centres to support groups of students in rural
locations when possible.
In 1996 the Australian federal government funded the building of DSODE hostel to support distance education
students and their families coming into Dubbo to access educational and social opportunities. In 2008 DSODE and
the state NSW government jointly funded an expansion of the hostel, almost doubling its capacity. This great
resource enables preschool and primary students and their parents several opportunities each year to reduce the
impact of isolation by attending residential camps. Parents are able to meet with each other to discuss the role of
the home supervisor and to establish networks of support with each other and the staff of DSODE. The students
have a fabulous time learning and socialising with peers and staff. In the case of secondary students the hostel
caters for 40 students participating in a range of activities at least once per term.
The positive difference that enrolment in DSODE has made in the lives of so many students has been profound
and exciting. Teachers and administration officers at DSODE are committed to providing high quality services in
teaching and learning, extremely supportive of every student and immensely proud of students achievements. As
the future evolves the school will continue to expand its use of technologies to provide rich blended learning
curricula and to increase the opportunities for students to engage in quality learning and social activities with
peers.
Enrolment patterns
Enrolment data
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Preschool
59
41
48
35
37
41
35
39
36
Primary
113
109
114
78
55
77
72
84
103
Secondary fulltime
169
200
226
238
253
296
306
315
344
Pathways
23
24
32
32
40
86
87
122
58
Single course
468
496
552
648
618
668
616
571
601
Enrolment categories
Enrolment data
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Geographical isolation
138
109
123
121
117
125
121
147
179
Travelling in Australia
23
24
37
41
30
34
34
34
43
11
4/3
12/1
15/6
10/2
16/5
PNG
57
59
62
30
16
13
na
Medical conditions
24
29
38
46
14
15
19
22
Behaviour
22
57
40
48
41
60
69
67
50
Pregnant students/Young
Parents
14
23
22
23
18
21
24
40
27
Extraordinary circumstances
40
48
61
69
88
76
103
109
73
Mental Health
40
44
53
66
85
Phobia
Autism
13
19
22
ETU
Males
77
ATSI
39 (45%)
BD
35 (40%)
MH
14
Others
37
Total Students
86
BD/MH 56%
Middle Years
The Middle Years Program at DSODE began development in 2008 and has grown into a fully functioning support
program for students in stage 3 and 4. Key aspects of the development include:
Structuring student class groups and assigning teachers to support these groups. Students have
timetables, term planners and structured lesson times via satellite and teleconferences. Students have
developed more effective time management practices and accountability for timetabled lessons with
their teachers.
An introduction DVD and booklet for students in Year 7 & 8 introduces middle years students to Distance
Education, the school, their Student Advisers and the subjects they will participate in for secondary
school.
The development of a two-year scope and sequence, which outlines the topics taught by all KLAs across
stage 4. Staff have cooperated to develop a scope and sequence which brings Year 7 & 8 into line with
National Curriculum requirements.
The development of a number of cross-curricular units, which have been built into the two-year scope
and sequence (Stage 4). Examples include: Unreal Shoes, All About Me, My Virtual Museum and
Save our Stripes. These cross-KLA units have been prepared for both paper-based and digital delivery.
Further development of integrated units is currently being planned and units will be written to
incorporate the cross-curricular perspectives outlined in the National curriculum i.e. Asian, Aboriginal and
Sustainability perspectives e.g. the Save our Stripes unit incorporates both Asian and sustainability
concepts.
Opportunity to work with middle years students during residential camps each term. Stage 4 students are
placed together for themed workshops and excursion opportunities.
A Middle Years Camp is held in term 4 each year, where Year 6 students are invited to participate in a
combined project with Year 7 & 8 students. In 2013, the students will engage in project based challenges,
which encourage and develop collegial and team building skills.
The appointment of a Year 7 Student Adviser at the end of term 3 to facilitate relationship building with
Year 6 students transitioning into Year 7.
Support for student literacy and numeracy skills using skills booklets and providing allocated time to
develop specific skills each week.
