Principal's Page

Dear Great Ryrie Community,

Phew......What a whirlwind ending to 2023 it has been!

From the vibrant burst of colors during our Color Run to the heartwarming melodies of our jolly Christmas concert, the joyous celebrations of Graduation, the excitement at Fun Fields, the laughter on movie days, the energy on sports rotations, the shared moments during celebration lunches, and every fun-filled shenanigan in between – it’s safe to say there's been non-stop action here at Great Ryrie.

A resounding applause goes out to our Graduating Class of 2023! 

Your speeches were not just words; they were heartfelt tales that tugged at our heartstrings and left us reaching for the tissue box. You’ve inspired us all with your journey and achievements. To our departing families, the longest being 25 years involvement in the school, as this is your last primary aged child we thank you and good luck in the future. 

To our phenomenal staff, your unwavering dedication and tireless efforts are invaluable. Without your hard work, passion, and commitment, our school wouldn’t be the vibrant hub of learning and growth it is today.

A colossal thank you extends to everyone who has woven their threads into the colorful tapestry of our school life. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work have collectively made our community a welcoming place to be.

As we bid farewell to some of our families, we do so with a tinge of sadness. To those joining us, a warm and enthusiastic welcome and we are  thrilled to have you aboard.

As we wrap up this year, 

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and wonderful memories with your loved ones.

With warm regards,

Karen  Rouda 

Principal

School Leaders for 2024

Congratulations to our new school leaders for 2024. 

2024 Class Teachers 

Prep

 Ashlea Manshanden

Meaghan Edmondson 

Courtney MacLeod

Alisha Clark

Year 1 

 Julia Broughan

Rhiannon Hamilton

Cayla Miner

Emma Beddome M-T/Emily Hopkins-Fri

Lisa Baguley 

Year 2 

 Hugh Kendall T-F /Emily Hopkins Mon

Penny Nicholls M-W/Lisa Moon T-F

Alison Dresser

Jess Akaruru

Year 3 

 Stacey Wells M-T /Kate Watson Fri

Courtney Atkinson

Callum Warren-Smith 

Year 4 

Claire Pratt

Casey Murphy

Year 5 

 Andrew Shattock

Bel Jay

Annie Proctor

Year 6 

 Amanda Lennon

Sharon Jacobs

Jess Syme 

Specialist Programs

Andy Physical Education 

Ann-Maree Visual Arts

Jeslyn LOTE 

Peta Murray Performing Arts 

Jess Rose Science and Technology

LEAP Learning Enhancement and Achievement Program 

 Jess Steer Tu, TH F

Peta Delpra MTW

Kate Watson High Ability M-T

Megan Clarke EAL M-W

Alan Silverwood -Chaplain 

Alex MacDonald Teacher

Jean Maxwell Wellbeing and Disability – M T Thursday-2:00pm

Lauren Rice -Assistant Principal M-W, Friday

Melissa Roberts -Assistant Principal 

Karen Rouda -Principal 

Parting is such sweet sorrow...Farewell

Glenda Winchester’s Retirement 

Glenda, who has been at the school for over 20 years announced that she will be retiring in 2024.

Glenda has made such a significant and positive impact on our school with her ability to form meaningful relationships with children and staff, and make them feel valued which is truly a remarkable achievement.

Her dedication to nurturing these relationships and creating a positive environment for children is a testament to her exceptional qualities. Glenda's legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the lives of the students she has touched, and her contributions to the school community will be cherished for years to come.

Her presence will be greatly missed and her beautiful roses from her garden.

We will be organising a function for Glenda and a gift as a token of our appreciation for all that she has given to Great Ryrie in Term 1 2024 after Glenda takes a well earned long service leave break. 

Welcome

Welcome Callum Warren Smith to Year 3 

Great Ryrie feels like coming back to my area. I was a student across the road many moons ago. I am excited to be teaching year 3’s again in a new setting. I love board games, Star Wars (may the force be with us this year) and I am a bit of a mad Richmond supporter (AFL). 

I am married with an amazing family that consists of; 2 cats, (Betty and Phoebe) 1 dog (Archie), 3.5 metre diamond python (Nyoka) and a wonderful wife. 

When I am not teaching I play board games, go camping, read fantasy books and go on walks with Archie. I am looking forward to an awesome 2024 with you all! 

I wish you a very Happy Christmas and restful holiday with your family and friends andI look forward to seeing you next year. "

Welcome Lisa Baguley to Year 1 

Hello GRPS Community. My name is Lisa Baguley! I am so excited to be teaching here in 

2024. I feel like it is a bit of a homecoming as I grew up in the surrounding area. I have been teaching  for over 10 years now and I love my job. When I am not teaching, I am a mum to two beautiful children. The three of us are mad Collingwood supporters, unlike my husband who barracks for Essendon. As a family we love to camp, go on road trips and travel to new destinations around Victoria. I especially love to be in the mountains bushwalking or at the beach sleeping!

 I look forward to meeting you all in the new year, until then Happy Holidays.

Goodbye......

Summa Routledge

We wish Summa Routledge all the best in her new adventure and we know she will continue to inspire and touch the lives of many others. Summa’s kindness, professionalism, coaching and mentoring have been invaluable, guiding us through challenges and celebrating our successes along the way. Thanks also to Liam Routledge, for your wonderful input as the Great Ryrie Treasurer and for being part of School Council. Our finance meetings have been entertaining with your presence and we will miss your questions and ideas. We are so grateful for your time and expertise in this area.

A Special Mention ......

Thank you to Bonnie Silverwood and Alan for running the Toast Tuesday every week. Bonnie volunteers her time willingly every week to support the school to provide such needed resources to our families. I would also like to thank the parent helpers who also assist each week in the program or along side Nic in the canteen. 

Thank you to the School Council Members for your contributions to the school this year. 

We certainly have achieved some great things and we wanted to extend our appreciation for  your support and time you give to the school.