Dear Parents/ Carers,

WOW – WHAT A WEEK IT HAS BEEN!

The return to school plan commenced last week with Kinder and Year 1 students back to school – it was a fantastic week, kicking off with Channel 7 news visiting the school to speak to some of us about the return. This week has been no different. The children have all returned fresh and eager to continue their learning and settled well into class routine. It has been great to see the smiles and laughter occurring around the school; as you know Fairvale PS has been a very quiet and lonely place during the lockdown period. Congratulations everyone! Students, staff and parents have continued to work together to ensure we are covid-safe every single day!

PARACHUTE VISITS WITH MR PITT

Last week I was able to visit my first class back at school after a lengthy break. I joined K Zucchinis for an outdoor lesson. The children were writing sight words and new words on the cement with water and a paint brush. It was great to see the children sounding out new words and also recognising known words. My second visit was with 4 Tangerines. I was lucky enough to visit during one their final zoom sessions before commencing back at school. During this time, I thanked the children and their parents for their work during the Learning from Home Phase. Check out some of KZ’s and 4T’s learning in this edition of the newsletter.

TERM 4 CALENDAR

On the first page of the newsletter, I have included all our usual end of Term 4 school events. Obviously, the events will look different due to our commitment to ensuring we are all Covid-Safe at school. At the moment, I have placed a ‘TBC’ – to be confirmed next to these events. I will confirm later how these events will take shape down the track.

TERM 4 SCHOOL REPORTS

In line with advice from the NSW Department of Education, our School Reports for Semester 2 2021 have been adjusted to cater for students learning from school and at home. This year, the report will be completed by the teacher, student and parent. On Monday, you should have received a note about the parents / carer reflection that you will need to complete and return to school. We ask that all parent reflections are returned as soon as possible.

VALE CHARLES WATTS

Sadly, one of our Religious Education Instructors passed away suddenly just recently. Mr Watts was a well-known instructor who was passionate about ensuring the Fairvale children enjoyed Monday afternoon lessons. We send our condolences to his dear wife Heather Watts, a Religious Education Instructor at our school as well and Mr Watts’ family and friends. I would also like to thank Mrs Dean and Miss Brady for representing Fairvale PS by attending the funeral last Friday.

2022 ORGANISATION

We are currently organising class structures for 2022 and next week we will be sending home a note regarding family plans for 2022. If you are returning to Fairvale PS in 2022 you do not need to anything, however, if you are planning on leaving OR returning a little late then we need you to complete the note. If you would like to speak to someone about this, please contact the office.

KINDERGARTEN ENROLMENT 2022

VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION - If your child is turning 5 years of age before 31 July, 2022 – please complete the steps in the flyer on the next page. Due to COVID-19 safe practices, the enrolment processes will be completed online, however we will be able to assist you. If you have any questions OR need assistance, please call the school. It is important that we have all children who are ready for Kindergarten enrolled as soon as possible!

SELECTIVE HIGHSCHOOL 2023

Applications for Year 7 entry to selective high schools in 2023 open on 19 October 2021 and close on 17 November 2021 at https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/selective-high-schools-and-opportunity-classes/year-7

FAREWELL MRS DEAN – WE WILL MISS YOU!

It is with mixed emotions that I remind the Fairvale PS community that Mrs Sarah Dean will be leaving us very soon –Friday 5 November, 2021 being her last day. Mrs Dean has been such an important part of the Fairvale executive team since her arrival back in 2016. With her outstanding curriculum knowledge and strong interpersonal skills, Mrs Dean made a difference right from day one. Over the years she has worked in and out of classrooms with our students, planned collaboratively with our teachers and supported our parents/ carers in learning opportunities and at school events. Fairvale PS has been enormously lucky to have been sprinkled with Mrs Dean’s energy, commitment and integrity. I have been fortunate to work with her more closely this year and although I will miss her greatly, I am super proud of what she has achieved and I know she will do amazing things at her new school. Enjoy the next chapter Mrs Dean!

Stay safe and have a great fortnight.

Anthony Pitt

Principal

I respect and acknowledge Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of the land on which I work, live and visit.

Parachuting around the school with Mr Pitt