From the Principal  

Education Week 

Education Week was an opportunity for our school to share with you, how we encourage our students to be active learners. Move, make, motivate celebrates the many ways students learn, through physical activity and hands on learning.

On Wednesday night, there was a showcase of activities. Boggle was a popular word game for families and the shouts of “Get out of my House”, could be heard, highlighting a fun math’s activity we use to engage students in number work. The Lego challenge was popular, and the motivational quotes certainly made us think about our future goals. The basketball courts had an active vibe and encouraged parents and children to play together with tennis, volleyball, and gymnastics. 

The most anticipated event of the night was the robotics session in the Science and Technology room, where the families were challenged to devise a maze plan. 

Thank you to the families who attended our Open night and for your assistance devouring the yummy sausages in the quadrangle. We also would like to thank Team Kids for supplying us with FREE coffee to keep us warm on a chilly night.

Farewell

Retirement 

Claire Williamson is retiring after working at Great Ryrie for 9 years in the Office Team. On behalf of the staff, students, and families at GRPS I wanted to acknowledge Claire’s dedication and commitment to the school. 

Claire has been a smiling face at the front counter assisting our school community, helping students in the First Aid Room, tirelessly sorting the second-hand uniform and lost property for the families, and volunteering many hours to assist in the school canteen or school events. We wish her all the best in her retirement as she spends more time doing the things she really loves like, dancing and time with her family and grandchildren. 

Good Luck Claire

Stork Delivery

Goodbye to Hollie, our wonderful Business Manager, as she embarks on the journey of motherhood for the second time. Hollie, we wish you all the very best and look forward to hearing about your new family member. I wanted to thank you for continuing to manage the school team and finances in such a professional way.  I am sure Evie will enjoy having you home for a little while although she will have to share you. 

Congratulations to you and Gus and thank you from the GRPS team. 

Welcome 

Welcome to Jackie, who comes to us highly recommended from Blackburn Primary School. Jackie is already part of our local community, and we look forward to including you as part of the Great Ryrie team. 

Hi GRPS families!

My name is Jackie, and I am very excited to be joining the office team as Business Manager. 

Having spent the last 5 years at Blackburn Primary School, I have a lot of experience as a Business Manager, and pride myself on my friendly personality, professionalism, and knowledge of school programs and procedures. 

I have 2 sons (grade 5 and year 7), and 2 stepdaughters (grade 6 and year 10). We live locally, just around the corner from GRPS!

I love animals - at home we have 5 cats, about 150 fish, and we are thinking about getting chickens. 

In my spare time I enjoy going to the local boxing gym, going for walks, and spending time with friends. I also love to cook and enjoy teaching my kids to cook and try new things.

My background before working in schools was hospitality, where I worked on cruise ships in America, and owned a café here in Melbourne for a few years also. 

Please come into the office and say hello, I’m looking forward to meeting all of you. My door is always open 😊

Uniform Reminders 

A reminder to all students that the school uniform needs to be worn each day. 

I have included parts of the School Uniform Policy that was developed with School Council for your information. 

Why do we have a school uniform?

A uniform dress code reinforces in students a pride in their own appearance, instils recognition of themselves as an integral part of the school community, and assists in developing pride in representing their school. 

Issues of equality, health and safety, and expense are also factors that contribute to the establishment of the dress code. 

School Council has developed a dress code that we believe provides choice for the students, allows for students to safely engage in the many varied school activities, and caters for the financial constraints of families.

 Students wearing school uniform supports our SunSmart Policy and Occupational Health & Safety requirements. 

The School Uniform Policy aims to: 

To promote equality amongst all students.

To further develop a sense of pride in, and identification with our school.

To provide durable clothing that is cost effective and practical for our school environment.

To maintain and enhance the positive image of the school in the community.

The Policy states:

-Stud earrings and sleepers worn in the ears, and watches are the only acceptable jewellery. ---Religious jewellery may be worn under clothing. Medical alert bracelets/ necklaces and watches are permissible. 

-Extreme hair colours (eg: bleached, green, pink or purple rinses) and/or extreme hairstyles (eg: mohawks) are not permitted. 

-For health and safety reasons, any hair, shoulder length or longer, must be tied back.

-Other than clear nail polish, cosmetics may not be worn at school.

-Parents seeking exemptions to the dress code due to religious beliefs, ethnic or cultural background, student disability, health condition or economic hardship must apply in writing to the Principal.

-Coats, gloves, and scarves may be worn to and from school and during recess and lunch breaks.

-Polo tops and Jumpers must display the school logo and can be purchased from the uniform shop, or the second-hand uniform supply on Tuesday mornings at Toast Tuesdays. 

-Navy or white socks to be worn 

Arrangements can be made to supply uniforms via State Schools Relief for families experiencing hardship.

I have attached the full policy for your information.

Have a great weekend with your family and friends. 

Karen Rouda 

Principal