Responding to young families

A new School as Community Centre (SaCC) has been set up at Umina Public School from the beginning of term one this year.

The SaCC is one of five centres on the Central Coast funded under "Families First" NSW Government funding.

Ms Debbie Notara is the facilitator of the program.

The aim of Umina SaCC is to respond to the needs of local families with children aged up to 8 years by establishing support services and developing community networks.

"I will be asking parents, in person and through questionnaire, about their families needs so that any programs run are relevant and helpful," Ms Notara said.

These programs may include parenting skills courses, a playgroup, a home literacy service, drop-in parent coffee mornings, community celebrations or transport projects.

The SaCC will operate from a large demountable which will soon be delivered to the school.

"I will be running some activities myself but will also organise for other services on the Central Coast to come to Umina.

"I will also be looking for volunteers to work in the SaCC and will provide training and support for them.

"Umina SaCC will have a local advisory committee of service providers and parent representatives, which is another way parents can be involved.

"My background is in counselling, group work, community education and community development.

"I have lived on the Central Coast for 25 years and worked as a social worker at the Child and Family Health Service, Women's Health Centre and most recently as a TAFE teacher in Community Services," she said.

Ms Notara said that she was keen to hear about experiences of living with small children in Umina.

"I am sure Ms Notara will be become an integral part of this school's community very quickly," principal Mr John Blair said.

Newsletter, February 3