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.