OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE PROGRAM INFORMATION BOOKLET FOR FAMILIES

Transcription

1 562 Sydney Rd. Coburg 3058 Phone: Fax: OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE PROGRAM INFORMATION BOOKLET FOR FAMILIES Customer Reference Number: B TELEPHONE Office: OSHC:

2 CONTENTS CONTENTS PAGE Service Philosophy and Goals 1 Inclusion Policy 2 & 3 Before School Care Program After School Care Program Staffing Hours of Operation Enrolment Number Of Places Waiting List Priority of Access Bookings Arrival & Departure Procedure Cancellations Child Protection Children Not Arriving at the Program Attendance After 3.45pm Responsibilities Outside Operating Hours Venue & Security Venue & Security Cont. Privacy Act Access To Children Accounts Fees Fee Arrears Positive Guidance of Children Positive Guidance of Children Cont. Programming Snack Breakfast Afternoon Tea Homework Environmentally Responsible Program Planning

3 CONTENTS Resources & Equipment Outdoor Play & Recreation Videos, Television, Computers & Electronic Games Toys from Home Program Evaluation Program Evaluation Cont Newsletter The Management Structure Coordinator Sponsor OSHC Committee Working With Families Communication Family Involvement Parental Requests Maintenance of Facilities & Safety Checks Health & Safety Smoke Free Environment Illness, Incidents/Accidents First Aid Emergency Management Medication Allergies HIV/AIDS/Hepatitis Policies & Procedures Grievance Procedures Quality Assurance Food and Hygiene Safety Information Sunsmart PAGE Role of Government 18 Checklist 19 Useful Phone Numbers & Websites 20

4 APPENDICES PAGE Appendices 21 Appendix 1 Fee Schedule 22 Appendix 2 Priority for Allocating Places in Child Care Service 23 Appendix 3 I have a Problem 24 Appendix 4 I ve Got a Complaint 25 Appendix 5 Change of Care Requirements 26 Appendix 6 Change of Enrolment Information 27 Appendix 7 Request for Access 28

5 OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE FAMILY HANDBOOK SERVICE PHILOSOPHY AND GOALS To provide a quality childcare service to primary school aged children within the community of St Paul s. This service is community-based, flexible and meets each child s need for care in a creative, stimulating, safe and secure environment before and after school. The philosophy is implemented by the following goals: OUR PROGRAM AIMS TO PROMOTE SAFETY, FUN, GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT. St Paul s OSHC philosophy is to deliver an age-appropriate, educational program, reflecting all areas of development in an indirect way, through play and social interactions in a group or individual setting. We strive to provide a safe, caring, stimulating environment both in an indoor or outdoor setting, being accommodating and inclusive of the wide diversity within our community. We promote input, choice and decision-making by the children to deliver a flexible, enjoyable, fun program. Our program will provide: A safe and secure environment and an opportunity for children to reach their emotional, physical and self esteem needs. Peace of mind for families. Accessible for all individuals including children with physical and intellectual disabilities. Friendly, warm, sensitive and co-operative staff. An excellent range of activities and equipment that accommodates all ages and interests. The service recognises that complaints and grievances can occur and a management policy and procedures to deal with such issues have been established. The primary aim of all people involved in OSHC is to provide quality services for children and their families. Reviewed June 06 Reviewed October 2007 OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 1

6 INCLUSION POLICY The practice of inclusion is a continuous process that provides each individual with the opportunity to feel accepted by others, to develop a sense of belonging and to participate in the community. Inclusive practices in our OSHC Service require a focus on individual children as well as a focus on group cohesiveness and connectedness with each other. All children benefit from inclusion. Our Program is responsive to the specific needs, interests and abilities of all our children. Our service has a process of assessing the needs, interests and abilities of children in regular attendance by collecting observations, surveys and experience evaluations. Our program meets profiled needs, interests and abilities from group and individual children with a wide range of resources readily accessible. We provide a stimulating environment both in an indoor or outdoor setting, through play and social interactions. e.g. dress-up/dramatic play, art/craft experiences, inclusive games, adventure playground, etc. Our service is flexible and modifies the program as required to allow all children to be actively involved, pursuing their current interests as well as develop new ones. We evaluate our program to achieve positive outcomes for our children and to shape future programming decisions. Evaluation is an ongoing process. All children should be allowed genuine opportunity to contribute and be included in the group, taking into account the varying abilities, age, gender, needs, familial/cultural backgrounds, accepting and respecting each unique individual. Children are presented with a range of situations in which they, as individuals or as a group, are empowered to make decisions about their activities. Many activities offered are open-ended, providing adequate variety of resources, which are accessible at all times. e.g. construction, blocks, natural/recycled materials, dress-up, etc. Our program provides the opportunity for children to develop an awareness of their own country s culture and other cultures (including indigenous) by involving families and accessing community resources. They have access to a variety of books, different social, cultural, linguistic resources, posters and music. Girls and boys are supported to understand that they are equally competent and able to participate in a full range of life experiences, e.g. cooking, making and cleaning up after snacks, role-play, etc. Our children are provided with clear information regarding the services policy on diversity and inclusion by displaying limits posters, No put-down Zones signs and general discussion. Staff helps children to recognise discrimination and prejudice and actively encourage all children to show empathy and self-confidence, irrespective of gender and other differences through experiences of play, individual and group discussions and positive role-modelling. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 2

