Dear Families,

Last Wednesday, Carnegie Primary School had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Nathaniel Swain, teacher, instructional coach and researcher. He has worked as a lecturer and research fellow, and in recent years, Nathaniel has been supporting schools and teachers to embed research-informed practices. With expertise in language, literacy, instructional practices and cognitive science, Dr Swain is dedicated to empowering teachers to develop “life-changing” language and literacy skills in every student, through effective and engaging teaching.

Dr. Swain will be partnering with our school throughout 2025 to support our teachers in deepening their understanding of his research. He will also be conducting full-day instructional sessions and out of hours professional learning aimed at enhancing classroom practices and student engagement through his innovative methodologies.

Mrs Miller and I also attended the Beachside Principals' Conference in Sorrento for two days last week where the theme centered on neuroscience and cognitive load. The conference provided an additional opportunity to delve into the research and practical strategies aimed at enhancing learning environments. Discussions and workshops explored how understanding brain function can optimise teaching methods and support student learning effectively. This valuable experience will continue to inform our approach at Carnegie, ensuring we continue to foster an engaging and effective learning environment for all students.

We are now well into the second half of term one, and it's gratifying to see how smoothly our students have embraced their learning routines. A key highlight has been the successful implementation of our new entry and exit routines, which play a crucial role in fostering a calm and structured learning environment. Recent scientific research underscores the significance of such routines in enhancing student focus, reducing anxiety, and promoting overall academic engagement. By ensuring a predictable start and finish to each lesson, we not only support our students' cognitive development but also cultivate a positive school culture where everyone can thrive.

It was an absolute privilege to listen to our Grade 6 students last week as they delivered their speeches for the 2025 leadership positions. Alongside Mr. Lello and Mrs. Miller, I had the pleasure of spending a morning and afternoon hearing our students confidently advocate for their strengths and share how they aspire to contribute to our wonderful school community. Their passion and vision for the future was inspiring!

RAMADAN MUBARAK

As a diverse and inclusive school community, we acknowledge and respect the many cultural and religious traditions observed by our families. Ramadan begins for many of our families on the evening of Thursday, 27 February to Saturday, 29 March (subject to moon sighting).

Ramadan is a significant time for many Muslim families, marked by fasting from dawn to dusk, prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness. We understand that some of our students and families will be observing this important period, and we encourage an environment of understanding and respect.

If your child requires any adjustments during this time, such as a quiet space during lunchtime or other considerations, please feel free to reach out to our staff. We appreciate the diversity in our school and value the opportunity to learn from and support one another.

With thanks,

Karen Roberts

Principal

I wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of

the lands on which this is being read and pay my respects to elders past present and emerging. I wish to acknowledge our First Nations people and pay respects to them. I note further that these lands were never ceded and are, and always will be, Aboriginal Lands.

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