The enhancement of enrolment procedures for incoming Year 7 and 8 students enabling better
communication between Student Advisers, teachers and the mailroom and facilitating work preparation
and distribution in a timely fashion.
The preparation and distribution of Middle Years Resource Kits for new students in Years 7 and 8. All
students in the Middle Years Program are issued with a kit of resources (e.g. paints, hammer, saw, atlas,
dictionary, calculator & stationary items), which is sent to the student for use during the time that they
are enrolled with DSODE. Teachers are aware of the items in the kits and refer to the use of the materials
and resources in the delivery of their courses.
The Middle Years Program is supported by staff from every KLA across the school. Regular meetings and updated
information about students are communicated effectively and efficiently. Students are given opportunities to be
supported in their learning both in a collegial environment and as individuals. The Program undertakes regular
reviews of student and teaching practices, curriculum requirements and use of technologies to support blended
learning opportunities.
In 2011 enrolments increased again. Vanessa Duncan completed her teacher training and was employed as a
teacher at DSODE. The Principal sought to employ additional administration staff through the NSW Department of
Education and Communities initiative to employ more Aboriginal staff. Through this merit selection process two
additional Aboriginal administration staff Kim Simpson and Maxine Toomey were employed. In 2011 restructure
of the Aboriginal Education Team occurred, with a commitment to meet each fortnight. Positive outcomes
include increased numbers of students engaging in Aboriginal Studies as part of their stage 6 curricula, a student
from our Aboriginal Studies class achieving the highest mark for the 2011 HSC in that subject.
In 2012 DSODE enrolled 98 fulltime and part-time Aboriginal students and 45 Aboriginal students enrolled as
single course enrolments. DSODE has two permanent Aboriginal teachers and two permanent administration staff
employed. This year saw the opening of the Dubbo Learning Centre with an Aboriginal teacher working in the
centre to bridge the gap between students and the school community. DSODE has always celebrated Naidoc week
during a residential camp, and now also celebrates Reconciliation week. DSODE has an Aboriginal teacher trained
to deliver the Aboriginal Pedagogies Course. Key Learning Areas (KLAs) have a renewed pedagogical focus and the
links to community that have been developed have led to the resourcing of faculties by a local elder to assist with
embedding more Aboriginal perspectives into the programs delivered through many of the KLAs. The Orana
Connected Learning Community (OCLC) program has also worked extensively with a local elder to develop
learning materials that are culturally appropriate and meet our students needs. The Norta Norta program
continues with Aboriginal students identified being given additional tutoring and support towards the
achievement of identified learning outcomes. DSODE is an active member of the Dubbo AECG with representation
at every AECG meeting and provides an annual presentation to the AECG detailing programs and student
achievements. DSODE has eight staff volunteering as tutors at a community based after school program for
Aboriginal students from all schools in the Dubbo area.
In 2013, 137 Aboriginal students enrolled in DSODE in fulltime and part-time programs and 45 Aboriginal students
enrolled as single course students. As in previous years DSODE continues to employ Aboriginal staff to work with
all students. In 2013 two DSODE members of the teaching staff attended the Aboriginal Education Distance
Education Network Conference, which was held in Queanbeyan at Karabar High School. This conference led to the
establishment of projects to develop and share resources across the distance education network.
DSODE staff are working with members of the local Aboriginal Community. During the past 18 months teachers
have worked with a local Elder, who has undertaken to create a learning resource for all schools in the Dubbo
area to use that includes stories of the Past and Present. DSODE staff have also worked closely with Buninyong
Public School on the development of a resource that can be used across the two schools focusing on local cultures
and histories in keeping with the Australian curriculum implementation.
HSC Seminars
Dubbo School of Distance Education has organised and hosted the annual two day Western Region HSC
Enrichment Seminars for over 20 years. HSC students from rural New South Wales take part in a program of
enrichment seminars held on the Thursday and Friday immediately before the long weekend in June at
the Dubbo RSL Memorial Club. The aim of these seminars is to maximise the marks of country students by
providing them with the most up-to-date information.