7 Our OSHC service provides an environment where the diversity of the community is valued, acknowledged and accepted. We provide the opportunity to respond positively within a framework of respect and acceptance. e.g. surveys, program participation and through open communication. We provide an opportunity to learn more about the cultural/additional needs of others. e.g. through community notice boards, brochures, school newsletter, incursions. We provide an opportunity to adapt social norms to include greater tolerance of individual differences through our programming, including menu and awareness of other cultural celebrations. We make provisions for children with additional needs through modifying the program, providing resources and by structural alterations. Our program provides diversity through utilising community resources, which include Moreland Council, Community Child Care and Children's Services Resource Development Officer (CSRDO). Parents and other family members are not labelled, stigmatised or devalued. We value the importance of family involvement through frequent communication and by establishing effective relationships. We provide parents with information about the service, philosophy, policies and procedures and ask for input. We always respect the privacy and confidentiality of individual families. We provide parents opportunity to have input through regular feedback and involvement in the program, which affects their children. We are welcoming, accepting and respectful of all families/caregivers by listening and understanding their unique individuality. Staff are aware and committed to meet the diverse family structures that are present within our service in a tolerant, flexible, understanding manner. Staff value and establish clear positive guidelines that are understood and respected by both children and adults and that do not show bias or favouritism. Staff model inclusive behaviours that respect the full range of personalities, abilities, cultures and family structures within the service and in the wider community. Our program provides resources that include books, toys, posters, materials and equipment that promote the diverse needs (culturally economic and individual) in our program. Staff encourages children to communicate their own ideals respectfully and courteously, listening to other people s opinions. Opportunities are provided for staff to further their professional development to continually enhance their understanding of the diversity within our program. Date drafted June 2006 Date revised October 2007 Ratified OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 3

8 BEFORE SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM Our Before Care program operates in a relaxed, informal atmosphere where children participate in quiet activities, play with various games or have free-time. The service commences at 7.30am and children are dismissed from Before Care at 8.30am. AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM The Aftercare Program offers both indoor and outdoor experiences. It gives both choice and structured activities and creates opportunities for children to initiate their own play and having free choice to materials encouraging independence and decision-making. Parent/guardian feedback also allows for the inclusion of families in the program who have increased knowledge on their children s likes, dislikes, strengths, weakness and hobbies. This offers another perspective and enriches our choices. The program will reflect gender equity, be inclusive and culturally relevant and also include children with disabilities. There is a Feedback Sheet near the sign-in book allowing all families to give input into the program. These feedback sheets can be given to a sta7ff member or put in the Suggestion box. The program will be developed and evaluated fortnightly.survey Oct each year STAFFING Staff/child ratios are: one qualified staff member to 15 children. All staff has current Level 2 First Aid Training. One Assistant Coordinator has relevant child Care qualifications. All staff will be studying to obtain Certificate IV Childcare in HOURS OF OPERATION Before School Care After School Care Monday Friday Curriculum Days am pm N/A On the last day of term the hours of operation will be extended to accommodate the earlier dismissal of students. Special arrangements are made for new Prep enrolments during Term 1. OSHC Staff will collect the children from their classrooms and take them to After School Care. At the end of each Before Care session OSHC staff will take the prep children outside to the teacher on duty in the school groups at 8.30 am. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 4

9 ENROLMENT The program is available to children who attend St. Paul s Primary School and school-age children or staff. Students enrolled at St. Paul s Primary School are required to register annually for Outside School Hours Care. These forms are necessary, as care cannot be offered even in an emergency if we do not have basic up to date details. Children cannot attend OSHC unless registered. Staff required copies of relevant Court Orders and essential information about your child/rens special/medical; dietary needs and authorisation of pick up, custody and guardianship arrangements. If your child/ren has additional needs, please discuss these needs with the Coordinator prior to attending. A list of current staff and personnel are included at the end of this booklet. In compliance with the Victorian Privacy Act 2000 and Health Records Act 2001, all forms and documents will be treated in a confidential manner. Information will be used to Program purposes only and is accessible to OSHC staff, Committee of Management and the Principal NUMBER OF PLACES The OSHC Program has been allocated: 20 Before Care places 30 After Care places The program is funded by Family and Community Services. (FaCS) WAITING LIST PRIORITY OF ACCESS St Pauls OSHC maintains a waiting list for care in application date order when required and in accordance with the Commonwealth government s Priority of Access Guidelines. Along with meeting the government s priorities the service is provided as a first priority to children attending the St. Pauls Primary School. BOOKINGS To ensure adequate supervision is provided and determine if additional supervision is needed, it is important for families to book child/ren either on a Permanent or Casual basis. A permanent user is one who is booked in for the same day/s every week. Families should make fixed bookings for these days, by filling in the days required on the Permanent Booking Slip. Causal users may attend when required. Families must notify the school/oshc when care is required on a causal basis. It is best to contact the Office on or the OSHC directly on OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 5

