From the Principal 

Our First Lego League Team, The Crashers, continue to be commended on their achievements. This week, the Federal Member for Burt, Matt Keogh and two of his staff, visited the School to speak with the team about their attendance at the international competition in Houston. The students were very animated about the scale of the event, the venue, the people - indeed the entire experience of representing Australia and of course, John Wollaston. Mr Keogh has given the team great support and we thank him for his interest and enthusiasm.

Staff News

Our new Primary Secretary, Samantha Bryce, commenced duties last week and is rapidly settling into her role. In chatting with Mrs Bryce in recent days, she is thoroughly enjoying meeting parents, staff and the many students who come into Reception each day. She likes the busy nature of the job, the need to multi task and dealing with the unexpected. Please drop by Primary Reception when you are next in the School to say hello. Mrs Bryce will be delighted to meet you.

The Little Wollies Thursday-Friday class teacher, Stephanie Johnson, has resigned to accept a position at Ashburton Primary School in Gosnells. Her final day will be Thursday 25 May. Mrs Johnson has made a fine contribution to the School since her appointment in January 2022. I thank her and wish her success and enjoyment in her new role. 

I have appointed experienced Early Childhood teacher, Marnie Saunders, as the new Little Wollies teacher. Miss Saunders is presently working in the tertiary sector as a lecturer for the University of Victoria. Previously she taught for many years in Victoria, the Northern Territory and internationally in Copenhagen, Denmark. After a comprehensive handover this week, which included meeting the class, Miss Saunders will commence duties on Thursday 25 May, in tandem with Mrs Johnson, to provide a  smooth and reassuring transition for the children.

Margaux Ghirardi is leaving her current role as Education Assistant in Year 5 to join the Community Engagement and Marketing Department in June. With tertiary qualifications in Arts and Communications, Ms Ghirardi is well equipped to tackle the variety of tasks involved. Her replacement will be announced in due course.

The Quiet Achievers

Quiet achievers rarely receive the recognition they deserve. They go about their work with little fuss, never seeking the limelight but invariably doing their best. When I visit classrooms, see students on the sports field, on the stage, in Chapel or at break times I think of the quiet achiever who in their unassuming way is often the 'glue' that binds the team; the dependable contributor and the kind friend. I value their special qualities and thank them for all they bring to our school community.

Have a relaxing weekend.

With good wishes

Anne Ford