In 2013 over 500 Year 12 students from as far as Inverell, Young, Blue Mountains and Menindee attended the
seminars. Former HSC markers, authors of text books and study guides, university lecturers and teachers, as well
as careers advisers made up the vast array of seminar leaders. Over 35 HSC presenters from Sydney flew to
Dubbo to lecture the students and their teachers. Students selected 11 lectures from an offering of over 144.
Lectures such as these are usually only offered in the Sydney Metropolitan region with extremely high fees. Some
may cost $65 for one lecture whereas in Dubbo attendance for the two days costs $70.
The aim of the seminars is to put students from rural and regional NSW on a similar footing to their city-based
counterparts by providing insight as to how students can best achieve success in the various courses they may be
presenting for at the HSC examination. Former HSC markers and supervisors provide students with a behind-thescenes look at the way examination papers are marked in different subjects. The sessions are very practical and
give students a better understanding of what certain questions mean and how they can be best
answered. Lectures specifically address what the HSC Examiners and markers are looking for in responses.
Many of the students came from smaller and more isolated schools without careers staff. Rural schools often
have very young teachers who have not had the opportunity to mark HSC papers, hence the seminars are vitally
important to those teachers and their students.
The organising committee of the Seminars consists of a group of 4 teachers from the Dubbo School of Distance
Education. The Committees task is to coordinate the presenters and the schools and the various venues.
Specifically the committee:
locates recognised presenters, organises their flights, accommodation, timetables the 168 lectures;
organises transport and meals for the presenters while they are in Dubbo;
liaises with over 40 schools seeking information about the courses and content that is required to be
covered in the various lectures;
organises the collection of fees from students, equipment at each of the 14 venues; and
prints resource materials provided by presenters for students and run the 2 days
10
Teaching Practices
Changing Practices Survey 2007 to 2012
Work Practices Survey July 2007
A survey of how staff spent their time was undertaken to ascertain how technology had impacted on the daily
teaching and learning of teachers. We wanted to find out how Executive, Year Advisors and Classroom Teachers
spent their time. Eleven Head Teachers, five Year Advisors and seventeen Classroom Teachers completed the
Running Record sheets for five days.
The summary of the data showed that Head Teachers and Year Advisors spent most of their time on role specific
tasks, while teachers spent most time on marking and providing students with written feedback. In total all three
groups spent over half their time on teaching activities. Communication with students, supervisors and other
staff also constituted a significant part of the average day. This communication took various forms with phone
calls being the major mode of communication.
A significant number of teachers mentioned a fractured day or, the time spent in meetings did not allow them
large blocks of time to complete teaching tasks. As a result of this information the school introduced, in 2008, the
core teaching time from 9:30am to 1:00pm when no meetings could be held. Meeting times, apart from Executive
and Head Teacher Meetings were set for 1:30 to 2:00pm each day.
As 33 out of 135 staff completed the survey it could be considered just a sample however the summary of results
and anecdotal comments were taken to a full staff meeting for open discussion resulting in the following
observations and decisions;
all teachers should have personal timetables available so that if they were absent, communication with
their students about the absence could happen as soon as possible
meetings could only occur at set times and regular meetings should appear on the school calendar.
11
The school subscribes to Clickview, which is a facility that allows students to see video recordings provided by
licenced vendors and the schools video recordings of free to air television.
ClaroRead Pro is being used to produce audio versions of printed materials for students. This allows students with
poor reading or eyesight to be provided with audio versions of written materials.
In 2013 DSOE is planning to expand the use of Adobe Connect and Skype to provide students with more lesson
times with teachers and peers.
12
13
Residential Camps
The DSODE hostel is used to provide valuable opportunities for students and parents to come and work together
and share experiences learning by distance education. Such opportunities help to break down the potential
feelings of isolation and loneliness, which may be experienced by young people working on their schoolwork
alone. The relationships and sense of belonging to the school and society engendered by regular camps must not
be underestimated.