10 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE PROCEDURE The centre officially opens at 7.30am. For insurance and operational purposes, parent/guardians and children are not permitted to enter the premises until the program has opened. To do so would be a breach of Family and Community Service and Child Care Benefit agreements. Children are not to be dropped off from a car or walk from home and arrive at the program in the morning unaccompanied. Parents are required to sign in their child/ren on arrival. It is the responsibility of the teachers or OSHC staff to escort each child from the school grounds to the program and vice versa in the morning. Children will not be allowed to leave the program unless they have been signed out on the Attendance Roll and are accompanied by parent/guardian, authorised or nominated person. Only authorised persons named on the Enrolment Form can collect children from the program. If the custodial parent/guardian arranges for an unauthorised person, (anyone who is not on the Enrolment form) to collect their child from the service, they must contact the service on to advise of this arrangement and confirm who will collect the child. If the service has not been notified and someone other than the custodial parent/guardian, authorised or nominated person arrives to collect the child, the Coordinator will contact the parent/guardian to get his or her authorisation. Wherever possible, phoning the Coordinator or prior notification in writing or should be provided by the parent. Emergency contacts and people authorised to collect your child/ren must be over 18, unless you have made special arrangements with the Coordinator. Should any unauthorised or non-custodial person attempt to take any child from the program, the police will be contacted immediately. CANCELLATIONS It is important that families who have booked their child/ren in to attend the program notify OSHC of cancellations. If you have booked your child into a session and there is a change in plans you must CANCEL the booking. This can be done by notifying the Coordinator or ringing the school number by 2.30pm. This applies to all permanent and casual bookings. CHILD PROTECTION The health and welfare of all children in care is paramount. St Pauls OSHC will act on behalf of children to protect their right to safety and security in accordance with Section 64 of the Children and Young Persons Act Staff working with children has a duty of care to ensure that all children are safe from harm. Information regarding Child Protection is available to families as required. Please see the Coordinator or our Display Board. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 6

11 CHILDREN NOT ARRIVING AT THE PROGRAM If children who are booked do not arrive at the program, the Coordinator or other staff will attempt to contact the child s teacher and School Office to ascertain if the child/ren were at school that day. Parents/guardians who are unavoidably detained and unable to collect their child at 6.00pm must telephone the service to advise of their lateness and expected time of arrival. If a parent is unable to collect their child before closing time, they should arrange for another authorised responsible adult to collect the child, and advise the service of this arrangement. If the parent has not contacted the service and the child has not been collected by 6.15pm, the Coordinator will: 1. Contact the Parent 2. Contact emergency names as per enrolment form Program staff will stay with the child until 6.30pm, and if no contact has been made with parents or emergency contacts, the OSHC Coordinator will contact the relevant school personnel followed by the local police station. ATTENDANCE AFTER 3.45PM At 3.45pm each school day children who have not been collected and are still in the school will be taken by a teacher on duty to the office and attempt to contact parents/guardians. The child/ren will then be brought to the OSHC program and will be collected from there. Once that child has been registered the full session fee will apply. RESPONSIBILITIES OUTSIDE OPERATING HOURS Children must be collected before 6.00pm SHARP. Continued late collection may result in a fine - $1.00 for every minute after 6.00pm. being imposed. If parents expect to be late, they must make alternative arrangements for the collection of their children and notify the OSHC service. Child Care Benefits do not apply for any late fees incurred. Every effort will be made to contact the child s legal guardian or emergency contacts to ensure the child/ren are safe. It is imperative to cancel all bookings. As long as we have the cancellation then parent/s families will not incur a cancellation fee. VENUE AND SECURITY The personal safety and security of children, staff and family members while at the service is of primary importance. To ensure this safety, the venue, grounds, and all equipment and furnishings used by the service are maintained in a safe, clean, hygienic condition and in good repair at all times. Appropriate heating, ventilation and lighting both indoors and outdoors is provided for all children. Heating and cooling units are guarded and positioned so they do not harm children. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 7

