From the Principal
Welcome to Term Four
Term Four has begun in earnest with many engaging experiences on offer for our students. A highlight being the spooky walkathon which was run by our wonderful P&F team. Our Year 3 incursion titled ‘Mad about Science’ was also well received. At the end of last week, the Year 6 Expo highlighted the work completed by students investigating, comparing and compiling information about different countries. The food was well received but the combination of literacy, numeracy and inquiry learning was impressive. Collaboration and teamwork was also showcased!
Building and Grounds
I would like to update the community on our Astro turf project which is being actioned by the VSBA. The school has been linked with three other schools with similar grounds projects. The four schools joined a webinar to listen to three potential project managers with their pitch to work with us. The Principals then filled out a rubric to determine which group would be the best to undertake the work. The successful managing team has been selected and the next stage is underway. This involves regular meetings to plan and create architectural designs of the new play spaces. I am still unsure of the timeline but I have emphasised at every opportunity the complexities around our small site and why we would like to commence as soon as possible (i.e., summer holidays) to avoid decanting students to a local park. I will keep everyone informed of these discussions and ongoing planning meetings.
Swimming
The Foundation-Year 2 swimming program is scheduled for later this term and it is an important part of our Health and Physical Education curriculum. The students are encouraged to attend as the program is carefully constructed to cover both technique and water safety. There will be an information evening closer to the event, although much information has already been shared by level leaders across the school. Any concerns have been addressed and the staff and swimming school have been listening. Regardless, students should attend this program as there are many benefits including opportunities to participate with friends from their grade level.
SunSmart
From the 1st of September to the 30th April, all students must wear a sun protective hat for all outdoor activities. Another important reminder is for students to ensure they store their hats in a secure area, such as their bag during class time and make sure it is clearly labelled with their name. Students who are not wearing an appropriate hat will be asked to play in the shade or in a suitable area protected from the sun. Thank you to everyone for reinforcing and supporting our SunSmart policy.
Support for Families
Many in our school community are affected by the devastating events in the Middle East.
All of us are upset and disturbed by the awful events depicted in media footage and images. This time is particularly distressing for staff, students, families and carers who have family and friends in Israel and Gaza.
We are also aware that students of diverse backgrounds, including Jewish and Muslim students, may be significantly affected by public events, mainstream media coverage and social media at this time.
Please be assured that all staff are aware of the extreme emotional toll on many in our community at this time. But please also feel free to get in contact with any of the staff at our school if you would like to ensure we are aware of what your child is going through at this time.
Our support staff will continue doing all they can to support all our students, and support is also available for educators. I also want to assure you that the department is monitoring the situation from a school security perspective and we have been advised there is no further action we need to take at this stage.
It is possible that extremely distressing scenes from the conflict may be posted online in coming days. Please ensure your children are aware of where they can find support in the event they come across such images. At our school, this includes the class teachers, Assistant Principal and Principal.
You may find some aspects of this resource helpful:
Support is also available through external services including:
- Headspace: 1800 650 890
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636.
My door is always open and I am sure we will all look to support one another in this very difficult time.
Kerri McLeod
Principal