Each term the staff provide extensive support and planning to run camps for students and, in the case of
preschool and primary students, parents and carers.
Year Group
Parents
attending
Duration
Approximate
number of
students (and
parents)
Terms
Y/N
Offsite
accommodation
needed
Preschool
3 to 5 days
Up to 40
1, 2, 3 and 4
Sometimes not
often
Primary
4 to 5 days
Up to 40
1,2,3 and 4
Sometimes not
often
Years 7 to 10
5 days
Up to 50
1,2 and 3
Sometimes
Years 11 and 12
5 days
Up to 50
1,2 and 3
Sometimes
Middle Years
5 days
Up to 30
Sometimes
5 days
Up to 50
Usually
Music Camp
2-3 days
20 to 30
2 or 3
No
Languages
Camp
2-3 days
25 to 50
2 or 3
No
Years 6 to 11
(Muster Camp)
In addition to the camps above DSODE provides regular specialist camps and workshops to support students
studying VET, TAS and Science courses as these all require completion of practical activities.
DSODE also supports external use of the hostel by Xsel, Western Access Program, visiting schools, DSODE parents
and various groups requiring meeting facilities. DSODE charges a fee to public schools to cover running costs for
the hostel including cleaning, which can be quite expensive. Non-government agencies are charged more.
14
Languages Program
What is essential for teaching and learning in Languages?
Item
More information
- Over head
-Video display
-Computer monitor
- listening device with speakers
Thumb drives and CDs
Essential tools for delivering the course matching in with using ICT in the
programs. All language students receive and use either a thumb drive or
CD in their courses
Language Camp
The language camp is vital for students to utilize language learnt with
other students and their teacher. It provides an opportunity for teachers to
assess students skills and provide quality teaching instructions and
feedback.
Professional development
15
Science
The Science Network is comprised of stakeholders from various Distance Education Centres (DECs) across the
state including Dubbo, Karabar, Southern Cross, Sydney and Camden Haven. The Network was tasked with
sharing resources and agreed to create resources for a blended mode of learning for the new Australian
curriculum.
The network collaborated on ideas and resources to develop a Scope and Sequence for each of Years 7 and 9.
Since then the DECs have consulted via e-mail, Videoconference, Google applications and shared via Equella.
DSoDE has focused on developing resources for the e-learning courses in Years 7 and 9 supplemented with
resources developed by other DECs.
16
Middle Years
The Middle Years network was formed in October 2012 with our inaugural conference held in Dubbo. At this time,
16 delegates from across all the DE secondary schools in 4 KLA areas (English, Science, HSIE & Visual Arts)
discussed ideas relating to writing a Cross-curriculum unit which would address the new Australian curriculum
priorities of Asia and Australias engagement with Asia and sustainability, whilst also applying Project-Based
Learning (PBL) concepts.
The team developed ideas and an outline for a 5 week unit addressing issues about tiger conservation titled Save
Our Stripes. The Big (PBL) question, What can I as an individual do to make a difference to tiger conservation?
is set to inspire ideas from students to contribute to the conservation theme. It allows students the ability to
contribute and problem-solve solutions to a real-life situation. In this unit, students learn about and develop a
clear understanding of the issues which are threatening the tiger species in Asian countries. The 5 Es instructional
design model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend, Evaluate) has been used as the framework for writing the crossKLA unit, allowing the students to build on their knowledge and apply it in a practical way for the final week.
Week 6, term 3, saw the completion of the unit and implemented as a trial with Year 8 at Dubbo School of
Distance Education. The unit has been presented to students as a paper-based unit which is easily separated into
the KLA subjects for marking, and it is supported with a digital portfolio of resources (videos, pdfs & other
supporting docs) on a USB drive. There is a student version and a teacher version of the portfolios for each week.
These resources were showcased at a PBL network meeting in Sydney and representatives were given a copy each
to take back to their DE school. Representatives of the Curriculum Directorate have also shown a keen interest in
the unit. Plans are now underway to support the delivery of Save Our Stripes within the various DE schools,
whereby staff from DSODE plan to run workshops to assist in implementing the unit with staff/students in each
centre on request.