12 VENUE AND SECURITY cont.. Emergency exits are clearly identified and fire safety equipment is accessible to staff. A telephone is accessible to the service at all times for incoming and outgoing calls including excursions. Staff will position themselves to ensure maximum supervision of all children at all times. A head count of children is undertaken throughout the session and checked against the sign in and out register. Staff take children to the toilet. The venue is secure and a closing routine is undertaken when leaving the premises. Adequate lighting is provided during the winter months to ensure safe arrival and departures to and from the service for parents, children and staff. PRIVACY ACT St Pauls OSHC has a responsibility to comply with Privacy Act 1988, which governs the release of personal information. This means that private information regarding children and families will not be told to other families within the service or to other persons. Staff will respect parents/guardians rights to confidentiality when these rights do not conflict with the rights and safety of the children eg. Child protection matters. All private information regarding children and families will be held in a locked and secure place. Access will be restricted to the coordinator and staff working directly with your child. Information which is required for the daily operation of the service, the well-being of children and staff may be exchanged between staff members in the normal course of work and will be treated confidentially. You have a right to view the records held in regard to yourself and your child and may request this via the Coordinator. You will be asked to complete a Request for Access Form, outlining the reason for the request. If the reason for the request is reasonable, access will be provided within 30 days of application. The service has a right o refuse access to files based on the terms specified in the Privacy Act ACCESS TO CHILDREN All parents and authorised persons have access to the St Paul s OSHC and their children at all times, unless relevant Court Orders are held by the service that specify otherwise. A copy of all court orders in relation to residence and specific custody orders must be provided to the service upon enrolment or as obtained. These documents will be attached to the child s records and treated confidentially. Parents are asked to notify the service of any changes to these documents as soon as they occur. If the service does not have a copy of the court order it will assume that both parents have equal custody of the child therefore both have access. In the event that a parent breaks a Court order and seeks access to the child and they do not have custody entitlements will be contacted immediately along with the police. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 8

13 ACCOUNTS Invoices and Receipts will be issued in envelopes at beginning of each fortnight and distributed to the child via classroom teachers. Accounts may be paid directly to the Coordinator or through the school office. This money should be in a named and sealed envelope marked Out of School Hours Care Program. Accounts being paid by cheque should be made out the St. Paul s Primary School OSHC. FEES OSHC fees are as follows (for 2008): Before Care $10 per child per session After Care $15 per child per session St Paul s OSHC is a Commonwealth Approved Service. This enables all families to access Child Care Benefits, which can be obtained from the Family Assistance Office (FAO) to assist with their fees. This allows every family to access childcare at a reduced rate. The fee reduction is in accordance with the family s annual income. Child Care Benefits (CCB) is a payment from Commonwealth Government to assist families with childcare. Families can choose to get Child Care Benefit either as reduced child care fees throughout the year or as a lump sum payment at the end of the financial year. If you do not wish to claim the CCB, a Child Reference Number (CRN) is needed for every child attending the program. You apply for this from FAO. FEE ARREARS If payments have not been received 7 days after the account has been issued the Coordinator will speak with the family concerned. If difficult financial circumstances occur families should let the Coordinator or Principal know and special arrangements will be made. If payments are still outstanding, a phone call will be made to the family concerned. If payment is not settled the matter is then passed onto the treasurer of the OSHC committee who will issue a final reminder and determine the outcome. If you have to cancel care, and you have already paid, you will receive a credit for your child/s/children s next attendance. POSITIVE GUIDANCE OF CHILDREN St. Paul s OSHC is committed to developing a safe, secure, caring and stimulating environment, which enhances children s self esteem and encourages them to interact positively and to cooperate with others. To ensure that this occurs all staff will endeavour to know all children s names and address each child individually upon entering and leaving the service. They will communicate with all children in a positive and respectful manner, actively listening to what children have to say and acting upon this. It is important that children are provided with a role model that reflects values and attitudes of the local community; this is the role of the staff. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 9

14 POSITIVE GUIDANCE OF CHILDREN cont To ensure all children are cared for effectively they will be supervised actively at all times by the staff team. Children are encouraged to be considerate and supportive of each other and moral development will form part of the program plan. Children are encouraged to undertake their own problem solving and negotiation with the support of staff. I messages and redirections are methods used for misguided behaviour. Children are supported by staff who will assist them to label their feelings and find appropriate ways of expressing them. The staff will encourage positive behaviour and give clear, consistent guidelines to children regarding the service s expectations and code of conduct. Children are involved in the development of the services behavioural guidelines including consequences of inappropriate behaviour. A child s parent/guardian is consulted when their behaviour consistently conflicts with the services behavioural guidelines and are invited to assist in the development of behavioural plans to assist the child. In extenuating circumstances alternative care may be required for a child whose behaviour affects/endangers other children and has not improved after a behavioural plan has been implemented. Behavioural Management Techniques The OSHC service believes in the following behavioural management techniques: Conflict resolution Allowing the parties involved to work through their conflict, discussing feelings/emotions/actions, until a resolution is agreed upon; Choices Providing the children with alternatives, avoiding a power struggle PROGRAMMING The children attending the OSHC can expect to enjoy the same rights and to accept the same responsibilities as they do whilst at school. Staff will always use positive discipline techniques. Staff will take children s concerns seriously and act upon them immediately, guide the child towards acceptable behaviours using a consistent, fair and friendly, instructive approach with logical consequences and clear alternatives and, at all times, consideration will be shown to others. The program encourages children to initiate and participate in recreational experiences; it also supports their physical, creative and aesthetic development. The programming process caters for the needs, interests and abilities of the children. Our programs and routines are displayed and is formed by children, families and staff input. Please take time to familiarise yourself with our service policies and procedures. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 10

