A Message from the

Head of Prep School

Term 2 Week 9

Thank you for your support of all the programs in the Prep School over the last term, be it in the academic, well-being or co-curricular areas.

Last week was evidence of this support at the Performing Arts Concert.  The students’ ability to sing, speak clearly, dance or play an instrument was of a high standard because of the work here at school and the practice at home.  The Concert demonstrated the full depth and breadth of our school program.  Our staff, under the guidance of Mrs Sinclair are to be congratulated for their contribution to the program.

The last two assemblies were co-ordinated by our Kindergarten children and to see their willingness and courage to stand in front of a 300 plus audience and speak so clearly is a real skill and further evidence of the expectations staff are seeking from our students.

Our Junior Band performed at a recent assembly under the directorship of Mr Annet and it was delightful to note their progress within the year. 

If you have been able to pop in to the school over the last 10 days you may have seen the work Year 3 have been doing in the undercover area.  In small groups they are constructing “Built Environments” which may be cities, farmlands or other forms using a wide range of materials.  The interaction amongst the students has required them to work together, make decisions as a group respecting other’s opinions, while at the same time paint, glue, fold, bend, cut and break all kinds of products for their task.  An excellent example of collaboration.

Our value of courage has been at the forefront of our discussions this week and the reaction has been very positive as we try to live our lives through the school’s values of Resilience, Courage, Respect, Inclusiveness and Commitment.  Signage is in all classrooms as well as exterior walls in the assembly area and outside KK and 5W to keep reminding us.

As you know Mrs Alicia Holmes (Maternity Leave), Mrs Sue Houston (Turkey) and Mr David Hazelton (Japan) are leaving us at the end of term.  We thank them for their valuable contribution to our school, whether it has been a short or lengthy stay.  Teaching overseas is a wonderful opportunity for Mrs Houston and Mr Hazelton which will greatly enhance their professional skills.  The students in these countries will be very fortunate to have these two fine teachers.  Meanwhile, Mrs Holmes is busy in preparation for her second child in August.  We wish Mrs Holmes and her family all the best for the birth and look forward to seeing the newborn during Term 3.

Reports have been emailed to all parents in readiness for the Parent Teacher Interviews this week.  The Term Planner will also be emailed home at the end of the week, with a copy placed on FROG.

Our Learning Management System will have more areas rolled out early next term.  Time will be made available for an information session so parents can easily access these.

Finally, a reminder that Vacation Care is available each normal school day over the holiday period.  They can be contacted on 0427 290 761 or mwhite@uniting.org if you wish to make an appointment or booking.

Again, thank you for your support and on behalf of all the staff may I hope you are able to spend some quality time with your family over the break.

At Assembly we acknowledged the following students:

  • Courtesy Award –Week 8 – Aurora Everett
  • Citizenship Award – Week 8 – Grace Schaapveld
  • Principal’s Award – Week 8 –  David Rourke

Enjoy your week.

 

Mr Rob McLean

Head of the Preparatory School