Principal Update

Another great week at APS! 

We are evaluating our 2025 Annual Implementation Plan and setting the scene for 2026. 

The goals of ‘optimising learning growth for every student’ and ‘developing empowered learners’ remain. The key improvement strategies are related to collecting and analysing student data in multiple forms, building staff capacity to respond to individual needs and building understanding of the new curriculum and initiatives from the Education Department. These are the big picture items and we are working on the actions we need to reach our goals. 

The annual P/1 Twilight Night happened last Thursday. The students came to school in their pyjamas, ate pizza and fruit for dinner and then took part in an African drumming incursion. 

The school was alive with excitement and as the drumming progressed it became more in beat and rhythmical. There was intense concentration and laughter as the evening progressed. This was a great start to the outdoor education program at APS. 

The second step is the Year 2 sleepover, happening tomorrow night. The Year 2 students will arrive ready for some nighttime activities before they “sleep” for 8 hours! Friday will be full of activities with a pizza lunch and a restful afternoon. Thanks to the staff for organising these events and ensuring that the students feel comfortable completing the activities.

 Class placement 2026

We are well underway with planning for 2026. We will run 19 classes with single age groups again next year. It is the time of the year where I ask parents to email me if they are wanting to make an educationally based request for their child. If you feel compelled to make an educationally based request then you are able to suggest no more than two students that you know your child should be with or to be separated from. This request must be made to me by email before Friday 14 November. Please note, no late emails will be accepted and no requests for specific teachers will be considered. 

Student Free days for 2026

School Council approved these days for next year, students are not required at school. 

TheirCare operates on these days.

Tuesday 27 January - Student Free Day

Thursday 21 May- Professional Practice Day

Friday 5 June- before King’s Birthday on Monday

Wednesday 5 August- 3 Way Conferences

Wednesday 26 August - Student Free Day

Monday 2 November- Day before Cup Day

Dogs at School Policy

A reminder that all dogs must be controlled and on a leash when in the playground. Please do not let your dog jump up on children. Dogs are also not allowed within the school buildings at any time.

For more information please see our Dogs at School Policy on our website.

Head Lice 

There is an increase in the number of head lice reports.

Please ensure you check your children's hair regularly and treat if needed. 

Follow up treatment is also encouraged so please follow the directions of your chosen treatment. 

Long hair should be tied back at all times. We will be reminding the students not to share hats and hair products. We thank you for your support with this issue.

I’m preparing for the OHMP concert on Sunday 23 November. It is always a lovely celebration of the students who put in effort to learn an instrument. I hope to see you there if you have had a child in your house relentlessly practicing to improve their musical skills. 

Have a great week

Melissa Mackenzie

Principal