15 SNACK Food provided at the St. Paul s OSHC will vary and be nutritious. Snack times and activities involving food preparation provide positive learning experiences for children, who are also encouraged to develop healthy eating habits. Parents will be consulted and encouraged to share family and cultural values and experiences to enrich the variety and enjoyment of food to meet children/s nutritional needs. Special diets and allergies are considered when planning the type of food to be consumed at the program. Food provided will also refect the diversity of our community and will be sensitive to developmental needs and age appropriateness. Children are required to be seated while eating and drinking to avoid choking accidents. BREAKFAST Choices include: A wide variety of cereal, toast, crumpets, Milk, Milo and juice are offered each morning. If your child/ren are lactose intolerant or have any allergies or favourite breakfast foods please inform staff so that we will be able to cater for their needs. AFTERNOON TEA The After Care Program provides a variety of nutritious and healthy snacks. Please advise us if your child requires a special diet or allergies catered for. The OSHC staff also ensure that drinking water is provided and accessible to children at all times. HOMEWORK Children who attend the service full time may find it difficult to undertake homework tasks at home. St Paul s OSHC supports positive relationships between parents and children and therefore understands that a time and place for homework to be undertaken within the OSHC service is critical. It is also important that children are able to make choices about whether they undertake their work and when they plan to get it done. The staff will attempt to provide a quiet, safe area for children to undertake homework tasks. However, they will not take responsibility for completion of homework; this is the responsibility of the parent and child. The staff can assist children with homework tasks as part of the daily program of experiences where time and resources permit. Children will be paired to undertake like tasks (if appropriate). ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE PROGRAM PLANNING Children s environmental awareness is encouraged through everyday experiences, and specific activities. Recyclable materials are used at all available opportunities including the use of natural materials where possible. The staff and children keep the OSHC area clean of all rubbish and dispose of all items in an environmentally appropriate manner. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 11

16 RESOURCES AND EQUIPMENT Children have access to a range of equipment and materials that are developmentally suitable, safe and well maintained. OUTDOOR PLAY AND RECREATION St Paul s OSHC encourages all children to participate in outdoor play and recreational activities on a daily basis. Outdoor equipment provided is appropriate to the developmental levels of the children it is catering for. Children have access to materials and equipment that can be used in a range of ways to provide challenge and problem solving experiences along with physical development. Both passive and active experiences are provided outdoors and experiences are focused both on individual and groups. However, energetic play is encouraged whilst outdoors. The outdoor plan not only focuses on physical development but also on all other areas of child development. VIDEOS, TELEVISION, COMPUTERS AND ELECTRONIC GAMES St Paul s OSHC attempts to operate as an extension of home and children s leisure time. The service endeavours to reflect children s interests, therefore activities such as videos, television, computers and electronic games will be offered in a balanced program of activities. It is the intention to supply these activities on rare, special occasions. The amount of time children can participate in these experiences is very limited. Staff and children decide together the amount of time these experiences will be limited to as a part of the program development. The content of programs and games is appropriate for all children present and will not contain any physical or verbal violence or ridicule. These activities are limited to C and G ratings. PG rating will be individually assessed by the service and parents for appropriateness. TOYS FROM HOME St Pauls OSHC recognises that children sometimes bring their own toys to school and/or the program; however children are encouraged to leave these toys in their bags whilst at the service. Families are made aware of the impact that war toys have on young children and that such toys are not encouraged at the program. PROGRAM EVALUATION St. Paul s OSHC believes continual assessment and evaluation of the service by the committee, parents, staff and children is an integral part of program planning. Children and parents will be surveyed regularly to ensure the program offered reflects their needs and interests. A variety of evaluation techniques will be used with children which may include informal discussion, pre-enrolment surveys, suggestion box, younger children drawing what they like in the program, written surveys, and children s interest checklists. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 12