17
Student Welfare
As of May, 2012 the DSODE Welfare team has 25 Student Advisors (SAs) working with secondary students, with
new SAs coming on board as numbers in a particular cohort grow. Each SA provides care and support for up to
twenty DSODE students. The following information details some of the work undertaken by SAs and teachers.
Student Advisors:
Commence the process of getting to know the student and family/supervisor by reading information
gathered during the enrolment process and making initial contact. The initial phone call is very important
and can make the difference between the student engaging and not. This phone call is often the first
contact the student and their supervisor have with the teaching staff and is integral in bridging the gap
between what they know and what they need to know.
When a student is enrolled, check that students have been allocated teachers for their various subjects
and ensure that the initial work is sent in appropriate time, set up distribution lists for all of the students
on their case loads and keep all of the teachers informed of issues and or changes that have occurred for
a particular student on any given day.
Keep track of student attendance and ensure that teachers are monitor this on the required tracking
devices.
Become the contact person for the student and the students support network regarding any issues,
problems and concerns that they may have.
Coordinate students participation in whole school activities such as residential camps, completing a
range of administration requirements relating to the planning and running of the camp as well as
ensuring student participation requirements are met.
Often act as overnight camp supervisors, coordinate student transports and assist families with medical
and permission documentation.
Complete Personal Learning Plans for all out of homecare, Aboriginal and Autism Spectrum students and
assist teachers complete the teaching and learning strategies for each individual student and updates as
required.
Liaise with the student engagement and attendance coordinator and Welfare Head teacher when issues
of attendance arise and ensure that the appropriate action is taken to see if the student can be
reengaged.
Are integral in the transition process, assisting students return to mainstream school.
Organise resources for students, enabling them the meet their learning needs e.g. assisting students
access a DER Laptop if they are eligible and we ensuring students are enrolled in Moodle.
Set up and maintain student lesson timetables for them as well, responding to teachers enquires
regarding the issuing of warning letters and updating the lists of students with Mental Health needs and
their status relating to warning letters.
Are required to attend fortnightly meetings where they can be involved in Professional Development to
enable them to complete this Pastoral Care role in the most satisfactory manner possible.
With a large number of Mental Health enrolments it is essential that all Student Advisors are
knowledgeable of, and possess skills in dealing with, Mental Health issues as well as a range of other skills
including dealing with difficult people and bullying behaviours.
Are represented on the Cyber safety, Mind Matters, Aboriginal Education and Anti- bullying Committees,
who are all working together on a range of programs and projects that will see all staff are able to better
deal with our current clientele.
Ensure that students are recognised through the schools Merit system and ensure that students who are
engaged and achieving are recognised for their progress. It gives the family a sense of pride to have these
certificates awarded to their student.
18
Initiate and support the processes involved in supporting student attendance at Learning Centres across
the state.
Ensure that semester reports are completed for each of their 20 students and complete all the required
administrative tasks to make that happen.
Through staff meetings provide professional learning activities and ensure staff are informed about
processes to support particular groups of students
Enrolments have grown significantly in the areas of Alternate Programs, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Young
Parents. Specialist Student Advisors have been assigned to specific groups of students with unique learning needs.
19
Establishing a partnership with a local community organisation to access a public venue where students
can attend and access telephone and internet
Funding to employ local teachers or SASS (depending on availability) to work with students
20
21
Attendance plan
developed with
HSLO
Mobility Tracker
GET SMART
referral
Date
Out of home
Care? Y/N
Letter 3 sent:
Date
HSLO referral
sent:
Student Review
Completed
Sent: Date
Letter 2
Sent: Date
Letter 1
CS &/or CWU
notified: Date
location
Year
Date
Surname, Name
Comments:
1/05/12 Option for student to close enrolment
07.10.
1995
11
Mudgee
05/04/12
Deniliquin
28/02/12
Bogan
Gate
28/02/12
Comments:
30.08.
