Leadership 

Great to be Back

I like Luke contracted Covid and needed to quarantine last week. All I can say is thank goodness I had my three shots, and now intend to get my flu shot. I'd like to acknowledge Graeme and Jess for stepping in at very short notice, to keep the good ship Newlands on course during our absence.

Covid / Flu

We are seeing high numbers of students absent from school, which is something many schools are experiencing. Likewise we continue to experience high levels of absences both in school, but also staff absences in our Before and Aftercare programs. This term has, and continues to be, very demanding for the school. We ask that parents continue to keep children at home if they display Covid or flu like symptoms. If there are children who have not had a flu shot please consider this as a positive option to keep them and their peers safe from illness especially as we move closer to winter months.

New School Buildings

I can inform the school community that the building project has gone to tender. The VSBA invited interested companies to visit the school as part of the process. We expect the successful tender should be known to us before the commencement of term three. For those unfamiliar with the project. The school was awarded $20 million to upgrade and construct a new gym, admin building, 3 new learning worlds and the refurbishment of the F/1 and 2/3 wings into new Art room, Steam room, library and staff room. We expect the project to commence in term three with a completion date early 2024.

U -turns in Murphy Street and Stopping close to the Crossing

Our wonderful crossing supervisor has come to me after I last mentioned my concerns about parents performing dangerous 'U' turns near the crossing section in Murphy. While doing a such a manoeuvre may not be illegal the action I consider to be extremely dangerous, especially near a primary school crossing.

The supervisor has also reported his concern about cars, particularly large suv's parking almost on top of the crossing, which blocks his line of sight. Murphy Street is a narrow street which has become very hazardous at drop off and pick times. Please park in another street and walk to the school.

Foundation/1 drop off and pick-up changes

As of Monday next week Foundation/1 students can be dropped off outside their individual classrooms. Our first step toward change since this procedure was introduced due to the drastic situation Covid force on schools. We see this as a real positive, but not an invitation to enter the classroom. Teachers will meet students and welcome them when the music starts.

OOSHC - Curriculum Days

The school will be looking at offering this program to parents  on pupil free days. Parents who currently use the service. Parents of students who use the service will need to supply for an expression of  interest to the school via email. Families will need to formally make a request before Friday 3/06/2022.  

Democratic Sausage Sizzle

Big thanks must go out to the PFA and their fantastic effort to support the school with a highly successful sausage sizzle. The school along with democracy had a win on the day. I can confirm that they raised $2,000. Well done and a big thank to you Adam and your hard working team, thanks.