17 PROGRAM EVALUATION cont.. Staff will regularly evaluate activities, the program, excursions and incursion informally and at staff meetings. Parents and staff will work collaboratively towards continuous improvement via service evaluation including suggestion boxes, parent surveys, informal discussion and formal discussion at parent and committee meetings. NEWSLETTERS Once a week the school newsletter is sent home. Families will receive up to date information on what is happening at OSHC. Copies can be obtained from the School Office or alternately on St Paul s Web page or in the folder labelled Newsletter in Parent Resource Library located near the Coordinator s desk. THE MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE The program is responsible to the Director who has overall responsibility for the development of the Out of School Hours Care Program Policies and Procedures. The Coordinator reports monthly to the Committee which consists of Principal Nominee, Coordinator, OSHC employees, Parent/guardians in the committee. Nominations for committee positions are called for at the beginning of each year. The Principal or Principal Nominee is responsible for monitoring the management and finances of the program. COORDINATOR The Coordinator is responsible, in conjunction with the Committee Management for the day to day management of the service. The Coordinator ensures that the day to day management of the service meets with the requirements set by the Commonwealth s Department of Family and Community Service in conjunction with the OSHC Committee. SPONSOR The St. Paul s Parish sponsors St Paul s Coburg Out of School Hours Care Programme. The Parish has the responsibility for the financial, administration, accounting and reporting processes and tasks of the service. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 13

18 OSHC COMMITTEE The Committee has the responsibility for the day to day management of the service. The committee is made up of representatives from the sponsor body, parents and program staff. The primary role of the committee is to oversee the service and to implement policies in relation to the service. The committee meets on a monthly basis. The committee reports directly to the St. Paul s Parish. WORKING WITH FAMILIES St. Paul s OSHC is committed to working with families in a collaborative manner in order to provide a high quality child care service that meets the needs of children, families and the community. Parent participation and communication is critical to the success of the service and its programs. COMMUNICATION The role of the family in the OSHC Service is paramount to its success and outcomes for children. Family members have a great deal of knowledge about their child that can be shared with the service. Staff will tell families about their child s time in the program. Families are encouraged to share relevant changes, issues, needs and interests of the child with the staff. This ensures the best possible care is provided to each individual child within the program. The Coordinator is available to discuss the program and activities at any time. However families wishing to discuss matters of a more confidential nature are encouraged to make an appointment to meet with the Coordinator. In order to provide the best possible care for your child it is important for staff to be notified of any relevant information about your child s health, development and relevant personal/family matters. You are encouraged to read the service notice board, programs plans, notes and newsletters in order to keep up to date with the activities at the service. The staff will provide you with feedback regarding your child s /children s progress on a regular basis. St Paul s OSHC accesses the translation and interpreter service for families who cannot speak or read English. FAMILY INVOLVEMENT St Paul s OSHC actively encourages family involvement in the development of the program and management of the service. Nominations for membership of the Committee of Management are called on an annual basis. Participation in fundraising and quality assurance activities and processes is encouraged, but optional for all families. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 14

19 PARENTAL REQUESTS Parental requests will always be considered and respected. Where requests are reasonable and action required falls within policy guidelines, all efforts will be made to heed these requests. MAINTENANCE OF FACILITIES AND SAFETY CHECKS It is the responsibility of the St. Paul s Primary School to ensure that the building is kept in a safe and clean condition. This is done on a daily basis in the program portable and the grounds are done weekly as part of the school maintenance check. HEALTH AND SAFETY Infectious diseases are as per school policy. If a child suffers from an infectious disease and has to be excluded from school they will also be excluded from OSHC for the designated period of time. See exclusion chart form the Department of Human Services. An emergency evacuation procedure will be carried out in accordance with national Guidelines. All cleaning/hazardous products are stored in an appropriate locked storage area. A wellmaintained first aid kit is readily accessible to OSHC staff. SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT In accordance with Government policy our service is a smoke free environment. We ask that all family members and visitors meet this requirement whilst on the premises. ILLNESS, INCIDENTS/ACCIDENTS If a child is unwell the staff will make the child as comfortable as possible. The child will be kept under close supervision and carefully observed. Parent/guardians will be immediately notified of the illness. Any minor or major injuries will be attended to immediately; an accident form will be filled out and signed by the staff administering First Aid as soon as possible after the event. The parent also needs to sign the form. If the Coordinator believes the child requires medical attention then parents/guardians or the emergency contact person will be asked to collect the child. In an emergency, an ambulance will be called immediately and parents notified. Parents are liable for all costs incurred in a medical situation, as stipulated on enrolment form. If is often very difficult to make an accurate assessment of the severity of a head injury; therefore no head injury will be disregarded or treated lightly. If a child sustains a head injury, parents/guardians will be notified. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 15

