Principal's Report

Principal Report 

Bingo Night

What a great afternoon we had last Thursday for the Family Bingo Night!  As well as contributing to our fundraising efforts, it was a great chance to connect with the ARPS community.  Lots of fun occurred with our bingo games (of course!) but there were also lots of other games where lots of laughter ensued, and of course the silent auction, which was hotly contested! Coming up will be two new “Principals for the Day” (Lexi and Celine), Hawthorn FC hampers went to Mr. Mottershead (of course!) and I am please to say that I was able to retain my own parking spot! Big shout-out to the amazing members of our community who put this together – Amanda, Kathryn, Kellie and Bronwyn. And thank you to the ARPS community for coming along and supporting our school!

Thank you!

All government schools go through a school review process every four years.  The reviewers talk to staff, students and parents. They also observe classes and look at school documentation.  Once they have a deep understanding of the school and its context, the design the focus for school improvement over the next four years. 

A huge thank you goes out to our parents who attended the review panel on Tuesday afternoon. Thank you for your contribution - your voice will contribute to the future direction and improvement of our school. 

Riding bikes and scooters We have had some reports that some students are not observing safe practices when riding their bikes or scooters before or after school.

Please note that children are not permitted to ride through the school yard; they must dismount and walk their bike or scooter to or from the bike shed. If riding on the footpath, students must ride slowly, particularly if the footpath is crowded. 

Safety equipment and maintenance

• Wear a helmet: All cyclists and scooter riders must wear an Australian Standard (AS/NZS 2063) helmet that is the correct size and fits snugly. A helmet that is not fastened correctly is not safe.
• Wear bright clothing: Brightly coloured clothing makes it easier for drivers and other road users to see you.
• Use lights and reflectors: Use lights and reflectors, especially in low light or at night, to increase your visibility.
• Maintain your vehicle: Regularly check that your bike or scooter is in good working order, including the tires, brakes, and chain.
• Use protective gear: Consider using wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads, especially on scooters. 
• Riding practices
• Follow road rules: Obey all traffic laws, including hand signals for turning and stopping.
• Riding on the footpath: Always ride slowly, being aware of cars that may exit/enter driveways. Ring your bell if approaching pedestrians, to warn them you are coming.
• Watch for hazards: Be aware of your surroundings. Be cautious when crossing the road and always cross at lights.
• Dismount at the school boundary: You must walk your bike/scooter through the school in the mornings, and after school before 3.45pm.

Hail in November!

The children were very excited that it looked like it was snowing at school on Tuesday! 

Swimming Term 4

All students from Foundation to Year 6 are strongly encouraged to take part in the school swimming program at Doug Ellis Swimming pool in weeks 9 and 10 of this term.  Please note that this will be an eight-day program (no Tuesdays on either week). Information, permission and payment for the swimming program is now available on the Compass parent portal.

Working Bee

On Friday 21st November, after school, we are having a working bee after assembly.  We would greatly appreciate any help on the afternoon, with a sausage sizzle at the conclusion of the afternoon. Forms will be going home on Monday. Please let us know if you can make it by returning the form as soon as possible. Thank you!

Free Dress Birthdays

Some students find it difficult to come to school on their birthdays, however, we want them to be here and enjoy the day with their classmates.  From now on, at Albany Rise PS, a child can come to school in free dress on their birthday!  It makes the day special for them (and we can easily tell who is having a birthday and celebrate with them!)

Enrol Now for Foundation 2026! 

If you have a child starting Foundation, we still have limited places available. Please contact the office for more information.  As we have commenced our transition to school program, please ensure any new students are enrolled as soon as possible so they don’t miss out.  Our Transition sessions for students (and separate sessions for parents) are:

Planning for 2026 – Are you leaving ARPS? 

We ask that you let us know if you are moving or have enrolled to another school in 2026. We require this information as soon as possible to establish classroom structures for the start of the new school year. If your child is currently in F-5 and will not be at ARPS in 2026, please notify the school office or email as soon as possible.

Sport (or other activity) achievement of the week

If your child has received an award for their preferred activity outside of school (eg. sport, dancing, karate, etc.) please let us know and we would love to celebrate their achievements in our newsletter. Please send some information and a photo to our school office on albany.rise.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Thank you!

Jane Capon