Principal Report

Term 2 Updates

Hello to all our wonderful parents and families!

Welcome back to Term 2. There have been a few changes since Term 1 finished – a change in weather (I’m loving the crisp, cool autumn mornings!), changes in the yard (our oval is back in use) and a change in buildings as our new Mod-10 is finally complete and accommodating three Year 5/6 classes and Drama. An official opening ceremony was conducted by the school captains on Wednesday morning, where they reflected on the changes to the school in their time here and expressed gratitude to all in getting the opportunity to have the new, improved learning spaces. With the new building, we also get our MPR and Library spaces back for purpose. I thank everyone (staff and students alike) who has shown such patience and flexibility as we have awaited the completion.

We also have two new teaching faces, with Bec Barham returning to NLPS and now taking 1SS full time. Emma Eastham is teaching 4AD for the term as Ann-Maree goes on extended leave with her family.

Supporting young people with understanding violent events

Sadly, we had both staff and students affected by the tragic events at Bondi Junction last week. At times it can feel we are constantly bombarded with distressing news about personal safety, violence and conflict through the relentless stream of updates on social media and the 24-hour news cycle. This barrage of information can trigger anxiety, especially in young minds that are still shaping their perceptions of the world. It is important for parents and caregivers to recognise the dangers of excessive exposure to such content, and to limit the exposure where possible. The impact of trauma on children can vary greatly, from intense emotional reactions to indifference. In these times, it is imperative to reassure children about their safety. Conversations should be tailored to their age and emotional maturity, offering simplified explanations focused on concepts like peace, empathy, and compassion for younger children, while delving into the complexities of personal safety for adolescents. 

Before broaching these difficult topics, it is essential to gauge your own emotions and comfort level. Maintaining a calm demeanour and offering physical comfort can help children regulate their own emotions. In times of turmoil and violence, compassionate adults play a vital role in helping children navigate their fears and find hope amidst the chaos of our world. 

Our thoughts are with those impacted by violence and distress, and we encourage you to reach out to your child’s teacher if your child is in need of further support during this time.

ANZAC Day

On Wednesday, we held a small recognition ceremony where the students assembled on the soccer pitch, with Hannah and the school captains informing the school about some of the important elements of ANZAC Day. Sophie from year 5 played the Last Post and The Rouse on her trumpet.  All staff and students then participated in a minute silence to remember those who had given so much for our country.

The following morning, on ANZAC Day proper, Michelle, our wonderful Drama teacher, and Maddie, our school captain, participated in the Newport RSL ANZAC Day ceremony conducted in Paine Reserve, Newport. They laid a wreath on behalf of the Newport Lakes Primary School Community.

Thanks to everyone who donated to the Newport Lakes RSL ANZAC Day appeal. Just under $800 was raised. 

Your donation to the ANZAC Appeal changes the lives of our veterans and their families.

The ANZAC Appeal continues to support veterans and their families in their time of need. Your donation can help the RSL continue to deliver life-changing support to our veterans.

Success of Shortened Lunch Time & Our Wonderful Student Leaders

I am very pleased to let the community know that the Term 1 data (formal Compass data and informal anecdotal reflection) shows that there are far less incidents at lunch time, which we can attribute, at least partiality, to the reduced / less unstructured time. Visits to first aid have reduced by 32.5% and amber and red behaviours have reduced by 55% compared to last year.

We also have our student leaders assisting in ensuring that lunch time is a fun and safe place for everybody, all the time. Our Respectful Relationship Captains (in their green vests) recognise positive behaviours / students demonstrating our five school values, and our fully trained Peer Mediators (in the orange vests) are assisting in resolving small disputes and issues between students that inevitably arise in every school playground.

Sun Protection Policy and School Hats 

As per the school’s updated Sun Protection Policy, students are required to wear approved sun hats up until April 20th and in Term Four. Although not compulsory, students are welcomed and encouraged to continue to wear their hats on sunny days or whenever they feel comfortable to wear their hats.

As the weather cools, if your child would like to wear a warmer hat in terms two and three, school beanies are an approved item of the school uniform and are available from our uniform supplier (see school website) or can also be purchased from the school office. Other hats other than those included in the school uniform list (e.g. baseball caps, football beanies) are not permitted as part of the school uniform.

Upcoming Professional Practice Day (Pupil Free Day)

As part of the Victorian Government Schools Agreement (VGSA), all teachers (except principal class members) are eligible for one professional practice day (PPD) in 2024 (a decrease from previous years). The day is used for teacher administration, professional learning, school visits etc. and the school employs a Casual Relief Teacher (CRT) to replace the teacher for that day. Over the past few years at least one of these PPDs are taken by teachers throughout the term on agreed days negotiated between the teacher and the principal to meet the needs of the school. Due to the chronic shortage of CRTs that schools are experiencing state-wide, it is not possible at this present time for schools to replace all teachers for their PPDs. 

From 2023, the Education Department recommended that all teachers are to be allocated their PPD on the one day and no students are to attend school on this day (pupil free day).

The day selected for the staff at Newport Lakes PS is Monday 27th May 2024. Students will not attend school this day.

Providing there are sufficient numbers requiring the service, childcare will be available at the school on Monday 27th May 2024. Bookings can made by contacting the school’s OSHC provider, Quantin Binnah on 9742 5040 or admin@qbcc.org.au.

Principal Position Update

As you may recall, I am continuing in the Acting Principal position for this term. The applications for the substantive role closed last week and interviews will take place in the coming weeks. The successful applicant will start from the first day of Term 3. 

May we all have a wonderful fortnight.

Carly Bannon

Acting Principal