General Information

Absences

If your child is absent from school please call the school office ph 466 7251 or email absences@balmacewen.school.nz Please leave the full name of the student and the reason for your child's absence in your message.

Board of Trustees

David Cooper (Chairperson) chairperson@balmacewen.school.nz

Stacey Bond

Pieter van der Klundert

Kelly Macknight

Ahmad Abdul-Rahman

Staff Rep: Neil Brew

 

Buses

A bus runs from Mosgiel via Fairfield and Green Island. This is operated by Otago Road Services. Other buses that stop near Balmacewen are part of the public bus routes. 

Communication

Effective communication between parents and caregivers, and teachers is most important. We encourage you to contact your child's class teacher if you have any concerns. A telephone call, a letter, email or an arranged meeting may ensure that the child's best interests are being served. 

Our newsletter is sent electronically and is also available on this website. 

Homework

Homework can play a useful part in a child's learning. Normal "rote and retention" homework such as spelling and basic facts learning are common. Other homework may involve topic based research from classroom programmes.

Lost Property

Please ensure that all uniform is clearly named. Lost property is stored in the library foyer.

Medication

If your child requires medication to be administered during the school day, please notify the school office. Medicine will be stored and administered by the office staff.

Music Tuition

We have an extensive music tuition programme. Students who sign up are expected to commit to lessons for the full academic year.

Stationery

School stationery lists are on our website under the stationery tab.

Outdoor Education/Camps

Our Year 7 and 8 camps provide opportunities for all students to participate in a variety of outdoor activities. Year 7 camps are 2 nights held at Waihola. Year 8 camps are one week held at Berwick. Parent support is welcomed. Specific dates for each class will be notified. 

 Click here for risk and safety forms for Year 8 camp 2019.

Click here for risk and safety forms for Year 7 camp 2019.

Reporting to Parents

February : Meet the Teacher Evening

March : Preliminary interviews where it is considered beneficial for parents and school

June - July : Reporting to parents/Mid year Progress Report

December : Written end-of-year reports sent home

School Hours

School starts  8.50am

Interval 10.25am - 10.45am

Lunch 12.15pm - 1.15pm

School finish 3.00pm

 

Sport & Physical Education

Physical activity is a daily event at Balmacewen. Students are expected to be organised with correct PE gear daily.