1995
11
Comments:
06.10.
1995
11
31/1/12
31/1/12
31/1/12
Comments:
22.03.
Temo
11
28/02/12
1995
ra
Comments:
Letter to close enrolment over 17 and no contact 22/03/12
22
Field Services
Preschool Field Services
Preschool Field Services form an important part of the Preschool program that we offer at Dubbo School of
Distance Education.
We offer most of our students a home visit if it is viable (cost effective). We also offer four camps in Dubbo, one
each term where our students can attend and meet their teachers, work with the other students in our program
and develop their social skills.
Home Visits:
Provide both the supervisor and the student with a sense of belonging to a Preschool.
Provide an opportunity for the teacher to work one on one with the student to access their educational
progress.
Work with the supervisor (parent) to suggest activities, which will address areas of need and further
develop the childs skills.
Build a strong rapport with both the child and the supervisor.
Provide an opportunity for the supervisor to discuss the work sent and ask questions about the
implantation of their childs preschool program.
Provide the teacher with an opportunity to inform the supervisor of the latest developments in early
childhood pedagogy.
Support supervisors with a range of activities and ideas to enhance their childs development.
Discuss with the supervisor strategies they can use to prepare their preschool student for their transition
to school.
23
Developing personal learning plans for Aboriginal students, young parents and students with identified
learning needs such as low literacy levels
Providing competency based workshops in Vocational Education Training courses and practical workshops
in Stage 6 courses with mandatory practical components including major work
Developing productive relationships with students by providing instruction and support for the student
and their supervisor, who may be a parent, carer or home school supervisor
Advising and helping students and supervisors to set up appropriate study environments and practices
e.g. proper desk, storage, lighting, technologies, timetables etc.
Supporting the Ashford, Bundarra and Emmaville students and staff with their unique partnership with
DSODE to support Stage 6 students attain HSC and VET credentials
24
Notes:
* The school now serves secondary students in the Western Riverina (west of the Newell Highway, as far as
Coomealla HS); all the Western Region (east of Mudgee to Tibooburra/Wanaaring); Ashord/Bundarra and
Emmaville; Northwest Region (west of the Newell Highway) and most of the state for pre-school.
** A ratio of 1 vehicle: 20 staff in 1991 to 1 vehicle: 33 staff in 2012.
Testimonials
Students names have been changed for privacy reasons.
25
Appendices
1. Role Statements for Young Parent Program, YES Program and Learning Centre Staff
2. Delivery of Physics at DSODE
3. Bathurst SEG Reviews
4. DSODE Student Participation and Attendance Statement of Practice
5. Maps of DSODE Drawing Area for Secondary Students
Appendix 1
Role Statements for Young Parent Program, YES Program and Learning Centre Staff
Karyn Burgun
Responsibility
Key aspects
Young Parent
Program
Coordinator
Yes Program
Coordinator
Learning
centre
Coordinator
Intranet locations
and support
persons
Karyn Burgun,
Vanessa Duncan,
Louise Woods,
Kim Simpson,
Maxine Toomey.
Karyn Burgun,
Beth Beatty
Jenny Donovan
Ian Smith
Tim Quayle
Deputy
Karyn Burgun,
Tim Quayle,
Vanessa Duncan
26
Vanessa Duncan
Responsibility
Key aspects
Young Parent
Program
Welfare
Advisor 0.2
Crche Coordinator
PLPs
Learning Centre
0.3
Aboriginal
student
programs
Coordinator
Liaise with Young Parent Support regarding student issues and report
matters to staff
Manage timetables in consultation with Young Parents Support
Liaise with relevant community organisations and individuals to assist
in the promotion of the YP Program
Oversee Young Parent Personalised learning Plans
Liaise with DSODE staff members on appropriateness of lessons, field
services and any additional information relevant to teachers
Respond to correspondence received at the school and forward to YP
where relevant
Assist Young Parent with problems or issues that may have been
raised during phone calls and visits.
