Principal's Report

In this week’s newsletter:

Appreciations 

• John from Books ‘n Boots attended assembly

News

• Reflection from the Principal Conference
• Uniform items now available
• Student Learning Conference Bookings

Coming Up - Tomorrow

• Grade 6 interschool sports return
• Assembly tomorrow

Coming Up - Next Week

• Public holiday long weekend
• PBD Student Learning Conferences are next Tuesday
• JSC Scavenger Hunt
• Facilities news

Appreciations

• Books ‘n Boots presentation during Reconciliation Week - 

  John from Books ‘n Boots attended assembly last week and acknowledged our FWPS community’s support since 2022 in successfully supporting the donation of many suitable books (and on one occasion) footy boots for indigenous communities in Central Australia. John provided Marrung representatives with a certificate of support and a unique set of clap sticks.

News

Principal Conference

Liz and I appreciated the opportunity to attend the annual statewide conference for principals on Tuesday and Wednesday. I will take a few moments to expand on what was my highlight. The keynote speaker on Tuesday was an inspired choice. Dr Sonja Hood is a product of government school education, who through hard work and ambition has positively impacted the lives of many vulnerable families. Through the efforts of Sonja and other passionate people, as the CEO of Community Hubs Australia, a pilot program in Broadmeadows developed into a national partnership with schools, government, corporates and philanthropy to engage culturally isolated women and pre-school children through place-based hubs in primary schools. More broadly, in a more recent role, as CEO of the Scanlon Foundation, Dr Hood has been able to continue the support for Community Hubs, as well as a broader agenda based on the Foundation’s original desire to see Australia advance as a welcoming, prosperous and cohesive nation particularly related to the transition of migrants into Australian society. Dr Hood’s appeal is broad, as somehow in her busy life she managed to parlay a lifelong love of the North Melbourne Football Club into becoming the club president. Again, this has been no easy exercise, as being on the bottom of the ladder can cause perpetual crisis and fear of extinction. I can only imagine the challenges as a woman Dr Hood has had to manage in this role alone. Sonja humorously and poignantly shared her life and leadership story. As I listened, I reflected on the values she demonstrates and holds in high stead. I could identify all our school values of Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Belonging in every aspect of her life. As I chatted to colleagues afterward, I was struck by the sense of community that school leaders promote resonates with her extraordinary journey. The conference provided opportunities to hear from the Minister of Education and senior Department of Education staff on successes and of course the challenges that our system and our schools are facing. We also attended workshops supporting current priorities. As part of an integrated learning community, we can benefit from the sum of the many parts.

Uniform Refresh Launched 

Orders for the new green polo shirts and jackets can now be purchased from PSW our uniform supplier online or in person at the Ravenhall store. The items are on display at our school office.

Student Learning Conference Bookings 

Thanks to the many families who have taken the opportunity to book for our suite of Student Learning Conferences after school between 3:30pm and 4:30pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday on both week 10 and week 11 (the final week of term).  Parents and carers may choose in person or online meetings. Please check the pinned post on your Compass feed and make your arrangements prior to 12pm on Friday, 20th June.

Coming Up - Tomorrow

Interschool Sports

Unfortunately, Dinjerra PS, due to be our next interschool sports opponent, is unavailable tomorrow. This round will now be played at home and at our nearby sports venues next week during the catch up round. Tomorrow all Grade 6 students will have the opportunity to compete in their chosen sports in intra school competition.

Assembly 

Will we be indoors or outdoors this week? We will have 3CG presenting and any relevant reports shared with our community.

Coming Up - Next Week

King's Birthday Public Holiday 

School will resume on Tuesday following the long weekend. I hope many of you will have some time to spend with family and friends, or find some time for some rest or that home project that has been waiting for you!

PBD Student Learning Conferences 

Families will have seen the booking links to Learning Conferences in weeks 10 and 11.  However, the families of PBD will be having their opportunity next Tuesday. This will be towards the end of Brooke’s time with us, prior to going on family leave. It is a great opportunity for families to wish Brooke well and make your introduction to Liberty.  Bookings for PBD’s conferences close at midday on Monday.

JSC Scavenger Hunt 

Next Wednesday our JSC will be preparing a fun lunch activity to acknowledge Education Week (yes, we know it was several weeks ago, but we already were fully committed with our program). This year’s theme - Celebration of Cultures highlights the diversity of our communities and the importance of every child feeling safe and welcome at school. Education Week is all about recognising the power of learning — not just from books, but from each other. And one of the best ways we learn is by getting to know different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. As a result, JSC has come up with the novel idea. Let’s hear it in their own words:  

So, to help celebrate, we’ve organised a fun lunchtime activity next Wednesday, 11th June — it’s a flag scavenger hunt! Here’s how it works: we’ll be hiding flags from different countries around the school. Your mission? Find as many as you can during lunch! It’s a fun way to explore the different countries and cultures that make up our school.

Facilities News 

Our sub committees meet prior to our monthly School Council meetings. Facilities will meet online at 6:00pm next Wednesday.

Warm regards,

Brendan

Reminders and Repeated Messages