Principal's 

Report

Dear Parents, Carers, students and community,

I would like to formally introduce myself. My name is Jodi Niedermayer and I am the new principal of Oak Flats Public School.

I am really excited to be part of such a wonderful school community and have felt warmly welcomed by staff, students and many parents already. Oak Flats Public School has such an amazing reputation, and last week I was able to see firsthand why the school and the community are so highly regarded.

I have most recently come from Mount Warrigal Public School where I was principal for almost 8 years. As difficult as it was to leave a school that I had committed to and thoroughly enjoyed, I am really excited about challenging myself and continually learning. I look forward to contributing to the positive school culture already established at OFPS and like our motto states, working to ‘strive for better things’ for the students and community we support.

I would like to acknowledge the wonderful work and leadership of Mrs Alice Wigny, as Relieving Principal for the last 15 months. Not only has she done a fabulous job in leading the school, she has also been instrumental in my transition to Oak Flats Public School. Thank you to Mrs Wigny for your generosity of time and information and your kindness in welcoming me to our school. I feel grateful to be able to work alongside Mrs Wigny as Relieving Deputy Principal.

Over the last week, I was able to meet many parents at the front gate, in the playground and at the cross-country carnival. I look forward to meeting many more over the coming weeks and encourage you to come and say hi if you see me around.

As always, your child’s teacher is your first point of contact for support, or where appropriate, the Assistant Principal for each stage. However, if you have questions beyond that, please phone the office so we can arrange a time to meet or chat.

School Development Day

Last week, our staff began Term 1 participating in professional learning with a central focus on Aboriginal Education. Our staff were committed to truth telling and learning more about such a rich culture to support our First Nations students and families, as well as all students.

Tell Them From Me Survey

The Tell Them From Me student survey provides our school with insights regarding student engagement, wellbeing and effective teaching practices at our school, from the perspective of students. Students from Years 4-6 are invited to complete a survey twice per year, which is conducted entirely online. The survey will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes on average. This survey provides an opportunity for our students to have their voice heard and for our school to reflect on and improve upon what we do to support students.

The Tell Them From Me surveys operate on an opt-out consent model. Parents will be provided with a non-consent form, however, parents only need to complete and return the form if they do not want their child to participate in the Tell Them From Me student survey.

Cross Country Carnival

Last Thursday, our school cross country carnival was held for our students in Years 3-6. Congratulations to all students who attended. It was impressive to see the participation, determination and sportsmanship with students cheering on their peers.

Thank you to Miss Ford and the many staff members who assisted with setting up early and throughout the event. The professionalism, organisation and support of our students is clear to all who attended.

Stage 3 Canberra Excursion

Our Stage 3 students have been in Canberra for a 3-day overnight excursion. The students have had an amazing learning experience visiting Parliament House, The Royal Australian Mint, Questacon, Australian Institute for Sport and more. In addition to the great learning, this opportunity provides a memorable experience where students can develop confidence, independence and positive relationships.

Thank you to the amazing staff who have given up their own time to provide this memorable experience for our students. Thank you Mrs Ross, Mrs Wigny, Miss Walker-Lau, Mr Herzog, Mrs Hudson, Miss Turton and Mrs Cappochiano. A special shout out to Mrs Ross, who has coordinated the camp, a role that required countless hours, phone calls, spreadsheets, communication and more. This organisation has supported such a successful experience for all. Thank you also to the parents and carers who have supported this opportunity, helped prepare their children and trusted our staff to care for your children.

Kind regards,

Jodi Niedermayer