safety

School Playgrounds

School playgrounds are not to be used before or after school.  During these times we are unable to provide duty of care and therefore cannot supervise children's play.

If you arrive at school earlier than the start time, please wait outside your child's classroom until the bell rings.  This helps to keep everyone safe and ensures a calm, settled start to the day.

Dogs On School Grounds

Dogs are not permitted on school grounds at any time, including before and after school.  While many of us love dogs, we also have students, parents and staff who may feel anxious or unsafe around them.  

If you are walking to school with your dog, please ensure it remains outside the school gates and under control at all times.

Sun Safety

In line with Department of Education recommendations, Atwell Primary School promotes sun-protective behaviours and environments for our students.

• Students must wear the school uniform bucket hat when in the sun during lunch and recess breaks and during physical education classes.

• Students without an acceptable hat during break times will be directed to play in shaded areas.

• We encourage parents to apply a high-SPF sunscreen to their children before school, particularly on days when the UV index is 3 or above.

• Sunscreen is made available for student use throughout the day.

Parking

Parking on school grounds is limited. We ask all parents and carers dropping off or collecting students to take extra care and follow all traffic regulations. For everyone’s safety, please ensure that all entry and exit points remain clear at all times.

Please do not use the staff car park for student drop‑off or pick‑up. Additional parking is available on the grassed area in front of the tennis courts.

A reminder that sections along Tapper Road are designated “No Standing” zones, and the local council regularly issues infringement notices for vehicles parked illegally.

When using the Kiss and Drive area at the front of the school, drivers must remain in their vehicles to help maintain smooth traffic flow.

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated and helps us keep all children safe.

Bikes and Scooters

eBikes - Students are not permitted to use or store an eRideable or eBike on school premises.

Bikes and Scooters - It's important you know about the rules and how to share paths and roads with people walking, wheeling, riding and driving.  More information about safe cycling can be found on the Road Safety Commissioner, Your Move and Raising Children Network websites.

Tips include:

• Choose a bicycle or scooter that is suitable for your child's age, size and ability.  Ensure it is good condition, with working brakes.

• Wear a helmet. Helmets are compulsory for all children and adults.  Riders must wear an approved helmet that is securely fastened.  This includes anyone being carried as a passenger or in a bicycle trailer.

• Be visible and let others know you are there.  

• Slow down in wet weather.  If overtaking pedestrians or other riders, leave a safe distance and enough time to pass.

• You must give way to pedestrians.  Use your bell to alert other path users before overtaking them.

• Ride single file on paths and two abreast on roads.

Money, Toys and Valuables

To help keep personal belongings safe, we kindly ask that students do not leave money or valuables in their school bags or desks.  If students need to bring money to school, please ensure it is handed directly to their class teacher for safekeeping.

We also encourage students not to bring valuable or tradable items (such as toys or collectables), as we cannot guarantee the security of these items during the school day. 

Out of School Hours Security

Children should only be on the school grounds out of school hours if they are under the direct supervision of a teacher or another adult who has been given approval to use the school. 

While the Department of Education works closely with WA Police to minimise crime at school premises, you can help too.  With more than 650 public schools involved in the School Watch program, the community's role is vital, particularly after school hours and during school holidays.

If you see or hear suspicious behaviour, immediately contact School Watch Security, CoSafe or the police.

•  Police Communication:                                   131 444

• School Watch Security:                                         1800 177 777

• Co Safe Cockburn Safety and Security       1300 267 233

Atwell Primary School Evacuation Maps