Trafalgar Primary School and Early Learning Centre

Principals Message

New STEM Specialist Program Coming to Trafalgar Primary School in 2025!

We are excited to announce that starting in 2025, Trafalgar Primary School will be introducing the STEM Zone Program as an additional specialist program for all students. This program was endorsed by the School Council at our recent meeting and will further enrich our already outstanding specialist offerings.

 

With the addition of the STEM Zone, our students will have some of the best access to specialist programs in the state, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience delivered by content area experts. From Foundation to Year 6, every student will receive one hour of dedicated STEM instruction each week.

 

What is STEM Zone?

STEM Zone is an innovative program that aims to inspire curiosity and a love for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The lessons, taught by experienced and VIT-registered STEM teachers, will be hands-on and engaging, covering:

  • Chemical, Physical, Earth, and Biological Sciences each term.
  • STEM challenges at the end of each term to apply learning creatively.
  • Activities such as caring for caterpillars, experimenting with safe chemical reactions, and designing boats for a 3-meter regatta.

Why is STEM important?

STEM education is vital for developing problem-solving skills, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world. The introduction of this program aligns with our commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students.

 

We are proud to offer this new STEM Specialist Program as part of our 2025 curriculum, and we can't wait to see our students thrive in this exciting new area of learning!

 

End of Term 3

 

Dear Trafalgar Primary School Community,

 

As we wrap up another action-packed term, it's wonderful to reflect on all the achievements and highlights of Term 3. One of the standout events was the Junior Swimming Program. Watching our students grow in confidence in the water was truly rewarding. Many who were hesitant to get in the pool during the first lesson were smiling and enjoying themselves by the final day. This program, funded by the State Government, aligns with our school's goal that all students will be able to swim 50 metres and complete the Victorian Water Safety Certificate by the time they finish Grade 6.

 

Staffing Updates 

Staffing continues to be a challenge, with vacant positions still unfilled. Despite this, our students have settled well into their classes, and our learning programs have continued with minimal disruption. The additional support staff have been a welcome boost to our team, and we believe any further changes at this stage could be more disruptive than helpful. Therefore, the current class arrangements will remain in place for Term 4, while we continue to prepare for 2025.

 

We are pleased to announce that Mr. Robert Williams has been reappointed to the Education Support position until the end of 2024. He will continue his great work supporting the Grade 5/6 team.

 

Congratulations to Mrs. Child who takes some well-deserved leave, and thank Ms. Laidlaw, who will cover her absence in LA9 during Term 4. It’s bittersweet news that Ms. Laidlaw will be leaving Trafalgar PS at the end of the year, as she has accepted a teaching position at St Angela’s of the Cross in Warragul. Ms. Laidlaw has been a valued member of our team since 2011, and we are excited to work with her during her final term before she embarks on her next chapter.

 

Student-Led Conferences 

This term’s Student-Led Conferences were a joy to witness. It was fantastic to see our students confidently sharing their learning journeys with their families, reflecting on their progress and proudly presenting their work samples. These conferences are a great way for students to take ownership of their learning, and it was a privilege to share this experience with so many of you.

 

Looking Ahead to Term 4 

Term 4 is shaping up to be another exciting one! We have some fantastic events on the horizon, including the Festival on the Lawn, where students will showcase their musical talents, supported by Mr. Allan. Our Grade 6 students will begin preparations for their Graduation ceremony, and our Grade 2 students are looking forward to their School Sleepover. Don’t forget, our Trivia Night hosted by the Parents and Friends group is just around the corner along with the annual Colour Fun Fundraiser!

 

Wishing you all a safe and restful vacation. We can’t wait to see everyone back, refreshed and ready for the final term of the year!

 

Sincerely,

Cameron Nicholls

PRINCIPAL