Principal Report
It has once again been a busy few weeks with our students participating in a variety of fun and engaging events. We are incredibly proud of how well our students represented Oatlands, showcasing exemplary behaviour, enthusiasm, and teamwork.
Regional Athletics
Our school's athletes competed in the Regional Athletics with great enthusiasm and sportsmanship. Each student gave their best in various events, proudly representing our school. Their perseverance and team spirit shone throughout the competition, and we commend them for their fantastic efforts.
100 Storey Building Writers Workshop
Aspiring young writers from our school had the chance to develop their creative writing skills at the 100 Storey Building Writers Workshop. Students explored different writing techniques and shared their imaginative stories. The workshop sparked creativity and inspired students to continue their passion for writing.
Grandparents Afternoon
Last Friday 25th October, Oatlands held its annual Grandparents Afternoon. Staff and students were delighted to welcome our Oatlands community onsite on this special day. Students loved spending quality time with their grandparents with the afternoon being filled with warmth, connection, and fun activities. It was a heart warming event, where our students had a chance to share their school life with loved ones. Both students and grandparents enjoyed every moment, making this event truly special. A big thank you to everyone who attended our Grandparents Afternoon.
Student Wellbeing at Oatlands
At Oatlands, student wellbeing is a main priority, as we understand that a student’s wellbeing directly impacts their ability to learn. A well-regulated, happy, and supported student is best positioned for success. Our extensive student wellbeing program includes: School Values Program, Restorative Practices, Friendship Programs, Zones of Regulation, Buddy Program, Cyber Safety Initiatives, Lunchtime Clubs, Cooking Program, Social Skills Programs, Community events, Allied Health Professionals and School Therapy Dogs.
These initiatives are designed to create a supportive and enriching environment, helping each student thrive.
Therapy Dog Program – Meet Archie and Coco!
Research shows that dogs are remarkable at lowering stress and anxiety level, and in doing so, often defuse imminent explosions of frustration or negative behaviours. Dogs can be a great way to encourage desirable behaviours and teach children to be calm in the school setting. Children find the non-judgmental company of a therapy dog the perfect fit when they need support. Research also shows the benefits of having therapy dogs working with children who have additional needs. Some children have special time with the therapy dogs built into their Individual Education Plans and reward systems.
Meet Archie: Archie is a 9-year old Groodle who has been part of our school community since he was 6 months old. Archie spends most of his time in the Student Wellbeing Office under the direct supervision of one of our school psychologists, Holly Wilson. Archie is an accredited therapy dog who underwent intensive training to work in a school setting. He notices signs of anxiety and stress in children (and adults) and often responds by ‘checking in’ by sitting next to them, nudging them with his nose or offering them his paw. Archie loves it when people reciprocate with a pat. Archie loves to spend time visiting classrooms and working alongside the students. He also loves the special attention he receives from parents and staff!
Meet Coco: Coco is a 1-year old Cavoodle who has recently joined the team at Oatlands Primary School. She is the smallest, cutest and cuddliest member of the Oatlands team. You’ll find Coco in with Mrs White, our Assistant Principal of Student Wellbeing. Coco helps support children who may be feeling heightened and need support calming down. Coco can join in class activities with Mrs White, or sometimes she just sits quietly in the classrooms or offices while being patted. Fun fact - patting an animal can help to alleviate stress or anxiety! Coco especially loves it when children read to her, play with her or show her their great work!
Archie and Coco are both extremely patient, loving and loyal and are great companions to our staff and students at Oatlands.
Assistant Principal Michelle White
