Principal's Report

Carnival Success!

I’m sure having sent out a post on Monday it feels like old news by now, however I couldn’t miss a further opportunity to acknowledge the incredible effort of the Carnival Team and all volunteers, sponsors and donors. After further funds trickled in post-Monday, the figure now stands at an imposing $60,000. The event was such a fabulous opportunity to get together, have fun and create memories for the more than 1500 visitors. To know that such a significant legacy is contributed to our portable seating for the new multipurpose stadium is more than a cherry on top. When we’re sitting in those seats, enjoying assemblies, shows and events, it will be fitting to know that so many of you worked so hard to enable them; thank you!

Farewell Sharon 

As we approach the end of the year, we bid a fond farewell to Sharon Dowling, who will be retiring after a remarkable career in education. Sharon’s journey began in 1982 at Belvedere Park Primary School, and since 1997, she has been a cherished member of the HPS family.

Throughout her years of service, Sharon has been highly valued and respected for her unwavering commitment, her passion for teaching, and her genuine care for every student. Her endless positivity has brightened our school, and her dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment has left an indelible mark on our community.

Sharon, we are deeply grateful for the lasting impact you’ve had on so many lives. While we will miss you dearly, we wish you all the very best as you embark on this well-deserved chapter of rest and relaxation. 

Thankfully we will have the pleasure of still seeing Sharon around as her granddaughter begins Foundation with us in 2025!

ATTENDANCE: Every Day Counts!

Attendance at school absolutely matters! In fact, attendance and engagement in school is proven to have a more significant impact on a child’s long-term success educationally than secondary school. This is why we include it in students’ reports, and why we chase up any unexplained absences. As we draw to the end of the year, I encourage you to prioritise attendance in setting up good habits and momentum for 2025. I also encourage you when booking any family holidays in 2025 to consider the impact it will have on your child’s education. It would be hypocritical of me to suggest you couldn’t go on any, however I strongly encourage you to minimise any days lost, as the cumulative effect can be considerable (see below).

Missing 1 day a fortnight = ½ a Term each year = 1.5 years of schooling in total

Missing 3 weeks a year for holidays (or otherwise) = 1 year of schooling in total

Transition

Transition for all students starts (started) today to support them in feeling confident in moving to the next year level in 2025. It’s important to note that teachers in the year levels that they are heading into are not confirmed and are largely this year’s teachers, and the classes they are moving around in over the coming weeks are not finalised. All requests are well and truly closed.

Calling All Interior Designers!

The school has been successful in securing a grant that will contribute toward some new furniture for the staffroom. It is a space that requires some expert planning to ensure we get the most out of the space as it’s not large enough for our current staff. If there are any parents who have expertise in interior design and may be able to assist with identifying appropriate furniture for the space, we would greatly appreciate advice. Please contact Josh directly or via the office. 

Juice For Sale

There are a considerable number of juice boxes left over from the Twilight Carnival that we are selling off to families. They come in packs of 24 with a variety of flavours available. If you would like to purchase a box for $10, please visit the office to pay and collect. 

New & Important Dates

• Curriculum Day: 9th December. 
• Soiree: 11th December. 
• House Swimming Carnival: 12th December
• Christmas Carols: 13th December (2:00-3:30pm)
• Gr 6 Graduation: 16th December 
• Final Assembly & School Finish: 20th December @ 1:00pm & 1:30pm respectively
• Curriculum Days: Tuesday 28th & Wednesday 29th January. 
• Students Return to School: Thursday 30th January

To stay up to date with all events and key dates, see the Compass Calendar.

Celebrations

Congratulations to Leo and Tim who recently competed in the Taekwondo State Championships. Leo won gold in his belt division with Tim collecting Silver in his division. They competed against competitors from across the state, sparring with many and then progressing to the final due to having the highest scores in their groups. A wonderful effort from these two in a sport that requires so much discipline and commitment.