Teaching & Learning Update
National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN)
This week our students began completing the NAPLAN assessments. On Wednesday there was a nationwide technical issue when the online platform experienced difficulties as students in Years 5, 7 and 9 across Australia attempted to log in for the Writing test.
Fortunately, our Year 3 students were able to complete their writing assessment using the tried and true paper and pencil format, a reminder that sometimes the simplest tools are the most reliable! We were very proud of how calmly and patiently our Year 5 students responded while we waited for the online system to be restored. Their positive attitude and resilience were wonderful to see.
A special mention goes to our Year 6 students, who demonstrated fantastic leadership by supporting and encouraging our Year 3 students as they completed their first NAPLAN experience. Their reassurance and friendly encouragement helped our younger students feel confident and proud of their efforts. It was a lovely example of our older students modelling care, responsibility and leadership within our school community.
As we often remind students, NAPLAN assessments are simply a snapshot of learning at one point in time. What matters most is that students try their best and approach challenges with a positive mindset. These tests do not define a child or determine their future, they are just one of many ways we understand and support student learning.
Library Volunteers Needed
Our school library is looking for parent/carer helper volunteers. If you have a little time to spare, we would love your help with covering books and assisting with small library tasks. Please note that volunteers will need a current Working with Children Check.
Volunteering in the library is a wonderful way to become involved in our school community, meet other parents and support students’ reading and learning.
If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Jacinta in our school office. We would be delighted to have you join us!
Harmony Day – Celebrating Our Diversity
Harmony Day is a special day in Australia that celebrates cultural diversity, respect and belonging. It reminds us that everyone belongs and that our different cultures and backgrounds make our community stronger.
At our school, we are proud of the many cultures and languages that make up our community. Our students and families come from a wide range of backgrounds, and Harmony Day is a chance to acknowledge, celebrate and learn from the cultures represented in our school.
This year, our Specialist Team and Grade 3/4 studentshave been working hard to prepare some special activities. During SWPBS lessons, students suggested creating a culture gallery around the school. They have designed displays representing the five most common nationalities in our school community, with each display including a flag and interesting facts about the country.
Classes will also take part in a “passport activity.” As students visit each country and display around the school, they will answer questions and learn new information about different cultures. The questions will be suited to each year level.
Students are invited to wear something that represents their culture on Harmony Day. This could include traditional clothing, colours from their country’s flag, or something that reflects their cultural background. Students can also choose to wear orange, the official colour of Harmony Day, which represents respect and inclusion.
We look forward to celebrating and recognising the many cultures that make our school community so rich and special.