Assist all staff members with ANY issues relating to Young Parents
Assist Young parents with subject selections and changes
PLPs for YPs
Manage the crche in regard to DOCS regulations and staffing
Manage resources and budget
Ensure timetabling is working and efficient
Liaise with preschool staff regarding programming and resources
Oversee PLP processes in conjunction with SA and complete PLP if not
completed by SA. monitor.
Review PLPs before sending to students
Liaise with Student Advisors regards PLP
Contact teachers with regard Teaching and learning Adjustments
Construct and adjust when necessary daily timetable
Complete Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) with Young Parents
Manage support staff
Supervise students in the learning centre
Manage resources and learning materials
Help students with school work and liaise with teachers about leaflet
work
Attend field service to visit Indigenous students when required
Attend regular committee and AECG meetings
Liaise with Aboriginal Education Curriculum Co-ordinator in order to
support the individual needs of Indigenous students enrolled at DSODE
Liaise with outreach centres and supervise tutors to support their
needs and help with issues that may arise
Liaise with DSODE staff members on appropriateness of lessons, field
services and any additional information relevant to teachers in
consultation with Aboriginal Support Worker
Respond to correspondence received at the school and forward to
Aboriginal Support Worker for distribution to Aboriginal students
Manage timetables in consultation with Aboriginal Education Support
Person
Assist in any issues arising with Indigenous students.
Teach in
Alternate
Program 0.2
Teach in
Primary 0.2
Dubbo School of Distance Education
Intranet
locations and
support persons
Welfare Advisor 2
(Louise Woods)
Karyn Burgun
Vanessa Duncan
Vanessa
Duncan
Karyn Burgun
Janelle Dowton
Jenny Ballhausen
27
Tim Quayle
Intranet locations
and support
persons
Responsibility
Key aspects
Welfare
Advisor
0.2
Learning
Centre 0.2
Alternate
Program /
YES Program
0.2
Liana Leigo
Karyn Burgun
Janelle Dowton
/ Karyn Burgun
Kim Simpson
Responsibility
Key aspects
Karyn Burgun
Vanessa Hall
Vanessa Hall
28
Karyn Burgun
Liana Leigo
Vanessa Hall
Janelle Dowton
Janelle Dowton
Karyn Burgun
Lynda Ipkendanz
29
Maxine Toomey
Responsibility Key aspects
Intranet
locations and
support persons
Provide
Young Parent
Support
0.4
Support
Aboriginal
education
planning
team
Karyn Burgun
Coordinate YP timetables
Vanessa Hall
Collate data analysis with regard to school plan and school targets
and report to relevant executive.
Plan timetables for Indigenous students in consultation with AE Coordinator and teachers (both phone, visits to the school and field
services)
Vanessa Hall
SASS Duties
0.4
Moodle
Lynda Ipkendanz
SASS Duties
Work Areas
0.2
Lynda Ipkendanz
30
Appendix 2
Telephone with visual support using Adobe Connect, Cosketch, Concept Board or Skribblar
31
Appendix 3
DATE OF
ENROLMENT
LOCATION
OTHER
11
Sch Ph
1/12/2009
Bathurst
Beh
18/11/2011
Bathurst
P/W
MH
24/11/2009
Lithgow
Working well
10
MH
Acc Req
Bathurst
11
Beh
21/10/2011
Bathurst
P/W
Beh
10/08/2011
Charbon
10
MH
3/2/2010
Mudgee
11
MH
16/12/2009
Mudgee
Engaged
Beh
5/5/2011
Walgett
12
Extra
5/5/2008
Hargraves
12
Extra
23/05/11
Bathurst
Beh
13/9/11
Lithgow
Beh
12/12/2011
Bathurst
Working well.
Beh
9/12/2011
Bathurst
10
Beh
Acc Req
Eglinton
MH
8/2/2012
Bathurst
Working well.