20 FIRST AID In the event of an accident or a child falling ill, first aid equipment and expertise is available. A first aid kit is maintained in good order and is accessible by all staff both at the centre and on excursions. All staff members on duty holds a current Level Two first aid certificate EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT The personal safety and security of children and staff while attending the service is paramount. Therefore the centre has emergency procedures that are known and practised regularly by staff and children. The service has written procedures for dealing with emergencies such as, a medical emergency, a fire, threats to staff or children, a bomb threat and robbery. MEDICATION Administration of prescribed or over the counter medications requires a note signed by parent/guardians, which supplies consent authorisation, in order for medication to be dispensed. An authorisation form can be obtained from staff. All medication will be stored in a locked cupboard, unless it needs to be refrigerated. In the case of Asthma medication written management forms need to be completed giving clear instructions. These are attached to the enrolment form. Medication is not to be kept in children s bags. ALLERGIES If a child has a known life-threatening allergic reaction (Anaphylaxis) it must be recorded on the enrolment form. All staff needs to be aware of these children. A Management plan will need to be attached to enrolment form. All staff will obtain relevant training from accredited training agencies. HIV/AIDS/HEPATITIS It is important to inform the service of your child s medical needs upon enrolment. However this is not mandatory. Families will not be pressured to disclose medical conditions to the service and children may not be excluded on the grounds of HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis. All medical details of staff, parents and children attending the centre are maintained in a confidential manner. The number of staff aware of a child s medical condition is restricted of those working directly with the child who will need to detect situations where there is the potential for transmission. Children with moist skin lesions or abrasion are asked to cover them with a waterproof bandage whilst attending the service. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES All policies and procedures are kept in a folder on the front table located near the entry of the OSHC building. These are reviewed by staff and committee in a two year cycle or at a Staff or committee meeting as the need arises. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 16

21 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES Allow parents/guardians and children to have rights and respect from others. They also provide an opportunity to express concerns and feel safe and secure in the program. The policy allows disputes to be effectively resolved. The grievance policy and procedure can be found in the policy folder or can be obtained from the Coordinator. QUALITY ASSURANCE OSHC is committed to participate in a triennial Accreditation process. The National Childcare Accreditation Council implemented the Quality Assurance (Q.A.) System in July This process ensures our service adequately meets the standards required for quality Childcare. For further information about Q.A. see the Coordinator. All equipment and toys will be kept in thoroughly safe, clean and hygienic condition and in good repair at all times, and stored in a safe manner. All equipment and toys purchased on the Outside School Hour Care Program meet Australian Standards and will be appropriate to the developmental stages, interests and culture of the children in care. OSHCQA working parties consist of representatives from four peak bodies: FaCs NOSHSA AFCCA ACCC Department of Family and Community Services National Outside School Hours Services Association Australian Federation of Child Care Associations Australian Confederation of child Care Inc AFCCA and ACCC are representatives of private operators. The National Childcare Accreditation council (NCAC) will administer the OSHCAQ system. OSHC Committee and staff at St. Paul s have a responsibility to ensure the OSHC service adequately prepares for the Quality Assurance (QA) implementation and meeds the standards required. FOOD AND HYGIENE SAFETY INFORMTION Staff promotes appropriate health and hygiene practices such as hand washing and safe food preparation throughout the program. The practices will be consistent and comply with the standards and procedures recommended by recognised health and safety authorities. SUNSMART The Out Of School Hours Program promotes positive attitudes and behaviours towards sun protection. The expectation is that parents will support sun smart procedures. We emphasise the need for a sensible and responsible attitude to skin care during hight-risk times. Children will be required to wear broad brimmed hats or legionnaires hats whenever they are outside. Children who do not have their hat will be directed to paly in the shade. During Terms 1 and 4 all children must wear hats when playing outside. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 17

22 ROLE OF GOVERNMENT Commonwealth Government The Commonwealth Department responsible for OSHC is the Department of Family and Community Services (FACS). The Role of the commonwealth is to: Administer Child Care Benefit to families Administer financial support to approved community managed services in areas of need Assist employers to provide child care for the employees Assist parents with child care options Provide quality assurance framework, with training and support services to improve the quality of care for children Provide funding, training and support products and services to promote equity of access Provide policy advice, research and service management related to providing children s services Further details can be obtained on the FACS Internet site: National Standards The Commonwealth and State Governments have jointly developed National Standards for child care services. These standards express a national view about the level of care all Australians should expect to find in the different kinds of child care services available to them. A copy of the National Standards can be found on the FACS website or ask the Coordinator. The state government is responsible for implementing these standards. National Childcare Accreditation Council (NCAC) Quality Assurance The NCAC administers the Quality Assurance System for Outside School Hours Care on behalf of the Commonwealth Government. The aim of the system is to assist services to implement strategies to improve the quality of care that they provide for children. Ask the Coordinator about the service s participation in the quality system or for further details refer to the NCAC web site: Child Care Benefit Child Care Benefit is funded by the Commonwealth Government to assist families using an approved child care service with child care fees. Its primary focus is to support families who are working, studying, training and looking for work. Family Assistance Office (FAO) The FAO is responsible for Child Care Benefit and Family Tax Benefit payments. The FAO is a joint venture of Centrelink, the Australian Taxation Office and the Health Insurance Commission (Medicare). All service outlets of those organizations include FAO offices. The FAO can be contacted on Further information can be obtained from the Coordinator regarding this function. Local Government The State Government through the Department of Human Services is responsible for food regulation in Victoria through the administration of the Food Act (1984). The Department of Human Services works with Local Government who register food businesses in Victoria. Food safety is a significant issue for OSHC services and it is the responsibility of Local Government to assist services in regard to the level of registration and compliance required to meet the Food Act (1984) and Food standards Code. For more details on food safety refer to the State Government website: Handbook Review: This handbook was reviewed in 2007 having being approved by Director, Staff and OSHC Management Committee in OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 18

