From the Principal

Term 4, Week 6, Kevin Kennedy

Dear Families,

Swimming Lessons

It was disappointing that we were unable to use the pool for swimming lessons this year. The unseasonal cold weather that caused a blueish hue in many of the junior primary students left us with little choice but to cancel the lessons.  The solar heating had only been turned on the day before the lessons started and with the limited sunlight and cold temperatures it had little effect. We are exploring the option of having an extended swimming program next year to compensate for the time missed this year.

We are hopeful that returning swimming lessons to February next year will result in warmer conditions and a warmer pool. We are also purchasing new pool blankets that will help keep the heat in and make for a more pleasant environment for the students. The shade structures over the pool will be erected by then, completing the project.

Class Placement Process- Teachers

I am currently working with the Department for Education in finalising our staffing appointments for next year. At West Beach Primary  we have a mixture of permanent and temporary teaching  positions, the temporary positions being a one year contract. I am confident  that all positions will be finalised shortly and  all students will know who their classroom teacher is by the end of this term.

I can confirm that Rebecca Bleby is returning to the junior primary after a yearlong stint at Saint Peters College. Todd Kitto is leaving us to lead the hockey program at Henley High School, Jarred Faehrmann will be taking over the vacant PE position in 2022. As you are aware we will have a new deputy principal next year,  Vicky Jones who is joining us from Henley Primary School.

Student Success

Congratulations to Angus Huang for receiving an Outstanding Academic Achievement award for his work in the School of Languages.  Well done Angus.

School Camp

It has been fantastic that we have been able to provide camps for our year 4 to year 7 students this year, despite all the looming  COVID  restrictions.  The camps are a great opportunity for students to develop some independence, face some new challenges and most  importantly enjoy themselves. I’d like to thank the staff and volunteers who gave up their time to make the camps happen. We are fortunate that we have a student body and supportive families that provide the staff confidence to undergo such events. Also I haven’t given up on a Canberra trip being an option for our year 6 students in the near future.

If you have any queries or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Kind regards,

Kevin Kennedy

Principal