Acting Principal News 

Banyan Fields Primary School

I am very excited to work with the school community as the Acting Principal for Term 3. This week, I have been visiting all the classes to welcome students back to Semester 2. It has been fantastic to see everyone eager and ready to learn. I've also enjoyed hearing about the fun activities they participated in during their holidays.

Banyan Fields continues its Berry Street journey of unconditional positive regard. While walking around, I have noticed many students revisiting their 'Ready to Learn' plans for this term, and I am excited to share a few of these below.

'Ready to Learn' plans allow students and teachers to agree on strategies that may help students to de-escalate and develop self-regulation techniques. This approach helps students feel in control and safe in the classroom, minimising anxiety. I am very proud to see our students using these plans effectively.

I had the privilege of attending the Year 4 camp last Wednesday. It was delightful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as they organised their cabins and participated in various activities. Camp is an excellent way to provide students with opportunities to develop social skills, foster teamwork, and build resilience. It also allows them to engage in hands-on learning experiences in a natural setting, promoting personal growth and a deeper connection to the environment. Well done to the Year 4 students, teachers, and ES staff for making the camp a wonderful experience for everyone.

On Tuesday this week, our students participated in National Tree Planting Week with Jodie Belyea MP, which coincided with our Pyjama Day. This made for an interesting and fun experience as we planted our trees and shrubs. Participating in National Tree Planting Day is important for schools as it fosters environmental stewardship, encourages sustainability, and instils a sense of responsibility in students for the health and well-being of their local and global ecosystems. Our students chose to plant native trees and shrubs at the bottom of the oval, where we currently lack greenery. We all look forward to seeing these plants grow and thrive. Thank you to Ms. Belinda Tonkin for organising this event and supporting our students in understanding the importance of plants in our environment. Watch this space, as we hope to start some gardening clubs for the green-thumbed students amongst us who love nature and enjoy seeing things grow.

Acting Principal

Natalie Jones-Pinket