Parents Q&A Forum
Find answers or connect with the Sunshine Beach P&C community. We're here to help you navigate school life.
Where can I buy the school uniform?
The uniform shop is located next to the administration building.
What are the uniform requirements for different year levels?
All students wear the same uniform: navy blue shorts or skorts, and the school polo shirt with the SBSS logo. In winter, students may wear navy blue track pants and the school jacket or fleece.
Are hats compulsory?
Yes, hats are compulsory for all outdoor activities as part of our Sun Smart policy. Students must wear a navy blue broad-brimmed or bucket hat with the school logo, available from the uniform shop.
What shoes are acceptable?
Students should wear closed-toe shoes suitable for play and sports activities. Sandals and thongs are not permitted for safety reasons.
What days is the tuckshop open?
The tuckshop is open Monday to Friday for lunch orders unless otherwise communicated. Orders must be placed before 8:00 AM on the day.
How do I order from the tuckshop?
Orders can be placed online through Munch Monitor. The tuckshop menu is available through Munch Monitor and updated each term.
Can I volunteer at the tuckshop?
Absolutely! The tuckshop relies on parent volunteers to operate. Contact the tuckshop convenor via the school office to register your interest. Even a few hours per term is greatly appreciated.
What time does school start and finish?
School begins at 8:30 AM with the bell ringing at 8:25 AM. Students should be in their classrooms by 8:25 AM. School finishes at 2:30 PM.
What is the P&C and what do they do?
The Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) is a volunteer organization that works in partnership with the school to enhance educational outcomes and build community. The P&C fundraises for school resources, runs the tuckshop and uniform shop, organizes events, and provides a voice for parents in school matters.
When are P&C meetings held?
Check the calendar on this website for meeting dates and times.
How can I get involved with the P&C?
There are many ways to get involved! You can attend meetings, join a subcommittee, volunteer at events, help in the tuckshop or uniform shop, or contribute your professional skills. Every level of involvement is valued - even if you can only help occasionally. Contact the P&C via email or speak to a P&C member at school events.
Do I need to attend meetings to be involved?
No! While meetings are a great way to stay informed and have input, many parents contribute in other ways such as volunteering at events, helping with working bees, or joining specific project teams. The P&C welcomes all forms of involvement that suit your schedule and interests.
How does the P&C support the school?
The P&C itself decides how to support the school based on needs and priorities. If you'd like to advocate for particular initiatives, you can do so by attending meetings, joining relevant committees, or speaking with P&C members directly.
Are there WhatsApp groups for parents?
Yes! There are WhatsApp groups for each year level to help parents connect and share information. These are parent-run groups (not official school channels) for coordinating playdates, sharing reminders, and building community. Ask your class parent representative or check the P&C website for links to join your year level group.
How can I connect with other parents in my child's class?
Great ways to connect include attending school events, volunteering in the classroom or on excursions, joining the year level WhatsApp group, and chatting at drop-off and pick-up. Class parents also organize social gatherings throughout the year. Don't be shy - the SBSS community is friendly and welcoming!
Are there social events for families?
Yes! The school and P&C organize various social events throughout the year including welcome picnics, movie nights, trivia nights, school discos, sports carnivals, and our annual school fete. These events are wonderful opportunities to meet other families and build connections within the school community.
Is there a parent buddy system for new families?
While there isn't a formal buddy system, the P&C and class parents work to welcome new families. New families are often introduced at P&C meetings, and many year level groups have parents who volunteer to help newcomers settle in. Don't hesitate to reach out - our community loves welcoming new families!
How do I find out about playdates and social activities?
Year level WhatsApp groups are the main way parents coordinate playdates and social activities. Class parents may also organize group activities. The school newsletter and P&C communications share information about official school events. Building connections at school events and through volunteering naturally leads to social opportunities.
Are there financial assistance programs for families in need?
Yes, several support options are available. The P&C also has a confidential assistance fund to help with costs like uniforms, excursions, and school supplies. Please contact the P&C's Executive Committee confidentially to discuss your needs - no family should miss out due to financial hardship.
How can I make a donation to the school or P&C?
Donations can be made directly to the P&C via bank transfer (details available from the P&C treasurer or website) or by cash/check delivered to the school office. You can also donate through specific fundraising campaigns or by purchasing items from the P&C's wishlist for school resources.
Are donations tax-deductible?
The P&C is currently in the process of registering as a deductible gift recipient (DGR) with the Australian Tax Office. Once registered, donations will be tax-deductible. Please reach out if you'd like to make a donation and are interested in the latest information on DGR status.
How are fundraising proceeds used?
All P&C fundraising proceeds go directly back to the school to benefit students, without exception. The P&C provides regular updates on funded projects through newsletters and at P&C meetings.
How can I provide feedback about the school or my child's experience?
We value parent feedback! You can share feedback through attendance at P&C meetings, P&C-led surveys, or by contacting the Executive Committee directly. Your input helps us continuously collaborate with and improve the school.
Can parents attend school events and assemblies?
Yes! Parents are warmly welcomed at most school events including assemblies, sports carnivals, concerts, and special celebrations. Assembly times are shared in the newsletter. Some events may have space limitations, but we encourage family involvement. Don't forget to sign in at the office when visiting the school.
How do I find out about upcoming events?
The school newsletter (distributed weekly via email) is the main source of event information. The school calendar on the website is regularly updated. Year level WhatsApp groups also share reminders. Important dates are also sent home in notes. We recommend checking the newsletter each week to stay informed.
Does the P&C provide support on finding appropriate extracurricular activities for SBSS students?
This is something the P&C is considering further this year. If you have any questions or need support on finding appropriate extracurricular activities for your child, feel free to engage via our Whatsapp groups.
What volunteering opportunities are available?
There are many ways to volunteer: helping in the classroom, listening to readers, assisting on excursions, working in the library, volunteering at the tuckshop or uniform shop, helping at school events, joining working bees for grounds maintenance, or contributing to P&C activities. Every contribution is valued!
Can I volunteer in my child's classroom?
Yes! Teachers often welcome parent helpers for activities like reading groups, art projects, or special events. Please speak with your child's teacher about how you can help. Some children prefer their parents to help in other classes, which is also an option. A current Blue Card is required for all classroom volunteering.
How much time commitment is expected for volunteers?
Any amount of time you can offer is appreciated! Some parents volunteer weekly, others help occasionally for special events or excursions. There's no minimum commitment - even helping once a term makes a difference. Choose opportunities that fit your schedule and interests. The school understands that everyone has different availability.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our committee members are here to help you.