23 CHECKLIST HAVE YOU FILLED OUT THESE FORMS? ENROLMENT FORM Before you leave your child in care for the first time. ATTENDANCE RECORD BOOK The attendance form must be signed each time your child attends OSHC. MEDICAL ACTION PLAN On enrolment if your child suffers from any chronic condition eg. Asthma. MEDICATION BOOK If your child needs to take any kind of medication whilst at the centre please fill in appropriate forms. CHILD CARE BENEFIT To receive the CCB funding to reduce your fees you must call Centrelink and enrol OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 19

24 USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS AND WEBSITES Family Assistance Office (FAO) For more information in languages other than English Family Assistance Office (FAO) Teletypewriter free call Only for people ho are deaf or have hearing or speech impairment. A TTY phone is required to use this service. Crisis Line, 24 hours, phone counselling service Disability Information Victoria Community Child Care 1 st Floor 48 High Street Northcote 3070 Tel: Fax: recept@cccinc.com.au Play works 590 Orrong Road Armadale 3143 Tel: Fax: palywork@vicnet.net.au Lady Gowrie Children s Centre 36 Newry Street North Carlton 3053 Tel: Fax: info@gowrie-melbourne.com.au Victorian Co-Operative on Children s Services for Ethnic Groups (VICSEG) 11 Munro Street, West Coburg 3055 Tel: Yam Strong Sista Koorie Education consultants 4/6 Ormond Road Moonee Ponds 3039 Tel yarnstrongsista@primus.com.au Association for Children with a Disability 590 Orrong Road Armadale 3143 Tel: Freecall: Fax: mail@acd.org.au Web: Multilingual Telephone Information Services. This service is provided in English and 11 community languages. Metropolitan callers: Country callers: Kids Help line: OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 20

25 APPENDICES Appendix 1 Fee Schedule Appendix 2 Priority for allocating places in Childcare places Appendix 3 I have a Problem Appendix 4 I ve got a Compliment Appendix 5 Change of Care Requirements Appendix 6 Change of Enrolment Information Appendix 7 Request for Access OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 21

26 APPENDIX 1 FEE SCHEDULE Before School Care $10.00 After School Care $15.00 Example of fees paid by parents eligible for CCB: For 1 child per session Family Income Level Before School Care After School Care $34,310 or less $3.60 $3.86 $38,000 $3.81 $4.31 $46,000 $4.27 $5.27 $52,000 $5.71 $8.23 Please see our Coordinator once your Centrelink Assessment Notice has arrived for details of the amount you will need to pay. Cheques are to be made out to the Out of School Hours Care Service. Fees are to be paid by the Friday of the week invoices are provided. Invoices are provided each Monday in the week following care. Casual users must pay on the time of using the program. OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 22

27 APPENDIX 2 PRIORITY FOR ALLOCATING PLACES IN CHILD CARE SERVICES The Priority of Access Guidelines are primarily referred to when a service has a large waiting list and a number of parents competing for a limited number of vacant places. All parents should be made aware of the guidelines at the time of enrolling their child or children in a child care service. DEFINITIONS Family (for a child) means the child, the individual in whose care the child is, that individual's partner (if any), and any other individual with whom the child lives. Parents means the individual in whose care the child is and that individual's partner. Single parent means an individual in whose care a child is, and who has no partner. PRIORITIES First Priority Second Priority Third Priority A child at risk of serious abuse or neglect. A child of a single parent who satisfies, or of parents who both satisfy, the work/training/study test under Section 14 of the Family Assistance Act. Any other child. PRIORITIES WITHIN EACH CATEGORY OF PRIORITY Within each priority mentioned above, the following children are to be given priority: children in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families; children in families which include a person with a disability; children in families which include an individual whose taxable income percentage under Clause 7 of Schedule 2 to the Family Assistance Act is 100%; children in families with a non-english speaking background; children in socially isolated families; and children of single parents. Where a child care service is funded by an employer in order to provide child care solely or primarily for the children of the employer's employees, the service may give priority to those children. Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2006 Last modified on: 12/06/2006 Page URL: OSHC Information Booklet For Families Page 23