Principal Message
Dear Families,
As we reach the midpoint of Term 1 it is an opportune time to reflect and celebrate even more things around the school…
OGPS Day: This week we celebrate and show gratitude towards all things OGPS! Students are encouraged to wear an extra splash of school colour blue to promote school pride and be aware of all the great aspects of OGPS. It may be an opportune time for families to thank a staff member who has had a positive impact on your child as they have moved through the school.
Peer Connect: It won’t be long before Peer Connect reignites for 2026. This is where all students across the school are mixed into 27 groups from F-6, possibly with a new teacher. This helps form new friendships, enables the students to get to know another teacher and mix with other students across the school. We run this two-three times throughout the term, usually with a wellbeing focus on the lesson.
Family-Teacher Meetings: Thanks to all who have attended If you have not touched base with your child’s teacher yet either through the formal Meet & Greets or follow up calls, please reach out to them so we establish great relationships and have open two-way communication. Thanks to all who have engaged in this process to help our teachers get to know you and the learner!
Foundation Students: What a terrific bunch of little learners we have! Thanks to all families who have supported their Little Grover in beginning school life. You have probably noticed their vocabulary improving (more arguments or stories with more detail), more socialising (monitor their social battery too – don’t exhaust them!) and hopefully more confidence and growing independence. Could we ask families to be mindful near the classroom doors, as some little learners may find it overwhelming with many adults nearby. Perhaps a last kiss and cuddle before they arrive in the Foundation area (green synthi grass line up area) and encourage them to line up with friends and enter with the class. Thanks for your assistance.
NAPLAN: The Year 3 & 5 NAPLAN testing is held from March 11 – 23 this year. As always, it is a family decision to have your child participate in NAPLAN. If you have any concerns about your child participating, please see Kate Lawrie in Year 5 or Renee Forward in Year 3 (or Kristy or myself) for further advice and discussion. There are protocols and forms to complete prior (by March 4th) to NAPLAN, should a family withdraw their child.
Apple Fair: A massive shout out to the organisers who are now meeting weekly as we approach March 14th. It’s never too late to offer a hand or add value. And a huge thanks to the sponsors who have contributed to the overall fundraising efforts with the Apple Fair and other functions throughout the year. Apart from raising a few dollars, these social aspects are what binds the community together and enable families to connect which can be difficult in our already busy lives.
Helper Training: The staff room and gym have been packed out recently with Kerryn McKeon & Alyce Graham training the volunteers. Some families were in for a refresher and many new volunteers, which is fantastic. Over 120 families represented!!! Thanks to all volunteers who are looking to help us in improving the academic outcomes, school experiences and continuing to make OGPS a wonderful place to learn and connect in. There will be one more session on soon. Keep an eye out for the dates from Kerryn and Alyce.
School Photos: Next Monday, school photos will be taken in the gym. Don’t forget to order your photos online. Thanks for sending your children in their full school uniform. NO HOUSE COLOURED SHIRTS PLEASE.
Assembly: As we have less assemblies, we may need a few extra minutes at the assembly. We will begin assemblies at 2.35pm so we are not so rushed. Sorry for the last minute change.
Sporting Achievement: A huge congratulations to both Lachie and Georgia Fountain who have qualified for the State Little Athletics championships. The championships will be help at Knox Athletics track on March 7th & 8th. Both have Lachie and Georgia have qualified in the 400m and 800m events - Congratulations to you both and good luck!
Have a great week everyone.
Scott McCumber
Principal
