From the Assistant Principal

Book week celebrations at OPS!

Last week OPS celebrated Book week with a bright and colourful parade. The students and staff were dressed as their favourite characters and there was plenty of creativity on display. Thanks to the Literacy team for organising this wonderful event. 

Thanks also to Anne Brew who organised a visit by acclaimed author Jane Godwin. Jane has written over 20 children’s books across many styles and ages. Students from Foundation to Year 6 had the opportunity to listen to Jane tell fantastic stories about her books and explain the creative process she uses to come up with different ideas. It was fascinating!

Winning Books from CBCA

• Winner Older Readers: Grace Notes
• Winner Young Readers: Scar Town
• Winner Early Childhood: Gymnastica Fantastica

Arrival times at school and Yard Duty policy

A reminder to all families the importance of being on time to school. Students who are regularly late are missing out on the start of day activities that teachers plan to ensure students are ‘ready to learn’. The start of day usually has reminders and important information about the day and week ahead. All classes start with a ‘primer’ which is an activity to energise, ensue predictability and build positive connections within the class. Students who arrive late often feel disoriented and uncomfortable when they enter the classroom.

It is equally important students don’t arrive in the playground with parent/carer supervision before 8.45am. Staff commence yard duty at this time and prior to 8.45am there is no one to support your child if they injure themselves or require assistance.

Respect and Inclusivity

Over the last few weeks, we have had many conversations with students about the meaning of showing respect to others and being inclusive in the classroom and playground. These are important values that as a school we strive to embed and uphold with our students. We encourage our families to have rich conversations at home about these values. 

A great story book to read to young children is ‘The Invisible Boy, by Trudy Ludwig and Patricia Barton.  The little boy in this story feels invisible because no-one notices him or pays any attention to him. A great book to assist in generating conversations about kindness, emotions and including others. 

Some exciting events happening over the next 2 weeks,

• Year 3 and 4 Camp to Phillip Island Wednesday 28th to Friday 30th August
• Father’s Day Breakfast will be on Friday, 6th September. Hope to see everyone there bright and early

Regards

Michelle Di Giovanni

Acting Assistant Principal