Beh
17/03/2011
Lithgow
10
Beh
14/9/2011
Mudgee
10
Beh
24/5/2010
Bathurst
10
Beh
27/7/2010
Mudgee
Beh
18/3/2009
Lithgow
10
Sch Ph
5/8/2010
Mudgee
11
Beh
Acc Req
Kelso
11
Beh
11/3/2009
Bathurst
Beh
22/07/2011
Mudgee
No engagement.
11
Beh
18/11/2011
Lithgow
Beh
22/11/2011
Bathurst
32
Beh
8/10/2010
Bathurst
11
Beh
23/4/2010
Bathurst
11
Extra
18/5/2010
Richmond
P/W
MH
17/10/2008
10
Beh
27/10/2011
Bathurst
Sound engagement
10
Beh
Acc Req
Bathurst
11
Beh
24/10/2010
Mudgee
10
Extra
23/11/2011
Mudgee
Beh
9/9/2011
Bathurst
Some engagement
11
Beh
8/2/2011
Kandos
11
MH
04/08/2011
Lithgow
10
MH
30/8/2011
Orange
10
Beh
22/07/2011
Kandos
Limited engagement
11
Beh
7/11/2011
Bathurst
11
School Phobia
Acc Req
Bathurst
11
School Phobia
15/03/2011
Kelso
11
MH
09/08/2011
Lithgow
Beh
Acc Req
Kelso
Bathurst
EC
12
Beh
23/3/2009
Portland
P/W
MH
2/5/2011
Kelso
33
Appendix 4
Background
Measuring both attendance and participation in the distance education program is complex.
Changes in Child Protection Requirements relating to attendance and the increase in the mandatory enrolment
age to 17 years have required DSODE to review practices. Habitual Absence from school requires that a report of
significant harm be made to Community Services.
The aim is to develop and implement a consistent and efficient set of practices for teachers, students and parents
to ensure that participation in the educational program provided for each student at DSODE is measured and that
appropriate supports and actions are taken when a student is identified as being at risk because of habitual
absence.
Note: It is required that Home School Liaison Program (HSLP) support is accessed prior to submitting a
Community Services report.
General principles
Attendance is a requirement by law. In a face-to-face school environment, students are required to attend regular
(usually daily) classes. Attendance measurements relate to the students physical presence in each class. The
students participation in classroom activities is measured in other ways.
In distance education attendance cannot be measured by daily registering each students physical presence in
lessons. Measurement of participation can provide evidence that a student is engaged in the educational program
provided for them. The measurement of attendance may comprise different aspects for different students as
circumstances vary greatly across the student population. These aspects include:
Attendance in scheduled lessons via technologies such as telephone, VC, satellite, Bridgit etc.
Teachers are required to record all educational participation of students in the Student Management System
database.
34
phone supervisor
consult with year adviser re other phone numbers that could be used for contact
check through student enrolment form for other contact phone numbers
3. In each WAM week identify students who have not participated over the previous two weeks.
4. Access the Attendance Monitoring Table (AMT) for appropriate Year:
Place an x and your initials in appropriate week (WAM reflecting previous 2 weeks)
6. In Years 10, 11 or 12 the BOS warning letters would be sent if the student has been enrolled in a standard
educational program.
7. For students in Years 7 and 8 discussions at Middle Years meeting would take place and a nonparticipation letter sent. If the student is not participating across multiple courses whole school
intervention will occur.
8. For students in Years 9 discussions at Stage 5 meetings would take place and a non-participation letter
sent. If the student is not participating across multiple courses whole school intervention will occur.
35
Sights signed statement regarding attendance as part of Roles and Responsibilities of Supervisor in
Enrolment Application; and
If no response results from letter 1 within two weeks SEAC emails all teachers of a student to request
completion of an individual student review template located in I:\Student Management\AA Student
folders
SEAC/AP Primary sends letter 2 and specific information (copy of the new individual student review)
about the students non-participation to the parent/carer if no resolution has been achieved
SEAC/AP Primary makes HSLO referral by completing the HSLP referral document and attaching the
updated student participation review
tracks interventions and responses in the Attendance Tracking spreadsheet one sheet per Year Group;
and
36
Appendix 5
37
38
39