Engagement & Wellbeing 

Christmas countdown - staying healthy!

As we head into the final stages of the school year for 2022, we wanted to provide a few reminders so that everyone can head into the holidays fit and healthy, ready to relax, rest and recharge. 

There has been a resurgence in Covid cases and other illnesses across the school, and wider community. Our staff are continuing to implement strategies in classrooms that we have become accustomed to, such as regular use of hand sanitiser and using air purifiers and other ventilation. Masks remain available in every classroom for any student who wishes to wear one. 

We ask for your assistance in keeping students home if they are unwell or displaying any symptoms of illness. Students who become ill at school will have their parents contacted to collect them. 

Thanks everyone - hopefully these steps can help to ensure a happy and healthy Christmas for all.

RAT kits available 

Please note that we have some leftover RAT kits (approx 100) to give away before the end of the year. Please come to the office and collect if you would like some additional test kits. 

Mobile Phones & Smart Watches at School

With Christmas approaching, some families may be considering getting their child a phone or smart watch with network connectivity. 

Please note that the Department of Education has strict and clear guidelines on the use of these devices in government schools.

Mobile phones must be switched off and may not be used during school hours, including recess and lunchtime. Students will be required to store their phones in the teacher’s office. 

Parents wishing to contact their child during the school day can contact the office and we will pass on the message. 

Mobile phones owned by students at Buninyong Primary School are considered valuable items and are brought to school at the owner’s (student’s or parent/carer’s) risk.  Students are encouraged not to bring a mobile phone to school unless there is a compelling reason to do so.

Supporting Students as they Transition to a new class

This Friday 16 December, students will meet their new teacher and grade for 2022. This can be an exciting and nervous time for students. As parents, we play a vital role in the transition of our children and helping them to have a positive, optimistic and realistic mindset. As your child comes home explaining their transitional activities, we encourage you all to listen to their thoughts carefully and respond with an open mind. Should something not seem right, please feel free to contact Narelle, Bernie or Nicole and we will be more than happy to work through any concerns.

Christmas Dress Up Day on the Last Day of Term

A reminder that on the last day of term, students are encouraged to dress up in a Christmas related theme! This is always a fun day and a nice way to finish the term as we head off on the holiday break. Grade 6 students on this day usually wear their uniform in order to get it signed by their classmates. 

Grade 6 Graduation

Next Monday, our Grade 6 students undertake their graduation as part of their final days of primary school with us. The event will be a great way for the kids to celebrate their final year with their peers and teachers with some finger food and a disco to follow.

 We would like to wish the year 6s well as they head off to secondary school next year. We know they are ready and will make the most of all the opportunities that are presented to them. 

Please note: Only students departing the school and graduating are allowed to have their school shirts signed on the final day.

WEARING CORRECT SCHOOL UNIFORM IN 2023

 We know many families will take the opportunity over the holiday break to audit and top up uniform supplies in preparation for 2023. 

Our strong focus on encouraging students to maintain high standards around the wearing of correct uniform will continue next year. 

Can we please ask for your assistance in ensuring that all uniform items purchased comply with our school uniform guidelines, which can found on our website . 

Thanks for your assistance and cooperation.

A Reminder About Lollies as Choking Hazards

Around this time each year, we see an increase of Christmas cards and lollies (mostly candy canes, but not limited to these) coming to school and being shared as a gift for Christmas. Whilst we are not discouraging the kids from showing this kindness to their peers, these lollies can pose a choking hazard if not consumed appropriately and may also contain ingredients that may cause an anaphylactic reaction in some children. 

As such, we ask that all families take the time to talk to their children about saving any lollies that they receive until they get home. Our staff will also be reminding students of this. 

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

ROCCH AWARD RECIPIENTS

Congratulations to the following students for their commitment to the school values of Respect, Optimism, Commitment, Compassion and Honesty, who were recognised at our 5/6 assembly last week - you all  ROCCH!