Tacking Point Public School

Tacking Point Public School is a dynamic, well equipped, modern primary school with an enrolment of 730 students for the 2015 school year and is a proud member of the Hastings Valley Community of Schools (Port Macquarie). Tacking Point was established in 1996, it has built a reputation for academic excellence, exceptional cultural programs and outstanding sporting achievements. At Tacking Point Public School we believe that education is about recognising and realising a students' potential and providing a safe and happy community in which to grow. Our core values of Care, Courtesy, Respect and Responsibility form the foundation. We are committed to achieving academic excellence through providing rich and diverse programs. There are two extension classes and activities to enrich programs and maximise student learning. A focus on best teacher practice has supported our achievements by consistently performing well above North Coast Region and State in all facets of the NAPLAN in both years 3 and 5. The school has exemplary extension programs; these include Tournament of the Minds, a Science Fair, Debating and Public speaking. The school is actively using the 'Mathletics' program and new Super Brain Strategies in teaching and learning. The school enters the I.C.A.S competitions; we achieve many High Distinctions, Distinctions and Credits. There are many outstanding cultural opportunities for students; with our 'Korean ConneXion Program' where our students exchange cultural experiences through interactive video linkup on a weekly basis with Hakha Public School in South Korea. Our co-curricular programs are diverse and effective. They include reading recovery, reading tutors, Support Teacher Learning and Assistance and counsellor services to cater for all students' with specific learning needs. Our Learning Support Team is functional and structured to ensure maximum potential for all students' is met. All learning is supported by a strong technology program incorporating internet facilities, laptops, computer laboratories, a connected classroom and classroom interactive whiteboards (in all rooms) and associated technologies. Our cultural program attracts many of our students including choirs, band, dance, drama and art. We have renowned excellence through our 3 choirs which include our auditioned choir, Bel Canto choir and 200 in our band. All children in our music program are able to access music tutorials during the school day. Our annual Concert of Excellence held at the Glasshouse showcases the amazing talents our students possess. Our sporting programs highlight not only talent but participation and effort, resulting in exceptional results on the sporting field with representation in NSWPSSA knockouts (Boys Football and Cricket 3rd in state in 2014). Many students have represented at North Coast and State level in swimming, athletics and cross country. We actively support and develop leadership skills in our students. Our student leadership is led by the Student Representative Council who share and express their ideas and concerns to help make the school one of partnership and collegiality. The SRC have the opportunity to attend the leadership forum at the in Sydney, where they gain a wealth of knowledge that assists them in making a positive contribution to our school and community. In addition to this the school have implemented and refined the Live Life Well at School program which develops fine and gross motor skills and healthy lifestyle choices for our students. These welfare programs are supported with Year 6 attending Canberra, and years 3-5 attending camps to enhance social and living skills. We aim to provide the best learning environment with several significant building projects under construction for 2015, with a new fixed equipment area, Covered Outdoor Learning Area (C.O.L.A.) being erected, and a revamp of our school canteen. We have an active environment team that look after our 'Hen Pen' and garden that produces fresh food for our canteen. Modern technology enhances learning and communication. The school has an extensively revamped website which allows parents and community ready access to all school events; this is also supported by our 'skoolbag' app which enables parents to have up to the minute responsive communication with the school. Schools are about partnerships and there is a strong community connection with a very active parent group that is involved in all areas of school life, with volunteer readers, sports helpers and a committed P&C. The P&C has a new website active and Facebook page for more refined communication. Our joint focus is to provide a rich learning experience for our all students. Our school motto 'Lighting the Way' is symbolic of our Tacking Point Lighthouse. It is a symbol of guidance and protection that is the essence of education. We strive to light the pathways to knowledge and the future for all individuals.